Whirlpool has recently announced a recall for several models of washing machines due to a potential fire hazard. The affected models include the Hotpoint and Indesit-branded 6KG and 8KG washing machines with the following model numbers:
Hotpoint: WMFUG742P UK, WMFUG742G UK, WMFUG742R UK.
Indesit: WIXL143S, WIXL123S, WIXL143P, WIXXL123P and WML71443 LS UK.
Consumers who own one of these washing machines should unplug it immediately, cease using it, and contact a licensed service engineer at Whirlpool free of charge to begin the process of resolving the fault.
Although this issue is not common, it is crucial to be aware of the potentially hazardous situation that these appliances can present.
Is there a recall on Whirlpool washers?
At the moment, there is no recall on Whirlpool washers. However, Whirlpool recalled certain models of their washer in 2016 due to a defect that posed a fire hazard risk. The recall affects certain models of Whirlpool, Kenmore Elite, and Maytag Maxima front-loading clothes washers sold between 2011 and 2016.
The recall covers approximately 4.8 million washers in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Affected models display a “Control Lock” button on the washer front panel and are accompanied with a serial number range between MA630 and MA896 and MA0001 and MA0295.
If you have one of these models, you should immediately stop using it and contact Whirlpool for a free in-home repair.
What are the most common problems on a Whirlpool washing machine?
The most common problems with Whirlpool washing machines include:
1. Excessive noise: Many Whirlpool washing machines are known to make loud noises, shaking, and vibrations during the spinning cycle. This can often be due to an overloaded machine, a defective shock absorber, or a worn-out tub bearing.
2. Water leakage: Poor seals between the tub and the door, a faulty water inlet valve or clogged drainage hoses can all cause water to leak from the machine.
3. Malfunctioning timer switch: A defective timer motor or switch can prevent the machine from advancing through the cycle, leaving clothes wet or dry.
4. Spin cycle issues: The spin cycle may not be operating properly or may become stuck in a certain position. This could be caused by a worn-out motor, a drive belt that has started to slip, or a worn-out drive pulley.
5. Door latch: A broken door latch can prevent the washer from closing properly, resulting in the unit becoming unbalanced and noisy.
6. Shaking: If the washer shakes excessively during the spin cycle, this is often a sign of an overloaded machine or out of balance feet.
7. Door lock fault: The door may not lock or unlock properly. This problem could be caused by a worn-out door lock actuator or faulty solenoid switch.
These are the most common problems with Whirlpool washing machines. Most of the above can be easily fixed at home with some basic tools, but if the machine is still under warranty a professional repair may be required.
Why isn’t my Whirlpool washer washing my clothes?
First, you should check to make sure that the washer is plugged in and the circuit breaker is not tripped. If that is the case, you should verify that the water is connected correctly, and that the water lines are not clogged or leaking.
If the water is connected, it could be that the temperature selector switch is set incorrectly, or there could be an issue with the timer switch or circuit board. You may also need to inspect the timer on the washer and make sure that it is advancing properly.
If none of these steps resolve the issue, you may need to call a professional to inspect the washer and diagnose the problem.
How do you reset a Whirlpool washing machine?
Resetting a Whirlpool washing machine generally involves simultaneously pressing a combination of buttons. The exact combination may vary depending on the specific model. However, to reset a Whirlpool washing machine on most models, the steps are as follows:
1. Unplug the washing machine from the wall outlet.
2. Plug the washing machine back in.
3. Simultaneously press and hold the “Prewash” and “Cancel/Drain” buttons for at least 3 seconds or until the washer’s motor hums.
4. Release the buttons and wait for the washer to reset before attempting any repairs.
It is also important to note that when troubleshooting or diagnosing a Whirlpool washing machine issue, it is necessary to reset the washer before attempting to identify the source of the problem or making any repairs.
What are the Whirlpool error codes?
Whirlpool appliances feature a modern electronic control system that can store and display various error codes when an issue is detected. The error codes allow technicians to quickly identify and diagnose the problem, so it can be resolved quickly and often without the need for expensive parts or repairs.
The most common Whirlpool Error Codes includes:
F0 – Shorted Touch Panel
F1 – Run away timer
F2 – Oven Temperature Too High
F3 – Open Oven Temperature Sensor
F4 – Shorted Oven Temperature Sensor
PF – Power Failure
Sud – Excessive Suds
F9 – Door Lock/Latch Failure
F5 – E-5 Open Oven Temperature Sensor, E-6 Open Oven Touch Panel
F6 – Open Oven Temperature Sensor, F7 – Latch Switch Motors Sensure Movement
F8 – Door Latch Assembly Failure or Door Lock Failure
E1 – Failed Electronic Oven Control
E2 – Failed Timer or Stuck Button
E3 – Stuck Keypad or Overcooked Food
What dishwashers are on recall?
At this time, there are several dishwashers that have been recalled due to safety and fire risks. These include the following models:
1. Whirlpool dishwashers with a plastic portal fire hazard – the recalled models include certain models in the Whirlpool, KitchenAid and Jenn-Air lines.
