What do I do when my Whirlpool washer says "LOC"?

When your Whirlpool washer displays "LOC" on the control panel, it indicates that the control lock feature is enabled. The control lock feature is designed to prevent accidental changes to the washer's settings during a wash cycle. This is especially useful if you have young children in the house who might accidentally press buttons on the washer's control panel. When the control lock is active, you won't be able to start a new cycle or make any adjustments to the settings. To resolve this issue and regain control of your washer, you can follow these steps:

1. Verify That "LOC" Is Displayed:
First, make sure that the "LOC" message is displayed on the control panel. This message typically appears as "LOC" or "CONTROL LOCK" and may be accompanied by a padlock icon.
2. Locate the Control Lock Button:
On most Whirlpool washers, there is a dedicated control lock button on the control panel. This button is usually labeled "Control Lock," "Hold 3 Seconds," or something similar. The location of this button may vary depending on your washer's model, so refer to your user manual for its exact placement.
3. Disable the Control Lock:
To disable the control lock feature and remove the "LOC" message from the display, follow these steps:
a. Press and hold the control lock button for approximately 3 seconds. You may need to press and hold it firmly until you hear a beep or see the "LOC" message disappear from the display.
b. Release the control lock button once the "LOC" message disappears. At this point, the control lock feature should be deactivated, and you should be able to use your washer normally.
4. Test the Washer:
After disabling the control lock, test your washer to ensure that it's functioning correctly. You can try starting a new wash cycle or adjusting the settings to confirm that the control lock has been successfully turned off.
If you followed these steps and the "LOC" message doesn't disappear or if you're still unable to use your washer normally, consider the following troubleshooting tips:
5. Check for Other Issues:
If the control lock is disabled, but you're still experiencing problems with your washer, there may be an underlying issue with the appliance. Common issues that can affect the washer's operation include a faulty control board, a malfunctioning door lock, or a sensor problem. In such cases, it's advisable to consult your washer's user manual for guidance on troubleshooting specific error codes or problems.
6. Power Cycle the Washer:
Sometimes, a simple power cycle can resolve minor issues with the washer's control panel. To do this, unplug the washer from its power source for a few minutes and then plug it back in. This can help reset the control board and clear any temporary glitches.
7. Contact Whirlpool Customer Support:
If you've tried all the above steps, and the "LOC" message persists or if you suspect there's an underlying issue with the washer, it's a good idea to contact Whirlpool customer support or schedule a service appointment with a qualified technician. They can provide further assistance and diagnose and repair any potential problems with your washer.

In summary, when your Whirlpool washer displays "LOC" on the control panel, it means that the control lock feature is active. To regain control of your washer, locate the control lock button on the control panel, press and hold it for approximately 3 seconds, and release it when the "LOC" message disappears. If the issue persists or if you suspect there's a different problem with your washer, consult your user manual for troubleshooting guidance or contact Whirlpool customer support for assistance.