How to Troubleshoot a Whirlpool Water Heater

Whirlpool manufactures a line of water heaters that are sold exclusively at a well-known chain of home improvement stores. Warranty coverage varies with each model, but the length of the warranties range from six to 12 years. If the warranty has expired, troubleshoot the water heater to determine the source of the problem before calling to schedule a service appointment.

Things You'll Need

• Replacement fuses (optional)
• Multimeter

Instructions

1. Turn the power off to the water heater. If the tank is not full, allow it to fill with water before restoring power. Turn the power on. The water heater will enter the self-diagnostics mode. The diagnostic light flashes a failure code if a problem is detected. The light remains on if no problem is detected.

2. Check the household breaker or fuse box if the light is not on. Reset breakers or replace fuses if needed. If the light remains off, place the leads on a multimeter on the power leads for the control board. A reading of 240 volts confirms that the control board is receiving adequate power; if the reading is less, the control board is defective and needs replacing.

3. Allow the tank to fill with water if the light flashes one time. This indicates the tank is not completely filled. After the tank has filled, press the red reset button on the control board.

4. Inspect the upper and lower access doors and insulation if the light flashes two times. This indicates the water temperature has exceeded the high temperature limit. Use a multimeter to check the ohms resistance on the element circuits. Place the multimeter leads on the screws on the element. If the reading is not within five to 25 ohms, replace the element.

5. Turn off the breakers or remove the fuses to disconnect the power supply for the water heater if the light flashes three times. This indicates a sensor failure. Replace the sensors.

6. Disconnect the power supply if the light flashes four times. This indicates an upper element circuit failure. Check the element with a multimeter. If the reading is not within five to 25 ohms, inspect the element wires and board for damage. Replace the element if damage is present. Replace the control board if the light continues to flash four times.

7. Turn off breakers or remove fuses to disconnect power if the light flashes five times. This indicates a lower element circuit failure. Check the element circuit with a multimeter and inspect wires and board for damage. Replace the element if it is visibly damaged. Replace the control board if the light continues to flash five times.

Tips & Warnings

• Call 1-877-817-6750 to verify coverage and request warranty service.

References

• Whirlpool: Energy Smart Residential Electric Water Heater Installation Instructions and Use Guide
• American Water Heater: 50 Gallon Electric Water Heater Specs

Resources

• Whirlpool