Whirlpool Washer Sensing Light Flashing: How To Fix? [7 Methods]

Whirlpool washers and dryers with high-end functions and innovative features strive to make the mundane task of washing clothes as simple as possible.

However, these Whirlpool washers are not infallible and may develop issues of their own, such as whirlpool washer sensing light flashing issues. So, how do you resolve the flashing sensing light issue in your Whirlpool washing machine?

To resolve the flashing sensing light on your Whirlpool washer, reset the appliance. To obtain the error code, use the console to access the technical datasheet. To troubleshoot/resolve the error, consult your user manual.

Replace faulty parts, but first inspect for blockages in the drain hose/pump or impeller. Continue reading to learn how to troubleshoot your Whirlpool washing machine, identify the source of the problem, and resolve it.

Troubleshooting: Issues on Fixing Whirlpool Washer Sensing Light Flashing

Issue	Solution
Loose or damaged fill hose	Make sure the fill hose is properly connected to the water supply and the washer. If the hose is damaged, replace it.
Faulty water inlet valve	If the water inlet valve is faulty, it may not be able to deliver water to the washer properly. In this case, you’ll need to replace the water inlet valve.
Imbalance load	If the load is unbalanced, the washer may not be able to sense the load size properly. To fix this, redistribute the load evenly in the washer.
Faulty control board	If the control board is faulty, it may not be able to communicate with the sensing mechanism properly. In this case, you’ll need to replace the control board.
Software glitch	In some cases, a software glitch may be causing the sensing light to flash. To fix this, you can try resetting the washer to factory settings

WHAT DOES A BLINKING SENSING LIGHT INDICATE?

When you start your Whirlpool washer, the sensing light illuminates, and the “water level” knob is set to “auto-sensing.” Your washer senses the contents to assess the load size and balance to determine the appropriate amount of water to clean the load.

When the sensing is complete, the washer is filled to the auto-set water level, and the wash cycle begins. The presence of a blinking sensing light at the start of a new wash cycle indicates that the machine is working properly.

If the cycle does not progress past the sensing phase, you may have a problem with the load size or the sensor itself. The following are some possible solutions to the sensing light flashing issue.

HOW TO FIX WHIRLPOOL WASHER SENSING LIGHT FLASHING?

Below are tried and true methods to troubleshoot your washer to fix the problem about light sensing.

1. Reset Your Whirlpool Washer

Whirlpool maintains an online repository of product manuals and help literature that can be used to troubleshoot common washer issues. Look for model-specific instructions because even the most basic tasks, such as resetting a washer, will differ between models.

One method for resetting your Whirlpool washing machine is to turn it off, unplug it, and leave it unplugged for 15 to 20 minutes before turning it back on.

You can restart the washer by unplugging it and plugging it back in. To reset the unit, lift and close the lid six times in 12 seconds. You can also reset your washer by consulting the user manual. Start a new wash cycle and put the appliance through its paces.

2. Get Into Diagnostics to Find the Exact Error Code

There could be several reasons why your washer is behaving strangely. Knowing the exact problem will save you a lot of time and effort that would otherwise be spent on its diagnosis.

Whirlpool washers, like other brand washing machines, display an error code that indicates the nature of the problem. Here’s how to find the error code for your washer problem:

• To enter diagnostics, use the mode dial.
• Normal is the default setting.
• Turn it one click left, three clicks right, one click left, and one click right.
• Obtain the error code from the console’s technical data sheet.

Use the error code to create a service request or to perform the repairs yourself. The code will determine how the problem should be handled. If the repair necessitates the replacement of faulty parts, make sure the component is compatible with your specific model.

Alternative Video: My Washer Is Stuck In Sensing

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3. Try the Drain and Spin Functions

Even getting into the diagnostics can be difficult in some cases. If your washer has stopped in the middle of the cycle with the sensing light flashing and you are unable to access diagnostics, see if you can drain the water and use the spin function.

If the water drains from the unit but the Whirlpool Washer does not spin, the shift actuator may be faulty. Replacing the actuator may assist you in entering diagnostics and moving forward with troubleshooting and resolution.

4. Look for Blockages in the Drain Hose, Pump, Impeller

Lint accumulates in your washer on a regular basis. Other small objects, such as pins and buttons, are also likely to accumulate inside the unit.

While regular maintenance can help prevent clogging of the drain hose and other internal parts, a blockage in the draining system is still possible. Check for obstructions and clear them to allow water to drain from your washer.

Removing the drain hose may not be difficult. However, when working with the pump and impeller, it is recommended that you seek professional assistance or advice. This is due to the fact that you will need to disassemble the units, clean them, and reassemble them to ensure that the washer works properly.

