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F0

Whirlpool Washing Machine

Severity: Minor

What Does This Error Mean?

The F0 code on a Whirlpool washer means no fault code is currently stored in memory. This is not an error — it's an informational code that appears during diagnostic mode. Your washer is telling you that it has no recorded problems. If you see F0 during normal operation, the control board may have had a momentary glitch.

Affected Models

  • WTW5000DW
  • WFW5620HW
  • WTW8120HW
  • WFW9620HC
  • Many Whirlpool top-load and front-load washers

Common Causes

  • Diagnostic mode was entered and F0 indicates no fault codes are logged
  • Control board momentarily displayed a code during startup self-test
  • Previous error was cleared but the display briefly showed F0 as confirmation
  • Control board firmware glitch displaying an incorrect or out-of-context code
  • Power interruption during a cycle caused a temporary display anomaly

How to Fix It

  1. Note when and how the F0 code appeared.

    Did it appear during a wash cycle, at startup, or when you pressed a combination of buttons? Context helps determine whether this is diagnostic mode or a glitch.

  2. Press Cancel to exit any diagnostic mode.

    If you accidentally entered diagnostic mode, pressing Cancel or Power typically exits it and returns the washer to normal standby mode.

  3. Unplug the washer for 5 minutes to perform a soft reset.

    This clears the control board memory and any temporary glitches. Plug back in and check if the washer operates normally.

  4. Run a short normal wash cycle to confirm the washer works correctly.

    If the washer completes the cycle without issues and F0 doesn't return, no further action is needed.

  5. If F0 appears on every startup or cycle, document it and call a technician.

    A persistent F0 on a running washer with no other codes could indicate a control board communication issue that needs professional diagnosis.

When to Call a Professional

F0 almost never requires a service call on its own. If your washer is otherwise running normally, no action is needed. However, if F0 appears repeatedly during normal cycles along with performance issues, have a technician run a full diagnostic. Expect a service call fee of $75–$150 if professional diagnosis is needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I enter diagnostic mode on a Whirlpool washer?

The method varies by model, but it usually involves pressing a specific sequence of buttons. A common method is pressing certain buttons in a pattern within a few seconds. Check your model's service manual for the exact sequence. In diagnostic mode, F0 means no faults are stored — which is a good thing.

Should I be worried if I see F0?

No — in most cases F0 is completely harmless. It simply means the washer's error log is empty. If your washer is washing and spinning normally, there is nothing to fix. Only investigate further if F0 appears during normal operation alongside actual washing problems.

Can F0 appear after a power outage?

Yes — power outages and surges can cause the control board to briefly display incorrect codes. A power reset (unplug for 5 minutes) usually clears any post-outage display oddities. If the code persists after the reset, check if any other F-codes appear alongside it.