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Error code reference

Whirlpool Washer Error Code LOAD INSIDE DRUM DURING CLEAN WASHER CYCLE

At the start of the CLEAN WASHER cycle a load is detected inside the drum (detects by weight).

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What the LOAD INSIDE DRUM DURING CLEAN WASHER CYCLE error code actually means

Your Whirlpool washer detected that there are clothes or other items inside the drum when you tried to start the Clean Washer cycle. This cycle must run on an empty drum to work correctly. Simply remove everything from the washer, then restart the cycle.

Diagnostic procedure

The full LOAD INSIDE DRUM DURING CLEAN WASHER CYCLE procedure

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MyPros+ · DiagnosticsStep 1 preview
1
First diagnostic step
Remove clothes from drum and start the cycle again.
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Most common causes of LOAD INSIDE DRUM DURING CLEAN WASHER CYCLE

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Laundry left inside the drum
  2. 2Single small item overlooked
  3. 3Door not fully closed before cycle selection
  4. 4Debris or foreign object in the drum
  5. 5Faulty load sensor or control board misread

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Questions people ask about LOAD INSIDE DRUM DURING CLEAN WASHER CYCLE

What does LOAD INSIDE DRUM DURING CLEAN WASHER CYCLE mean on a Whirlpool washer?
This message means the washer detected weight inside the drum when you attempted to start the Clean Washer cycle. The washer uses weight sensing to confirm the drum is empty before allowing this cycle to run. The Clean Washer cycle requires an empty drum to function correctly. Remove all items from the drum and restart the cycle to clear the alert.
Will resetting my Whirlpool washer clear this alert?
A reset alone will not permanently clear this alert if items remain in the drum. The washer checks for drum weight each time the Clean Washer cycle is started, so the alert will return as long as anything is inside the drum. Remove all items first, then restart the cycle rather than relying on a reset.
How much does it cost to repair a Whirlpool washer that keeps showing this alert on an empty drum?
If the alert appears repeatedly even after confirming the drum is empty, a load sensing component or control board may be at fault. Diagnostic service calls typically range from $75 to $150, and parts plus labor for sensor or control board repairs can range from $150 to $400 or more depending on the specific components involved and local labor rates.
How do I fix the LOAD INSIDE DRUM DURING CLEAN WASHER CYCLE alert on my Whirlpool washer?
Open the washer door and remove all clothing, rags, or any other items from inside the drum. Check around the door gasket and the bottom of the drum for small items that may have been overlooked. Once the drum is completely empty, close the door firmly and restart the Clean Washer cycle from the beginning.
Is it safe to run the Clean Washer cycle with clothes inside on a Whirlpool washer?
No, the Clean Washer cycle is not safe for clothing or other items. The cycle uses conditions specifically designed to clean the washer drum, which could damage garments. The washer's load detection system is designed specifically to prevent this cycle from running with any items inside.

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