Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer Common Problems and Troubleshooting
Welcome to our guide on troubleshooting common problems with the Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer. If you own the model of this electric dryer, you’ve made a great choice. In this article, we’ll help you understand the common issues that can arise with this dryer and provide solutions to resolve them. Whether you’re experiencing issues with wrinkle-free drying or steam refresh cycles, we’ve got you covered.
Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer Overview
Let’s start with an overview of the Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer. This dryer offers a 7.0 cu. ft. capacity, making it perfect for handling your laundry needs. Here are some key features and specifications:
| Brand | Whirlpool |
|---|---|
| Color | White |
| Dryer Capacity | 7 cu. ft. |
| Dryer Dimensions: W x D x H | 29 in. x 28.38 in. x 40.5 in. |
| Dryer Drum Material | Powder Coated |
| Dryer Features | Moisture Sensor |
| Dryer Size | Medium (4.0 – 7.0 cu. ft.) |
| Dryer Vent Type | Vented |
| Dryer Weight | 114 lb. |
| Dryer Width | 29 Inch |
| Model | WED5050LW |
| Number of Dryer Cycles | 12 |
Causes of Common Problems with the Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer
In this section, we will delve into the common problems that can occur with the Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer and provide solutions to address these issues. Stay tuned for troubleshooting tips and solutions!
Common Problems with the Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer
1. Dryer Not Heating
Description: One common issue with the Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer is when it fails to produce heat during the drying cycle, leaving your clothes damp.
Cause: This problem often occurs due to a faulty heating element or a malfunctioning thermostat.
Troubleshooting:
- Check the power source and make sure the dryer is plugged in properly.
- Inspect the heating element for visible damage, such as broken coils or burns. If found, replace it.
- Test the thermostat for continuity using a multimeter. If it doesn’t register any, replace it.
2. Clothes Taking Too Long to Dry
Description: If your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer is running longer than usual cycles without fully drying your clothes, it’s likely causing inconvenience.
Cause: A clogged or restricted dryer vent can obstruct airflow, leading to extended drying times.
Troubleshooting:
- Check and clean the lint filter after every load to ensure proper airflow.
- Inspect the dryer vent hose and the vent opening on the exterior of your home for any blockages or debris. Clear them if necessary.
- Ensure the dryer is not overloaded with clothes, as this can also prolong drying times.
3. Excessive Wrinkling of Clothes
Description: Excessive wrinkling of clothes after drying can be frustrating and defeat the purpose of a dryer with Wrinkle Shield™ Option.
Cause: Overloading the dryer or not selecting the appropriate cycle can result in excessive wrinkling.
Troubleshooting:
- Avoid overloading the dryer drum, leaving enough space for proper airflow.
- Use the appropriate drying cycle for your fabric type, and consider using the Wrinkle Shield™ Option to minimize wrinkles.
- Promptly remove clothes from the dryer at the end of the cycle and fold or hang them to prevent wrinkles from setting in.
4. Dryer Makes Unusual Noises
Description: Unusual noises, such as squeaking or banging, coming from your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer can be disruptive and indicate a problem.
Cause: Worn or damaged dryer components, such as worn drum support rollers or a loose blower wheel, can cause these noises.
Troubleshooting:
- Check for loose items or foreign objects inside the drum that may be causing the noise. Remove them if found.
- Inspect the drum support rollers and replace them if they show signs of wear or damage.
- Examine the blower wheel for any looseness and tighten or replace it if necessary.
5. Dryer Doesn’t Start
Description: When your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer fails to start, it can disrupt your laundry routine.
Cause: This issue can be attributed to a defective door switch, a malfunctioning thermal fuse, or an electrical problem.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure the dryer door is fully closed and latched, as it won’t start if the door is ajar.
- Check for blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers in your home’s electrical panel. Reset or replace as needed.
- If the problem persists, test the door switch and thermal fuse for continuity using a multimeter. Replace any faulty components.
6. Dryer Not Turning On After Cycle Completes
Description: Even after the drying cycle completes, if your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer doesn’t turn off automatically, it can be a concerning issue.
Cause: This problem may arise due to a faulty timer or timer motor that fails to initiate the shut-off sequence.
Troubleshooting:
- Manually turn off the dryer by rotating the timer dial to the “Off” position if it doesn’t stop automatically.
- Test the timer and timer motor for continuity using a multimeter. If they do not register continuity, consider replacing them.
7. Clothes Are Damaged or Torn
Description: If your clothes come out of the dryer with tears, snags, or damage, it can be a frustrating and costly issue.
Cause: Sharp objects or protruding parts within the drum or damaged drum baffles can cause clothing damage.
Troubleshooting:
- Inspect the interior of the drum for any loose objects, buttons, or damaged drum baffles. Remove or replace them as needed.
- Always check pockets for items like loose change, keys, or pins before placing clothes in the dryer.
8. Dryer Not Spinning Properly
Description: When your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer’s drum fails to spin or rotates unevenly, it can result in uneven drying and loud noises.
Cause: The drive belt or motor responsible for drum rotation may be worn out or malfunctioning.