2. Jenn-Air dishwashers with a power cord fire hazard – the recalled models include certain models in the Jenn-Air line.
3. Kenmore Elite dishwashers with a fire hazard – the recalled models include certain Kenmore Elite dishwashers.
4. Asko dishwashers with an electrocution risk – the recalled models include certain models in the Asko line.
5. Fisher & Paykel dishwasher with a carbon monoxide risk – the recalled model includes the Fisher & Paykel DD603IHW dishwasher.
If you believe you have a recalled dishwasher, you should immediately stop using it and contact the manufacturer for a free repair. If you are unsure if your dishwasher model is on the recall list, you can check the website of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
How long do Whirlpool dishwashers last?
The life expectancy for a Whirlpool dishwasher is about 10 years. The actual length of time a dishwasher will last will depend on the care and maintenance it receives, as well as the environment it is used in.
Generally, dishwashers need to be replaced every 10 years or so. However, regular maintenance and care of a Whirlpool dishwasher can actually extend the life of it significantly. This includes regularly cleaning and descaling both inside the dishwasher and in the spray arm, removing any extra food particles, periodically running vinegar or a dishwasher cleaning solution through a cycle, and keeping the outside of the machine clean and free of any errant food particles.
With proper maintenance, it is possible to extend the life of a Whirlpool dishwasher to up to 15 years or more.
Is it cheaper to repair or replace a dishwasher?
It depends on the age, condition and cost of your dishwasher as well as the type of repair needed. If the dishwasher is fairly new (less than 5 years) and the parts needed to repair it are relatively inexpensive, then repairing it is likely to be the cheaper option.
However, if the dishwasher is older (5+ years) and the cost of the parts needed for repair are very high, or the labor to repair it is high, then replacing it may be the more cost effective option. Ultimately, if you’re considering a repair, it’s important to weigh the cost of the repair against the cost of a new machine – considering things like installation costs and energy efficiency ratings where suitable.
How many house fires are caused by dishwashers?
Overall, dishwashers cause a very small percentage of home fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), in 2017, appliances exceeded other sources of home fires, accounting for 41% of all home fires, and 13% of those investigations cited cooking equipment as the first item ignited.
However, of those 41%, only 3% were due to dishwashers. Ultimately, the NFPA states that the most common causes of home fires include cooking, heating, electrical, or smoking materials. Poorly maintained wiring or overloaded outlets and circuits, faulty installation or adjustment of appliances, cigarette smoking and careless disposal of smoking materials, and children playing with fire, are also found to cause home fires.
Why does my dishwasher smell like burning plastic?
The smell of burning plastic coming from your dishwasher could be caused by a few different issues.
One common cause is due to a plastic item being left in the dishwasher. During a dishwashing cycle, the heating elements in the dishwasher can melt and burn a plastic item that may have been left behind.
Check for items that may be stuck on the bottom or sides of your dishwasher and remove any plastic dishes or utensils.
Another cause of burning plastic smell may be due to a loose wire or damaged wiring components beneath the dishwasher’s control panel. Check the connections under the control panel and make sure they are secure and that no wires are exposed.
If needed, repair or replace any damaged wiring.
Lastly, the seal between the dishwasher door and the machine can become worn out, allowing steam to escape. This could produce a burning plastic smell as the escaping steam will interact with the wiring and melting plastic in the dishwasher.
To repair the seal, remove the dishwasher door, clean off the old seal, and replace it with a new one.
What models are affected by Whirlpool recall?
Whirlpool Corporation is currently recalling several models of their dishwashers due to a potential fire hazard. The recalled models include:
-Certain Whirlpool brand dishwashers: GU3600XTSY, GU3600XTRY, GU3600XTRB, and the WDF310PAAS
-Maytag brand dishwashers: MDB7959SHZ, MDB4949SHZ, and MDB7949SHZ;
-Amana brand dishwashers: ADB1400AGY, ADB1400AGB, and ADB1400AGW;
-Jenn-Air brand dishwashers: JDB8900CWP and JDB9900CWP;
-KitchenAid brand dishwashers: KDTE234GPS, KDTM404EBS, KDTM804EBS, KDPE234GPS, KDTE334GPS, KDTM504EBS, KDTS104ESS, KDPE334GPS, KDTE404KSS and KDTM704EBS.
-Cognizant brand dishwashers: CDB7000AWS
If your dishwasher matches one of the above listed models, please unplug it and contact Whirlpool Corporation for a free in-home repair.
What would make a Whirlpool washer not spin?
First, check that the washer door is properly closed and that the lid switch is engaged. If this doesn’t solve the issue, there may be other required repairs.
To troubleshoot the machine, it is best to start by checking the drive belt. If it is worn or damaged, the washer won’t spin properly. Check the belt for any missing or broken sections, as well as any tears or damage.
Additionally, check to ensure the belt is installed correctly with the correct tension. If the drive belt appears to be in good condition, check the tub bearing for wear and tear. The tub bearing helps the outer tub spin and allows for the smooth redistribution of the load.
If the bearing is worn, it must be replaced to fix the issue.
In addition to checking the belt and the bearing, check the splash shield to make sure it is properly installed and seated correctly. If it is not properly installed, it can cause imbalances in the spin cycle.
Lastly, check the motor coupler. The motor coupler connects the motor to the transmission and can wear out from frequent use. If it is worn or broken, it will need to be replaced to restore the washer to its proper functioning state.