How do I reset the memory on my Whirlpool washer to clear any error codes or programming issues?

How to Reset the Memory on Your Whirlpool Washer to Clear Error Codes and Programming Issues

If your Whirlpool washer is acting up—showing error codes, stopping mid-cycle, or just behaving oddly—a reset might be all you need to get it back to normal. Here’s a detailed guide covering all possible ways to reset your washer and clear any stored error codes or programming issues.

Basic Reset (Power Cycle Method)

This is the simplest way to reset your washer and should be your first step:

1. Turn off the washer – Press the Power button to turn the machine off.
2. Unplug the washer – Pull the power cord out of the wall outlet.
3. Wait for 5–10 minutes – This allows the machine’s control board to discharge completely.
4. Plug it back in – After waiting, plug the washer back into the outlet.
5. Turn the washer back on – Press the Power button and check if the issue is resolved.

If your washer was just experiencing a minor glitch, this should fix it. If not, move on to other reset methods below.

Reset Using the Control Panel (Button Combination Reset)

Some Whirlpool washers allow you to reset the memory using a specific button sequence:

Method 1: "Start/Pause" Reset

1. Press "Start/Pause" once to put the washer in standby mode.
2. Press and hold "Start/Pause" for 5 seconds.
3. Release the button and wait for the control panel to reset.
4. Try running a short cycle to see if the issue is fixed.

Method 2: "Power/Cancel" Reset

1. Press "Power" to turn the washer off.
2. Unplug the washer for 1–2 minutes.
3. Plug it back in and press "Power" to turn it on.
4. Press and hold "Cancel" for a few seconds.
5. Try starting a new cycle to see if the issue is gone.

Hard Reset (Factory Reset)

If the simple reset doesn’t work, you might need a more advanced factory reset to clear the control board’s memory.

1. Unplug the washer for at least 10 minutes.
2. Press and hold any button (except Power) for 10 seconds to discharge any residual power.
3. Plug the washer back in and press "Power".
4. If your washer has a "Reset" button, press and hold it for 3–5 seconds.
5. If there’s no reset button, try pressing "Power" + "Start/Pause" + "Cancel" together for 5 seconds.

This should reset your washer’s programming and clear any lingering errors.

Clearing Error Codes (Diagnostic Mode)

If an error code is still showing after a reset, you may need to manually clear it through the diagnostic mode.

Entering Diagnostic Mode:

1. Turn the washer OFF (but keep it plugged in).
2. Turn the cycle selector knob counterclockwise (left) one full turn.
3. Then, turn the knob:
   • 3 clicks right
   • 1 click left
   • 1 click right
4. If done correctly, all lights on the control panel should flash.
5. Press "Start" to run the diagnostic test – this will clear any stored error codes.

Once the test completes, turn off the washer and restart it.

Lid Lock Reset (For Top-Load Washers)

If your top-load Whirlpool washer is stuck on a cycle and won’t reset, the lid lock might be the issue.

1. Unplug the washer for 5 minutes.
2. Lift and close the lid 6 times within 12 seconds.
3. Plug the washer back in and press "Start".

If the lid lock error persists, try manually unlocking it or checking for obstructions.

Reset for Whirlpool Washers with Touchscreen Controls

If you have a high-end Whirlpool washer with a digital touchscreen, resetting it might be a bit different.

1. Press "Home" and navigate to Settings.
2. Select "Factory Reset" or "Reset Defaults".
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to reset the washer.
4. Restart the machine and check if the issue is resolved.

When to Call for Service

If none of these reset methods work, your washer might have a more serious problem, like a faulty control board, wiring issue, or sensor failure. In this case:

✔️ Check your user manual for specific troubleshooting steps.
✔️ Look up the exact error code on Whirlpool’s website.
✔️ Call Whirlpool customer support or a professional appliance technician for repairs.

Final Thoughts

Most Whirlpool washers can be reset using the power cycle method, button combinations, or diagnostic mode. If your washer still won’t reset or keeps showing error codes, there may be a bigger issue that requires professional service.