Whirlpool Duet Dryer Troubleshooting Guide (7 Issues Fixed!)

The Duet series is one of Whirlpool’s best-performing dryer lines. But like every other dryer, the Duet can fail, and Whirlpool recommends that you try their online Whirlpool Duet dryer troubleshooting guides before contacting their technical support.

Some of the Whirlpool Duet dryer problems you can troubleshoot are a dryer that won’t start, heat at all, spin, dry the clothes, or get hot enough. Other issues include a squeaking dryer or an option with locked controls.

So, most of Whirlpool’s Duet dryer problems are DIY fixable, and I’m going to help you. I’ll take you through the probable cause of all these issues and look at their fixes.

Hopefully, that’ll save you from seeking professional technical assistance unless it’s essential. I’ll also discuss how you can run a diagnostic on your Whirlpool duet dryer to help you uncover hidden faults or errors. 

Moreover, I’ll highlight some of these errors and their interpretation before looking at how you can reset the dryer.

Let’s get into it!

In a hurry? Below is a quick troubleshooting guide for the most typical Whirlpool Duet dryer problems.

Quick Whirlpool Duet Dryer Troubleshooting Guide

7 Common Whirlpool Duet Dryer Problems

Now, discussed are the seven most typical Whirlpool duet dryer problems which you can troubleshoot:

1. Whirlpool Duet Dryer Won’t Start

Sometimes the Whirlpool Duet dryer won’t start. If that happens, then consider the following causes:

• Power not getting to the dryer – Your duet dryer won’t start if it doesn’t receive power. So, check if the power cord is plugged in well and if there’s a faulty electrical outlet or a blown-up fuse and replace them or a tripped breaker and fix it.
• Faulty door switch – The door switch can prevent the dryer from starting if it’s defective. So, test it with a multimeter and replace it if faulty.
• Wrong setting – Settings like Air Only, Wrinkle Reduction, and Timed Cycle interfere with the dryer’s performance. So, avoid them and opt for Automatic Cycle and other favorable settings. 
• Faulty start button – You’ll also need a multimeter to test the start button. If it’s defective, replace it as the dryer won’t start if it’s that way.
• Defective motor – Also, consider replacing the drive motor if it can’t run, as it could be why your Duet dryer won’t start.

2. Whirlpool Duet Dryer Not Heating at All

There are several reasons why a duet dryer won’t get hot at all. They include:

• Lack of power – Ensure your dryer is getting enough power. If it’s not well plugged in, or its power cord or electric socket is faulty, you’ll need to fix them and replace the fuse if it’s blown.
• Dirty lint screen – Clean the lint screen to eliminate dirt as it could prevent the dryer from heating up.
• Part malfunction – Inspect the heating element for burn, igniter, thermostat, and gas solenoid valve for malfunctioning, and replace what’s faulty. It could be the reason the dryer won’t get hot.

3. Whirlpool Duet Dryer Not Spinning

A Whirlpool duet dryer rarely fails to spin, but it can happen. Possible causes include:

• Broken drive belt – A fractured drive belt hampers the dryer from spinning. So, inspect and replace it if you find it frail or broken.
• Faulty drive motor – A faulty drive motor won’t turn the drive belt, and subsequently, the dryer won’t spin. Thus, replace it.
• Obstructed drum – If the dryer drum is blocked by clothes or debris, it won’t spin. So, inspect it and remove any obstruction.
• Worn drum bearing – Replace the drum bearings if worn as the dryer won’t spin in such a state.
• Defective drum rollers – Drum rollers support the dryer’s drum. If faulty, the duet dryer won’t spin. So, you’ll need to replace them.

4. Whirlpool Duet Dryer Not Drying

A Whirlpool duet dryer’s job is to dry your wet laundry. If that doesn’t happen, consider these seven possibilities:

• Dirty lint screen – A dirty lint screen prevents dry air from adequately circulating in the dryer. Thus, clean it if it’s filthy.
• Blocked hose/air vent – Unblock the air vent if blocked as the dryer won’t dry the clothes in such a state. The dryer needs smooth airflow to dry clothes.
• Clothes are too wet – Remove the excess water from the clothes to improve the drying performance.
• Wrong setting – Ensure you pick the right dryer setting for the dryer to run optimally.,
• Large load – If the clothes load is in excess, the dryer won’t dry it properly. Hence, consider reducing the wet laundry if in excess.
• Low temperature – The room temperature should be at least 45⁰F for the dryer to function correctly. So, you may need to move the dryer to a warmer room.
• Excess fabric softener – Using too much fabric softener makes it hard for the dryer to dry the clothes. So, reduce the amount.

