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Error code reference

Speed Queen Washer Error Code tP

The motor overload protector has stopped the motor due to too many clothes in the washtub or a failure within…

Speed Queen codesSpeed Queen washer codes

The motor overload protector has stopped the motor due to too many clothes in the washtub or a failure within the machine's motor.

First step from the service manual

Remove any laundry wrapped around the agitator. The overload protector will reset itself and the display will show tP, St alternately. Press the Start/Pause button to resume the cycle. If it stops again, remove the washer from use and call a service person.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What tP means on a Speed Queen washer

The tP error code on a Speed Queen washer indicates that the motor overload protector has activated and shut down the drive motor. The overload protector is a thermal safety device built into or closely associated with the motor circuit. Its job is to interrupt motor operation when the motor draws excessive current, which generates heat that could otherwise damage the motor windings. When the protector trips, the washer halts the cycle and displays tP to alert the user that the motor has been stopped as a protective measure.

The most common trigger for this code is mechanical overloading of the wash basket. When too many garments are loaded, or when a single large item such as a blanket wraps tightly around the agitator, the motor must work against significantly increased resistance. This elevated mechanical load causes the motor to draw higher current than normal, heating the overload protector until it trips. Removing the tangled or excess laundry allows the protector to cool and reset on its own, after which the display alternates between tP and St to signal that the machine is ready to resume.

If the overload protector trips repeatedly under normal load conditions, the cause shifts from an operator loading issue to a mechanical or electrical fault within the machine itself. A worn motor, a failing motor capacitor, a seized bearing, or a dragging brake assembly can all increase the current demand on the motor enough to trigger the protector. In these cases, continued use is not recommended and a qualified service technician should inspect the drive system to identify the root cause before the washer is run again.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of tP

  1. 01

    Overloaded or tangled laundry

    Wiring / connection

    Too many clothes, or a single large item wrapped tightly around the agitator, forces the motor to draw excess current until the overload protector trips. Check the tub for garments twisted around the agitator and remove them before restarting.

  2. 02

    Worn or failing drive motor

    Part replacement

    A motor with degraded windings or worn brushes draws higher current even under normal load, causing the overload protector to activate repeatedly. If the tP code returns with a properly loaded machine, the motor should be tested and inspected.

  3. 03

    Seized or worn drum bearing

    Part replacement

    A failing bearing creates mechanical drag that forces the motor to work harder than intended, increasing current draw and tripping the overload protector. Unusual noise during the wash or spin cycle often accompanies this condition.

  4. 04

    Dragging or stuck brake assembly

    Part replacement

    If the brake assembly does not release properly during the wash cycle, it places additional rotational resistance on the motor. This extra load can push the motor current high enough to trigger the overload protector.

  5. 05

    Motor capacitor failure

    Part replacement

    The start or run capacitor assists the motor in reaching proper operating speed and efficiency. A failing capacitor causes the motor to struggle and draw elevated current, which can trip the thermal overload protector even with a normal load size.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about tP

What does tP mean on a Speed Queen washer?
The tP code means the motor overload protector has tripped and shut the motor down to prevent damage. This happens when the motor is working too hard, either because of a heavy or tangled load in the tub or because of a fault inside the machine. The display may alternate between tP and St once the protector resets, indicating the washer is ready to resume. If the code returns with a normal load, the machine needs a service inspection.
How do I fix the tP error on my Speed Queen washer?
Start by opening the lid and removing any laundry that is wrapped around the agitator or that is overloading the tub. The overload protector will reset on its own after it cools down, and the display will alternate tP and St to show it is ready. Press the Start/Pause button to resume the cycle. If the error comes back during a properly loaded wash, discontinue use and contact a technician to inspect the motor and drive components.
Is it safe to keep using my washer when the tP code appears?
You should not continue running the washer while the tP code is active, as the motor has been stopped to protect itself from damage. If clearing the load and allowing the overload protector to reset resolves the issue, resuming normal use is fine. However, if the code returns repeatedly with a normal load, using the machine further could worsen an underlying mechanical problem. Take the washer out of service and have it inspected before running additional cycles.
Will resetting the washer clear the tP error code?
The tP code clears when the motor overload protector resets itself, which happens automatically once the device cools down after tripping. You do not need to perform a manual power reset to clear this code. Once the protector has reset, the display will alternate between tP and St, and pressing Start/Pause will allow the cycle to continue. A power reset alone will not fix the underlying condition that caused the overload in the first place.
How much does it cost to repair a Speed Queen washer showing the tP code?
If the cause is simply an overloaded or tangled load, there is no repair cost involved at all. If a component such as the drive motor, capacitor, bearings, or brake assembly needs to be replaced, repair costs typically range from around $150 to $400 or more depending on the specific part and local labor rates. A service call fee to diagnose the problem generally runs between $75 and $150 before any parts costs. Getting a diagnostic estimate before authorizing repairs is always a good idea.

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