How To Reset Whirlpool Dryer

Whirlpool dryers are among the best on the market, with features like moisture monitoring, wrinkle removal, and adjustable drying times. They’re generally a very reliable appliance; however, like all modern electronics, they can have occasional issues. If your dryer is malfunctioning or becomes unresponsive, a reset may be able to help. But Whirlpool dryers don’t reset on their own and don’t have a dedicated reset button. The best way to reset a Whirlpool dryer is called a power cycle.

Here’s how to reset your Whirlpool dryer:

Turn the dryer off before resetting it.
Unplug the dryer or flip off the breaker.
Wait a few minutes to let residual electricity drain from the dryer. This allows the internal components to reset.
Plug the dryer back in or turn the breaker on.
Turn the dryer on and run a test cycle to see if the reset worked.

This process allows the dryer to reset and reboot its internal software, clear its memory cache of error codes, and potentially clear any glitches or bugs in the system. Keep in mind that specific models may have variations in reset procedures, so consulting your dryer’s manual is recommended.

Resetting a Whirlpool dryer is a great way to fix lots of minor software-related issues. However, it won’t fix hardware problems like a malfunctioning part. Before performing a reset, check the error code you’re receiving to find out if it corresponds with a hardware issue.

How To Reset A Whirpool Dryer

Resetting a Whirlpool dryer is very easy. All you have to do is turn the dryer off and unplug it or turn off the circuit breaker > wait 1-2 minutes for residual electricity to drain from the appliance > restore power and turn the dryer on. Then, run a test cycle. This process is called a power cycle.

Unplug or Turn Off Power: First, turn off the dryer and unplug it from the power outlet. Alternatively, you can turn off the power at the circuit breaker.
Wait for the Electrical Charge to Clear: Allow the electrical charge to dissipate from the dryer. Usually, this process takes about 1-2 minutes.
Power Up Again: After the waiting period, plug the dryer back in or turn on the power at the circuit breaker and turn the dryer on.
Run a Test Cycle: Start a short test dry cycle to make sure the dryer is working correctly and doesn’t return an error code.

Once the reset is complete, the dryer’s cache (short-term memory) will be cleared, all error codes will be erased, and the system software will reboot to its original factory condition, which fixes glitches and bugs.

Does A Whirpool Dryer Have A Reset Button?

Some Whirlpool dryers have a reset button, and some don’t; it depends on what model dryer you have, and the location and appearance of the button will vary. If your Whirlpool dryer has a reset button, it’ll typically be located on the control panel or inside the dryer’s cabinet.

Look for a small button on the control panel labeled “Reset” or “Restart.”
The button is usually located next to other control buttons, such as the power button or cycle selection buttons.
On some models, it’s recessed or has a protective cover to prevent accidental resets.

Some Whirlpool dryer models hide the reset button inside the dryer cabinet. In this case, open the dryer door and look for the reset button near the door opening or around the lint trap.

To find out if your model Whirlpool dryer has a reset button, check the dryer’s user manual or contact Whirlpool.

In the next section, I’ll explain how to use the reset button to reset your Whirlpool dryer.

Step 1: Remove Power

The first step in resetting your Whirlpool dryer is to turn it off and completely disconnect it from its power source. You can either unplug the dryer from the wall outlet or flip the circuit breaker off.

By unplugging the dryer, you’re cutting off its electricity supply, which allows residual power stored inside the machine to drain out.

Don’t try to reset your dryer simply by turning it off. If the dryer is still plugged in when you perform a reset, residual electricity won’t drain out, and the dryer won’t properly reset.

Step 2: Press & Hold the Reset Button

Once the dryer is turned off and unplugged or the circuit breaker is flipped off, press and hold the reset button for 5-10 seconds.

As you press and hold the button, you may feel some resistance or a clicking; this is totally normal, so don’t worry.
While holding the reset button, you may notice the control panel turning off or a reset indicator light flashing. This is normal and part of the reset process.

After the 5-10 seconds period is up, release the button.

Step 3: Release the Reset Button

After you’ve held the reset button for at least 5-10 seconds, release it to complete the reset process. You may feel a slight click as you release the button, the control panel may turn on, or the indicator lights may stop flashing. These signs are normal and suggest that the reset has been successful.

