It’s frustrating to have errors and flashing lights on your washer. And it’s even more frustrating to have to look for the user’s manual or contact your local washer service and wait for a professional to inspect the unit and run the required diagnostic tests.
The good news is that you can let hiring professional help be your backup plan because, believe it or not, you might be able to fix the washer yourself! So, without any further ado, let’s get into the A10 code, what it indicates, and how to fix it!
What Does a10 Mean On a Whirlpool Washing Machine?
The A10 error code denotes a drainage problem. Usually, you get this error when the drain cycle exceeds 4 minutes because the water valves turn off. However, the user’s manual doesn’t specify the exact issue, so you have to check the drainage system yourself.
3 Reasons the Whirlpool Washing Machine Is Displaying the a10 Error Code
Now that you understand what the code indicates, let’s check the most common causes for such an error.
Defective Drain Pump
The drain pump is responsible for pumping water to the outer tub, thus draining the washer from excess suds. Sometimes, foreign objects or clothes get stuck in it, which damages the water pump components and causes a drain problem.
Also, with prolonged use, small particles and debris build up inside the pump leading to a long drain time, which breaks down the entire process.
Obstructed Drain Hose
Is the drain hose clogged? An obstructed hose will never function properly. Keep in mind that it isn’t always obstruction, though. For instance, a small crack within the drain line renders the drain hose frozen.
Moreover, the faulty insulation around the standpipe leaves the drain hose kinked at specific points. So, scrutinizing the hose is crucial in finding out exactly how to mend it.
Broken Motor
It’s no surprise that the clean washer cycle is put to a halt if your motor stops working. However, if the spin cycle isn’t affected, there’s a big chance the error has nothing to do with it. That’s also more likely to be the case if you don’t hear any unusual noises.
How Do I Clear the a10 Error Code on My Whirlpool Washer?
First things first, let’s try to clear the display before we check the internal components of the machine as follows:
- Press “PAUSE / CANCEL” twice.
- Press “POWER” once.
This should clear the display. However, if the error code is still there, try this:
- Unplug the washer, or disconnect the power.
- Remove the clothes from the washer.
- Restart the clean washer cycle without adding a detergent.
If the washer still doesn’t drain water on the rinse cycle, something needs to be fixed. So, move on to the next section.
How to Fix Error Code a10
Before we get into details, you need to have a basic understanding of what happens during the clean washer cycle and how it affects the pressure switch trip. This way, you can identify the problem.
As the washer fills with water, air levels rise in the pressure hose to activate the switch and, in turn, initiate the drainage cycle when water reaches a certain level. Finally, when the washer has wholly emptied the water, the switch activates the spin cycle.
Therefore, you need to inspect the internal components of the washer machine to make sure they’re functioning.
On the one hand, if you’re using a front-load washer, unlock the back lid by removing the screws at the back. On the other hand, you’ll need to remove the upper control panel if you have a top-load washer. And you can do this by inserting a screwdriver below the panel, which releases the spring clips.
Nevertheless, before attempting this solution, it’s essential to unplug the washer or disconnect power to avoid electric shock. Also, make sure not to lose the screws and the parts you detach so that you can put everything back in place when you’re done.
1. Clean the Drain Pump Filter
The drain pump filter is the first thing you should check. Follow these steps to dislodge any parts that are clogged into it:
- Unplug washer.
- Remove the filter.
- Soak it in hot water to loosen any residues.
- Dry it using a clean cloth.
If your filter can’t be removed, you can always use a brush to clean it. Otherwise, if you have a disposable filter, you can replace it.
2. Repair or Replace the Drain Hose
As mentioned earlier, multiple issues can stop the drain hose from functioning. To deal with it, you can consider the following questions:
Is the Drain Hose Clogged?
To unclog the hose, remove it from the standpipe. Then, rinse it using boiling water. You can try using a drain cleaner to get rid of any old detergent that may be causing the blockage. If you don’t want to remove the hose, use a high-pressure cleaner or a drain snake to unblock it.
Is the Drain Hose Kinked or Damaged?
The drain hose is subjected to wear and tear, as it rubs against other parts of the machine. If it’s kinked or has holes, the pressure switch can’t identify water levels, and the washer never gets to the spin cycle.
The only way to fix this is to replace the hose, then use a protective sleeve and a clip to make sure your new hose doesn’t move around and lives longer.
Is the Drain Hose Frozen?
A frozen hose causes the same problem as an obstructed one. Additionally, washing a clogged hose in boiling water unclogs it. So, the same thing happens if it’s frozen, although it’s best to replace the drainpipe if that’s the issue. After all, there’s a big chance it still won’t function as intended.
3. Check the Motor of the Pump
If all the components responsible for drainage don’t seem to be clogged or broken, it could be the motor’s electrical connections. Unfortunately, there’s no way to fix it, so you’ll have to purchase a new one.
FAQs
How Do You Reset a Whirlpool Washer?
- Press “POWER” to unplug washer.
- Remove the plug from the power outlet.
- Turn the circuit breaker off.
- Press and hold “START/PAUSE” for 5 seconds.
- Plug the washer in.
- Turn the circuit breaker back on.
What Does Whirlpool Diagnostic Mode Do?
This washer’s diagnostic mode can troubleshoot washer problems. To illustrate, it views logged washer errors, conducts automatic diagnostic cycles, or even manually turns on and off different components of the washer. These procedures are done as a manner of testing the unit for proper operation.
What Do Different Error Codes on the Whirlpool Washer Machine Indicate?
There are multiple reasons for error codes of Whirlpool machines, including:
- F02: Overflow
- F03: Long drain time
- F07: Motor overspeed
- F13: Door lock error
- F24: Valves leak error
- F26: Pump drive error
- F30: Broken washer door lock
- Fod: Excessive detergent
You can find the rest of the errors in the user’s manual.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you get the A10 error, you need to check the parts related to draining the washer. If it’s as simple as cleaning the drain or unclogging it, you don’t need to seek professional help.
However, suppose that it’s a matter of replacing a part or there’s an issue with the electrical connections. In that case, it’s best to contact the Whirlpool customer service or their approved service provider, especially if the unit is still under warranty.
