How To Reset Amana Washer

Amana washers are some of the best on the market and are sold for a relatively affordable price. They’re known for their quality, reliability and fantastic range of features like dual action agitators, porcelain tubs, deep water washes and large capacity drums. They have a good service plan and warranty, but like all washers, they sometimes have their issues. And when a washing machine fails to operate correctly it can be a big problem. But before you call a technician I would try resetting the machine. It’s fast, very easy to do and may fix the problem. There are a few ways to reset an Amana washer, depending on the model. The easiest is to turn off the power by unplugging the machine. Wait 5 minutes, then press and hold the Start or Pause button for 5 seconds. Plug the washer back in. At this point the machine will reset.

To force reset a washing machine you must turn off the power and allow any juice inside the circuits to clear out. This is called a power cycle. Unplug the machine or turn off power at the circuit breaker, press and hold the start or pause button for 5 seconds, wait about 5 minutes for the electrical charge to clear out of the washer, then power the washer up again.

Turning off and completely draining all the power is the best way to reset an Amana washer. It drains the machine of all power and restarts its electronic systems. However, it doesn’t fix mechanical problems. If there are broken or malfunctioning parts, you should fix or replace them before performing a reset.

Turning off and completely draining a washing machine of power is the closest you can get to a “reset” of an Amana washer.

How Do I Reset My Amana Washing Machine?

The best way to reset an Amana washing machine is by performing a power cycle. Begin by turning the machine off with the power button, then unplugging it from the wall or turning power off at the breaker. Press and hold the “Start” or “Pause” button for 5 seconds. Wait about 5 minutes for any residual power to clear out of the washer, then plug the washer back in or turn on the circuit breaker.

Once a power cycle is complete, your Amana washer should work normally.

If you’re still having issues with your washer, keep reading. We’ll discuss some of the most common Amana washing machine problems and how to fix them.

How To Reset Amana Washing Machine

There’s a second way to reset an Amana washing machines if the first doesn’t work. Some top-loading Amana washers require a different reset method so try this method if a power cycle doesn’t work.

Start by turning the washer off and unplugging it from the wall. Instead of unplugging it you can turn power off at the breaker. Wait for at least 60 seconds before plugging the washer back in or flipping the breaker back on.

Returning power to the washer will start a 30 second countdown. During this time, raise and lower the washer lid 6 times. Do this immediately. If you wait too long or don’t raise and lower the lid all 6 times in 30 seconds, the process will have to be repeated.

Make sure you raise the lid just far enough to trigger the sensor switch, usually this is a few inches. You don’t have to lift the lid all the way open. When you lower the lid make sure it’s completely closed.

Once you’ve opened and closed the lid six times during the 30 second countdown, the system should reset.

How To Diagnose A Malfunctioning Amana Washer

Most modern Amana front-load washers come with a diagnostic mode you can use to diagnose a malfunctioning machine. Once in this mode, the washer will display a code that tells you the cause of the malfunction. To access diagnostic mode, you’ll first need to clear your settings.

Set the dial to 12 o’clock, then turn it counterclockwise a full circle. If you do it correctly all the lights will shut off. Turn the dial one click to the left, three clicks to the right, one click to the left, and one click to the right. If you do it correctly the Cycle Status lights will turn on.
Turn the dial one click to the right. The Cycle Complete light should now light up.
Press the Start button to enter diagnostic mode.
Turn the dial one click to the right. Your diagnostic code should display on the screen.

Once you know the diagnostic screen, search it online, contact the manufacturer or look below to find out what it means.

Amana Front Load Washer Diagnostic Codes

Once you’ve gone through the steps outlines above to diagnose the problem with your front-load Amana washer, a code will appear onscreen. Below is a list of the most common codes you’ll receive. However, this list does not include every possible code and newer Amana washers may have different codes. If you get a code not on this list, search for it online or contact the manufacturer to find out what it means. There may also be a list of codes in your owner’s manual.

dET

The washer can’t detect a detergent cartridge in the dispenser. Make sure you have a cartridge installed and that it’s fully seated with the drawer completely shut.

You can ignore this code if you don’t use a cartridge to wash clothes.

E1F7

The washing machine motor can’t reach the required spin speed. Check to make sure all the retaining bolts have been removed. Make sure the washer isn’t overloaded.

Once you’ve checked the bolts and/or removed some clothes, press the Pause or Cancel button twice and the Power button once to clear the code.

E2F5

This code means the door isn’t closed all the way. Check to make sure there’s nothing interfering with the door. A common cause is the stripping coming loose and getting stuck near the hinge or door latch.