5. Whirlpool Dryer Not Getting Hot Enough

Sometimes, a Whirlpool duet dryer will heat up but not hot enough to properly dry your clothes. If that’s the case, the cause could be any of these:

• Whirlpool Duet dryer heating element problems – A burnt heating element or heating element assembly will prevent the dryer from getting hot enough or even heating up. So, test them with a multimeter tester and replace them if they show no continuity.
• Clogged vent – Inspect the air vent/dryer hose for possible clogging and unclog it.
• Clogged lint screen – Consider cleaning the lint screen if it’s dirty, as it could prevent the dryer from getting hot.
• Power Issue – Your dryer could also fail to heat up enough due to a faulty breaker, fuse, power cord, or electric outlet. So, look at all these power issues and fix them.

More Problems

6. Whirlpool Duet Dryer Squeaking

If your Whirlpool Duet dryer is making a squeaking sound, consider these potential causes:

• Loose screws – Check for loose screws and tighten them to stop the squeaking.
• The dryer is resting on an uneven surface – Move your duet dryer to a more even surface if it’s on an uneven floor.
• Broken drive belt – Invest in a Whirlpool Duet dryer belt replacement if the drive belt is broken, as it could cause the squeaking.
• Worn drum rollers – Change the drum rollers if they look worn out or rusty. That will stop the squeaking.
• Damaged blower wheel – Inspect the blower wheel for damage and replace it if that’s the case.

7. Whirlpool Duet Dryer Control Locked

The control lock feature on the Whirlpool dryer prevents unintentional changes to the dryer setting. So, it’s a good choice when you’ve kids around.

Unfortunately, sometimes the dryer will stay on the control lock, not allowing it to spin or dry the clothes. In such a case, the dryer will display the error code LOC.

Fix 

If the error code LOC is on, consider unlocking the dryer using these steps:

• Identify the End of Cycle Signal switch on your dryer
• Press the switch for 3 seconds
• Wait for the LOC code to disappear and for the dryer to unlock

Alternatively, consider unplugging your dryer for 30 minutes. That should unlock the dryer. If it doesn’t, talk to a Whirlpool technician.

How to Get into the Whirlpool Duet Dryer Diagnostic Mode

So, you cannot find fault with your Whirlpool Duet dryer, but it still won’t work? Here are the steps to get a Whirlpool duet dryer into diagnostic mode:

• Turn off your dryer but don’t unplug it
• Find the ‘Less-Time’ and ‘More-Time’ switches on the control console
• Press the buttons in this order: More Time – Less Time – More Time – Less Time
• Wait for the dryer to display the error codes (if any)

Here are common Whirlpool Duet dryer troubleshooting codes you should know about:

Whirlpool Duet Dryer Reset

Is your Whirlpool Duet dryer not working after the above fixes? Then consider resetting it, and here’s how to do it:

• Unplug your dryer for about 30 minutes
• Plug it back and turn it on
• If the dryer doesn’t reset, talk to a Whirlpool expert.

Are there similar threads discussing dryer problems?

Yes, there are several similar threads discussing dryer problems. Some of the threads include topics such as a Whirlpool Duet Sport Dryer that has power but won’t turn on, a Whirlpool dryer that is stuck in an ON/OFF loop, a Whirlpool Duet Electric Dryer that initially heats up clothes but then won’t run, a Whirlpool Duet Dryer that has power, clicks, but won’t start, and a general thread about dryers that will not start. These threads provide a variety of potential solutions and troubleshooting tips for individuals facing similar issues with their dryers.

How did the person feel about the advice and website provided?

The individual expressed immense joy and gratitude with regard to the advice and website that were offered. They conveyed their delight at being able to dry a batch of laundry using their newly repaired machine. The person emphasized their appreciation for the valuable tips and the helpfulness of the website they had accessed.

Did replacing the control panel solve the issue for the person?

According to a comment made by a Premium Member on September 1, 2014, it seems they encountered a similar issue and initially struggled to determine whether the control board or the user interface panel was the cause. The member mentioned having watched numerous videos and spent considerable time trying to find a solution. However, they eventually decided to clean the lint off the control board, which temporarily resolved the problem for about three more loads. Unfortunately, the dryer stopped functioning again. As a result, the member expressed their intention to order a specific part and test if it would solve the issue, hoping to experience the same success. Therefore, it remains unclear whether replacing the control panel ultimately resolved the problem for this individual.

How often does the person use their dryer?

