Is your Whirlpool front loading washer displaying the error code f20? Finding out what this fault code means will assist you to fix your washer yourself. Use the information below to identify, troubleshoot, and repair your Whirlpool washer.
Whirlpool washer error code f20
The below 3 images are what will appear on your Whirlpool front
load washing machine when you get the f20 or fh error code.
Whirlpool f20 error code
f20 error flashing – whirlpool washer
fh error flashing – whirlpool washer
Clearing F20 Error Code
To remove the F20 error code from your washer’s display, you have a few methods to try:
Method 1: Using Pause and Cancel
Press the Pause and Cancel buttons twice on the display panel. This often clears the error code, at least temporarily.
Method 2: Power Reset
If pressing Pause and Cancel doesn’t resolve the issue, proceed with a power reset:
- Unplug the washer from its power source for 2 minutes.
- Plug it back in.
- Choose a wash cycle and press the Start button.
It’s worth noting that when you start the washer for the first time after disconnecting it from power, it might initiate a draining cycle. During this 8 to 10-minute draining period, you won’t be able to use the pause or cancel functions. If the F20 or FH error code reappears, further diagnosis is required.
Verifying Water Valve Positions
Make sure both HOT and COLD water valves are fully open. Your washer’s water inlet valve needs pressure from both hot and cold water lines to function correctly. If only one hose is connected, the washer will not operate as it should.
Washer water supply valves – Make sure they are fully open
Examining Water Hoses/Inlet Screens
Hose Condition
Ensure that the water supply hoses connected to your washer are not bent or kinked. A bent hose could restrict water flow, contributing to error codes and other operational issues.
Inlet Valve Filter Screen Check
To inspect the filter screens on the water inlet valve, follow these steps:
- Turn off the water supply at the valves.
- Disconnect the water hoses from the inlet valves located at the back of the washer.
- Locate the filter screens and remove any debris that might be obstructing them.
- Reconnect the hoses.
- Turn the water supply back on.
- Check for any leaks to ensure a secure connection.
Clean Inlet Filter Screens if Clogged
Detergent and Water Supply
Using the Right Detergent
It’s crucial to use High Efficiency (HE) detergent in your washer. Always check for the HE logo on the detergent packaging before making a purchase. Using non-HE detergent can lead to excessive suds, which can interfere with the washer’s ability to detect incoming water. Remember that concentrated HE detergents require a smaller quantity.
HE high efficiency washer detergent logo
Use Flood Preventing Hoses
These specialized hoses contain an internal check valve that triggers when water pressure exceeds 2 gallons per 60 seconds. If activated, the valve will halt water flow to the washer. This feature also comes into play if a hose becomes loose, increasing water flow and thereby closing the valve to prevent potential leaks.
Monitoring Water Pressure
Your washer needs a minimum water pressure to function correctly. If the water pressure is less than 11 psi, you’ll encounter operational issues. To ascertain your water pressure level, consult your local water company.
Need more help with your Whirlpool washer with the f20 error code on the display? Please leave a comment below and we will be happy to assist.
Written by Keith Schneerer
Certified Appliance Tech · Founder, RemoveAndReplace.com
Keith has spent 30+ years repairing machines, starting as a military mechanic and later maintaining food processing equipment before moving into appliance repair. He founded RemoveAndReplace.com to share field-tested repair advice.
More about Keith →
Same issue here.
F20 about 4 out of 5 loads.
Usually the FIRST load is a guarantee to do it, but if you immediately re-run that load, you’ll have a better chance of it not erroring again.
We think F20 hits at the same point during the runs spin with the drain motor running and the water on.
We were having the f-20 error 4 out of 5 loads and I tried replacing the pressure sensor and cleaned the water intake filters.
Seems like my problem was resulting from a loose fabric softener dispenser.
During the first spin cycle it would come loose and move out about 1/4 of an inch and then the f-20 error would show with about 23 minutes left.
Took a piece of tape to hold it in place and have done 10-12 loads with no error.
We also had the error 2 years ago but we were also getting water coming out the dispenser onto the floor.
In that case we found a sock had somehow gotten out of the washer and spun up into the water intake just where it runs from the dispenser into the washer tub.
Hope this helps someone as this intermittent problem was driving us crazy.
I’ve done all those troubleshooting steps listed above. I have continue to have the F20 code going on 3 years now. Flowmeter is setup in the proper position, very little blockage have been removed, water pressure good, removed flood prevention hoses and installed regular water hoses, use HE detergent, connection of hoses are good. It works for a few washes and then the F20 code returns. What’s left, maybe the control board?
I am sitting about 1 in 5 washes are issue free. F20 code is the only code I get. I have checked the inlets and the drains for blockages. I have found coins and stuff in my drain but after removing them it does not solve anything. Sad thing is we have never run a full load in 2 years because of this persisted problem. So the question is, do I try and get it fixed or cut my losses and buy another brand?
I have good water pressure – cleaned the mess catch on inlets which where crusted with green stuff. Ive clean the drains out catch – 3 coins. Now it will run through a full hand wash cycle but still gives f20 on others. completes the spin and drain cycle, too.
When my Whirlpool washing machine has the error code F20, it means we have to clean out the DRAIN FILTER. There is usually dog hair or my small children’s clothes caught in it.
I have been getting this error more and more lately. I can usually unplug the wires and then re plug them back in and it will work for a while. I have also tried all these suggestions.