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Whirlpool washer mystified? unravel the enigma of add garment

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 “Add Garment” message typically appears when the washer detects an imbalance in the load distribution during the spin cycle.
  • If there are too few items in the washer, add a few more small items to help balance the load.
  • It is recommended to clean your Whirlpool washer once a month to prevent the buildup of detergent residue, mineral deposits, and odors.

When your Whirlpool washer displays the enigmatic message “Add Garment,” it can leave you perplexed and frustrated. This guide delves into the reasons behind this puzzling notification, offering comprehensive explanations and practical solutions to resolve the issue.

Understanding the “Add Garment” Message

The “Add Garment” message typically appears when the washer detects an imbalance in the load distribution during the spin cycle. This imbalance can occur due to several factors:

  • Uneven distribution of items: Heavy items, such as towels or blankets, can clump together on one side of the drum, causing an uneven load.
  • Too few items: If there are too few items in the washer, they may not distribute evenly, leading to an imbalance.
  • Improper loading: Overloading the washer or stuffing items into the drum can prevent them from moving freely and distributing evenly.
  • Damaged or worn-out suspension system: The suspension system supports the drum and helps absorb vibrations. If it becomes damaged or worn-out, it may not be able to effectively balance the load.
  • Faulty sensor: In rare cases, a faulty sensor may incorrectly detect an imbalance, triggering the “Add Garment” message.

Troubleshooting the “Add Garment” Issue

1. Rebalance the load: Open the washer door and redistribute the items evenly throughout the drum. Make sure heavier items are spread out and not clumped together.
2. Add more items: If there are too few items in the washer, add a few more small items to help balance the load.
3. Unload and reload the washer: Sometimes, the items may simply be packed too tightly. Unload the washer completely and reload it with the items distributed evenly.
4. Check the suspension system: Inspect the suspension system for any signs of damage or wear. If you notice any issues, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.
5. Reset the washer: Unplug the washer from the power source for a few minutes. Then, plug it back in and restart the cycle. This may reset the sensor and resolve the issue.
6. Contact customer support: If the above steps do not resolve the problem, contact Whirlpool customer support or consult a qualified appliance repair technician.

Preventing the “Add Garment” Message

To minimize the occurrence of the “Add Garment” message, follow these preventive measures:

  • Load the washer properly: Avoid overloading or underloading the washer. Distribute items evenly throughout the drum.
  • Use the correct cycle: Select the appropriate cycle for the type and size of the load.
  • Balance heavy items: If you have heavy items like towels or blankets, try to balance them with lighter items.
  • Maintain the washer: Regularly clean the washer and inspect the suspension system for any signs of damage or wear.

In a nutshell

Understanding the reasons behind the “Add Garment” message empowers you to troubleshoot and resolve the issue effectively. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can prevent this frustrating notification and ensure that your Whirlpool washer operates smoothly and efficiently.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Why does my Whirlpool washer say “Add Garment” even when it’s not unbalanced?
A: This could be due to a faulty sensor or an issue with the suspension system. Contact Whirlpool customer support or a qualified appliance repair technician.

Q: What happens if I ignore the “Add Garment” message?
A: Ignoring the message can lead to excessive vibrations and noise during the spin cycle. It may also increase the risk of damage to the washer or its components.

Q: Can I add garments during the “Add Garment” cycle?
A: No, the washer will not allow you to add garments during this cycle. You must pause the cycle, redistribute the items, and restart it.

Q: How often should I clean my Whirlpool washer?
A: It is recommended to clean your Whirlpool washer once a month to prevent the buildup of detergent residue, mineral deposits, and odors.

Q: What is the best way to load a Whirlpool washer?
A: Distribute items evenly throughout the drum, alternating heavy and light items. Avoid overloading or underloading the washer.

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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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