Error F12 in a Whirlpool washing machine

What should I do if my Whirlpool washing machine displays error code F12? It's important to understand what the error code is signaling. You can find the error code in the user manual. Let's look at what error code F12 means and what to do if it appears on the display.

Let's decipher the code

You can find out if you can solve the problem yourself by deciphering the code. Error F12, issued by the Whirlpool automatic machine, signals that the water in the tank does not heat up to the required temperature. Insufficient heating reduces washing performance—tough stains won't come out in cool water. A malfunction may be the cause of the water not heating up:

• heating element (TEN);
• temperature sensor;
• protective pressure switch;
• heating relay on the control board.

Another likely cause of error F12 is a broken wire in the "Main Control Module - Heating Element" section. These problems can only be repaired by someone with the necessary knowledge. It's not a good idea to attempt repairs without any experience with washing machines. This could result in complete equipment failure and, for an inexperienced repairman, serious injury.

If the F12 code is detected on the washing machine display, it is advisable to call a qualified specialist for diagnostics and troubleshooting.

To correct the situation, the following repairs may be required:

• eliminating wiring defects, tightening clamps, checking contacts;
• dismantling the faulty part and installing a new element (we are talking about the thermistor on the control board, the heating element, the heating relay, the protective pressure switch).

In most cases, the cause lies in a faulty heating element. Heating elements in automatic washing machines often burn out due to a layer of scale that forms on the element. You can extend the life of the heating element by using special anti-scale products.

How to change the heating element?

What should you do if the F12 symbol lights up on the display? A regular user can diagnose the heating element of a Whirlpool washing machine themselves. Testing the heating element is very easy with a multimeter. The heating element in Whirlpool washing machines is located at the front, so to access the heating element you will have to remove the front panel of the machine. The algorithm of actions will be as follows:

• turn off the power to the washing machine, close the inlet valve;
• Using a slotted screwdriver, release the latches and remove the lower front panel;
• Unscrew the bolts located under the narrow panel;
• Loosen the clamp holding the hatch door cuff and remove it from the machine;
• tuck the sealing rubber inside the drum;
• unscrew the hinge together with the hatch door using an 8 mm wrench;
• unscrew the screws holding the door lock (they are located on the right, near the hole for the door lock);
• carefully remove the front panel of the case (the panel is held in place by additional latches);
• inspect the heating element contacts located directly under the hatch;
• Take a photo of the wiring diagram for the heater;
• Disconnect the wires, loosen the nut securing the heating element, and use rocking movements to remove the heater from the housing.

If the part is difficult to remove, lubricate the rubber seal of the heating element with WD-40 aerosol.

Next, inspect the heating element and test it with a tester. If a fault is detected, the part will need to be replaced with a new one. The mounting surface must be cleaned of accumulated dirt, and a new heating element must be installed. Connect the heater and reassemble the washing machine in reverse order.

   

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