5. Replace Faulty Parts Based on Error Code

If you are a DIY enthusiast who is confident in repairing home appliances on your own, you may be eager to replace washer parts to see if this solves the problem. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

Replace only if the error code indicates that a new part is required. Look for parts for your specific washer model.

The model number is located beneath the machine’s lid. W10467289 Temperature Sensor, W10178988 Sensor, or search brand and model for a sample part code.

6. Possible Reasons for Faulty Drain/Spin Functions

A blinking sensing light indicates a problem with the drain, spin, or other function. Whirlpool washers frequently experience a variety of such issues. Most of these issues can be easily resolved if you know what to do.

While the error code is useful in locating the problematic component, you may find it useful to understand the possible causes of the faulty spin/drain functions as they may be useful in troubleshooting the issue.

Water will not drain from your Whirlpool washer if:

• The drain pump or hose has become clogged.
• The drain hose is bent, twisted, or coiled.
• The debris has clogged the coin trap, which traps small objects that fall into the drain.
• Because the lid switch assembly/door lock switch assembly on the unit is faulty, your Whirlpool washer door will not lock. Only when the lid/door is completely closed and locked will the washer operate.
• The washer’s water pump belt has worn out or been damaged.

Please keep in mind that some of these components will only be available in certain washer models. When dealing with a faulty spin function, see if:

• The door lock switch assembly/lid switch assembly is fully operational. If this component fails, your washer will not function until the problem is resolved.
• When closed, the door latch completely seals the unit.
• The motor coupling is in good working order.
• The motor control board is responsible for receiving and transmitting power to the washer’s motor.
• The drive belt has come undone or is damaged.

To get the washing machine back up and running, faulty components must be repaired or replaced. Some of these components are prone to both mechanical and electrical failures.

Check the electrical continuity of all the switches on the door/lid assemblies with a multimeter. Replace any switches that do not have continuity and ensure that the fixed units work properly.

If you are unfamiliar or uncomfortable troubleshooting or repairing washing machine problems on your own, hire a technician. Having said that, some of these issues/solutions do not necessitate the involvement of a professional.

7. Reset a Whirlpool Dishwasher’s Blinking Light

If you have a Whirlpool dishwasher, you may occasionally notice the LED light near the control panel blinking repeatedly while the appliance is running. The blinking light indicates that no water heat was detected during the cycle.

You can stop the blinking and try to fix the problem by running a diagnostic cycle from your dishwasher’s control panel.

1. Look for the display on your Whirlpool dishwasher and make sure the light is still blinking.
2. Press the “Heated Dry” button first, then the “Normal” button quickly.
3. To enter the diagnostic mode, press the “Heated Dry” button again, followed by the “Normal” button.
4. If the dishwasher door is open, the diagnostic cycle will begin.
5. After 30 minutes, check the dishwasher to ensure the diagnostic cycle is complete, at which point the light should no longer be blinking.

CONCLUSION

Whirlpool washing machines are used in a large number of households around the world. However, they, like all consumer goods, are subject to wear and tear and flaws. There is a wealth of information available online that can assist you in resolving several of these common issues on your own.

As a result, the next time you have a problem with your washer, try to solve it yourself or at least try a few simple solutions before seeking professional assistance. You’ll save money while also learning a thing or two.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question	Answer
What does it mean when the sensing light on my Whirlpool washer is flashing?	A flashing sensing light on your Whirlpool washer can mean a few things. It could be a sign of a loose or damaged fill hose, faulty water inlet valve, imbalance load, faulty control board, or software glitch.
How do I fix the sensing light on my Whirlpool washer that is flashing?	There are a few things you can try to fix the sensing light on your Whirlpool washer that is flashing. First, check the fill hose to make sure it is properly plugged in. If the hose is plugged in correctly, try resetting the washer to factory settings. If the sensing light is still flashing, you may need to contact a qualified technician for help.
What should I do if the sensing light on my Whirlpool washer is flashing and the washer won’t start?	If the sensing light on your Whirlpool washer is flashing and the washer won’t start, you should first try restarting the washer. If that doesn’t work, you may need to contact a qualified technician for help.
What is the meaning of the different lights on my Whirlpool washer?	The different lights on your Whirlpool washer can indicate different things. The sensing light, for example, will usually flash when the washer is sensing the load size. The power light will usually be solid when the washer is powered on and blinking when the washer is starting up. Other lights may indicate the status of the cycle, the temperature, or the spin speed.

References:

• How to Fix Whirlpool Washer Sensing Light Flashing
• Whirlpool washer fault/error code confusion
• Whirlpool Top-loading Washer Use and Care Guide