Once you’ve checked the door and closed it all the way, press the Pause or Cancel button twice and the Power button once to clear the code.

F34 or rL

This error code indicates that items were detected in the washer during the Clean Washer cycle. Remove any clothes in the washer and start the cycle again.

F8E1 or LO FL

This code means the washer has an insufficient water supply. Check the water supply hoses, valves and filters for obstructions and/or kinks. If your home uses a well, make sure water is being properly pumped from the well.

F8E2

This error code means the detergent dispenser isn’t working properly. Check to make sure it’s not clogged. Then check your cartridges to make sure they’re properly seated. Clean out the dispenser if there’s detergent gunk built up. Something may be interfering with the sensor.

F9E1

This code means the washer is taking too long to drain. Inspect the drain hose for kinks or clogs.

Make sure the hose is installed properly and at the correct height. Most Amana front-loaders require a drain hose height from 39” to 96”. If the hose isn’t within the recommended range, it won’t drain properly.

Int

This error code means that the washing cycle was interrupted. After pausing or canceling a cycle prematurely, a front-load washer can take up to 30 minutes to drain. During this time, you won’t be able to operate the washer as normal. Wait for the cycle to complete before using the machine again.

You can clear the code by pressing the Pause or Cancel button twice, then press the Power button once. If the code doesn’t clear, do a power cycle. Turn the machine off and unplug it or turn off the breaker. Wait 5 minutes before powering the machine back on. The code should be cleared once the machine resets.

LC or LOC

This code means the child lock is active. To deactivate the lock, press and hold the lock button for 3 seconds.

Check your owners manual regarding child locks. On some models it’s harder to disengage.

Sd or Sud

This code means that the washing machine has too many suds. If this happens, the spin cycle will have a hard time getting rod of all the suds. This is usually caused by using the wrong type of detergent in the machine. Most front load washers require a high-efficiency detergent. If you use a regular detergent instead, it will create too many suds.

To get rid of all the suds, the machine will continue the rinse cycle until all the suds are gone. This can repeat several times depending on how many suds there are.

Use high-efficiency detergent to reduce suds on a high-efficiency front-loading washing machine and avoid using no-splash chlorine bleach. No-splash bleaches can also cause excess suds.

If you don’t see any suds but get this error code, check the drain hose. If it’s clogged or kinked it may trigger the code.

How To Troubleshoot An Amana Washing Machine

There are a few reasons why an Amana washer may be malfunctioning and most are easy to fix. Here’s a list of the most common problems washers have and how to deal with them.

Settings: A washer won’t operate properly if you select two settings that are incompatible with each other.
Delayed Start: Some Amana washers have a timer function with a delayed start. Check your settings to see if delayed start is on by mistake. If it is, your washer won’t start until the delayed start timing is met.
Child-Lock: Many washer models have a child lock function. There should be an indicator light to let you know when the child lock is active. Deactivate the lock to use the washer as normal.
Anti-Flooding Device: If you have an anti-flooding device installed between the washer and water supply, make sure it’s working properly. The device may be shutting off water to the washer which prevents it from working properly.
Control Is Locked: If your Amana washer has an electronic touch-pad, the controls may be locked. If the control lock light is ON, hold the lock button for 3 seconds to unlock it.
Control Settings: Check to see if your control is set correctly. The selector knob should line up with a cycle selection before you press the start button. If the cycle and selector knob are not lined up properly, the washer won’t start.

These are all common issues with malfunctioning washers that are easy to fix. If you’re having trouble with your Amana washer, try them one at a time to see if you can diagnose and fix the problem.

In the next section we’ll review some more common issues that may be a little harder to fix.

No Power

If your washer has no power check the breaker to make sure it hasn’t tripped. Then check the outlet the washer is plugged into. If both are working properly, check the plug.

Door Sensor

The issue may be the door sensor. Open and completely close the door. Check the stripping around the door to make sure the door is fully closing. A front-loading washer may feel like it’s closed all the way when they’re not. If the door isn’t fully closed, the door sensor won’t allow a wash cycle to begin.

Why Is My Amana Washer Not Spinning?

If your Amana washer powers up and starts a wash cycle but doesn’t spin properly, there could be a few different issues. These include using the wrong detergent, an overloaded or unbalanced machine, an issue with the drain hose, a power outage, a pause, a dirty pump filter or an item stuck in the machine.

In the next section we’ll review each cause and tell you how to fix them.

