How to Test and Replace the Flow Meter on a Whirlpool Washer

Is your Whirlpool front-load washer struggling to fill or throwing error codes? Let’s troubleshoot together! Testing and replacing the flow meter might be all it takes to get things running smoothly again.

If you need any replacement parts for your Whirlpool washer, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

What is the flow meter?

The flow meter tracks water flow and helps prevent issues like overfilling or underfilling. It ensures the washer uses the right amount of water for each cycle by sending this information to the control board. If your washer isn’t filling correctly, stops mid-cycle, or shows a water-related error code, the flow meter might need attention.  

Materials you need

• ¼” nutdriver
• Multimeter
• Channel lock pliers

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, always keep safety first to avoid personal injury or damage to the appliance or its parts. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it. 
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.

How to test and replace the Whirlpool front load washer’s flow meter

Step 1. Remove the top panel

1. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the two screws at the back of the washer’s top panel.
2. Slide the top panel back, lift it off, and set it aside.
3. Plug the washer’s power cord back in.

Step 2. Test the flow meter

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the washer needs to be plugged in and powered on. Please be very careful to protect yourself from electric shock, which has the potential to cause serious injuries. Don’t ever test live voltage if you’re uncomfortable using a multimeter.

1. Plug the washer back in or turn the breaker back on.
2. Set your multimeter to Volts DC (V with a dotted line).
3. Start a wash cycle and test the wires on the flow meter while water flows into the tub.
4. Observe the voltage reading. If the reading is 200mV, the flow meter is functional, and the issue lies elsewhere. If the reading is 0 volts, the flow meter is faulty and needs replacement.

Step 3. Remove the faulty flow meter

1. Cancel the wash cycle and unplug the washer’s power cord.
2. Use channel lock pliers to disconnect the wires from the flow meter.
3. Move the tubing clamps away from the flow meter using the pliers.
4. Detach the tubes from the flow meter.

Step 4. Install the new flow meter

1. Attach the tubes to the new flow meter and secure them with the clamps.
2. Reconnect the wire connector to the new flow meter.

Step 5. Reassemble the washer

1. Place the top panel back onto the washer.
2. Align the panel and secure it using the 1/4-inch screws removed earlier.
3. Plug the washer back in or flip the circuit breaker back on.
4. Test the washer to ensure it is functioning correctly.

More DIY resources

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you test and replace the flow meter in your Whirlpool front load washer. 

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We have over two million parts in stock and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

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