Step 4: Plug the Dryer Back In

After releasing the reset button, it’s time to plug the dryer back in or flip on the breaker. This step restores electricity to the dryer and powers up its systems.

Step 5: Test the Dryer

After plugging the Whirlpool dryer back in, the final step is to run a test cycle. If the reset was successful, all error codes should now be erased, and the dryer should work normally.

I generally run a short dry cycle without any clothes in the drum. However, any temperature or dry setting can be used to test the appliance.

If the dryer still isn’t operating correctly, is experiencing the same issues as before the reset, or returns an error code, you may have a more serious hardware related issue. In this case, look up the meaning of the error code and fix the appropriate part before performing another reset.

When Should You Reset a Whirlpool Dryer?

To determine when you should reset your Whirlpool dryer and when you shouldn’t, consider the nature of the problem you’re facing. If it’s a minor glitch, the dryer is unresponsive, or you suspect that a power outage might have triggered the issue, a reset is worth trying.

On the other hand, if your dryer is displaying specific error codes or exhibiting persistent problems that could be caused by malfunctioning hardware, look up the code before trying a reset.

Once you look up the error code, you’ll have a better idea of the problem and how to fix it.

If a reset doesn’t resolve the problem, don’t worry; there are several other steps you can take to diagnose and potentially fix the issue.

Check the power cord and outlet to make sure it’s functioning correctly.
If you’re using an extension cord, make sure it’s sized correctly for the amount of power your dryer needs.
Inspect the circuit breaker to make sure the dryer is receiving enough power.
Make sure the dryer’s settings are correct.
Examine the lint filter and exhaust vent for any obstructions that might impede proper functioning.
Examine the door latch to make sure it’s closing properly.

While resetting your dryer can be a useful first attempt at resolving issues with your Whirlpool dryer, it’s essential to approach the problem carefully. Whenever I fix a malfunctioning dryer, I almost always start with a reset unless the error codes tell me there’s a hardware issue.

Only reset the dryer if you suspect a software-related glitch and not a damaged part.

If the error code is hardware-related, a reset won’t help much because the part will still be damaged after the reset. In this case, replace or repair the malfunctioning part and then reset the dryer to clear the code.

When Should You Not Reset A Whirlpool Dryer

Resetting your Whirlpool dryer clears its memory cache, which also erases all the error codes in memory. In addition, its software reboots to its original, out-of-the-box condition. This is a great solution for lots of minor issues, software glitches, and bugs, but it doesn’t fix hardware problems or malfunctioning parts.

Some issues with a Whirlpool dryer are caused by software and some by hardware. A reset clears out error codes and reboots system software, which helps fix software related problems, but it doesn’t help with hardware issues.

If you reset a dryer that has a hardware problem, the part will still be broken after the reset. In these cases, you should fix the damaged part before resetting the dryer.
For example, if the dryer isn’t heating properly, it could be due to a blocked vent. A reset will clear the error code, but it won’t clear the blockage, so the error code will come back, and the dryer will continue to have issues. Instead of a reset, run a vent blockage test to help identify whether it’s the cause of your problem.

So when should you reset your dryer? After researching the error codes, you’re getting and performing some troubleshooting first. But some error codes are software related, so there’s no troubleshooting to do other than trying a reset.

If you tried all of the troubleshooting steps and a reset, but the error code comes back, you shouldn’t clear it again with another reset. Wiping the error code history can make it harder for a technician to diagnose and fix the problem.

Be Careful When Resetting Your Whirlpool Dryer

Persistent Error Codes: If a reset doesn’t resolve the issue and the error code keeps reappearing, refrain from trying to clear it again. Resetting frequently can erase valuable error history, making it more challenging for a technician to diagnose and fix the underlying problem.

Seeking Service: When troubleshooting and resetting efforts prove ineffective, it’s time to request professional service.

After Troubleshooting: Always attempt troubleshooting before resetting. Some error codes have specific troubleshooting steps, and a reset should only be tried after those steps have been completed.

Limited Troubleshooting: For certain error codes, there might be no troubleshooting steps available, leaving a reset as the only option.

Troubleshooting steps can help you identify and fix dryer issues more effectively, which can save you money on expensive repair bills. However, a reset has its limitations and should only be used to fix software problems or to clear error codes after a repair is made.

