If you have a Whirlpool washer, you probably already know that it’s an efficient, reliable, and durable appliance to own. These washers are user-friendly and make doing laundry simpler and more enjoyable.
However, no home appliance is bulletproof, and you might run into problems from time to time, and your washing machine might display an error code on the control panel.
If your Whirlpool washer is displaying an F20 code, this means that the appliance is not pumping in enough water to fill the tub and run a wash cycle.
This could be caused by a number of things, and there are simple solutions to have it fixed in no time. Keep reading to learn more.
What Causes the Whirlpool Washer F20 Code?
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If you want to resolve the F20 error code on your Whirlpool washing machine, it’s essential that you first know the root of the problem. Here’s what might be causing the error.
Water Supply Turned Off
The F20 error code indicates a water inlet problem with your appliance – in simple terms, there is something wrong with the water supply to your washing machine.
Because of this, the first potential cause of the error is the simple issue of the faucets being turned off. Both the hot and cold faucets connected to your washing machine’s plumbing need to be turned on in order to allow enough hot and cold water to flow into the equipment.
The faucets need to be opened all the way to ensure sufficient water flow. Additionally, if there is a water supply fault in your area, you won’t be able to pump water into your appliance.
Water Inlet Hoses Are Blocked
Another potential cause of the issue is a blockage or even a kink in the water inlet hoses. If the hoses from the water inlet faucets to the back of the appliance are bent or kinked, this could prevent water from flowing freely through them into the washing machine.
Similarly, dirt, grime, or a foreign object might be stuck inside these hoses clogging or blocking them. This would also prevent water from flowing through the pipes and into the washing machine, causing the F20 error code to be displayed.
Kinks in your inlet hoses can also cause issues with water not draining out of your washing machine during a cycle, so you must ensure they are straight and unblocked.
Water Inlet Screens Are Blocked
The inlet hoses that connect to your appliance are fitted into inlet valves. Each of these inlet valves should have a screen in front of them designed to prevent debris from the water supply from entering the washing machine.
These inlet screens may have become dirty and clogged. Because of this, it’s crucial that these screens (and the hoses themselves) be checked and cleaned regularly.
Faulty Pressure Switch
The pressure switch on your washing machine is used for more than just controlling the water pressure. It also plays a pivotal role in regulating how much water flows in and out of the drum during a cycle.
Suppose there is a fault with this pressure switch. In that case, it won’t be able to properly communicate with the control board about whether or not water is streaming in and out of the washing drum – this implies that an F20 code on your machine could also indicate a fault with your pressure switch.
This fault might be related to a blockage in the hose or chamber, in which care the air might be prevented from activating the switch. The switch could also have an electronic fault.
Control Board Malfunction
Believe it or not, a water inlet fault code might have nothing to do with your water supply at all! Occasionally, this error code can be triggered by a glitch or malfunction in the control board.
These glitches typically aren’t an indication of anything amiss in your washing machine and, instead, just require a reset on the control board. Issues with the control board can also cause problems with spinning, draining, and the door not unlocking, amongst others.
Incorrect Detergent
One final issue that could potentially be causing trouble with your water supply is the type of detergent you’re using.
Whirlpool washing machines require the use of a high-efficiency detergent. If you’re using a non-HE detergent, your machine might be producing excessive soap suds, causing a blockage and preventing your washer from being able to detect incoming water flow into the machine.
How to Fix the Whirlpool Washer F20 Code
Now that you know all the possible issues that might be causing the error display code on your appliance, here’s how to get it fixed as quickly as possible.
Reset the Appliance
First of all, we already know that a simple control board glitch could cause the error code. If this is the case, fixing the problem is easy.
Simply turn your appliance off and then unplug it from the wall socket. Leave it disconnected for a few moments to allow the power to drain thoroughly, and then you can plug it back in.
When you reconnect the appliance, the F20 code should be cleared. If not, then you’ll need to further investigate the water supply.
Check the Water Faucets
Next, you can check out the water faucets to ensure they are turned on completely. When doing this, ensure that both the hot and cold water supply are fully opened.
If there is a water supply issue, this is the first place to look because the water supply faucets control whether or not the water can flow freely through the hose and fill your washer with water.
Check the Inlet Hoses
If your faucets are both fully open, the next step is to check your inlet hoses for kinks. If the pipes are straight and water can flow freely, you should also check inside them to ensure they are not dirty or clogged.
While checking the inlet hoses, you should also take a look at the water inlet valves and the water inlet valve screens. As mentioned, clogged water intake screens can also prevent water from entering the pipes and flowing into your appliance.
Check the Water Pressure and Pressure Switch
If all your hoses and inlet valves seem clean and unblocked, but you still have an F20 error code, the next step is to consider your pressure switch.
The pressure switch can be found at the top of your washer above the drum, but you’ll need to remove the top panel to access it. It’s recommended that you call an appliance technician if you believe there to be a fault with your pressure switch so that they can help you solve the issue safely.
Make Sure You’re Using the Right Detergent
Finally, make sure that you are always using a high-efficiency detergent. This will ensure that there aren’t excessive suds that cause any blockage to cause an F20 error code to appear.
Preventing Whirlpool Washer F20 Code
If you want to prevent the F20 code from reoccurring, you need to be aware of what caused it in the first place.
To avoid any water inlet issues, always make sure that your faucets are turned on before starting a washing cycle on your appliance. Additionally, keep your water inlet hoses in place and protect them from becoming kinked or damaged at any point.
Another step to prevent water supply issues is to ensure that you clean out your hose and water inlet screens regularly to prevent build-up. Cleaning your washer regularly is an integral part of the long-term maintenance of your appliance.
Finally, always make sure that you use a suitable detergent for your washing machine.
Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.
