Whirlpool Washer Stuck On Sensing Mode? – 7 Fixes [2023]

Whirlpool washer is a value for money investment you made for household requirements. These washing machines will control your laundry jobs single-handedly. But sometimes, users complain, whirlpool washers stuck in sensing mode. Are you experiencing the same situation?

Whirlpool washer stuck on sensing doesn’t always mean it’s broken or needs replacement. Certain internal and external faults can develop problems in the whirlpool washer, For example, a clogged water inlet valve, faulty shift actuator, drive motor, and issue with the main electrical board could be the main reason why your whirlpool washer stuck on sensing mode.

Generally, a Whirlpool washer stays in sensing mode for two to three minutes. If the duration expires and the machine does not start the washing cycle, maybe there is an underlying issue. But don’t worry, this guide explains why your whirlpool washer on sensing mode and can you fix the issue.

Why Is Whirlpool Water Stuck On Sensing?

Whirlpool washer machines sensors mainly go through three primary steps before starting the wash cycle. First, checking the lid lock and lid switch, second, determining the load size, and third, delivering water for cleaning. If everything is under control, the process would begin. Otherwise, your whirlpool washer will stuck on sensing mode. 

Clogged water inlet valve

As we mentioned earlier, whirlpool washers deliver water into the bowel after sensing the load. Until water fills the tank to a sufficient level, the wash cycle doesn’t start. Sometimes, our water inlet valve is clogged with dirt, mild, sand, or gunk. As a result, the machine restricts the release of enough water and is stuck in sensing mode. 

Faulty shift actuator

Shift actuator plays a vital part inwhirlpool washer machines. This unit has several works to conduct, but most importantly maintaining two cycles. In simple terms, the Shift actuator works as a transition between sensor and wash cycle. This unit has an in-built optical sensor that monitors speed and determines the position of two cycles.  Shift actuator responsible to shift the splutch cum ring when needed. 

So a faulty or damaged actuator can stop the shifting process and stick the washer in sensing mode. Expert says, damage to this unit mainly developed for electrical or mechanical error. Any physical damage, lack of voltage, or electrical fault can affect the shift actuator. 

Faulty drive motor

Consider the drive motor as the heart of your whirlpool washing machine. This unit generates power to rotate the washer drum in all directions. You should know the washer sensor determined the load based on drum movement. If the drive motor is damaged, rotation will stop and stick the machine in sensing mode. 

However, a drive motor runs on electricity, so errors can develop from the power source. If not, maybe there is any physical damage due to years of use. 

Issue with main electrical board

A washing machine is an electronic device that runs on voltage. So if the main electric board has error, washers start showing unwanted problems. Not only washers, every electronics can develop errors in their system. So check the main electric board for rug, loose wires or low voltage.

How To Fix The Whirlpool Washer Stuck On Sensing?

We hope you understand the reasons why your whirlpool washer stuck on sensing. Now it’s time to fix the concern by yourself. We go through a step-by-step process starting from replacement to Recalibrate the washer. So let’s start the troubleshooting guide.

Replace the water inlet valve

Clogged or dirty water inlet valves can prevent entering water in the washer drum. As a result, your machine remains in sensing mode. However, you may see a release of a certain amount of water, but is it sufficient for the wash cycle? Maybe not. So it’s better to replace the existing intel valve with a new one. Indeed, this is an essential part of your washing machine, so don’t compromise. 

You should start by unscrewing and disconnecting the hoses. Now remove the wires and pull out the old valve from the back of the machine. After that, insert a new unit and cover the backside in repeating format. On average, a water inlet valve lasts approximately five to six years. However, the duration can reduce depending on your usage. 

Replace the shift actuator

As we know, shift actuator plays a vital role to transmit power cycle after sensing mode. Damage or electrical fault in this unit can cause unwanted issues. So first, you should ensure the shift actuator is physically broken or damaged. Use a multimeter and inspect if the unit has an electrical sign. After confirming the problem, replace the unit with a new one. The manufacturer says, whirlpool shift actuator lasts three to four months before failing.

Replace the drive motor

Remember, the washing machine’s drive motor is not repairable. So you have to ensure the physical damage before replacing the unit. You can take help from a professional for this inspection. 

However, a drive motor is free from wear and tear. In Fact the unit lasts more than five to ten years and conducts on average 5100 washing cycles. Still, every part of your washing machine has a limit. 

That’s why most experts suggest investing in a new washing machine instead of a drive motor. So always ensure the unit is drawn from its capability and causing the remaining sensing mode.

Check the main control board

Main control board (MCU) regulates the speed of the washer drum. This unit is located inside the machine housing. Several wires and ports are connected to this board. So you may need professional help to remove and inspect the unit. 

Unlike, drive motor, the main control board also runs for years. You should compare its replacement cost with a new washing machine. It is a wise way to cut down your expenses whenever these costly units are damaged. 

Restart your whirlpool washer

You will be surprised to know there is a quickest solution available to fix whirlpool washers that are stuck on sensing. The process, called power cycling, means unplug and plug the machine from the power outlet. You just pull out the power cord and wait for certain minutes before plug-in. Power cycling helps to resolve glitches or electrical surges developed in your washing machine. 

However, the process doesn’t solve any mechanical or electrical errors. So it’s recommended to follow the manual guide that comes with the product. Otherwise, you should contact a professional who determines accurate problems for remaining sensing mode. 

Enter diagnostic mode

Today’s whirlpool washers come with a helpful diagnostic mode. This feature determined the washer errors and checked others parts if working properly. 

So first rotate the dial knob completely at 360 degree, now follow the turning combination below

• Turn left one time
• Turn right for three times 
• And then turn left and right once

The process will start blinking LEDs and you should quickly turn the knob to take the machine in a spin cycle. Once you find it turning on, press the start button.

By following the steps, you can command the washer for diagnostic mode. This feature determines different parts and errors developed in your machine. 

Note: – Always power cycle your washer before starting the diagnostic mode. Remember, there should be half a second depending on Every turn. This mode takes around 3–5 minutes to complete. 

Recalibrate the washer

Recalibrating the washer is also a vital step when your machine is stuck in sensing mode. This feature also determined errors or problems in syncing with some units. However, the mode is not available for every whirlpool model. If you have the feature, follow Recalibrate mode discussed below.

First set the dial to the top position and then follow the combination

• Rotate the knob anticlockwise one time
• Now turn it clockwise for three times
• After that, turn the knob anticlockwise and clockwise once
• Your turning should fast within half a second

When all LEDs (except one) start blinking, keep turning the knob unit your rinse the LED flash. Now press the start button, whirlpool washer goes to Recalibrate mode.

Conclusion

So above are the detailed guides about why your whirlpool washer stuck on sensing. Mechanical and electrical errors mainly develop the issue. In fact, the difficulty is common with old machines, used for years. Still, you can troubleshoot the sensing issues by following our step-by-step guide.

Frequently Asked Questions