What Resetting your Whirlpool Dryer Can’t Do

Resetting your Whirlpool dryer can be helpful when dealing with electrical glitches or issues caused by power outages. It clears these temporary problems and gives your dryer a fresh start. However, there are certain situations where a reset won’t be effective in resolving the issue.

What Resetting Can’t Fix

Physically Broken Parts: If there are physically broken components or electrical parts in the dryer, a reset won’t repair them.
Heat Transfer Issues: Problems with heat transfer, like a clogged vent or overflowing lint trap, require manual intervention. Clear the blockage first before attempting a reset.

Lint Buildup and Vent Blockage Test

Regularly clean the lint screen to prevent lint buildup, which can block airflow, extend drying times, and pose fire hazards.
Run a vent blockage test (available on some Whirlpool dryer models) to detect potential vent blockages or issues.

Mechanical Issues and Resetting

Mechanical problems, like damaged heating elements, can’t be fixed with a reset alone. They require physical repair and replacement parts.
However, glitches or issues that arise after a power outage might improve or disappear after a reset.

Understanding Error Codes and Troubleshooting

To determine whether a reset is the right step or if further troubleshooting is necessary, familiarize yourself with Whirlpool dryer error codes and their respective troubleshooting steps.

Remember, while resetting can be a useful troubleshooting step for certain issues, it’s crucial to identify the nature of the problem to ensure the appropriate course of action is taken.

Performing a Total Power Reset for Your Dryer

In order for your dryer to work properly, it needs enough power. If a household circuit breaker trips or a fuse blows, the dryer’s performance may be compromised. It could turn on but not heat up or fail to activate special features like steam or wrinkle prevention.

To reset the power and restore full functionality, do the following:

Check Breakers and Fuses: Inspect household circuit breakers and fuses to make sure they’re not tripped or blown.
Replace or Reset: If a breaker is tripped or a fuse is blown, replace or reset it.
Ensure Adequate Power: Make sure the dryer has a sufficient power supply. Always plug your dryer directly into an outlet that supplies enough power for the dryer. If you use an extension cord, make sure it’s rated for the power needs of your dryer.
Test the Dryer: Turn on the dryer and confirm that all functions, including heating and extra features, are working.

A proper power reset ensures your dryer functions correctly. Remember to follow safety guidelines and consult a professional if needed.

Once you confirm that your dryer is receiving enough power, perform a power cycle.

Here’s how:

Turn the dryer off before resetting it.
Unplug the dryer or flip off the breaker.
Wait a few minutes to let residual electricity drain from the dryer. This allows the internal components to reset.
Plug the dryer back in or turn the breaker on.
Turn the dryer on and run a test cycle to see if the reset worked.

If your dryer’s issue was software related, such as a glitch or bug, and it’s receiving enough power, it should function normally after a reset. However, if it still doesn’t work or returns an error code, you may have a hardware problem to deal with.

How To Factory Reset a Whirlpool Duet Dryer

The Whirlpool Duet dryer is one of my favorite models. It’s stylish, reliable, fairly affordable, and has all the latest features and functions you could want from a dryer. But like all modern appliances, it has electronics that can suffer from software issues like bugs and glitches.

If your Whirlpool Duet dryer has a minor software problem or becomes unresponsive, perform a reset.

Here’s how:

Turn Off: Make sure to turn the dryer off prior to resetting it.
Disconnect Power: Either unplug the dryer or turn off the circuit breaker to cut power to the machine.
Wait 1-2 Minutes: Let the dryer sit disconnected for at least 1-2 minutes or longer. During this time, residual electricity stored inside the appliance will drain out.
Restore Power: Plug in or switch on the circuit breakers.
Turn On: Turn the machine on.
Test: Run a test cycle to make sure the dryer is functioning properly.

If your dryer’s issues were software related, it should function normally after the reset. However, if you’re having the same problem or get an error code, the issue could be caused by malfunctioning or broken hardware. In this case, look the error code up, make repairs or replace damaged parts, then perform another reset to clear the error codes.

How To Factory Reset a Whirlpool Cabrio Dryer

The Whirlpool Cabrio dryer is another one of my favorite models. It’s easy to use and has lots of advanced features like the Accelercare System, Eco Monitor and Wrinkle Shield. But like all modern appliances, it has electronics that can suffer from software issues like bugs and glitches.

