So are you also a Whirlpool user? Do you own a washer that gets stuck on sensing? Well, worry no more as I have the answer for your tension. Before proceeding further, it is important to know that a Whirlpool washer takes 3 minutes in the sensing stage. If this limit exceeds then you can conclude that there is something wrong with your washer. The reasons could vary because different components can become faulty over time. If you want to dive into more detail then make sure to follow my article till the end.
Whirlpool Washer Stuck on Sensing – What Are The Reasons?
Following are some of the common reasons why your Whirlpool washer might get stuck on sensing.
- Faulty Actuator Switch
- Sensor Calibration Requirement
- Water Inlet Valve Problems
- Control Board Issues
- Broken Drive Belt
Now let us have a detailed look at the reasons now, shall we?
Whirlpool Washer Sensing Problems and Solutions
I will be guiding you regarding every issue along with its solution one by one, so make sure to follow me till the end.

Faulty Actuator Switch
The reason for mentioning this problem at the first position is because it is one of the most commonly faced issues by the people. Most of the reported cases are regarding a faulty shift actuator. Main purpose of the actuator is to switch the washer from the agitation stage to the spinning stage. This is done by disengaging and engaging the necessary gear. In case if the actuator fails then the drum won’t move at all. The reason behind this is because the actuator won’t engage the transmission for a slow rotation.
How to Identify?
The best way to identify if this is really the problem behind the stuck on sensing issue is if the washer isn’t spinning the load during the sensing stage. Another identification is if you hear grinding or clicking noises as soon as the actuator tries to engage the transmission. You must also look at the actuator carefully in order to check any visual damages. Damaged wires, burned parts and broken parts also lead to a faulty washer.
Solution Fix
If by any chance the washer is displaying any error code then you can simply interpret the meaning of that code and carry out its relevant fix. Moreover, if any component of the washer or actuator is damaged then you need to get it replaced as soon as possible.
Sensor Calibration Requirement
Sensors which are in a need of calibration might also be the culprit behind the issue. You can easily blame them without feeling guilty. There are some sensors in a washer that are useful when determining factors like load weight, water level and water temperature. In case these sensors aren’t calibrated correctly then the washer can get stuck on the sensing phase. Calibration is beneficial for validating the readings taken by the sensors.
How to Identify?
If you come across the following situations then it means the sensors aren’t calibrated properly.
- Washer not filling properly.
- Washer displaying a sensor-related error code.
- Washer facing water temperature issues.
- Washer experiencing longer cycle durations.
Solution Fix
To make sure the sensors are calibrated properly, you can carry out a recalibration reset process. Follow the below mentioned steps in order to carry out the process successfully.
- Perform a soft reset by unplugging the washer from the power source for almost 3 minutes and then reconnect it.
- Move the cycle selector dial to “Normal”.
- Again rotate the dial counter clockwise in a 360 degrees position a few times.
- Set the dial to normal and take a pause for 3 – 4 seconds.
- Keep the dial at normal and rotate the dial in the following order.
à 1 Left à 3 Right à 1 Left à 1 Right
- Now rotate the cycle selector dial to the right (4 clicks) until the rinse LED light is lit.
- Press the Start button.
The washer will enter the recalibration mode after 3 minutes.
Water Inlet Valve Problems
Water inlet valves can be considered as one of the most important components of a washer. Its job is to regulate the water flow into the washer upon getting signals from the control board. It is common that sometimes the inlet valves might malfunction due to which the right amount of water isn’t specified by the control board. Your washer’s water inlet valves might be clogged, have loose connections, have damaged wiring, or contain faulty solenoids. All these problems add up to the main problem.
How to Identify?
First you need to look at the water flow. Determine whether the flow looks normal or restricted to you. Secondly, make your washer enter the diagnostic mode and check whether any error code is displayed or not. Moreover, you can also identify the issue by listening to the hissing sound made by the water inlet valves. This is an indication that the solenoids have been compromised.
There are other things to look at as well like checking whether your home supply has adequate water pressure, ensuring the water valves are fully open, examining the hose for twisting and kinks and checking for possible error codes.
Solution Fix
The solution for a clogged water inlet valve is to clean it properly by flushing it with running water. Secondly, if the water pressure is low then you need to call your water company to have it increased. Lastly, if the issue is with the solenoids then you need to replace the entire water inlet.
Control Board Issues
Control board is considered as the brain of the washer. It controls and sequences all the functions during the sensing phase. Having a faulty control board means that no signals will be sent to allow the sensing phase to be completed. Your control board might have problems like inability to control the water inlet valves, facing software glitch and having faulty timers.
How to Identify?
To identify whether the control board is the real culprit behind the problem or not you need to check the related error codes. You can also conduct a visual inspection for burn marks, blown capacitors or loose connections. Lastly, you can also take a multimeter to test the continuity of components like relays, fuses and capacitors.
Solution Fix
The common solution whenever there is any problem with the control board is to reset the washer first and clean the board using a soft brush. If this approach doesn’t bring any luck then you need to get the following components replaced like relays and capacitors. If the damage is big then you need to replace the whole control board.
Broken Drive Belt
The drum of the washer is moved by the drive belt that is connected to the motor. If the drive belt has become faulty then the drum won’t be able to spin and as a result the washer won’t start.
How to Identify?
Look for any visual damages or burning smell coming from under the washer. You need to inspect the belt for tears, cracks, breakages and misalignments.
Check More Washer Fixation:
Solution Fix
In case of misalignment, you need to tighten the belt and have it aligned properly. Secondly, you need to inspect the drive belt for damages and replace the damaged components at your earliest. If you are unable to understand the issue then simply call a technician to get the job done.

Frequently Asked Questions
Q – How do I get my Whirlpool washer out of sensing mode?
A – There are several fixes you can attempt if your Whirlpool washing machine is full of water and stuck in sensing mode:Unplug the washing machine: After a minute or two of unplugging, re-plug the washer. Resetting the control panel will sometimes fix the problem.
Q – Why is my washer stuck on sensing?
A—A malfunctioning actuator is the most frequent reason a Whirlpool washer becomes stuck on sensing. However, this problem may also be caused by a clogged drain pump, a failed door latch/lid switch, a broken drive belt, a faulty pressure switch, or faulty water inlet valves.
Q – How long should sensing take on a washer?
A—Before adding water to the load, these detecting spins could take two or three minutes. After a little while, the washer will shift the load, stop to let the water seep in, and then start adding water again. This operation may be repeated until the load has received the appropriate amount of water.
The End
I have given you information regarding the most commonly faced issues by the users when it comes to their Whirlpool washers. If you want to deal with your appliance without any issue then it is recommended that you keep the above mentioned points in your mind to avoid future inconveniences. In case you don’t understand anything then instead of doing anything on your own it is advised to get in touch with an expert.