The frequency of dryer usage can vary from person to person. Some individuals may use their dryer on a daily basis, while others may only use it a few times throughout the week. It is important to consider the average lifespan of dryers, which typically ranges from 8 to 12 years. If you have a large family or find yourself using the dryer daily, it may be more cost-effective to invest in a new dryer rather than continuously repairing an older one.

Should the person invest in fixing their 13-year-old dryer or buy a new one?

Based on the information provided, it appears that the person is currently using their dryer frequently, possibly on a daily basis. The average lifespan of dryers is typically around 8-12 years. However, considering the age of their dryer (13 years old) and the frequency of daily usage, it might be more beneficial for them to invest in purchasing a new one rather than repairing the old one. If the household has multiple family members who heavily rely on the dryer, and considering the extended period of usage, the repair costs might outweigh the benefits of fixing the older appliance. In this situation, it is advisable to divert the repair funds towards purchasing a new dryer that will not only offer improved efficiency but also provide a longer lifespan and better functionality to accommodate the needs of the household.

Is condensation on the dryer window a potential cause of the issue?

Based on the provided context, it seems that the presence of condensation on the dryer window has raised a concern. The individual wonders if this condensation is a potential cause of the issue they are facing. However, it is important to note that condensation on the dryer window, specifically in the month of August in south Louisiana, could simply be a result of the humid climate rather than a direct contributor to the problem. Thus, while condensation on the dryer window may be present, it may not be the actual culprit behind the issue at hand.

Did cleaning the lint off the control board solve the problem temporarily?

Based on a similar experience shared, the individual encountered an issue with their dryer over the weekend. They mentioned dedicating a significant amount of time towards finding a solution, watching numerous videos, and considering whether the control board or user interface panel needed attention. Taking matters into their own hands, they cleaned the lint off the control board, resulting in the dryer functioning properly for approximately three more loads. Unfortunately, after this period, the dryer ceased to function entirely. In light of this, it seems that cleaning the lint off the control board only provided a temporary resolution to the problem. As per their plan, the individual intends to order a part and hopes that it will rectify the situation, with an optimistic outlook based on their previous success.

How did the user feel about being able to fix the problem themselves with assistance from the website?

I am glad to hear that the user found the assistance on our website helpful. They had been spreading the word about our site and appreciated the support it provides. Although they recognize the need for local businesses to make a profit and do not consider themselves cheap, they had recently experienced multiple appliance issues. After having a repair service out for their dishwasher, they were hit with their clothes dryer malfunctioning the very next day. Unfortunately, the repair service couldn’t come for a few more days. However, the user felt a sense of satisfaction fixing the problem themselves, with the help of our website’s guidance.

What website did the user purchase the replacement part from?

The user purchased the replacement part from a website called AppliancePartsPros, which, fortunately, seems to have a reliable return policy.

How can the user ensure the dryer is safely disconnected before making any repairs?

To safely disconnect the dryer before making any repairs, follow these steps:

1. Locate the electrical outlet or circuit breaker that supplies power to your dryer.
2. Prior to starting any repairs, unplug the dryer from the outlet or turn off the dedicated circuit breaker that controls the dryer’s power.
3. Ensure that the dryer is completely disconnected from its power source to prevent any accidental electrical shocks or injuries during the repair process.
4. It’s crucial to double-check and verify that there is no power flowing to the dryer by using a non-contact voltage tester or a similar electrical tool.
5. Once you’ve confirmed that the power supply to the dryer is disconnected, you can safely proceed with your repairs or maintenance tasks.

Remember, taking these precautions will not only protect you from potential harm but also safeguard your dryer’s components and prevent any further damage.

Where can the user find a replacement user interface control for the dryer?

The user can find a replacement user interface control for their dryer by ordering the WP8558753 Electronic Control, which is available for purchase.

Has the user experienced similar issues with other appliances?

Yes, the user has experienced similar issues with another appliance. They mentioned that within a week of the dryer problem, the control panel on their dishwasher had a similar issue. Specifically, all the buttons on the dishwasher worked except the Start button. The user wonders if both appliances were affected by a brown-out that occurred during a storm. The dishwasher required a repair that cost them $300, which was performed by a technician in less than 20 minutes. Despite this, the user hopes to troubleshoot and fix the dryer problem themselves, without needing to hire someone.

What steps has the user already taken to try and fix the issue?

Based on the provided information, the user has already taken several steps to troubleshoot the issue with their dryer. They have unplugged and plugged the dryer back in, checked the circuit breaker, and ensured that the dryer’s interior light turns on and off when the door is opened or closed. Additionally, they mentioned that the control panel of the dryer had been acting up recently, with some buttons becoming non-responsive while others still worked. However, they were still able to run the dryer at its previously programmed settings. It seems that the dryer eventually returned to full functionality on its own.