If your Whirlpool Cabrio dryer has a minor software problem or becomes unresponsive, reset the appliance by by performing a power cycle.

Here’s how:

Turn Off: Make sure to turn the dryer off prior to resetting it.
Disconnect Power: Either unplug the dryer or turn off the circuit breaker to cut power to the machine.
Wait 1-2 Minutes: Let the dryer sit disconnected for at least 1-2 minutes or longer. During this time, residual electricity stored inside the appliance will drain out.
Restore Power: Plug in or switch on the circuit breakers.
Turn On: Turn the machine on.
Test: Run a test cycle to make sure the dryer is functioning properly.

A simpler way to reset your Whirlpool Cabrio dryer is by pressing Pause/Cancel > picking a New Cycle, and pressing Start. However, this simple method only clears error codes but doesn’t reset the entire machine.

Here’s how:

Press Pause/Cancel to clear error codes.
Select a New Cycle for your dryer and hit the “Start” button.

How To Reset Whirlpool Dryer Check Vent Light

Resetting your Whirlpool dryer’s check vent light is fairly easy.

Follow these steps for a quick fix:

Start a New Cycle: Begin by selecting a new cycle and pressing the power button.
Cycle Completion: After the cycle finishes, open the door; the light should turn off.

If the light doesn’t turn off, try resetting the entire machine by performing a power cycle.

Here’s how:

Turn the dryer off before resetting it.
Unplug the dryer or flip off the breaker.
Wait a few minutes to let residual electricity drain from the dryer. This allows the internal components to reset.
Plug the dryer back in or turn the breaker on.
Turn the dryer on and run a test cycle to see if the reset worked.

While resetting is simple, remember to investigate why the light appeared. Proper ventilation is vital for safety and dryer efficiency.

If the light persists, check the following potential issues:

Examine the Lint Trap
Inspect all Ductwork
Inspect the Exterior Vent

Maintaining a clear ventilation system is very important for the proper function of a Whirlpool dryer. It’s also a safety issue if your vent becomes clogged, so make sure to check it every few months and keep it clean.

How To Reset Whirlpool Dryer Control Lock

If your Whirlpool dryer won’t start but is turned on, check the appliance controls to make sure they haven’t been locked. Some dryer models have a “Controls Locked” or “Child Lock” feature, which locks the controls so you can’t operate the dryer. This is a safety feature to prevent children from turning on the machine accidentally.

Disengage Lock: Press and hold the “End of Cycle Signal” button for 3 seconds to deactivate the control lock. The LED should go off.
Child Safety: While easy to toggle, keep the control lock engaged if children are around. It prevents them from accessing the dryer.

Once the control lock has been turned off, the dryer should function normally. However, if it still doesn’t start or the control lock won’t turn off, reset the dryer.

How Do I Reset My Whirlpool Dryer That’s Not Heating?

If your Whirlpool dryer isn’t heating properly, a simple restart might help if the cause is software related. If your heating issue is caused by the control board or the internal computer, a reset might help.

Here’s how to do it:

Turn the dryer off.
Disconnect the power or flip the breaker off.
Wait at least 60 seconds.
Restore power to the dryer and turn it on.
Run a test cycle.

A reset won’t help with your dryer’s heating issue if the cause is a malfunctioning part or the vent.

Here are some other causes for dryer heating problems:

The thermal fuse might not be functioning correctly, leading to the dryer shutting off if it gets too hot.
Malfunctioning sensors could also prevent the dryer from heating to protect it from damage.
Check if any circuit breakers are tripped, as a dryer operates on two, and if one trips, it may still run but won’t heat.
Check the vent and thoroughly clean it.

If a simple restart doesn’t resolve the problem, you may need to troubleshoot and address other issues related to fuses, sensors, the vent, or circuit breakers to get your Whirlpool dryer heating again.

How Can I Reset A Whirlpool Dryer Vent Sensor?

To reset the vent sensor in your Whirlpool dryer, you need to reset the entire dryer. You can’t reset just the dryer vent sensor by itself. Here’s how:

Disconnect Power: Turn the dryer off and unplug it or turn off the circuit breaker.
Wait 1-2 Minutes: Allow the dryer to sit without power for about 1-2 minutes. During this time, residual electricity will drain from the appliance, which clears its cache memory.
Reconnect Power: Plug the dryer back in or turn on the circuit breakers to restore power, then turn the dryer on. The vent sensor should now be reset.
Test: Run a test dry cycle to see if the reset helped.

