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Is your Whirlpool washer stuck on sensing? Try the fixes in this troubleshooting guide (or watch the YouTube Video linked at the end of the post).
The first thing to know is that your whirlpool washer should be done with sensing phase in 2-4 mins so any longer typically means you must check it up.
But….
I have some good news buddy..
Try this immediately
I’ve just remembered something…you don’t even need to panic about a budget for parts at this point…indeed, many times the washer behaves that way as a result of load detection problems..
Imagine that?
And all it takes to fix it (yay, yah!) is simply redistributing clothes…at the worst it could be sensing part fault (the load sensor)
Oh, did I even mention that you should actually start by Resetting the cycle (and the unit) – just halt the current cycle, then wait about 5 minutes, and then restart but try a different (from the previous) cycle setting.
It is often the simplest fix!
- Check the lid too: Ensure it’s fully closed (lid lock must be engaging properly)
ALSO READ: How to reset Whirlpool washer touch screen easily
Now, if that has not worked, you need not worry or panic in any way..
Whirlpool washer stuck on sensing? Easiest Fixes to try!
You know why?
Because many of the components/parts that bring this issue will not make you go bankrupt- in fact, it is usually just a small problem that you can- if you’re bold enough and I’m confident you are- fix without outside help.
Can I tell you about the parts first so you get an idea of what we shall be checking a little later if your Whirlpool washer is getting stuck on sensing no matter how long you wait?
Great…
Here:
Whirlpool washer stuck on sensing (new whirlpool washer stuck on sensing)– How to troubleshoot your washer
Whirlpool washer stuck on sensing fill?
Check Shifter actuator (quite often it’s the issue). Also water supply issue( it may not be turned on or blocked). Also, your washer’s water inlet valve could have a problem (check if it’s clogged/damaged- replace if so). The other possible culprit is a bad/clogged pressure switch (clean it or replace). There’s also a chance you might have a bad control board or sensor.. read on for all troubleshooting steps you need to try.
Whirlpool washer stuck on sensing (whirlpool washer stuck on sensing fill) –check these parts if you are having a whirlpool washer stuck on sensing mode
Whirlpool washer stuck on sensing? – these are the parts that might be behind the problem
Actuator switch (#1)
This part(shifter actuator to some) is the one that controls transitioning from wash to the spin cycles.
Meaning?
A bad shift actuator is likely to stop your washer from advancing past sensing. Quite often this is the culprit!
But is it pricey? Hell no…I saw it costing less than $25 on Amazon (confirm price today)
ACTUATOR TEST (TO TELL IF IT’S REALLY THE BAD GUY)
- Watch your drum as sensing cycle kicks in- if it’s damaged, the drum won’t move..at all (even small spins it won’t make)
- Clicking, grinding, buzzing noises- coming from washer underneath (they simply say the actuator is trying to engage but it’s unsuccessful)..remember actuator is at the bottom (of the washer).
- Also, you can squat and take a look (any signs of burns , damaged wires or corroded connections..bear in mind a loose connection in there can as well be the cause so tightening things before thinking about replacement)..
- Be on the lookout for debris too or other obstructions, and bad alignment in there…all these are easy fixes you can try.
- But just replace the entire thing if you are seeing the internal parts looking badly burnt, corroded, cracked, or broken…exercise your own judgement
Water inlet valves (#2)
This sensing trouble tends to as well occur when water inlet valve does not open properly, resulting in water flow detection error (remember valve controls water inflow to your whirlpool washer, and washer can’t sense sufficient water levels to move on to wash cycle if it has malfunctioned, for example, you may find the cold isn’t working using a multimeter).
Cheap, 5 mins work and you’re done! (Part is here, alternative once you check your model number)
But please ensure nothing is blocking water flow- even water pressure in your house-like kinked hoses before you buy the part..clean the valves too
Water-level pressure switch (Water level sensor) (#3)
Another simple-to-replace and inexpensive part ..pretty much a couple of bucks (Check updated price on Amazon)
By the way, the water-level pressure switch role is to quickly cut off power supply when it detects abnormal water level to prevent water overflow, hence avoid damage to sensitive internal circuits and components.
Most importantly, swapping this switch could resolve sensing problems in case the original one is failing to sense/detect water levels accurately(which leads to stubbornness during sensing cycle).
Motor coupling (#4)
A defective motor coupling also may prevent the washer from finishing its sensing phase because it won’t be properly communicating between motor and transmission.
It is another low-budget (and easy replacement) worth trying if you’re still looking at a stuck-on-sensing whirlpool washer. What’s the current price?
Whirlpool washer capacitor 50uf (#5)
If you think it’s a motor fault(more next), before you consider replacing the motor fully, perhaps you should replace the 50uf capacitor(a critical component that helps the washer motor to start and run optimally – recall the washer won’t proceed past sensing if motor won’t start/run properly).
A few people have reported getting the sensing issue solved when they do this replacement.
Very affordable, Easy DIY installation too! [Link to compare prices]
Motor (#6)
Alright…I hope you’re still getting solid ideas on how to fix your washer…
Keep in mind that there are occasions when the entire motor will have failed (so it might be the part you want- and not just the motor coupler- if the sensing issue persists).
