Most Common Whirlpool Washer and Dryer Problems (And When to Call a Pro)

Whirlpool is one of the most widely used laundry brands in American homes. They’re generally reliable, but like any appliance, Whirlpool washers and dryers develop recurring issues as they age. After years of servicing these machines, certain problems show up far more often than others.

Below are the most common Whirlpool washer and dryer problems, what usually causes them, and when professional service is recommended.

Common Whirlpool Washer Problems

1. Washer Not Draining or Spinning

What homeowners notice:

• Standing water in the tub

• Clothes still soaking wet after a cycle

• Humming sound but no drain

Most common causes:

• Clogged drain pump or filter

• Failed drain pump

• Lid lock or door lock failure

• Control board not sending spin command

This is one of the most frequent Whirlpool washer service calls, especially on top-load models.

2. Washer Won’t Start

What homeowners notice:

• No response when pressing Start

• Lid locks but cycle never begins

• Clicking sounds with no action

Likely causes:

• Faulty lid lock assembly

• Bad user interface or control board

• Power supply or internal wiring issue

Whirlpool washers are very sensitive to lid lock failures and will refuse to run as a safety measure.

3. Loud Noise or Banging During Spin

What homeowners notice:

• Excessive shaking

• Banging or knocking sounds

• Walking across the floor

Common causes:

• Worn suspension rods

• Broken tub hub

• Uneven load exacerbating worn components

Suspension wear is extremely common on Whirlpool top-load washers after several years of use.

4. Washer Leaking Water

Where leaks usually come from:

• Door boot (front-load models)

• Drain hose or internal hoses

• Detergent dispenser overflow

• Tub seal failure (more serious)

Some leaks are minor; others indicate internal wear that requires prompt attention to avoid floor damage.

5. Washer Not Cleaning Clothes Well

Typical complaints:

• Clothes still dirty

• Excess detergent residue

• Odors after washing

Possible causes:

• Worn agitator or wash plate

• Water temperature or valve issues

• Detergent buildup or mold in the tub

• Control issues affecting cycle operation

Common Whirlpool Dryer Problems

1. Dryer Not Heating

What homeowners notice:

• Dryer runs but clothes stay cold

• Cycle completes but clothes are damp

Most common causes:

• Failed heating element

• Thermal fuse blown

• High-limit thermostat failure

• Restricted airflow from venting

This is the most common Whirlpool dryer issue by far.

2. Dryer Takes Too Long to Dry

Symptoms:

• Multiple cycles needed

• Dryer feels hot but ineffective

Likely causes:

• Blocked or crushed vent line

• Weak blower wheel

• Moisture sensor issues

• Partial heating system failure

Long dry times often point to airflow problems rather than the dryer itself.

3. Dryer Won’t Start

Common causes:

• Failed door switch

• Broken start switch

• Control board failure

• Thermal fuse open (often due to overheating)

4. Loud Noises (Squealing, Thumping, Grinding)

Sounds usually indicate:

• Worn drum rollers

• Idler pulley failure

• Worn belt

• Blower wheel issues

Ignoring noise often leads to more expensive repairs later.

5. Dryer Shuts Off Mid-Cycle

Common causes:

• Overheating due to airflow restriction

• Failing thermostats

• Control board issues

This is a safety shutdown and should not be ignored.

When to Call a Professional

You should consider professional service when:

• The appliance won’t start or complete cycles

• There’s standing water or leaking

• The unit is overheating or shutting off

• Electrical components or control boards are suspected

• The machine is under 10 years old and worth repairing

Final Thoughts

Whirlpool washers and dryers are solid machines, but repeated failures tend to follow patterns. Addressing issues early often prevents more costly repairs later.

If your Whirlpool laundry appliance is showing any of these symptoms, a proper diagnosis can determine whether repair makes sense and help extend the life of your machine.