It’s important to reset your vent sensor if you’re having a problem with heat.

The vent sensor helps detect blockages in the vent exhaust.
Resetting it can resolve any error messages related to the sensor.

A blocked vent can hinder the dryer’s performance and pose a fire hazard. If the sensor indicates a blockage, check the vent exhaust for any obstructions. Remember to address any underlying issues causing the sensor errors, and always ensure proper vent maintenance for efficient and safe dryer operation.

How Do I Reset A Whirlpool Dryer Timer?

If you’re facing issues with your Whirlpool dryer timer, a simple reset may help resolve the problem. But you can’t reset just the dryer timer; you have to reset the entire appliance.

Here’s how to do it:

Turn the dryer off.
Unplug the appliance or turn off the breaker.
Wait for about 1-2 minutes.
Restore power to the machine and turn it on.
Run a test dry cycle.

Modern dryers have various components, including control boards, moisture sensors, and thermostats, all interconnected with the timer. The timer is tied into different parts of the dryer, making a complete power cycle effective for resetting it.

If your dryer timer malfunctions, it may not necessarily require replacement, as it is commonly replaced unnecessarily. For persistent timer issues, perform tests on various dryer features to identify the root cause accurately.

Remember to troubleshoot and test other dryer features to determine the real cause of the timer malfunction before considering a replacement.

How Do I Reset My Whirlpool Dryer Filter Check?

If your Whirlpool dryer keeps showing the “check filter” code even after cleaning it, you can try resetting the dryer to clear the issue.

Resetting the Dryer:

Turn the dryer off.
Unplug the appliance or turn off the breaker.
Wait for about 1-2 minutes.
Restore power to the machine and turn it on.
Run a test dry cycle.
The “check filter” code should be gone after the reset if the filter is cleaned correctly.

A clogged dryer vent can lead to inefficient drying and pose a potential fire hazard. Always empty the lint filter after each use to prevent lint from getting back on the clothes and clogging the dryer vent.

Take the “check filter” message seriously and clean the filter regularly to ensure safe and efficient dryer operation. By cleaning the lint filter consistently and promptly responding to the “check filter” message, you can maintain a safe and effective Whirlpool dryer.

How Do I Reset The Child Lock On My Whirlpool Dryer?

The child lock feature on your Whirlpool dryer is designed to keep children safe and can be easily disengaged.

Disabling the Child Lock:

Look for the child lock symbol or words on the control panel.
Press and hold the two buttons indicated by the lines pointing to them until the message disappears from the control panel.

Important Safety Note:

If you have children at home, use the child lock to prevent accidents.
You can turn the child lock on or off using the same method, and it only takes a few seconds.

The child lock can be quickly enabled or disabled as needed to keep your children safe around the dryer.

How Do I Reset A Whirlpool Dryer Thermostat?

If your Whirlpool dryer thermostat is acting up, you can try a simple reset to see if it helps.

Resetting the Thermostat:

Turn the dryer off.
Unplug the appliance or turn off the breaker.
Wait for about 1-2 minutes.
Restore power to the machine and turn it on.
Run a test dry cycle.
If the reset works, your dryer should function properly again.

In many cases, a malfunctioning thermostat may need to be replaced rather than reset. The thermostat’s role is to monitor the dryer’s temperature and cut off power if it gets too hot to prevent damage.

Use a multimeter to test the thermostat for continuity. If it fails the continuity test, consider replacing the thermostat to ensure proper dryer functioning.

A reset can sometimes fix thermostat issues, but if the problem persists, you may need to replace the thermostat to maintain your Whirlpool dryer’s performance.

How Can I Reset My Whirlpool Dryer That Won’t Turn Off?

If your Whirlpool dryer keeps running and won’t turn off, you can try a simple reset to fix the issue.

Here’s how to do it:

Unplug the appliance or turn off the breaker.
Wait for about 1-2 minutes.
Restore power to the machine and turn it on.
Run a test dry cycle.

If the dryer continues to run after the reset, there may be an underlying problem. Possible causes include faulty dryer door latch, sensor, or control panel issues.

Remember, if the issue persists even after the reset, it’s essential to address the specific problem with the help of a professional technician or Whirlpool customer support.

