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ErrBase

How to Clear Error Codes on a Whirlpool Washer: 4 Reset Methods

Quick Answer

There are four methods to clear Whirlpool washer error codes, and which one works depends on whether the code is active (fault still present) or stored (fault was resolved but code remains). Method 1: Press Pause/Cancel twice, then Power - this clears the display but stored codes remain in memory. Method 2: Unplug for 60 seconds - this resets the control board and clears most stored codes.

There are four methods to clear Whirlpool washer error codes, and which one works depends on whether the code is active (fault still present) or stored (fault was resolved but code remains). Method 1: Press Pause/Cancel twice, then Power - this clears the display but stored codes remain in memory. Method 2: Unplug for 60 seconds - this resets the control board and clears most stored codes. Method 3: Enter diagnostic mode (Duet: rotate knob right 3 clicks; Cabrio: close lid, press button 3 times in 8 seconds) and the codes clear after being displayed. Method 4: Complete a successful wash cycle - many codes auto-clear after the washer proves it can finish a cycle without the fault recurring. The critical distinction: active codes return immediately after clearing because the fault condition is still present. Only stored codes (from a past event) can be permanently cleared.

WhirlpoolWasherSeverity: low90% DIY Success
Time to Fix
2–15 min
Difficulty
beginner
Parts Cost
—
Tools Needed
None

What Does the CLEAR-CODES Code Mean?

4 methods: Pause/Cancel twice then Power (display only), unplug 60 seconds (full reset), diagnostic mode (read and clear), or complete a successful cycle (auto-clear). Active faults return after clearing.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Previous fault resolved but code remains stored40%
Power outage leaving stale codes24%
Code appeared during diagnostic testing14%
Intermittent fault that resolved itself12%
Recent repair needing code clearance10%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • Error code on display preventing cycle start
  • Old error code from previous event
  • Code flashing after repair was completed
  • Multiple old codes in diagnostic memory
  • Washer works fine but code still shows

Can you reset a Whirlpool washer to clear the CLEAR-CODES code?

Method 1: Pause/Cancel x2, then Power. Method 2: Unplug 60 seconds. Method 3: Enter diagnostic mode (codes clear on exit). Method 4: Complete a successful wash cycle.

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Try pressing Pause/Cancel twice quickly, then press Power

Try pressing Pause/Cancel twice quickly, then press Power. This clears the display on most Whirlpool models. If the code returns within seconds, the fault is still active.

2

Unplug the washer from the wall outlet for a full 60 seconds

3

Enter diagnostic mode to read ALL stored codes (there may be multiple)

4

Run a complete wash cycle with a small load

Frequently Asked Questions

If I clear the code, does that fix the problem?
No. Clearing the code only removes the error message from the display. If the underlying fault is still present (broken part, clogged drain, etc.), the code will return as soon as the washer detects the condition again. Clear codes after you have fixed the actual problem.
Why does my code come back 10 seconds after clearing?
An error code that returns within seconds of clearing means the fault is currently active - the washer is detecting the problem right now. You need to diagnose and repair the specific fault, not just clear the code.
Will clearing codes erase my cycle settings?
No. Unplugging or resetting does not erase cycle preferences, water temperature settings, or other user configurations. These are stored in non-volatile memory. Only a factory reset (available on some models through the service menu) erases all settings.

Related Whirlpool Washer Error Codes

Code: HUBWhirlpool Washer Error CodesCode: DUET-HUBWhirlpool Duet Error CodesCode: CABRIO-HUBWhirlpool Cabrio Error Codes

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Whirlpool shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

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Models Known to Experience CLEAR-CODES Errors

This repair applies to most Whirlpool washers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

WFW9150WW, WFW94HEXW, WTW5000DW, WTW7000DW, WFW8300SW, WTW8500DC

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 15, 2026