I should add that the easiest test to know if it’s the motor is to listen to your whirlpool washer for humming sound – but without movement.
Not the cheapest this one (as you can see at Amazon)…and it may not make the most economic sense to replace if you’ve an older washer (8+ years old)..better get n
Washer Drive Belt (#7)
If your washer won’t go past sensing, this could signal a worn/torn/stretched/broken drive belt(drive belt connects motor to transmission to rotate agitator and tub and it getting torn leads to transmission hence sensing fault)
This replacement is compatible with all nearly all Whirlpool washer models.
Be sure that the belt isn’t slipped off its slot..because you sometimes find the belt has just moved off
Control Board (#8)
Ultimately, the board might be culpable (if all else has failed, this is the nerve center of all operations)– sadly, it’s not the most inexpensive solution but it’s still better than buying a new washer.
But do inspect the main board for burn marks, blown capacitors, loose connections, and other visible issues because some of these you can fix…test continuity too on fuses, relays using a multimeter
Whirlpool washer stuck on sensing top load error (whirlpool washer auto sensing not working) – Other things to check
At times the issue is brought about by a faulty sensor, equator, or and even a clogged drain pump so check all these and replace/unclog as necessary.
If nothing has worked so far, you should try what is often the best solution: Entering diagnostic mode and then checking the washer for any error codes.
So let’s look at how to do that:
How to Enter diagnostic mode – The procedure
1. Turn the dial one complete turn (360 degrees)
2. Once you do that, you’ll have to perform this combination of turns/clicks: Rotate the knob LEFT then RIGHT, RIGHT, RIGHT then LEFT, RIGHT (once).
3. Timing is key so be fast when turning the dial (there should be half-seconds exactly between clicks)- once you have done that, all the dials will start flashing.
4. As soon as they start blinking, turn the knob until it gets to the Spin cycle.
5. Once that happens, press the START button.
6. This makes the washer go into diagnostic/test mode and this typically checks on various components and could help you isolate what is behind the issue.
Keep in mind that the diagnostic/test cycle takes about 3-5 minutes to complete.
More importantly, if there are any problems, the machine will display an error code and you can check the tech sheet/service manual for interpretation and suggested fixes (depending on the error code you get).
For the most part, the sheet is found on the inside-front panel (of the washer) so try to retrieve it.
Below is a YouTube video showing the process above step-by-step.
Whirlpool washing machine stuck on sensing (whirlpool washer stays on sensing)- How to use diagnostic mode to troubleshoot the issue
Quick Tip: It is a good idea to unplug the washer for about 10-15 seconds then plug it back in before you attempt the above steps. This clears any previously saved modes.
We cannot emphasize this enough: Be sure to try what the tech sheet recommends and see if this will resolve the problem of your washer getting stuck on sensing.
Also, your washer’s tech sheet will have the exact steps on how to enter diagnostic mode on your specific washer – remember that the above procedure is general and might not work on certain Whirlpool washer models.
Whirlpool washer sensing fill not working? Recalibrate the washer (helps resolve any sensors fault that could be bei
Another trick you can try is recalibrating the washer.
Why?
Well, Whirlpool recommends the recalibration of some of their washing machines if they stop working correctly since the fault may occur due to the settings going out of sync with the system.
Also, if you just replaced parts such as the Main Control PCB, drive assembly, suspension, basket, motor, or capacitor, you need to calibrate (and reset) the washer afresh.
So it is worth giving a shot at recalibration.
Here are the steps (and please make sure the tub is completely empty before you run the recalibration cycle).
How to run Re-Calibration Test Mode
1. Set the dial to the top (12 O clock) position (normal).
2. Then turn the knob left (counter-clockwise) once then clockwise (right) three times, then left (counter-clockwise) one time, and finally clockwise (right) one click. Be fast and allow just a half-second between turns.
3. Now all its LED lights will light up for a second (except for the last one on the right).
4. Next, turn the dial until only the Rinse LED lights up (keep turning it until the rinse LED lights up)
5. Go on and press the “Start” button and wait as the machine re-calibrates and resets the parameters.
Watch this YouTube video for the above steps.
You want to restart the wash cycle for yet another time after its done recalibrating and see if you’re in luck.
Quick Tip: It is again a nice idea to first unplug the washer for a couple of seconds before you do the recalibration- It helps clear up any bad settings stored in memory.
Whirlpool washer stuck on sensing for too long- What to do if the washer won’t enter into diagnostic mode /run recalibration
In the event that your washer can’t get it into the diagnostic mode (or run recalibration) then chances are you’re looking at a board problem- and this means a replacement could be needed.
But before that, inspect inside the appliance for any disconnected/broken wires, especially those going to or from the main board.
Why is my whirlpool washer stuck on sensing (whirlpool washer not sensing / whirlpool washer not sensing clothes)- Final words
If your washer won’t budge and the problem remains, call in a repairman…otherwise, contact Whirlpool customer care toll free via 1-800-253-1301 (do this before anything else if you are still under warranty).
And please leave a comment– we want others to see what is working for most people!
