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ErrBase

Whirlpool Washer RL Error Code: Remove Load

Quick Answer

RL is not a fault code in the traditional sense. It appears exclusively during the machine's calibration cycle and simply means the machine sensed weight or resistance in the drum that should not be there. Remove all laundry, close the lid, and restart the calibration cycle.

RL is not a fault code in the traditional sense. It appears exclusively during the machine's calibration cycle and simply means the machine sensed weight or resistance in the drum that should not be there. Remove all laundry, close the lid, and restart the calibration cycle. Once complete, the machine saves updated suspension and weight sensor parameters. RL never appears during a normal wash cycle.

WhirlpoolWasherSeverity: low99% DIY Success
Time to Fix
1–5 min
Difficulty
beginner
Parts Cost
—
Tools Needed
None
Wrong code?

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remove load during calibration
MaytagRL

What Does the RL Code Mean?

Machine is in calibration mode and detected a load. Remove all items from the tub and restart calibration.

Most Likely Causes

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

Sensor detecting residual water weight in the tub during calibration (10%)60%
Calibration cycle started with laundry in the tub (90%)40%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • RL displayed when attempting to run calibration or diagnostic cycle
  • Machine exits calibration mode immediately after start

Can you reset a Whirlpool washer to clear the RL code?

Remove all items from the tub and restart the calibration cycle. RL clears automatically once the machine senses an empty tub.

Diagnostic Checklist

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

1

Open the lid and remove all items from the tub

Open the lid and remove all items from the tub. Verify the tub is completely empty. Close the lid.

2

If RL persists with an empty tub, run a drain/spin cycle to

Frequently Asked Questions

Can RL appear during a normal wash cycle?
No. RL only appears during calibration or diagnostic mode. If you see RL during what seems like a normal cycle, the machine may have entered diagnostic mode accidentally through an unintended button sequence.
How do I run the calibration cycle on a Whirlpool top-load washer?
With the tub empty, close the lid. Turn the dial to the calibration position (refer to your model's manual, but usually a specific cycle setting labeled Calibrate or initiated through the Service Mode button sequence). Start the cycle. The machine will spin, agitate, and spin again, then display C:00 or similar when complete.

Related Whirlpool Washer Error Codes

Code: F4 E4Whirlpool Washer F4 E4 Error Code: Out of BalanceCode: RESETHow to Reset a Whirlpool WasherCode: HUBWhirlpool Washer Error Codes: Complete Troubleshooting Guide

Same Fix on Other Brands

Maytag washerRL: Maytag Washer RL Error Code

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 RL Errors

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

WTW4816FW, WTW5000DW, WTW7000DW, WTW8000DW, WTW4850HW

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026