The Whirlpool Duet Dryer is equipped with a diagnostic mode that allows you to run tests and troubleshoot potential issues. This guide will walk you through how to enter diagnostic mode, check for saved and active fault codes, and clear any codes that may be present. It will also provide tips on troubleshooting common issues to ensure your dryer is running efficiently.

Diagnostic Guide: Preparing for Tests

Before performing any diagnostic tests on your Whirlpool Duet Dryer, follow these initial steps to ensure safety and accuracy:

• Ensure there is power at the wall outlet.
• Check if a household fuse has blown or if a circuit breaker has tripped, including checking for a time delay fuse.
• Verify that the dryer vent is properly installed and free of lint or obstructions.
• Use a VOM (volt-ohm-milliammeter) or DVM (digital-voltmeter) with a sensitivity of 20,000 ohms per volt DC or greater for all tests and checks.
• Inspect all connections before replacing any components. Look for broken or loose wires, failed terminals, or wires not pressed into connectors far enough.
• Corrosion on connections can cause control malfunctions. Check connections and verify continuity with an ohmmeter.
• For connectors, inspect the top of the connector for broken or loose wires and ensure all wires are fully pressed into the connector to engage metal barbs.
• All resistance checks must be made with the power cord unplugged from the outlet.

Activating the Diagnostic Test Mode

The diagnostic test mode on the Whirlpool Duet Dryer allows factory or service personnel to test and verify all inputs to the machine control electronics. Follow these steps to enter diagnostic mode:

1. Ensure the dryer is in standby mode (plugged in with all indicators off or with only the Cycle Complete indicator on).
2. Select any one button (except PAUSE/CANCEL) and press it to begin the diagnostic sequence. Use the same button throughout the test.
3. If the diagnostic mode is entered successfully, all indicators on the console will illuminate for 5 seconds, and "88" will display in the "Estimated Time Remaining" two-digit display. If no Saved Fault Codes or Active Fault Codes are present, all indicators will momentarily turn off, then stay on with "88" displayed.

If the dryer does not enter diagnostic mode successfully, refer to the following indications and actions:

Indication 1: No Indicators or Display

Action: Select any cycle. If indicators light up, attempt to change the function for the button used to activate the diagnostic test mode. If that button fails to change the function, it indicates a fault with the button, preventing entry into diagnostic mode. In this case, remove the console electronics and housing assembly. For further guidance, refer to the section on Accessing & Removing the Electronic Assemblies.

If no indicators light up after selecting a cycle, proceed to TEST #1 for further troubleshooting.

Indication 2: Fault Code Flashes on Display

Action: If a fault code flashes on the display, refer to the Display Fault Codes table for the recommended procedure to resolve the issue.

Understanding Diagnostic Test Results

Saved Fault Codes

If there are saved fault codes, the most recent fault code will alternate between displaying "F-" and "XX," where "XX" represents the fault code, while all cycle selector indicators flash. To view saved fault codes, press and release the same button used to activate the diagnostic mode. Each press will display the next most recent fault code in sequence.

Active Fault Codes

If an active fault code is present, it will flash in the display, and the cycle indicators will not flash. Refer to the Display Fault Codes table to determine the appropriate action for the specific fault code.

Console Buttons and Indicators Diagnostic

Pressing buttons and rotating the cycle selector will turn off the corresponding indicator and sound a beep. Holding a button for longer will toggle the left digit on the display while sounding a beep, and pressing for a shorter duration will toggle the right digit. If indicators fail to light up and beep after pressing buttons and rotating the selector, proceed to TEST #5.

Erasing Fault Codes

To clear saved fault codes from the dryer, follow these steps:

1. Ensure the dryer is in standby mode.
2. Enter the diagnostic test mode as described earlier.
3. Once in diagnostic mode, press and hold the selected button until all saved fault codes are cleared from the display. The dryer will exit diagnostic mode automatically once the codes are cleared.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter any issues during the diagnostic tests or if the dryer is not operating as expected, consider the following troubleshooting tips:

• Ensure all electrical connections are secure and free from corrosion or damage.
• Check for any blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers in the household electrical panel.
• Inspect the dryer vent and exhaust for blockages or lint buildup that could affect dryer performance.
• If a specific fault code is displayed, refer to the Display Fault Codes table for detailed instructions on how to address the issue.
• If the diagnostic mode cannot be activated, verify that the selected button is functioning correctly and check the button’s wiring and connections.

If you need further assistance or are unsure about performing these steps, please submit a question on our website, providing your dryer’s model number. Our team of experts is ready to help you with any appliance repair issues you may encounter.