Troubleshooting:
- Examine the drive belt for any signs of wear or damage. Replace it if it appears worn or broken.
- If the belt is in good condition, test the dryer’s motor for continuity. If it doesn’t register continuity, consider replacing the motor.
9. Dryer Takes Too Long to Start
Description: Delayed start times after selecting a drying cycle can be an inconvenience when using the Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer.
Cause: This issue may occur due to a faulty start switch or timer delay settings.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure that the start switch is fully functional by testing it for continuity. Replace it if necessary.
- Check and adjust the timer delay settings to ensure they are not set to a significant delay before the cycle starts.
10. Dryer Doesn’t Shut Off During Cycle
Description: If your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer continues to run beyond the set cycle time, it can lead to energy wastage and potential over-drying.
Cause: A malfunctioning cycling thermostat or timer can cause the dryer to stay on longer than necessary.
Troubleshooting:
- Inspect and test the cycling thermostat for proper operation using a multimeter. Replace it if it fails the continuity test.
- If the issue persists, test the timer to ensure it advances through the cycles correctly. Replace the timer if it’s faulty.
11. Dryer Produces Unpleasant Odors
Description: If your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer emits foul or unusual odors during operation, it can affect your laundry and your living space.
Cause: Lingering lint or foreign objects in the dryer, or a buildup of moisture, can lead to unpleasant smells.
Troubleshooting:
- Remove any visible lint or debris from the interior of the dryer, including the lint filter and exhaust duct.
- Occasionally run a hot cycle without any clothes to help eliminate moisture buildup and odors.
12. Dryer Door Won’t Stay Closed
Description: If the door of your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer won’t stay securely closed, it can disrupt the drying process and potentially be a safety concern.
Cause: Damaged or worn-out door latches or hinges can prevent the door from staying closed.
Troubleshooting:
- Inspect the door latch and hinges for signs of damage or wear. Replace any components that are worn or broken.
- Ensure that the door gasket is properly aligned and not obstructing the door’s closure.
13. Dryer Display Shows Error Codes
Description: When error codes appear on the display of your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer, it indicates a specific issue that needs attention.
Cause: Various factors, such as sensor malfunctions or electrical problems, can trigger error codes.
Troubleshooting:
- Refer to the user manual for your dryer to identify the meaning of the specific error code displayed.
- Perform any recommended troubleshooting steps provided in the manual to address the error code issue.
14. Dryer Drum Not Rotating Smoothly
Description: If you notice that the drum of your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer doesn’t rotate smoothly and seems to get stuck, it can lead to uneven drying and possible damage to clothes.
Cause: This problem can occur due to misaligned or worn-out drum rollers or a damaged belt.
Troubleshooting:
- Inspect the drum rollers and replace them if they show signs of wear, misalignment, or damage.
- Examine the drive belt for any wear or damage, and replace it if necessary.
15. Dryer Shuts Off Prematurely
Description: If your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer stops running before the cycle completes, it can leave your clothes damp and require additional drying time.
Cause: Overheating due to clogged vents, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a defective control board can cause premature shutdown.
Troubleshooting:
- Clean the dryer vent system thoroughly to ensure proper airflow and prevent overheating.
- Test the thermostat and control board for proper operation and replace them if they are faulty.
16. Dryer Doesn’t Produce Steam During Steam Refresh Cycle
Description: When your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer fails to produce steam as expected during the Steam Refresh cycle, it can impact the garment refresh process.
Cause: Issues with the water supply, water inlet valve, or steam generator can result in a lack of steam production.
Troubleshooting:
- Check that the water supply to the dryer is turned on and that the water inlet valve is not clogged or malfunctioning.
- Inspect the steam generator for any blockages or damage, and replace it if necessary.
17. Dryer Door Is Difficult to Close
Description: If you find it challenging to close the door of your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer, it can be frustrating and indicate a potential issue.
Cause: Misalignment of the door or damaged door components can make it difficult to close securely.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure that the dryer door is properly aligned with the latch and that there are no obstructions preventing closure.
- If the issue persists, inspect the door hinges and latch for damage or wear and replace them if needed.
18. Dryer Makes Loud Banging Noises
Description: Loud banging or clanging noises originating from your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer during operation can be disruptive and concerning.
Cause: Loose or damaged drum baffles, foreign objects in the drum, or worn belt tension pulleys can lead to these noises.
Troubleshooting:
- Inspect the drum baffles for any looseness or damage and secure or replace them as needed.
- Check the drum interior for any loose objects, buttons, or foreign items that may be causing the noise. Remove them if found.
- Examine the belt tension pulleys and replace them if they are worn or damaged.
19. Dryer Doesn’t Respond to Control Panel Inputs
Description: When the control panel of your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer doesn’t respond to your inputs, it can hinder your ability to select and start drying cycles.
Cause: A malfunctioning control board or unresponsive buttons on the control panel can lead to this issue.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure that the dryer is properly plugged in and that there is a functioning power supply.
- Check for any visible damage or wear on the control panel buttons. If necessary, replace the control panel.
- If the problem persists, test the control board for proper operation and consider replacing it if it is faulty.
