Imagine this: You have a mountain of laundry that’s been building for a week, and you finally carve out the time to get it done. You fill your Whirlpool washer, press start and … nothing occurs. That machine is stuck in the sensing cycle, and now you’ve got to patiently hear those beeps, beeps, beeps, and wonder what went wrong.
If this situation sounds familiar, you’re not alone. This is the case for many Whirlpool washer owners at one time or the other. The sensing cycle is one of the integral parts of the washing process, and when it gets stuck, you feel utterly helpless.
By the time you’re done reading it, you’ll be armed with the knowledge you need to diagnose and correct the problem — or at least know when it’s time to bring in a professional. So let’s get started and find out why your whirlpool washer is stuck on sensing and how you can fix it.
What You Need to Know About Whirlpool Washer Sensing Cycle
What Is the Sensing Cycle?
The sensing cycle kicks things off in the wash programs of most Whirlpool washers. In this stage, the washer senses the size and weight of the laundry load so it can set the water level and washing settings accordingly. That way, the washer creeps its way to the perfect amount of water and energy needed for an efficient, effective wash.
What Happens in Sensing Cycle?
- The washer briefly spins the drum to determine the size of the load.
- It calibrates the water level and selects the optimum wash program.
- This will go on from time to time, which powerful way for it determines the load.
Duration of the Sensing Cycle
For normal cases, the sensing phase should last 2-3 minutes. But if the washer gets stuck in this stage for too long, there could be a problem that needs to be addressed.
What Is the Sensing Cycle and Why Does It Matter?
The sensing cycle also makes sure that your washer:
Delivers water in an efficient way
Eliminates over or underloading problems.
Improves the washing experience for better quality.
Although this cycle is essential for the operation of the machine, it can be annoying when your machine breaks down. Now, on to the most common reasons for this issue.
Whirlpool Washer Stuck on Sensing: Common Issues
There can be one or several reasons when Whirlpool washer stuck on sensing. We’ll list the most likely culprits, and we’ll describe how they disrupt the sensing cycle.
Faulty Shift Actuator
The washer’s shift actuator controls the agitator and spin basket. When it does fail, the washer may get stuck in the sensing cycle.
- Signs of Failing a Faulty Actuator:
- Washer stuck on sensing.
- Agitator or spin basket does not move.
Note: it is often necessary to replace the shift actuator to solve this problem.
Clogged Drain Pump
A stuck drain pump on the washing machine can stop the washer from draining the water, which interrupts the sensing cycle.
- How to Tell if a Pump is Clogged:
- The drum is filled with standing water.
The washer is unable to move on to the wash phase.
- Solution: Remove clogs from the drain pump
- Malfunctioning Door Latch or Lid Switch
A door latch or lid switch is a failsafe that prevents the washer from running when the door isn’t properly closed. If it does, the machine gets stuck on sensing.
Signs of a Bad Latch/Switch:
Error codes for a problem with the door
Washer not working — pressing start does nothing at all.
Solution: Use a multimeter to test the latch; if the latch has failed, replace it.
Torn Drive Belt
The drum’s rotation is powered by the drive belt. A broken or frayed belt can prevent the drum from spinning, keeping the washing machine stuck in sensing mode.
Symptoms of a Torn Belt:
- No drum movement.
- Strange sounds while in use.
- Fix: Check the belt for wear and replace it if it’s damaged.
Faulty Pressure Switch
Water levels in the drum are monitored by the pressure switch. Defective switch sends false signals to the control board and causes the washer to get stuck.
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Signs of a Bad Pressure Switch:
Washer is filling with excessive or insufficient water.
Signals are often interrupted during sensing.
Flaw: The pressure switch isn’t working correctlySolution: Use a multimeter to test the pressure switch and replace it if it’s faulty.
Faulty Water Inlet Valves
Water inlet valves open to allow water into the washer. If they’re not working properly, the washer may have trouble filling, which would extend the sensing cycle.
- Symptoms of Faulty Valves:
- Washer is not filling with water.
- Water Supply Concerned Error Codes
Solution: Check inlet valves and replace them as needed.
Load Imbalance
If your load is imbalanced, the washer can get confused during the sensing phase and remain stuck.
- How to Repair an Unbalanced Load:
- Stop the washer and redistribute the laundry evenly.
- Never combine heavy and light-weight things in the same load.
Wrong Wash Setting
Using an incorrect wash setting (like one not suited to your laundry type) can cause delays in the sensing phase.
Solution: Select the correct wash setting for your load.
Drive Motor Issues
If one of the drive motors is malfunctioning, the drum won’t spin, and that can cause it to stick on sensing.
Solution: Have a technician check or replace the motor.
Main Control Board Issues
If the washer’s main control board is faulty, it can stop sending the proper signals to progress the cycle.
Solution: If your control board is diagnosed as faulty, you should replace it!
Power Issues
Insufficient power supply or electrical problems can also cause the washer to get stuck in a certain position.
Solution: Make sure the washer is plugged in firmly and then check your home’s circuit breaker.
Dirty Sensor Connection
If the control board and other components have a dirt sensor connection, the communication between them will be hampered, which can cause issues while the sensing phase.
| Cause | Symptoms | Solution |
| Faulty Shift Actuator | Drum doesn’t move | Replace the actuator |
| Clogged Drain Pump | Water remains in drum | Clean the pump |
| Failed Lid Switch | Washer doesn’t start | Replace the lid switch |
| Torn Drive Belt | Drum doesn’t spin | Replace the belt |
| Faulty Pressure Switch | Water fills incorrectly | Replace the pressure switch |
| Faulty Water Inlet Valves | Washer doesn’t fill with water | Replace the valves |
| Load Imbalance | Uneven laundry distribution | Rearrange the load |
Solution: Clean the sensor joints, as this may restore normal operation.
A Simple Troubleshooting Guide for You!
Here’s a step-by-step walk-through to help diagnose and fix it:
Prioritize Safety
- Before doing any inspection or repair work, always disconnect the washer.
Gather Necessary Tools
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Multimeter
Check the Power Supply
- Make sure the washer is plugged in properly.
- If the circuit breaker has tripped, reset it.
Examine and Clean the Drain Pump
- Find the drainage pump and clear the blockage.
Test and Replace the Lid Switch
- Check and Change the Drive Belt
Check the belt for any signs of wear or torn edges.
- Ensure the pressure switch is tested and replaced
Check if the pressure switch is working with a multimeter.
- Examine and Replace the Water Inlet Valves
Test for clogs and swap out defective valves.
- Preventing Future Issues
To prevent future issues with your Whirlpool washer:
- Regularly Clean Machine and Hoses: Clean the washer drum, hoses, and filters
Load Properly: Distributing laundry properly and evenly.
Don’t Overload: Abide by the washer’s capacity thresholds.
Use the Right Detergent: Read the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Conclusion
Having a Whirlpool washer stuck on sensing can be incredibly annoying, yet most problems can be fixed in no time with the right resources and tools. Be sure to check for common culprits such as faulty parts, clogged pumps or out-of-whack loads. Preventing Future Issues: Regular maintenance and appropriate use can prevent many problems from coming up in the first place.
If you’ve gone through these solutions and your washer isn’t working, don’t be afraid to reach out to a pro. So your Whirlpool washer stuck on sensing does not have to be the end of laundry day!
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