The most recent Whirlpool washer models from 2015 have a few safety mechanisms, and one of them is the lid lock. A lid lock is a safety mechanism that stops the washer from running when the washer door is open. Often, the lid lock switch may malfunction in the middle of laundry, causing your washer to stop working. When this happens, you may need to bypass the lid lock as you wait for the lid lock switch replacement.
We do not recommend using your washer without the lid lock. But, the easiest way to bypass the lid lock on a Whirlpool washer is by accessing the lid lock switch in the top panel and interrupting current flow into the lid lock switch by placing a magnet or wire between the lock switch and solenoid to disengage the mechanism.
How do I reset the lid lock on my Whirlpool washer?
Some lid lock mechanisms on washers use heat to activate. It means that you can bypass the lid lock by simply allowing the unit to cool down. Switch off the power and disconnect it from the socket. Let it sit and cool for about 10-15 minutes. Then try lifting the lid open; if the washer’s lid is still locked, you will have to follow the steps below to bypass the lid lock on a Whirlpool washer successfully.
Things You’ll Need
- Screwdriver
- Small magnet
- Electrical tape
- Wire connectors
- Pliers
- Wire strippers
Directions
- Turn off the washer and unplug from the power socket to prevent electrocution, and place the plug away from any water contact.
- Switch off the water supply by turning the twin supply valves counterclockwise. Though the unit is off, cutting off the water supply guarantees that no water will flow into the washer while working on it.
- Locate the screws that secure the horizontal tab or power board to the washer. Some models have screws at the back, while others have them at the front.
- Unscrew the fasteners with a screwdriver and pry a flat-head screwdriver under the panel’s edge to disconnect the retention clips and allow you to lift the washer top panel. Lift the panel gently not to disconnect the wires.
- Locate the lock lid switch on the underside towards the back of the washer. The lock lid switch usually comes in a small plastic box that could be clear, black, or gray in most models.
- Place a magnet where the lock lid switch connects to the unit to create a magnetic connection between the lid lock and the solenoid. The solenoid is a type of powerful electromagnet; placing the magnet there will create a magnetic connection with the solenoid and deceive the washer’s computer into thinking the door is locked when it is open. It will also allow you to run the washer with the lid open. You can secure the magnet in place with duct tape to prevent it from moving when the washer vibrates.
- Alternatively, you can cut the wires of the lid lock switch. Refer to your unit’s tech manual and look for a diagram with wires labeled lock switch and lid switch. The lid lock switches are usually three or four wires depending on the model.
- Cut the lid and lock wires with a pair of pliers to remove the electric connection between the lid and lock system.
- Splice about an inch of the wire insulation with wire strippers and twist the wires together. Then secure the wires with a wire connector or electrical tape.
- Reassemble the top panel, plug in the washer and turn on the water supply. If the bypass is successful, you would be able to open and close the lid while the washer is running. You will also notice the lid locker light flash when running the washer with a disengaged lid lock switch.
Keep in mind that disrupting the washer’s wiring may cause your washer to stop working altogether.
Will a washer work without a lid lock?
A washer will only work without the lid lock if you bypass the lid lock switch. However, we do not recommend using your washer without the lid lock. The lid lock switch is a safety mechanism that won’t allow you to run the washer with the lid open. This mechanism prevents objects from falling into the washer while running or prevents injury when a child places their hands inside the washer. Sometimes bypassing the lid lock switch will not work long term because some washer models have backup measures that will switch off the washer if the absence of the lid lock switch is detected.
Check this too: Amana Washer Troubleshooting
How do you know if your lid lock is damaged?
When the Whirlpool washer lid lock is flashing, there is usually a problem with the washer, but the problem may not necessarily be a broken lid lock. A failed lid lock switch will cause a few issues for your washer, such as;
- The washer will stop working.
- The agitator won’t move.
- The drum doesn’t move.
- The unit will not drain water from the tub.
- The washer will not dry the clothes properly after a complete spin cycle.
So this is how to know if a damaged lid lock switch is the one causing your washer problems:
- Disconnect the washer from the power source.
- Open the top panel to reveal the lid lock.
- Clean the lid lock switch with a cotton swab and white vinegar. If there is dirt stuck on the lid lock, it will not work efficiently.
- Switch on the washer and test if the problem is still there. If the problem persists, turn off the washer again.
- Use a multitester to see if there is a current flowing through the lid lock switch. Place the multitester on each terminal on the lid lock switch, and it should read infinity. Press the lid lock button, and if the multitester does not read zero, you need to replace the lid lock switch.
Check this too: How to Fix a Squeaky Dryer
Conclusion
Using the steps explained above, you can now bypass your Whirlpool washer’s lid lock and open and close your lid freely. It is important to note that we do not recommend using a washer without a lid lock. Besides violating your warranty, you should either replace your faulty lid lock switch or get a technician to diagnose and fix the issue with your washer.