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Unveiling the mystery: why your whirlpool dryer displays loc

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • The door lock is responsible for ensuring that the door is securely closed during the drying cycle to prevent leakage and potential hazards.
  • The door switch detects when the door is closed and sends a signal to the dryer’s control board.
  • A malfunctioning door switch can prevent the dryer from starting or continuing the drying cycle.

If your Whirlpool dryer is displaying the “LOC” error code, it can be frustrating and leave you wondering what the issue is. This blog post will delve into the possible causes of this error code and provide comprehensive troubleshooting steps to help you resolve the problem.

Possible Causes of the LOC Error Code

The “LOC” error code typically indicates a problem with the dryer’s door lock mechanism. The door lock is responsible for ensuring that the door is securely closed during the drying cycle to prevent leakage and potential hazards. Here are some potential causes:

  • Faulty door switch: The door switch detects when the door is closed and sends a signal to the dryer’s control board. A malfunctioning door switch can prevent the dryer from starting or continuing the drying cycle.
  • Damaged door latch: The door latch physically holds the door closed. Damage or misalignment can cause the door to fail to latch properly, triggering the “LOC” error.
  • Broken door lock assembly: The door lock assembly is the complete mechanism that includes the door switch, latch, and other components. A broken assembly can lead to the “LOC” error code.
  • Electrical issues: Electrical problems, such as loose wiring or a faulty control board, can also cause the “LOC” error code.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Reset the Dryer:

  • Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
  • Wait for 30 seconds.
  • Plug the dryer back in and press the Start button.

2. Check the Door Switch:

  • Open the dryer door.
  • Locate the door switch near the door frame.
  • Press the switch manually to see if it clicks.
  • If the switch does not click, it may need to be replaced.

3. Inspect the Door Latch:

  • Examine the door latch for any damage or misalignment.
  • Ensure that the latch is securely fastened to the dryer frame.
  • If the latch is damaged or loose, it should be replaced.

4. Test the Door Lock Assembly:

  • Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
  • Remove the screws holding the door lock assembly in place.
  • Disconnect the electrical wires from the assembly.
  • Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the door switch and latch.
  • If the multimeter does not indicate continuity, the assembly may need to be replaced.

5. Check Electrical Connections:

  • Inspect the wiring harness for any loose connections or damage.
  • Ensure that the control board is securely connected.
  • If any electrical issues are detected, contact a qualified electrician for repair.

Advanced Troubleshooting

If the basic troubleshooting steps do not resolve the “LOC” error code, you may need to consider the following advanced options:

  • Replace the door switch: If the door switch is confirmed to be faulty, it should be replaced with a new one.
  • Replace the door latch: A damaged or loose door latch needs to be replaced to ensure proper door closure.
  • Replace the door lock assembly: If all components of the door lock assembly are malfunctioning, the entire assembly may need to be replaced.
  • Check the control board: In rare cases, the control board may be the cause of the “LOC” error. Contact a professional appliance repair technician for diagnosis and repair.

Wrap-Up: Troubleshooting the Whirlpool Dryer LOC Error Code

Troubleshooting the “LOC” error code on a Whirlpool dryer requires a systematic approach. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can identify and resolve the underlying cause of the error. Remember that electrical repairs should always be performed by a qualified electrician for safety reasons. If the problem persists or you are uncomfortable performing advanced troubleshooting, it is recommended to contact a professional appliance repair technician.

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Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
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