Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Explore common problems and troubleshooting solutions for the Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer in this comprehensive guide. Whether you own a WED8120HW model of this electric dryer or are considering purchasing one, understanding its issues and remedies is essential for optimal performance.

Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer Overview

The Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer is a top-of-the-line appliance designed to make your laundry experience hassle-free. Below are some key details and features of this remarkable dryer:

Brand	Whirlpool
Dryer Drum Material	Powder Coated
Dryer Size	X-Large (Greater than 8.0 cu. ft.)
Dryer Vent Type	Vented
Features	High Efficiency, Stackable
Model	WED8120HC
Model	WED8120HW
Power Source	Electric

Causes of Common Problems with the Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer

In this section, we will delve into the common problems that users may encounter with the Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer and provide effective troubleshooting solutions to keep your dryer running smoothly. Stay tuned for valuable insights!

Common Problems with Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer

1. Dryer Doesn’t Heat Up

Description: One common issue with the Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer is that it fails to produce heat, leaving your clothes damp after a cycle.

Cause: This problem may arise due to a faulty heating element, a blown thermal fuse, or a malfunctioning thermostat.

Troubleshooting: To resolve this, follow these steps:

Check the power source and ensure the dryer is plugged in and receiving electricity.
Inspect the heating element for visible damage. If it’s damaged, it needs replacement.
Test the thermal fuse and thermostat for continuity using a multimeter. Replace if they are faulty.

2. Excessive Noise During Operation

Description: If your Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer is making unusual and loud noises while running, it can be a nuisance.

Cause: Excessive noise often results from worn-out drum support rollers, damaged blower wheels, or a defective idler pulley.

Troubleshooting: To address this issue, follow these steps:

Turn off and unplug the dryer for safety.
Inspect the drum support rollers for signs of wear and tear. Replace if necessary.
Check the blower wheel and idler pulley for any obstructions or damage, replacing them as needed.

3. Clothes Take Too Long to Dry

Description: If your laundry is consistently taking longer to dry than usual, it can be an efficiency concern.

Cause: This problem can occur due to a clogged vent, a blocked lint filter, or improper dryer settings.

Troubleshooting: To improve drying time, follow these steps:

Ensure the lint filter is clean before each cycle to maintain proper airflow.
Check the venting system for any obstructions, and clean it if necessary to allow better airflow.
Review and select the appropriate drying settings for your load size and fabric type.

4. Dryer Shuts Off Prematurely

Description: If your Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer stops running before the cycle is complete, it can be frustrating.

Cause: This issue might be caused by a malfunctioning moisture sensor or an overheating thermal cutoff fuse.

Troubleshooting: To prevent premature shutdown, follow these steps:

Clean the moisture sensor with a soft cloth to ensure it detects the moisture level accurately.
Inspect the thermal cutoff fuse for signs of overheating, and replace it if necessary.
Check for proper venting to avoid overheating and ensure the dryer has adequate airflow.

5. Dryer Doesn’t Start

Description: When your Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer refuses to start, it can disrupt your laundry routine.

Cause: This problem can occur due to a tripped circuit breaker, a broken door switch, or a faulty start button.

Troubleshooting: To get your dryer running again, follow these steps:

Check your home’s circuit breaker to ensure it hasn’t tripped, and reset it if necessary.
Inspect the door switch for any damage or wear. Replace it if it’s not functioning properly.
Test the start button for continuity using a multimeter. If it’s defective, replace it.

6. Clothes Come Out Wrinkled

Description: If your clothes frequently emerge from the Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer with wrinkles, it can be frustrating and time-consuming.

Cause: Wrinkling may occur due to overcrowding the dryer, incorrect cycle selection, or over-drying.

Troubleshooting: To prevent wrinkles, follow these steps:

Avoid overloading the dryer to allow space for proper airflow.
Select a cycle with a lower heat setting for delicate fabrics and use the Wrinkle Shield option when available.
Remove clothes promptly once the cycle is complete to prevent over-drying.

7. Foul Odors from the Dryer

Description: If your Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer emits unpleasant odors, it can be off-putting and affect your freshly laundered clothes.

Cause: Odors may result from lint buildup, a dirty lint filter, or mildew growth inside the dryer drum.

Troubleshooting: To eliminate odors, follow these steps:

Clean the lint filter before each use to prevent lint buildup in the dryer.
Wipe the interior of the dryer drum with a damp cloth to remove any mildew or residue.
Run a cycle with a dryer cleaning solution or white vinegar to freshen the appliance.

