Whirlpool Duet Dryer Diagnostic Mode Explained

Whirlpool Duet Dryers are finicky. So, they often run into simple problems. The easiest way to troubleshoot any problem is to know the actual cause, then the troubleshooting method follows accordingly.

When your Whirlpool Duet Dryer stops working adequately, it’s essential to narrow down the problem source immediately. A great way of doing this is using the diagnostic mode.

You can run numerous diagnostic tests on the electronic control system. However, you need to understand the diagnostic mode before you can do it effectively.

whirlpool due dryer diagnostic mode

This article will discuss and explain the Whirlpool Duet Dryer Diagnostic and answer all your questions.

Whirlpool Duet Dryer Diagnostic Mode

The diagnostic mode on the Whirlpool Duet Dryer helps you figure out where the problem is in the dryer. It aids troubleshooting steps by doing an overall check on all the components and functions of the dryer.

It could be to the dryer what a first aid operation is to humans. It’s the first test a trained technician will perform on the units before delving into a more complex diagnosis. In situations where you detect problems without knowing the source, the diagnostic mode could help diagnose.

Furthermore, even when it’s a mere suspicion of problems with the dryer machine’s working condition, the diagnostic mode could troubleshoot the system and reveal underlying issues. It gives control and options for navigating and solving problems with the dryer.

The diagnostic mode works by running a series of tests on different components in the dryer. It accesses each component to scrutinize if it’s in excellent working condition and performing to its optimal capacity.

It runs these tests in consecutive order and solves minor anomalies. If it detects a significant problem, it returns an error code to notify you of the problem and calls for intervention. You must understand what each error code means in a dryer and how to tackle them so you can do a follow-up accordingly.

It’s always advisable to put your Whirlpool Duet dryer in diagnostic mode if you want to determine a hidden fault with the system and fix it accordingly.

How To Enter The Whirlpool Duet Dryer Diagnostic Mode

You can run numerous diagnostic tests on the electronic control system of your Whirlpool Duet Dryer. Before beginning the diagnostic tests, you must set your dryer into standby mode. The standby mode means the dryer is plugged in, all the indicators are off, and the dryer isn’t running.

There are several methods of entering the diagnostic mode and scrutinizing your dryer functionality. Fortunately, the diagnostic mode Process is DIY and straightforward. Below are the general methods of entering the diagnostic mode in a Whirlpool Duet Dryer:

Using Any Selector Diagnostics

This method is the most popular method of setting the Duet dryer to diagnostic mode. It involves selecting any button except the Pause/Cancel or Lock/Unlock button and pressing and holding the button for some seconds. You can use this method as follows:

  • Set your Duet dryer to standby mode. Ensure you plug it in with all the indicators off.
  • Locate the Control Panel and choose any button other than Lock/Unlock and Pause/Cancel
  • Press this chosen button for about 2-3 seconds, then release it. Leave it alone for the same amount of time
  • Repeat the process for another two times to make it a three-cycle.
  • The dryer should enter into a diagnostic mode with this process
  • You can confirm if it’s in diagnostic mode by checking the indicators. All the indicators should display “8:88” for approximately 5 seconds and the estimated time remaining.

Suppose the test will run and detect any problem. If it finds any faults, the screen will display any error code. Otherwise, it will briefly switch off before code 8:88 remains on the display screen.

Using More Time + Less Time buttons

If the above method fails to put your Whirlpool Duet Dryer in diagnostic mode, Alternatively, you can use the More Time + Less Time buttons. You can use this method as follows:

  • Put your machine in standby mode. Ensure the power cord is well plugged and the indicator lights are off
  • Find the More Time and Less Time push buttons on the control panel. They are underneath the Estimated Time Remaining display screen and to the right side of the Selector switch.
  • Press and hold these buttons in a sequence within five seconds. The arrangement should be More Time== Less Time == More Time == Less Time
  • All the indicator lights should be on, and the display screen should show “88.” If any indicator light is off, there’s probably a problem with the component.

The diagnostic code will return an error code if there’s any. You should know how to interpret these error codes to tackle the components appropriately.