Wrong Detergent

In order for your Amana washer to function properly, you must use the correct detergent for your machine. If you’re using non-high efficiency detergent in a high-efficiency washing machine, it may create excess suds which can cause the machine to function improperly.

Make sure to use the correct detergent for the model Amana washer you have. Use regular detergent in a regular washer and high-efficiency detergent in a high-efficiency washer.

Overloaded Machine

If you overload a washing machine the drum may become unbalanced. This will cause problems when operating the machine because the drum can’t spin properly. Check if your washer is unbalanced or packed too tight. A large load can slow down the spinning process because it’s too heavy, packed too tight and doesn’t allow the clothing to move.

To fix the problem, remove some clothing and balance the load by distributing clothes evenly around the wash basket. Allow some room so clothing can shift while the drum is spinning.

It’s better to wash a single bulky item, like a comforter, by itself. But make sure it fits properly and doesn’t unbalance the drum. Some large items may be too large for a home washing machine.

Power Failure During Spin Cycling

If you temporarily lose power during a spin cycle, the machine may have trouble returning to full spin speed on its own. The fix may require doing a rest or allowing the load to finish its wash cycle and then starting a new one.

Something Stuck In The Machine

If a small item is stuck between the washer tub and the outer tub it could cause the washer to spin slowly or not at all. Check the space for small items by looking through the drum holes. If you find a stuck item, I would call a technician. Removing the stuck item may involve removing the washer drum to access it.

Drain Hose

If your Amana washer is having trouble spinning and water is standing in the drum, you you should check the drain hose. Conduct the check when your spin light is ON. The spin light will turn on after the drain pump is ON for 10 minutes with no water level exchange.

When the washer spins, it pulls water out of the clothes and discharges it out the drain hose. If there’s an issue with the hose, water could have a problem draining out of the tub.

To fix the issue, remove the hose and check it for a blockage. Then re-install the hose. Make sure it’s installed properly without any blockages or kinks.

Pause

If the washer is paused at the wrong time, it could cause a slow spin when the machine is re-started. There’s no way to fix this. Allow the cycle to complete and start a new one if needed.

Dirty Pump Filter

Check the pump filter to see if it’s dirty. If it has dirt buildup, clean it out. A dirty filter can interfere with the machine.

Why Does My Amana Washer Take More Time To Fill With Water?

If your Amana washing machine is taking longer than usual to fill with water, there could be a few issues. First, unhook the supply hoses and make sure the water pressure is sufficient at the faucet. Next, check the screen filter in the connector for any debris that may be blocking water flow. If all these are fine, check the water inlet valve.

Why Is My Amana Washer Stuck On Wash Cycle?

If there’s an issue with your washing machine’s door, the washer could stop mid-cycle. This could be a failure either electrically or mechanically. Inspect the door lock for damages. and inspect the latch. Make sure there’s nothing inside the tract preventing the washer door from closing properly.

Check to make sure the door handle is properly latching onto the latch mechanism. If they’re not properly joining, the door may not fully close. If the door starts to open while the washer is on, it may interfere with the wash cycle.

How Do I Reset The Lid Lock On My Amana Washer?

There are two ways to reset the lid lock and flashing light on an Amana washer. Turn off the washing machine and unplug it for a few minutes or turn off the breaker. When you return power to the machine it will will reset the washer and clear the flashing light.

Another way to do it is by pressing and holding the End of Cycle or Cycle Signal button for twenty seconds. This will reset your Amana washer and clear the flashing light.

Do Amana Washers Have A Rest Button?

No, Amana washing machines do not have a reset button. In order to reset the machine you must perform a power cycle. Turn off the washer and either unplug it or turn off the breaker. Wait 5 minutes and then restore power to the machine. This should reset the machine and all error codes.

There’s a second way to reset an Amana washing machines if the first doesn’t work. Start by turning the washer off and either unplugging it from the wall or turning power off at the breaker. Wait for at least 60 seconds and then plug the machine back in or flip the breaker ON.

Returning power to the washer will start a 30 second countdown. During this time, raise and lower the washer lid 6 times. Start immediately. If you wait too long or don’t raise and lower the lid all 6 times in 30 seconds, the process will have to be repeated.

Raise the lid far enough to trigger the sensor switch, usually this is a few inches. You don’t have to lift the lid all the way open. When you lower the lid make sure it’s completely closed.

Once you’ve opened and closed the lid six times during the 30 second countdown, the system should reset and clear all error codes.