8. Uneven Drying Results

Description: When certain areas of your clothes remain damp while others are dry, it indicates uneven drying, which can be frustrating.

Cause: Uneven drying can be caused by overloading the dryer, improper sorting of laundry, or a damaged moisture sensor.

Troubleshooting: To achieve uniform drying, follow these steps:

Avoid overloading the dryer and ensure that the load is evenly distributed.
Sort laundry by fabric type and weight to prevent uneven drying.
If the problem persists, check the moisture sensor for damage and replace it if necessary.

9. Excessive Lint Accumulation

Description: If you notice a significant buildup of lint in and around the dryer, it can pose a fire hazard and reduce drying efficiency.

Cause: Lint accumulation is typically caused by a clogged lint filter, blocked dryer vent, or damaged lint trap.

Troubleshooting: To mitigate lint issues, follow these steps:

Clean the lint filter thoroughly before each drying cycle.
Inspect and clean the dryer vent system regularly to ensure proper airflow.
If the lint trap is damaged or ineffective, replace it to prevent lint from bypassing it.

10. Inconsistent Cycle Selection

Description: When you experience difficulties selecting or changing dryer cycles, it can hinder your ability to customize your drying process.

Cause: Inconsistent cycle selection may occur due to a malfunctioning control panel or a worn-out cycle selector knob.

Troubleshooting: To address cycle selection issues, follow these steps:

Inspect the control panel for any visible damage or malfunctioning buttons. If found, consider replacing the control panel.
Examine the cycle selector knob for wear and tear. If it no longer operates smoothly, replace it for improved functionality.

11. Dryer Takes Too Long to Start

Description: If there’s a noticeable delay between pressing the start button and the Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer beginning its cycle, it can be frustrating.

Cause: Delayed startup may result from a faulty door switch, a loose power connection, or a malfunctioning control board.

Troubleshooting: To address delayed startup, follow these steps:

Ensure the door is securely closed and the door switch is functioning correctly.

Check the power connection to the dryer and verify that it’s not loose or damaged.
If the issue persists, inspect the control board for any signs of malfunction and consider replacing it if necessary.

12. Overheating and Burning Smell

Description: If your Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer overheats, accompanied by a burning smell, it can be a safety concern.

Cause: Overheating and burning smells may occur due to a malfunctioning thermostat, a blocked vent, or lint buildup near heating elements.

Troubleshooting: To address overheating and burning odors, follow these steps:

Immediately turn off and unplug the dryer if you detect a burning smell.

Check the thermostat for accuracy and replace it if it’s not functioning correctly.
Inspect the vent system for any blockages or restrictions and clear them to improve airflow.
Thoroughly clean any lint or debris near the heating elements.

13. Irregular Drum Rotation

Description: When the Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer exhibits irregular drum rotation or stops spinning altogether, it can affect the drying process.

Cause: Irregular drum rotation may result from a broken drive belt, a malfunctioning motor, or a damaged idler pulley.

Troubleshooting: To address irregular drum rotation, follow these steps:

Turn off and unplug the dryer for safety.
Inspect the drive belt for any signs of wear, damage, or breakage. Replace if needed.
Check the motor for continuity and functionality. If it’s faulty, consider motor replacement.

Examine the idler pulley for damage or misalignment, and replace it if necessary.

14. Noisy Door or Latch

Description: When the dryer’s door or latch makes excessive noise or becomes difficult to open or close, it can be inconvenient.

Cause: Noisy doors or latches may be due to worn-out door hinges, damaged door seals, or misaligned door catch mechanisms.

Troubleshooting: To address noisy door or latch issues, follow these steps:

Inspect the door hinges for wear and replace them if they are loose or damaged.
Check the door seals for any visible damage or deformities and replace them if necessary.

Ensure the door catch mechanism is properly aligned and lubricated for smooth operation.

15. Excessive Vibration and Shaking

Description: If your Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer vibrates excessively or shakes during operation, it can lead to potential damage or noise disturbances.

Cause: Excessive vibration can be caused by an unlevel dryer, an imbalanced load, or worn-out leveling feet.

Troubleshooting: To minimize vibration and shaking, follow these steps:

Ensure the dryer is placed on a level surface and adjust its leveling feet as needed.
Balance your laundry load by adding or removing items to distribute weight evenly.

