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How to Reset a Whirlpool Top Load Washing Machine

Video Guide
This guide was transcribed from a YouTube video.

Introduction

Use this guide to reset and recalibrate a Whirlpool-style top-load washer with oval LED segments below the cycle dial. Do this after installing a new component (like a control board, shift actuator, or suspension/balancing rod), or when the washer behaves strangely, runs poorly, or seems “confused” about what state it’s in. A reset can restore default behavior, and recalibration helps the washer relearn and return components to an optimal default state.

What you need

  1. Edit

    • Use these procedures on washers that have oval LED segments just below the control dial.

    • Make sure the washer is empty, and the tub is not running a cycle.

  2. Edit

    • WARNING: Unplug the washer from the wall before doing any reset steps that require power removal.

    • Caution: Keep hands, hair, and loose clothing away from the tub while recalibration runs, because the washer may move and make loud or unusual noises.

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    • Rotate the control dial counterclockwise until it points straight up at the 12 o’clock position.

    • Unplug the washer from the wall.

    • Wait about one minute.

    • Plug the power cord back in.

    • Listen for a faint clicking noise from the back of the washer as the relay boots up.

    • This reset is intended to restore the washer to default modes and settings.

  4. Edit

    • Rotate the dial counterclockwise one full turn (360°).

    • Turn the knob right three clicks, left one click, and right one click again so it ends at the 3 o’clock (far right) position.

    • Complete the full knob sequence within three seconds.

    • Repeat the sequence if needed, because it may take a few attempts.

    • Watch for all the bottom indicator lights to flash on and off to confirm diagnostic mode.

  5. Edit

    • Turn the knob clockwise four times.

    • Confirm the Rinse light is the only light illuminated solidly.

    • The washer is now set to recalibration mode.

  6. Edit

    • Press the Start button to begin recalibration while the Rinse light is selected.

    • Wait for the lid to lock, then let the washer run its tests for about three minutes.

    • Caution: Don’t try to stop or force the lid during recalibration, because it will lock and the washer may move components.

    • Expect various noises during the process, because the washer runs multiple operations to reset components to a default state.

    • Recalibration is especially important after replacing parts like the shift actuator or a control board.

  7. Edit

    • Watch for every single indicator light to turn off, including the lid lock light.

    • Use the washer normally once all lights turn off.

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    • Unplug the washer and let it sit for about one minute to drain stored power and memory.

    • Plug the washer back in, and let it sit for a few moments.

    • Open and close the lid six times in under 12 seconds.

    • This reset works on some models but not all, and it can clear issues that a simple unplug reset doesn’t.

Conclusion

If the washer still acts strange, repeat the diagnostic entry steps carefully and rerun recalibration, because timing matters. If the washer won’t enter diagnostic mode or won’t complete recalibration, service may be required.

Author

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Ben Schlichter

Member since: 01/21/25

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