Whirlpool washing machine malfunctions
Mid-priced Whirlpool washing machines, like any other, are not immune to breakdowns. They also end up in service centers, where technicians have compiled a list of the most common malfunctions of these units. While these are generally no different from those of other brands, there are some repair specifics, so let's take things one step at a time.
Frequent breakdowns
Most Whirlpool washing machines are equipped with a good self-diagnostic system, as a result of which the machine displays error code. This makes troubleshooting much easier, so if a code appears on the machine's display, be sure to read the instructions. But what if the washing machine won't turn on at all? The self-diagnosis system won't help here. Technicians note that the most common faults in Whirlpool washing machines are:
- heating element;
- engine or its moving parts;
- drum cuff and pipes;
- control board.
Important! Whirlpool machines often experience clogged filters and hoses, but this can easily be resolved with regular cleaning.
Heating element failure
If the machine does not start washing or does not turn on, one of the reasons may be a broken heating element. 
Sometimes the machine turns on and runs, but still washes in cold water. In this case, it's necessary to check the heating element and replace it if necessary. This is done as follows:
- the back cover of the case is removed;
- the power wires and the sensor are disconnected from the heating element;
- loosen the nut on the screw located in the center of the heating element base;
- the screw is pressed into the heating element, which then needs to be pulled out towards you using rocking movements;
Note: If the heating element is very tight and won't budge, try spraying it with WD-40, wait a bit, and then pry the element up with a flathead screwdriver and pull it out.
- We clean the tank from debris and dirt through the hole under the heating element;
- insert the heating element into the socket and tighten the nut, being careful not to overtighten it, otherwise this will result in the heating element being squeezed into the drum during washing;
- we connect the wires and the temperature sensor;
- We assemble the car.
Engine malfunctions
Whirlpool washing machine motors often fail. These problems are usually simple and can be easily fixed at home. Most often, the brushes of Whirlpool washing machine collector motors wear out. 
This causes the motor to first lose power and then completely stop spinning the drum at an acceptable speed under load. However, the washing machine still turns on and the wash cycle starts. How can I troubleshoot Whirlpool washing machine motor problems? Let's start with the motor.
- We disconnect the washing machine from the utilities and move it to a place convenient for repair.
- We turn the car with the back wall facing us, take a star screwdriver and unscrew the screws holding the back wall, detach the plastic latches.
- After removing the back panel of the Whirlpool washing machine, we find the motor, which is located directly under the tank.
The motor has been found, now we need to make sure the brushes are truly worn. You can unscrew the motor, disconnect the wires, remove it from the housing, and then remove and inspect the brushes. The whole process will take you about 15-20 minutes. Or you can determine brush wear in just a couple of minutes. How do you do it?
Take a hammer and lightly tap the motor housing several times. You don't need to hit it with all your might, but the blows should be noticeable. Plug in the washing machine and run the test cycle. If the engine starts to work normally, then the brushes definitely need to be changed. If the motor still doesn't work, then the problem is not with the brushes.
If your Whirlpool washing machine does not turn on, there are two possible faults, or the control module was initially faulty.
Turn off the Whirlpool machine again, remove the drive belt, and unscrew the motor bolts. Pull out the motor and use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the brush screws. Remove the old brushes, check for wear, and replace them with new ones. Replace the motor, reattach the drive belt, reinstall the back panel, plug in the Whirlpool machine, and test its operation. If the machine doesn't turn on, check that all the wires are connected to the motor and its sensor.
Wear of the cuff, corrosion of the housing
Every Whirlpool washing machine suffers from a rather unpleasant problem that, while not affecting its functionality, significantly spoils its appearance. The problem is that the quality of the metal used to partially construct the Whirlpool machine's frame leaves much to be desired and is susceptible to corrosion. While this problem affects most modern automatic washing machines, for some reason, Whirlpool frames are more susceptible to corrosion.
In this case, the only solution is a radical replacement of the body parts. Cleaning and touching up the body is pointless, as it won't restore the car's appearance. In addition to corrosion of the washing machine body Whirlpool has another weak point - the cuff and sealing rubbers, especially the cuff. What is the weakness?
The problem is that the material the Whirlpool washing machine's seal is made of deteriorates when exposed to moisture. If the seal isn't wiped clean after each wash, it will crack and begin to leak after 1.5 to 2 years of use. Let's check the seal.
The seals of washing machines such as Samsung and LG Miele Ariston are not as sensitive, but they can still become unusable if they are constantly wet.
- Let's open the washing machine hatch.
- Carefully feel and inspect the cuff for cracks and tears. Try not to mistake the cuff's bulges and concavities, which are designed into the cuff, for tears.
- If damage is found, remove the old cuff and install a new one.
Read the article to learn how to replace a damaged washing machine seal. The cuff in the washing machine broke – what to do??
Control board
If your Whirlpool washing machine won't turn on, there's a good chance there's a problem with the control board. Diagnosing the problem yourself is quite difficult; it's best to contact a professional. To be fair, it should be noted that if the car The Whirlpool does not turn on, the problem may be in the electrical circuit, in the FPS or in the power cord.
A qualified technician will determine the exact problem, what parts are needed, and how much the repair will cost. Then, you can decide whether to repair the washing machine or buy a new one.
In summary, about a dozen Whirlpool washing machines break down every day worldwide. Typically, the motors, pumps, and heating elements fail, but problems with the door seal and control board can also arise. If your machine won't turn on or another unexplained "symptom" occurs, it's best to contact a specialist. Happy repair!
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What happens if the cuff cracks, but there are no visible traces of water under the machine during and after washing?
I bought a used Whirlpool 2000. The heating element is leaking. It got squeezed out during washing. How do I install the heating element correctly? Please help.
I'm having the same problem—the heating element is being squeezed out. I thought I didn't tighten it enough when I replaced it, but I tightened it more and it's squeezed out again. Now I'll try tightening the nut a little; maybe I overdid it? The mounting design is a bit poor, it's just a disaster. I'd chop those Wirlpool engineers off at the very top. I'm just so angry. And the heating element is only held in the tank by some kind of rubber band. What idiots!