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How to Reset a Whirlpool Washer

Quick Answer

Resetting a Whirlpool washer can be done three ways. The simplest is unplugging the machine from the wall for 60 seconds, which performs a hard power reset and clears active faults from the control board. The second method uses the mode dial: turn it one full rotation clockwise, then 3 clicks counterclockwise, 1 click clockwise, and 1 click back, which enters the diagnostic clear sequence. The third method clears stored fault codes from memory by pressing Cycle Signal three times within 8 seconds while in diagnostic mode. All three methods are safe and non-destructive.

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clearing active and stored fault codes

MaytagRESET

How to Reset Your Whirlpool Washer

Three reset methods for Whirlpool washers: unplug 60 sec, dial sequence, or Cycle Signal button press.

Most Likely Causes

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

User wants to clear an active error code before diagnosis40%

Machine froze mid-cycle due to a transient glitch24%

Testing whether an error code is intermittent or persistent22%

After a repair, clearing stored fault codes from memory14%

Symptoms You May Notice

Error code displayed and cycle will not resume
Machine unresponsive to button presses
Cycle paused with no error code visible

Diagnostic Checklist

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

Method 1

Method 1: Unplug the washer power cord from the wall outlet. Wait a full 60 seconds (not 10 or 30). Plug back in. This clears the active fault and resets the control board RAM.

Method 2 (dial models)

Method 3 (stored code clear)

Frequently Asked Questions

Does unplugging a Whirlpool washer clear the error code permanently?

A power reset clears the active code from the display and the board's working memory. Stored fault history in non-volatile memory may persist until cleared through diagnostic mode. More importantly, if the root cause is not fixed, the code will return on the next cycle.

How long do I need to leave my Whirlpool washer unplugged to reset it?

60 seconds is the recommended minimum. This allows all capacitors on the control board to fully discharge, ensuring the RAM is cleared. Waiting only 10-15 seconds may not be sufficient for a full board reset.

My Whirlpool washer is showing an error code but running fine. Should I reset it?

You can reset it to clear the display, but also use the diagnostic mode to record what code was stored before clearing. That stored code provides useful information about what fault the machine experienced, even if it resolved on its own.

Related Whirlpool Washer Error Codes

Code: F21Whirlpool Washer F21 Error Code: Long Drain Fault Code: LFWhirlpool Washer LF Error Code: Long Fill Code: F5 E3Whirlpool Washer F5 E3 Error Code: Lid Lock Fault Code: HUBWhirlpool Washer Error Codes: Complete Troubleshooting Guide

Same Fix on Other Brands

Maytag washerHow to Reset a Maytag Washer

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 RESET Errors

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

WTW4816FW, WTW5000DW, WTW7000DW, WTW8000DW, WFW8620HC, WTW4850HW, WTW6120HW

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026