How To Factory Reset An Amana Washer

There are two ways to factory reset an Amana washer. The first and most common method is called a power cycle. Turn off the washer and either unplug it or turn off the breaker. Wait 5 minutes and then restore power to the machine. This should reset the machine and all error codes.

Raise the lid far enough to trigger the sensor switch, usually this is a few inches. You don’t have to lift the lid all the way open. When you lower the lid make sure it’s completely closed.

Once you’ve opened and closed the lid six times during the 30 second countdown, the system should reset and clear all error codes.

How To Run An Amana Washer Self Diagnostic Test

Some Amana washers can perform a self diagnostic test which diagnoses any problems with the machine. Once the test is complete, the machine will give you a code signifying what the problem is. To start a diagnostic check, you must perform a series of dial turns which I’ll outline below.

Set the dial to 12 o’clock, then turn it counterclockwise a full circle. If you do it correctly all the lights will shut off. Turn the dial one click to the left, three clicks to the right, one click to the left, and one click to the right. If you do it correctly the Cycle Status lights will turn on.
Turn the dial one click to the right. The Cycle Complete light should now light up.
Press the Start button to enter diagnostic mode.
Turn the dial one click to the right. If there are diagnostic codes they should display on the screen. If not, the machine is ready to use.
If there are no codes to resolve, set the washer to “Spin” cycle and press “Start”.

Once the cycle is complete and there are no codes to fix, the washing machine has been reset and can now be used as normal.

If you get a code, search it online, call the manufacturer or check our list of common codes above to find out what the code means. Fix the issue that corresponds with your code and reset the machine.

Once the problem correlating to the code is fixed and the machine is reset, it should work normally.

How To Reset Amana Washer After A Power Outage

There are two ways to reset an Amana washer after a power outage. The first and most common method is called a power cycle. Turn off the washer and either unplug it or turn off the breaker. Wait 5 minutes and then restore power to the machine. This should reset the machine and all error codes.

Raise the lid far enough to trigger the sensor switch, usually this is a few inches. You don’t have to lift the lid all the way open. When you lower the lid make sure it’s completely closed.

Once you’ve opened and closed the lid six times during the 30 second countdown, the system should reset and clear all error codes.

If the outage occurred during a wash cycle, the washer will have to finish the wash in order to drain the tub. Once you reset the machine, turn it on and let the washer complete the wash and drain. Then restart a new wash if needed. I usually run a completely new wash to make sure the machine is functioning properly after a reset.

How To Reset/Unlock Amana Washer Lid Lock

There are two ways to reset/unlock an Amana washer lid lock. The first and most common method is called a power cycle. Turn off the washer and either unplug it or turn off the breaker. Wait 5 minutes and then restore power to the machine. This should reset the machine and all error codes.

Raise the lid far enough to trigger the sensor switch, usually this is a few inches. You don’t have to lift the lid all the way open. When you lower the lid make sure it’s completely closed.

Once you’ve opened and closed the lid six times during the 30 second countdown, the system should reset and clear all error codes. But a reset will not fix the issue with the lid.

A lid lock will trigger if the door is not closing properly during a wash cycle. Resetting the code will not fix the problem.
If dust, dirt, fabric, spilled laundry detergent or even the door seal can prevent the lid from closing all the way shut. Inspect the door, seal and latch for issues. Then use a damp cloth to remove any build-up that could be interfering with the lid striker.

Once the door is closing all the way shut and the washer is reset, you shouldn’t receive the code again. If you do, contact the manufacturer. There may be an issue with the door sensor.

How To Reset An Amana Washer That Won’t Spin

There are two ways to reset an Amana washer that won’t spin properly. The first and most common method is called a power cycle. Turn off the washer and either unplug it or turn off the breaker. Wait 5 minutes and then restore power to the machine. This should reset the machine and all error codes.

Raise the lid far enough to trigger the sensor switch, usually this is a few inches. You don’t have to lift the lid all the way open. When you lower the lid make sure it’s completely closed.

Once you’ve opened and closed the lid six times during the 30 second countdown, the system should reset and clear all error codes. But a reset will not fix the washers spin problem.

The most common cause of a washer not spinning properly is an overloaded or unbalanced tub. Remove some clothing to lessen the weight and allow room for the clothes to move when the tub spins.
A power surge or outing during a wash could cause a malfunction. Allow the wash cycle to complete, then reset the machine and perform a new wash.
Check the pause button. Many Amana washers have a pause button that can stop a wash. If you press it by accident the drum will stop spinning.

Make sure you always address the cause of the problem along with performing a reset. A reset alone will not always fix the problem.