Does Unplugging a Whirlpool Dryer Reset It?

Yes, unplugging a Whirlpool dryer can act as a reset. When you unplug it, you’re cutting off power, which clears minor glitches and resets the machine’s internal systems. However, you have to wait at least 1-2 minutes with it unplugged to allow residual electricity to drain from the machine. If you plug the dryer back in too quickly, it won’t reset.

Here’s how it works:

Power Disconnection: Unplugging the dryer breaks its connection to electricity.
Dissipation: Leaving it unplugged for a few minutes lets any remaining power dissipate.
Fresh Start: When you plug it back in, it’s like giving the dryer a fresh beginning.
Resolved Issues: This can resolve small issues or erratic behavior.

It’s important to note that a reset won’t fix complex problems like broken or damaged parts. If persistent issues persist, consult the user manual or seek professional help from Whirlpool or a technician.

Why Would A Whirlpool Dryer Suddenly Stop Working & Need A Reset?

Several factors could cause a Whirlpool dryer to suddenly shut down and stop working. Some of these issues can be fixed with a reset, and some can’t. Before trying a reset, look up the error code to find out what the cause of the problem is. If it’s software related, a reset may help.

However, if the dryer has broken or damaged hardware, a reset won’t help much.

Faulty Thermal Fuse: A damaged fuse can disrupt the dryer’s operation.
Start or Door Switch Failure: Malfunctioning switches prevent the dryer from starting.
Drive Motor Issues: A worn-out motor affects drum rotation and blower function.
Broken Drive Belt: A snapped belt halts the drum’s movement.
Timer Malfunction: A faulty timer can interrupt the drying cycle.
Belt Switch Problem: If the belt switch fails, the dryer may stop unexpectedly.
Control Board Failure: A blown control board disrupts overall functioning.

These factors can cause your dryer to suddenly stop. If troubleshooting or simple resets don’t resolve the issue, it’s advisable to consult the user manual or seek professional assistance for a thorough diagnosis and repair.

Turn Off: Turn the dryer off before resetting it.
Unplug Power: Disconnect the dryer from the power source.
Pause for Minutes: Wait a few minutes to let the dryer’s internal components reset.
Reconnect Power: Plug the dryer back in.
Select Settings: Choose your desired settings for the cycle.
Start Dryer: Start the dryer to see if the issue is resolved.

Error Codes

Knowing when and when not to reset your Whirlpool dryer is important because it’s not a solution to every problem. A reset will help with software issues, glitches, and bugs, but it won’t fix hardware problems.

“PF” Error Code

Encountering a “PF” error code on your Whirlpool dryer signals a recent power interruption. To address this:

Reset and Restart: Press and hold “Start” for a few seconds to reset the dryer.
Automatic Restart: The dryer should restart automatically after the reset.
Manual Restart: If not, choose a new cycle and options, then press “Start” to initiate.

“AF” Error Code

Seeing an “AF” error code on your dryer signals low airflow. While the dryer can keep running, you can clear the code by pressing any keypad.

Here’s how to resolve it:

Complete Dry Cycle: Let the dryer finish its current cycle.
Clear Lint and Vents: Remove excess lint from the lint screen, exterior vent hood, and vent hose.
Select New Cycle: Pick a new timed dry cycle.
Restart Dryer: Press “Start” to initiate the dryer again.

“L2” Error Code

Spotting an “L2” error code on your Whirlpool dryer points to a power supply issue. Clear this code by pressing any keypad.

Here’s what to do:

Heat Present: If the dryer has heat, ignore the error and choose a new cycle.
No Heat: If there’s no heat, reset the fuse or circuit breaker.
Full Reset:
- Turn the dryer off.
- Disconnect power.
- Wait 1-2 minutes.
- Reconnect power.
- Turn the dryer on and run a test cycle.

Summary: How To Reset Whirlpool Dryer

Here’s how to reset your Whirlpool dryer:

Turn the dryer off before resetting it.
Unplug the dryer or flip off the breaker.
Wait a few minutes to let residual electricity drain from the dryer. This allows the internal components to reset.
Plug the dryer back in or turn the breaker on.
Turn the dryer on and run a test cycle to see if the reset worked.

If you have any questions or comments about how to reset a Whirlpool dryer, email any time.