Manufacturers introduced the concept of error codes to help users identify what has gone wrong in their machines.
Each error code corresponds to a unique set of issues, referring to a specific system or a part of the machine. For example, users can look up an F20 error code in their Whirlpool machine and identify the problem.
This article will cover the F20 error code in a Whirlpool Duet and what it refers to. We will also see how to address this error code and its possible causes.
Whirlpool Duet Error Code F20 Meaning
The F20 error code on a Whirlpool Duet washing machine indicates an issue with the water supply.
The error codes in a washing machine indicate a problem preventing it from working correctly. The waste supply is not sufficiently pressurized in case of an F20 error code.
It means that the drum is not getting enough water. Thus, the machine cannot run a wash cycle.
As a result, the washing machine stops itself from working to prevent any damage. An insufficient supply of water can be quite detrimental in the long run.
Common Causes Of F20 Error Code
Several reasons can prevent the water from entering the washing chamber.
1. Kinked Hose
Firstly, the hose that lets in the water can be kinked, thus not allowing enough water into the drum.
2. Clogged Water Inlet
The water inlet valve screen also gets clogged sometimes. This can also result in an F20 error code.
3. Improper Water Connection
Both hot and cold water supplies aren’t connected to the machine. That, or they’re connected but not turned on.
4. Wrong Detergent
Using non-HE detergent or excessive amounts of detergent can cause a build-up of sud, leading to a low water supply.
5. Wrong Water Pressure
The water pressure may be less than 10 PSI. Check with your local authorities to know about the water supply.
6. Control Board Glitch
The control board can sometimes glitch and display an error even though nothing is wrong with the machine.
7. Faulty Pressure Switch
There can also be a faulty pressure switch that can cause this issue. This device tells the machine to stop letting water enter the machine once it crosses the threshold.
How To Fix Whirlpool Error Code F20?
Let’s look at the possible solutions for the error code F20 on a Whirlpool washing machine.
We’ll do this by reviewing the fixes based on the possible causes.
1. Turning On The Faucets
A common cause behind the F20 error code is the faucets that supply water to the machines aren’t functioning optimally.
They’re either turned off or only partially turned on. To fix this, simply ensure that the faucets are turned on all the way.
Secondly, the machine has inlets for both hot and cold water. It will simply not work correctly if there’s a shortage in supply for either of those.
This is because the machine needs to maintain a temperature of around 80°F (+/- 5) for optimal performance. Make sure both the hot and cold water inlets are working properly.
2. Straighten The Water Inlets
Sometimes, the inlets supplying water to the machine can get kinked. This can block sufficient water from entering the machine.
The simple solution is to straighten the inlet hoses to allow more seamless water flow into the machine.
3. Fix The Water Pressure
A water supply of around 10 PSI is necessary for the optimal functioning of the machine. Make sure you have that amount of pressure.
4. Clean The Inlet Valve Screens
Sometimes, the inlet valve screens, i.e., the points where the hoses meet the machine, can get clogged.
This can cause a clog or a blockage and inhibit sufficient water from entering the drum.
To fix this, remove both the inlets and clean the screens. Once done, reinstall them and check if the error still appears.
5. Using The Right Detergent
A non-HE or excess detergent can cause the machine to stop functioning correctly.
Make sure you’re using the recommended type of detergent and in the right quantities.
6. Fix The Technical Issues
The pressure switch, which indicates enough water is in the drum, can sometimes trigger prematurely.
This can happen due to an electronic failure or a defective pressure switch. Your best is to replace the said switch.
Finally, a glitch in the control board can also cause the F20 error code, which is easily fixable by resetting the machine.
A soft reset involves pressing the Pause/ Cancel button twice. If this doesn’t clear the error, you must hard reset it.
Disconnect the machine from the power supply for a few minutes to discharge completely. Replug it and see if the error has been fixed.
How To Prevent Whirlpool Error Code F20?
Here are some preventive measures you can take to avoid the error code F20 :
- Ensure the water supply is around 10 PSI.
- Maintain a steady flow of hot and cold water.
- Service your machine regularly and look for parts that may need replacing.
- Use detergents recommended by the manufacturer and in the right quantities.
- If you have any flood-preventing mechanism installed, ensure it’s functioning correctly.
Final Remarks
Here are the possible solutions to the F20 error code in a Whirlpool Duet washer.
- Straighten the kinked water inlets, if any.
- Turn on the faucets entirely if they aren’t.
- Use the recommended detergent by the manufacturer and in the right quantities.
- Clean the inlet valve screens to remove any clogging.
- Fix the water pressure to have it around 10 PSI.
- Reset the machine to fix any technical errors.
- Have the pressure switch replaced if it’s malfunctioning.
My name is Rick Kinney and I am the founder of ExHandyman. I have worked as a handyman for many years, and fixing stuff is my greatest pleasure in life.