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Whirlpool washer’s cry for help: decoding the add garment anomaly

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

  • When the clothes are unevenly distributed inside the drum, the washer detects excessive vibration and prompts you to add more garments to balance the load.
  • If you’re washing a small load, the washer may not be able to detect the clothes properly and will request you to add more garments.
  • If you’ve selected the wrong load type, the washer may not be able to evenly distribute the clothes, leading to an imbalance and the “Add Garment” message.

If you’re a Whirlpool washer owner, you may have encountered the frustrating message “Add Garment” flashing on your display. This can be particularly puzzling when you’ve already loaded the washer with clothes. Understanding the reasons behind this message can help you troubleshoot the issue and get your washer running smoothly again.

Reasons for the “Add Garment” Message

1. Load Imbalance:

One of the most common causes of the “Add Garment” message is an imbalanced load. When the clothes are unevenly distributed inside the drum, the washer detects excessive vibration and prompts you to add more garments to balance the load.

2. Small Load Size:

Whirlpool washers are designed to handle larger loads. If you’re washing a small load, the washer may not be able to detect the clothes properly and will request you to add more garments.

3. Incorrect Load Type:

Different load types require specific settings. If you’ve selected the wrong load type, the washer may not be able to evenly distribute the clothes, leading to an imbalance and the “Add Garment” message.

4. Excessive Detergent:

Using too much detergent can create excessive foam, which can interfere with the washer’s ability to detect the load size and distribution.

5. Faulty Sensor:

In rare cases, a faulty sensor may be responsible for the “Add Garment” message. The sensor may be malfunctioning and failing to accurately detect the load size or imbalance.

6. Software Glitch:

Software glitches can occasionally occur, causing the washer to display incorrect messages.

7. Obstructed Drain:

A clogged drain can prevent the washer from draining properly, leading to an imbalance and the “Add Garment” message.

Troubleshooting the “Add Garment” Message

1. Redistribute the Load:

If the load is imbalanced, stop the washer and redistribute the clothes evenly inside the drum.

2. Add More Garments:

If the load is too small, add a few more garments to balance it.

3. Select the Correct Load Type:

Ensure you’ve selected the appropriate load type for the items you’re washing.

4. Reduce Detergent Usage:

Use the recommended amount of detergent for the load size and type.

5. Check the Sensor:

If you suspect a faulty sensor, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

6. Reset the Washer:

Unplug the washer for a few minutes and then plug it back in to reset it.

7. Clear the Drain:

If you suspect a clogged drain, disconnect the washer from the water supply and remove any obstructions from the drain hose.

Recommendations: Resolving the “Add Garment” Conundrum

By understanding the reasons behind the “Add Garment” message and following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can effectively resolve this issue and ensure your Whirlpool washer operates smoothly. If the problem persists, do not hesitate to contact a professional appliance repair technician for further assistance.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Why does my Whirlpool washer keep saying “Add Garment” even after I’ve added more clothes?
A: The load may still be imbalanced. Try redistributing the clothes or adding a few more garments.

Q: Can I ignore the “Add Garment” message?
A: No. Ignoring the message can lead to excessive vibration and damage to the washer.

Q: How often should I clean the drain hose to prevent clogs?
A: It’s recommended to clean the drain hose every few months to prevent blockages.

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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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