20. Dryer Door Keeps Popping Open During Operation
Description: If the door of your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer repeatedly pops open while the dryer is running, it can interrupt the drying process.
Cause: Damaged door catch or latch mechanisms, or an unbalanced load, can cause the door to open unexpectedly.
Troubleshooting:
- Inspect the door catch and latch mechanisms for any damage or wear and replace them if necessary.
- Ensure that the dryer is not overloaded or that the load is properly balanced to prevent excessive movement that may open the door.
21. Dryer Produces Uneven Drying Results
Description: If your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer consistently leaves some clothes damp while others are overly dry, it indicates an issue with drying consistency.
Cause: Uneven loading, clogged vents, or a malfunctioning moisture sensor can lead to uneven drying.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure that the dryer load is evenly distributed to promote uniform drying.
- Clean the dryer vent and exhaust duct to maintain proper airflow and prevent hot or cold spots.
- If available, calibrate or test the moisture sensor to ensure it is functioning correctly.
22. Dryer Produces Excessive Heat
Description: When your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer becomes excessively hot during operation, it can pose a safety risk and potentially damage your clothes.
Cause: Restricted airflow due to a clogged vent, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a faulty heating element can lead to excessive heat.
Troubleshooting:
- Clean the dryer vent and exhaust duct thoroughly to ensure proper airflow and prevent overheating.
- Test the thermostat and heating element for proper operation and replace them if they are malfunctioning.
23. Dryer Door Seal Is Damaged
Description: A damaged door seal on your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer can result in heat and moisture leakage, reducing the efficiency of the dryer.
Cause: Wear and tear over time can lead to a damaged or worn-out door seal.
Troubleshooting:
- Inspect the door seal for any visible damage or wear and replace it if necessary.
- Ensure that the seal is properly seated and making full contact with the dryer door to prevent leaks.
24. Dryer Leaves Residue or Stains on Clothes
Description: If your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer leaves residue, streaks, or stains on your clothes after drying, it can be frustrating and require additional cleaning.
Cause: Deteriorating drum coating or the presence of foreign substances in the dryer can lead to these issues.
Troubleshooting:
- Examine the drum coating for any damage or wear, and replace it if necessary to prevent clothes from sticking or staining.
- Regularly clean the interior of the dryer drum to remove any residue or foreign substances that may transfer onto clothes.
25. Dryer Door Doesn’t Lock During Operation
Description: If the door of your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer doesn’t lock securely during operation, it can pose a safety risk and affect the drying process.
Cause: A malfunctioning door lock mechanism or a worn-out latch can prevent the door from locking.
Troubleshooting:
- Inspect the door lock mechanism and latch for any damage or wear, and replace them if needed.
- Ensure that the door is properly closed and aligned with the latch to allow the lock to engage during operation.
Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer User Reviews
Positive Reviews from Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer Users
- Some users were satisfied with the following parameters associated with their positive experience:
- Name brand dryer for an amazing price. Price included delivery, installation, and haul away, not to mention, the Costco guarantee for the product’s performance and quality.
- Simple controls and good drying performance.
- The end cycle buzzer is loud enough to get your attention.
- This dryer offers the Steam Refresh feature, which effectively removes wrinkles, reducing the need for ironing.
- Efficient, energy-saving, and a significant improvement from older model Whirlpool dryers.
Negative User Reviews of the Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer
- Some users were not satisfied with the following problems associated with their negative experience:
- One user experienced a malfunction where the dryer stopped with the lid locked and clothes inside, sitting in water. Customer service did not provide adequate assistance.
- Another user had issues with Costco’s installation service, which resulted in damage to their previous dryer, and they were dissatisfied with the customer service response.
- Some users found the dryer to be cheap and stated that it worked only fair, indicating that they wouldn’t purchase it again.
The majority of users expressed satisfaction with the Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer, highlighting its affordability, performance, and features. However, there were instances of negative experiences related to installation and specific product malfunctions.
Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer Manual
You can find the operating instructions for the Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer on the manufacturer’s website: https://www.whirlpool.com.
Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I clean the lint filter?
To clean the lint filter in your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer, follow these steps:
- Open the dryer door and locate the lint filter, usually at the front of the drum.
- Remove the lint filter by pulling it up and out.
- Remove the collected lint and debris from the filter.
- Reinsert the lint filter back into its slot, ensuring it’s securely in place.
2. What should I do if the dryer is not heating?
If your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer is not heating, you can try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Check the power source and ensure the dryer is properly plugged in.
- Inspect the heating element for damage and replace it if necessary.
- Test the thermostat for continuity and replace it if it fails the test.
3. How can I prevent wrinkling of clothes in the dryer?
To prevent wrinkling of clothes in your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer, consider these tips:
- Avoid overloading the dryer, allowing for proper airflow.
- Select the appropriate drying cycle for your fabric type.
- Use the Wrinkle Shield™ Option if available to reduce wrinkles.
- Remove clothes promptly at the end of the cycle and fold or hang them immediately.
Conclusion
Always refer to the manual, customer service, or a service center whenever you encounter a problem with your Whirlpool WED5050LW Electric Dryer.
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