What is the model number of the Whirlpool Duet dryer experiencing issues?

The model number of the Whirlpool Duet dryer experiencing issues is GGW9250PW0.

What was the issue with the person’s dryer that they had to fix?

What parts did the person consider replacing?
The person was trying to figure out if they needed to replace the control board or the user interface panel.

What is the person planning to do next to fix the problem?
The person plans to order a part and see if it will solve the issue.

What happened after the temporary fix?
The dryer worked well for three more loads but then stopped working again.

What did the person try to do to resolve the issue temporarily?
The person cleaned the lint off their control board, which temporarily fixed the problem for about three more loads.

What issue did the person experience with their dryer over the weekend?
The person had an identical issue with their dryer where it worked for a while after cleaning the lint off the control board but then stopped working again.

Problem Probable Cause DIY Fixes
1. Dryer Won’t Start
Lack of power
Plug in the power cord properly, reset the tripped breaker, replace the blown-up fuse, or fix the power outlet if faulty
Faulty door switch
Replace the door/ lid switch if faulty
Wrong setting
Choose the right dryer setting
Faulty start button
Replace the start button if faulty
Defective motor
Replace the motor if it won’t rotate

2. Dryer Won’t Heat At All
Lack of power
Ensure your dryer receives enough power
Dirty lint screen
Clean the lint screen to get rid of the clog
Part malfunction (heating element, igniter, gas valve solenoid, or thermostat)
Replace the malfunctioning part

3. Dryer Won’t Spin
Broken drive belt
Replace the broken drive belt
Faulty drive motor
Replace the faulty drive motor
Obstructed drum
Get rid of the obstruction
Worn drum bearing
Replace the drum bearing
Defective drum rollers
Replace the defective rollers

4. Dryer Won’t Dry
Dirty lint screen
Clean the lint screen if dirty
Blocked hose/air vent
Unblock the air vent or hose if blocked
Clothes are too wet
Remove excess water from the laundry
Wrong setting
Choose the right dryer setting
Large load
Reduce the overall load
Low temperature
Move the dryer to a warmer room
Excess softener
Avoid using too much fabric softener

5. Dryer Not Getting Hot Enough
Heating element problems
Replace the burnt-out heating element component
Clogged vent
Unclog the air vent
Clogged lint screen
Clean the lint screen
Power issue
Fix the power fault

6. Squeaky Dryer
Loose screws
Tighten the loose screws
Uneven surface
Move the dryer to a level surface
Broken drive belt
Replace the broken drive belt
Worn drum rollers
Replace the worn drum rollers
Damaged blower wheel
Replace the lower wheel

7 Dryer Control Locked
Unlock the dryer by resetting it

The person’s dryer had multiple issues, including not starting, not heating, not spinning, and not drying. The potential causes for each issue are listed, such as lack of power, faulty parts, and obstructions. The passage also provides DIY fixes for each problem, such as replacing broken components, cleaning lint screens, and unblocking air vents.

However, it is important to note that the specific issue the person encountered with their dryer is not mentioned in this passage. For a more thorough understanding of their problem and the solution they pursued, please refer to Their article.

How did the user resolve the issue and get the dryer working again?

How did the user feel about being able to fix the problem themselves with assistance?
The user felt awesome being able to fix the issue themselves, with the help of Jake’s assistance. They also expressed gratitude and appreciation for the helpfulness of the site and recommended it to others.

How did the user rectify their mistake of ordering the wrong part?
The user contacted Appliance Parts Pros through live chat, canceled their original order for the wrong part, and placed an order for the correct part.

Who provided assistance to the user in resolving the issue?
The user received assistance from Jake, who provided instructions on what needed to be done.

What part did the user receive and switch out to fix the problem?
The user received a User Interface and replaced it to fix the issue with their dryer.

How did the user resolve the issue of their dryer not working?
The user received a User Interface part, switched it out, and their dryer is fully functional again.

I’ll take you through the probable cause of all these issues and look at their fixes. Hopefully, that’ll save you from seeking professional technical assistance unless it’s essential. In this case, the user was able to resolve the problem and get their dryer working again. They received a User Interface part, which they switched out, resulting in their dryer becoming fully functional once more. The user expresses their gratitude and credits the assistance they received from someone named Jake. Additionally, they mention reaching out to Appliance Parts Pros through live chat to rectify a mistake they made in ordering the wrong part. The company promptly canceled the original order and placed an order for the correct part, even at the late hour of 11:30 pm. The user is highly satisfied with their ability to fix the issue themselves, with the support and guidance provided by Jake and the convenience of the Appliance Parts Pros website.