16. Unusual Odors During Drying

Description: If you detect strange or unpleasant odors while using the Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer, it can be concerning and affect the freshness of your clothes.

Cause: Unusual odors may be caused by foreign objects inside the dryer drum, a malfunctioning heating element, or lint buildup in inaccessible areas.

Troubleshooting: To eliminate unusual odors, follow these steps:

Check the dryer drum for any foreign objects or substances that may be causing the odors and remove them.
Inspect the heating element for any visible damage or burnt areas and replace it if necessary.
Clean the dryer’s interior thoroughly, including hard-to-reach areas, to remove any lint buildup.

17. Display or Controls Not Functioning

Description: When the display panel or controls of your Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer become unresponsive or malfunction, it can hinder your ability to operate the appliance effectively.

Cause: Display and control issues may result from a faulty control board, loose wiring, or software glitches.

Troubleshooting: To address display and control problems, follow these steps:

Check the power connection and ensure it’s secure. Loose connections can lead to control malfunctions.
Reset the dryer by unplugging it for a few minutes and then plugging it back in to see if the issue resolves.
If the problem persists, consider inspecting and, if necessary, replacing the control board.

18. Inconsistent Drying Results for Delicates

Description: If delicate fabrics don’t dry evenly or come out damaged from the Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer, it can be a concern for those with sensitive clothing items.

Cause: Inconsistent drying for delicates may occur due to improper cycle selection, high heat settings, or a lack of a delicate-specific option.

Troubleshooting: To ensure better results for delicate items, follow these steps:

Use a cycle with a low or delicate heat setting specifically designed for sensitive fabrics.
Consider using the Wrinkle Shield option or lower heat settings to minimize potential damage.
Always follow garment care labels for specific drying instructions to prevent damage.

19. Lint Escape from Dryer

Description: When lint escapes from the Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer and accumulates in your laundry area, it can create a mess and pose a fire hazard.

Cause: Lint escape is often due to a damaged lint filter, a clogged vent system, or a malfunctioning lint trap.

Troubleshooting: To prevent lint from escaping, follow these steps:

Inspect the lint filter for any visible damage or deformities. Replace it if it’s not working effectively.
Clean the entire venting system, including the vent hose and exterior vent, to ensure proper lint removal during drying cycles.
If the lint trap is defective, replace it to prevent lint from bypassing it and entering your laundry area.

20. Dryer Door Stays Open or Won’t Close

Description: If the dryer door won’t stay closed or refuses to latch properly, it can lead to heat loss and ineffective drying.

Cause: Door latch issues may be caused by a damaged door catch, a misaligned door, or worn-out hinges.

Troubleshooting: To address door latch problems, follow these steps:

Check the door catch for damage or misalignment and adjust or replace it if necessary.
Inspect the door hinges for wear and tear, and replace them if they are no longer functioning correctly.
Ensure the door is properly aligned and closes securely to maintain heat and prevent heat loss during drying.

21. Dryer Makes Loud Banging Noises

Description: If your Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer emits loud banging or thumping noises during operation, it can be disruptive and indicate a potential issue.

Cause: These noises may result from items like buttons, coins, or foreign objects trapped between the drum and the dryer’s interior components.

Troubleshooting: To resolve loud banging noises, follow these steps:

Stop the dryer and unplug it for safety.
Check the drum for any foreign objects, and remove them to prevent further noise.
Examine the drum rollers, glides, and seals for wear and replace them if necessary.

22. Clothes Develop Static Electricity

Description: When your clothes come out of the Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer with excessive static electricity, it can lead to discomfort and difficulty in folding and wearing them.

Cause: Static buildup occurs due to over-drying, using high heat settings, or a lack of anti-static products in the drying process.

Troubleshooting: To minimize static electricity in your clothes, follow these steps:

Use fabric softener sheets or dryer balls during the drying cycle to reduce static buildup.
Avoid over-drying clothes, and opt for lower heat settings when possible.
Consider adding a damp washcloth to the dryer load to introduce moisture and reduce static.

23. Dryer Door Seal Is Damaged

Description: When the door seal of the Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer is damaged, it can result in heat loss, reduced drying efficiency, and potential lint escape.

Cause: Door seal damage typically occurs due to wear and tear, exposure to high heat, or accidental tearing.

Troubleshooting: To address a damaged door seal, follow these steps:

Inspect the door seal for visible damage, cracks, or gaps, and replace it if necessary.
Clean the seal area to ensure a proper seal between the door and the dryer’s interior.
Ensure the door is properly closed to maintain heat and prevent heat loss during drying.

