The first thing to try is pressing the “control lock” button for three seconds. After the three seconds have passed, the door should unlock allowing you to open it. If the control lock button doesn't work, next is to try the “end of cycle” button if your machine has that option.
LOC means your control lock is engaged. In the bottom right corner of your control panel there is a control lock button. Press and hold this button for 5 seconds to remove the control lock so you can use the washer again.
Most washers will have a manual release to unlock the mechanism and allow you to open the door or lid. The release is normally accessible from below the door lock, or on some models, from inside the soap dispenser housing.
The most likely cause is an inoperative drain pump, or a clogged debris filter. If your washer has water inside the Drum, the door will not open to prevent a flood. If you are using to sanitize the cycle and the water is extremely hot, the door will not open to prevent injury.
Power Off/On: Turning off the machine and unplugging it for a few minutes, then plugging it back in and restarting it, could reset the machine and unlock the door.
Sometimes, when using the machine, people accidentally hit the control lock or delay start button. Try opening and closing the washing machine door, and then try another cycle. If that doesn't work, you may want to completely restart and reset the wash cycle.
If the control lock has been activated, the control will not function. If you try to push buttons, you may see the code "LoC" or "LC" (depending on your model). This is a reminder that you have set the control lock and need to de-activate it to allow the washer controls to function.
To remove a lock washer, use a wrench or a similar tool to remove the nut or threaded fastener that holds the lock washer in place. Next, use a flathead screwdriver to pry the lock washer loose. If you remove a split washer, place the screwdriver head under the washer or inside the split.
Make sure that the drain hose is not kinked or clogged. Straighten the hose for adequate water flow. Remove any blockage from the drain hose, drainpipe, or utility sink. Use the U-shaped drain hose form on the drain hose, and secure the drain hose.
The most common cause of a Whirlpool washer that is stuck on sensing is a faulty actuator. However, this problem may also be caused by a clogged drain pump, a failed door latch/lid switch, a torn drive belt, a faulty pressure switch, or faulty water inlet valves.
First, try keeping the machine turned off for five minutes, then try opening the door again. If this doesn't fix the issue, you can gently strike the door over the area where the lock is with the palm of your hand. This can sometimes activate and release the lock.
This can be done by using a flathead screwdriver to unclip the panel, allowing it to be pulled off. Next, reach up through the panel area and find the door latch. Once located, find the tear-drop shaped tab on the door latch and pull it. You should hear a clicking sound and the door should be able to be opened.
If you want to try resolving issues with your washing machine, such as power surges or error codes, it's possible you might need to perform a quick reset. One way you can reset a washer is by unplugging the unit for at least one minute, then plugging it back in and restarting the appliance.
Troubleshooting a Locked Whirlpool Washer
Press the "control lock" button for three seconds. The door should unlock. If the control lock button doesn't work, try the "end of cycle" button to reset the washer. If the above steps fail, completely reset the machine by unplugging it for an hour.
A start button on your washer's control panel not working despite the rest of the lights coming on is the most common Whirlpool washer issue you will encounter. Taking off the control panel to try and find the cause will let you see if the solution can be DIYed, or a professional needs to be called.
To reset the electronic controls on your washer, shut off the circuit breaker or fuse to the washer or unplug the washer for 2 minutes. For models that have a timer control knob, turn the knob around and back to any position other than final spin for the interrupted cycle. Then, restore power.
Water left in the machine is also a common cause of a locked washing machine door. Running a spin/drain cycle can often fix this issue, but if it fails, the machine may need to be drained manually. The door catch, handle, or some part of the door catch mechanism may be broken, preventing the door from opening.
Use a funnel to pour about a quarter of a cup of baking soda into the pipe. Next, empty a baster full of vinegar into the drain hose. Top tip: If the blockage is not completely gone, you can repeat the above process. Once you have cleared any debris from the hose, pour hot water in to flush everything out.