What might be causing the control panel to be non-responsive?

How can I fix the non-responsive control panel?
The specific steps to fix the non-responsive control panel are not provided in Excerpt_Theirs.

What is the specific cause of the non-responsive control panel?
A malfunction or defect in the control itself.

What might be causing the control panel to be non-responsive?
The user interface control has gone bad.

“Is your user interface control acting up? If you’re experiencing a non-responsive control panel, it could be due to various reasons. One common issue that can cause this problem is the control lock feature on certain appliances, like the Whirlpool Duet dryer.

This handy control lock feature is designed to prevent unintended changes to the dryer settings, making it particularly useful when you have kids around. However, there are times when the control lock may get stuck, resulting in the dryer not spinning or drying clothes properly. When this happens, the dryer will display an error code, typically labeled as LOC.

To address this particular issue, here’s a step-by-step guide to unlocking the control panel on your Whirlpool Duet dryer. First, identify the End of Cycle Signal switch on your dryer. Press and hold this switch for approximately 3 seconds. Then, patiently wait for the LOC code to disappear and for the dryer to unlock. In most cases, this simple action should resolve the problem and restore normal functionality.

If, however, the above steps don’t prove successful, you can try an alternative method. Unplug your dryer from the power source and leave it disconnected for around 30 minutes. This should reset the control panel and unlock the dryer. If you’re still encountering issues after attempting these troubleshooting steps, it may be best to consult a Whirlpool technician for further assistance.

Remember, a non-responsive control panel can be frustrating, but by following these instructions, you can increase the chances of resolving the problem and getting your appliance back in working order.

What are the symptoms of the dryer problem?

Were there any specific symptoms or issues with the dishwasher control panel?
The dishwasher control panel had the opposite problem, where all buttons worked except the Start button.

Is there a possible connection to other appliance issues?
The dishwasher control panel also experienced issues around the same time, hinting at a potential power-related problem during a storm.

What troubleshooting steps have already been taken?
The user has already tried unplugging and replugging the dryer, checking the circuit breaker, and inspecting the vent for blockages.

How did the problem initially start and progress?
The issue began as sporadic control panel problems, where only certain buttons would work while others were non-responsive. It then progressed to a complete loss of functionality in the control panel.

What are the specific symptoms of the dryer problem?
The dryer is completely non-responsive, with the control panel not working at all except for the interior light when the door is opened and closed.

Sometimes, a Whirlpool Duet dryer will heat up but not hot enough to properly dry your clothes. If that’s the case, the cause could be any of these:

1. Whirlpool Duet dryer heating element problems: A burnt heating element or heating element assembly will prevent the dryer from getting hot enough or even heating up. So, it’s important to test them with a multimeter tester and replace them if they show no continuity.

2. Clogged vent: It’s crucial to inspect the air vent and dryer hose for possible clogging. A clogged vent can restrict airflow and prevent the dryer from getting hot. If you find any clogs, make sure to unclog them to restore proper airflow.

3. Clogged lint screen: Another potential culprit for insufficient heating is a dirty lint screen. A dirty lint screen can impede airflow and hinder the dryer’s ability to heat up. Therefore, it’s recommended to clean the lint screen regularly to prevent any blockages.

4. Power Issue: In some cases, the dryer might fail to heat up enough due to a faulty breaker, fuse, power cord, or electric outlet. It’s essential to check all these power-related components to ensure they are functioning correctly. If any issues are found, they should be addressed promptly to restore proper power supply to the dryer.

While the above factors cover common causes for insufficient heating in a Whirlpool Duet dryer, it’s important to note that there may be other issues specific to your dryer model. If the suggested troubleshooting steps do not resolve the problem, it might be necessary to consult a professional technician to diagnose and fix the issue.

By considering these potential causes and performing the suggested troubleshooting steps, you can increase the chances of identifying and resolving the underlying problem with your Whirlpool Duet dryer’s heating capabilities.

Closing Remarks

Above are the basics of a Whirlpool Duet dryer troubleshooting. Thus, you can turn to the guide when your whirlpool dryer won’t work or appears faulty.

Do that before calling a service technician. You may never know; you may not need a service technician to fix your dryer. 

Also Read:

• Maytag Bravos Dryer Troubleshooting Guide
• Maytag Centennial Dryer Troubleshooting Guide
• Whirlpool Cabrio Dryer Troubleshooting Code AF