24. Dryer Produces Foul Odors in Clothes

Description: If your clothes come out of the Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer with unpleasant odors, it can be frustrating and affect your comfort.

Cause: Foul odors may result from residual lint buildup, mildew growth, or foreign objects inside the dryer drum.

Troubleshooting: To eliminate foul odors in your clothes, follow these steps:

Clean the lint filter and the entire lint trap area to remove any lint or debris buildup.
Wipe the interior of the dryer drum with a damp cloth to remove mildew or residue.
Inspect the dryer drum for any foreign objects or substances and remove them to prevent odors.

25. Dryer Doesn’t Shut Off Automatically

Description: When the Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer fails to shut off automatically at the end of a cycle, it can waste energy and potentially overheat.

Cause: This issue may occur due to a malfunctioning timer, a stuck relay switch, or a defective control board.

Troubleshooting: To address the problem of the dryer not shutting off, follow these steps:

Manually turn off the dryer and unplug it to ensure safety.
Inspect the timer, relay switch, and control board for any visible damage or malfunctions, and replace as needed.
If the issue persists, consult a professional technician for further diagnosis and repair.

Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer User Reviews

When considering purchasing a Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer, it’s essential to take into account the experiences of other users. To provide you with valuable insights, we’ve summarized both positive and negative reviews from users of this dryer based on information from Costco.

Positive Reviews from Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer Users

Some users were satisfied with the spacious drum, which accommodates a large amount of clothes, making it ideal for families or handling bulky loads.
Several users praised the efficiency of the drying process, stating that their clothes came out dry and ready to wear in a relatively short time.

Many customers appreciated the variety of drying cycles and settings available, allowing them to customize the drying experience based on fabric type and personal preferences.
Users mentioned that the Wrinkle Shield option was effective in reducing wrinkles, saving them time on ironing.
Positive comments were also made about the eco-friendly EcoBoost option, which helps conserve energy while still delivering effective drying results.

Negative User Reviews of the Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer

Some users were not satisfied with the dryer’s noise level, finding it louder than expected during operation.
A few customers reported issues with lint buildup in hard-to-reach areas, which required additional cleaning efforts.
Several users mentioned that they experienced occasional drying inconsistencies, where certain items in the load were not completely dry after a cycle.
Minor complaints were made about the user interface, with a few finding it less intuitive to navigate.
Some customers expressed concerns about the durability of certain components, such as the control panel and door latch.

Overall, it’s important to note that the majority of users were satisfied with their Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer. Positive feedback highlighted its capacity, drying efficiency, and customization options. However, as with any appliance, there were some negative experiences, mainly related to noise levels, occasional drying inconsistencies, and minor usability issues.

Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer Manual

The operating instructions and user manual for the Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer can be found on the official Whirlpool website. You can access the manual here.

Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I clean the lint filter in my Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer?

A: To clean the lint filter, follow these steps:

Open the dryer door and locate the lint filter, usually inside the door rim or on top of the dryer.
Slide out the lint filter and remove any lint accumulation by hand.
Use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner attachment to clean any remaining lint from the filter and the surrounding area.
Insert the lint filter back into its slot, ensuring it is securely in place before using the dryer again.

Q: Why is my Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer taking longer to dry clothes than usual?

A: Several factors can contribute to longer drying times:

Ensure the lint filter is clean before each use to maintain optimal airflow.
Check the dryer vent for any blockages or restrictions, as a clogged vent can hinder drying efficiency.
Avoid overloading the dryer, as this can lead to uneven drying and longer cycle times.
Verify that the selected drying cycle and heat setting match the fabric type and load size for efficient drying.

Q: What should I do if my Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer displays an error code?

A: If your dryer displays an error code, refer to the user manual for specific error code meanings and troubleshooting steps. Typically, you can:

Turn off the dryer and unplug it for a few minutes to reset the control panel.
Check for any visible issues, such as loose wires or damaged components, and address them accordingly.
If the issue persists, contact Whirlpool customer service or a certified service center for professional assistance.

Conclusion

For any issues or concerns with your Whirlpool WED8120HW Electric Dryer, it is advisable to consult the user manual provided by Whirlpool. In addition, if you encounter problems beyond what can be addressed through troubleshooting, don’t hesitate to reach out to Whirlpool’s customer service or a qualified service center for expert assistance in resolving any issues with your appliance.

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