Whirlpool is one of the famous brands regarding washing machines; it is known for its durability, efficiency, and performance. However, all electronic appliances come across errors throughout their usage; most errors can be easily fixed without needing a technician.
To solve an electronic error, you will need to determine the reason behind this error, which can be done by looking for sure signs. In this article, I will explain the causes of the Whirlpool washer LOC code and how to fix it. In addition, I will help you prevent and avoid the LOC error in the future.
Causes of Whirlpool Washer LOC Code
The LOC code is different from other error codes because it’s a feature in your washing machine; however, it can result from a damaged component. The LOC indicates that the washer control lock is activated or the child lock.
The control lock is a feature in the Whirlpool washers that protects the children from any harm if they approach the machine while it’s on. In the following troubleshooting, I will discuss the possible reasons for the Whirpool washer LOC code step by step.
1- Poor Electrical Connection
The first thing to check when encountering the LOC code is the electrical connection; check the washing machine’s plug and ensure it’s connected to the electrical outlet.
Next, check the power cord of the washer, and it should have no tears or kinks; the electrical cord should be connected tightly to the appliance. Any loose or frayed wires can lead to the LOC error code.
2- Damaged Door Lock
Inspect the door lock for any debris buildup; the buildup can affect the door’s functionality and cause the error code LOC. If the door lock is clean, it might be damaged; therefore, you will need to replace it.
If the door lock is in good condition, the problem may be in the door lock switch; therefore, you will need to access the door lock switch and test it using a multimeter.
3- Faulty Main Control Board
If the door switch works correctly, the main control board may cause the LOC code. You will need to access the main control board and test it with a multimeter to determine if there is an error in the main control board.
4- Control Lock Activated (Child Lock)
The control lock is a feature in the Whirlpool washing machine that protects you and your household from any harm if you try to use it while its cycle is on.
If you accidentally activate the control lock, you will encounter the LOC code when you try to use any button or open the load washer door. The solution is to deactivate the control lock to get the washing machine working again.
How to Fix Whirlpool Washer LOC Code
After discussing the possible causes of the Whirlpool Washer LOC code, like, a faulty main control board, defective or unclean door lock, or poor electrical connection, I will help you solve each cause and make this error message disappear.
1- How to Fix Poor Electrical Connection
If the washing machine is not connected to the electrical outlet properly, it can cause the LOC code to appear. Therefore, you will need to check the appliance’s plug and ensure it’s well connected.
Then, move to the power cord and inspect it for any tears or kinks; if the damage is minor, you can fix it using electrical duct tape. If the damage is beyond fixing, you must replace the power cord.
If the power cord is not damaged, move to the electrical connection between the power cord and the washing machine. You must open up the washing machine and locate the electrical connections.
Ensure that there are no loose or frayed wires; if there are any, tighten the loose wires and replace any damaged ones.
2- How to Fix a Damaged Door Lock?
The door lock can be either dirty or damaged; if the lock is dirty, you must clean using a sponge and warm water. Dampen the sponge in the warm water and clean any debris built up on the door lock.
If the door lock is clean but doesn’t work correctly, you will need to replace it. Unplug the washing machine from the power outlet. Then, open the Whirlpool washer door and remove the outer clamp underneath the door seal.
The right tool for removing the seal is a needle nose plier. After removing the clamp, remove the door seal to access the door lock. Unscrew the screws holding the door lock using a t20 Torx screwdriver, then disconnect the wires connected to the door latch.
Remove the faulty door lock or latch and replace it with the new one. Connect the wires to the latch and then secure it using the mounting screws. Install the door seal and secure it using the outer clamp. Plug the washing machine into the power outlet and turn it on to test.
3- How to Fix a Faulty Control Board?
Unfortunately, if the main control board is faulty, you must replace it or hire a technician to check if it’s repairable. If you feel comfortable checking the main control board, use a multimeter.
4- How to Deactivate Control Lock?
The control lock activation and deactivation differ from one Whirlpool model to another; some models have a CL button on the control panel above the power button. You must hold down the CL button for about two seconds, and the LOC code will disappear from the washer display.
You can also try to press the Start/Stop button to pause the Whirlpool washer, and then after a few seconds to minutes, the door will be automatically opened. The third option is using the Cancel cycle button on the control panel; this option is better when you Whirlpool washer in on a load cycle, which means the door cannot be opened.
It would be best to press the cancel button and then power off the Whirlpool washer to unlock the door. Another option is to start a new wash cycle; you will need to stop the ongoing cycle and drain the water from the Whirlpool washer. After you drain the water, start a new cycle, and the door will be unlocked.
5- Unlock the Washer Manually
If all the options mentioned are not working, you must open the washer door manually; first, unplug the washer from the power outlet. Then, use a t20 Torx screwdriver to remove the bottom of the washer’s three screws.
Remove the washer’s bottom panel, locate the release ring, and pull it downwards to unlock the washer’s door.
Preventing Whirlpool Washer LOC Error Code
After discussing the causes of the Whirlpool Washer LOC code and the solution of each cause, now, I will tell you how to prevent any of these causes and avoid this error message in the future.
1- Regular Maintenance
The Whirlpool washer is similar to all electronic appliances; it must be maintained regularly to ensure top performance and no errors. So, you will need to ensure that the power cord doesn’t get stuck under something or trapped between the wall and the machine.
Check the electrical connections of the washer from time to time to ensure there are no loose wires because the continuous usage of the Whirlpool washer can cause some wires to get loose.
Next, hire a technician at least twice a year to do a complete check on your washer to solve any issues before they escalate, like the door switch.
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.
