Whirlpool Washer Error Code SU

Whirlpool Washer SU Error Code — Meaning, Causes, and Fixes

The Whirlpool washer error code SU commonly indicates a suds-related condition: the machine has detected excessive soap suds or unbalanced sudsing behavior that prevents normal cycling. This can occur when too much detergent is used, when non-HE detergent is used in a high-efficiency machine, or when detergent builds up in the dispenser and drum. When the washer detects excess suds it may interrupt the wash, extend cycle times with extra rinse/drain steps, fail to spin out clothes properly, or enter a safety lockout until the condition clears. Left unresolved, repeated SU events can cause persistent odors, fabric residue, longer drying times for clothes, premature wear on the drain pump and seals, and in rare cases repeated drain/fill cycling that stresses electrical components.

Common Causes

• Using too much detergent or the wrong type (non-HE detergent in HE washer)
• Detergent residue buildup in the dispenser or drum
• Clogged or partially blocked drain hose or pump causing slow draining and extended suds
• Faulty pressure switch or water level sensor that misreports conditions
• Control board or software misinterpretation of sensor data
• Overloading the washer or very light loads that trap suds in pockets of clothing
• Detergent pods or concentrated liquids creating localized high-sudsing areas

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Cancel the cycle and perform a power reset. Turn the washer off and unplug it (or switch off the breaker) for one minute, then restore power to clear temporary faults.
2. Run an extra rinse/drain cycle. If the code is caused by excess suds, an extra rinse or drain cycle often clears the condition by removing soapy water.
3. Check detergent type and amount. Confirm you are using an HE detergent if the washer is high-efficiency and measure detergent carefully per load size and soil level.
4. Inspect and clean the dispenser drawer and around the door gasket. Remove visible residue and buildup that can reintroduce suds every cycle.
5. Examine the drain hose and pump. Look for kinks, lint, or debris restricting flow; clear any blockages and ensure proper hose routing and height per the installation guide.
6. Run a cleaning cycle. Use a washer-cleaning product or soak the drum with a hot-water cycle and a cup of white vinegar or a manufacturer recommended cleaner to remove residue.
7. Reduce load size and redistribute clothes. Overstuffed or imbalanced loads can trap suds; try a balanced, medium-sized load.
8. Test for persistent code. After cleaning and rinsing, run a short normal cycle to see if the SU code returns. If it does, note any patterns (only on heavy loads, only with certain detergents, etc.).
9. Check the pressure switch and hoses. A damaged or clogged pressure hose or a failing water level sensor can misreport conditions and should be inspected for blockages or damage.
10. Enter diagnostics if available. Many Whirlpool washers have a diagnostic mode to read error counts and run tests; consult the service manual or user guide for instructions.
11. If the code persists after these steps, call a qualified appliance technician. Persistent SU codes despite proper detergent use and cleared drains often point to failing sensors, drain pump, or control board issues.

Maintenance / Prevention Tips

• Always use the recommended amount of HE detergent for the soil level and water hardness.
• Use only low-sudsing HE detergents in HE machines; avoid regular detergents and large pods for small loads.
• Measure detergent with the supplied cap or a dosing cup rather than pouring by eye.
• Run a monthly washer-clean cycle with a manufacturer-approved cleaner or a hot cycle with white vinegar to remove residue.
• Wipe the door gasket and dispenser drawer regularly to remove trapped soap residue and lint.
• Avoid overloading the washer; follow the load-size guidance in the owner s manual.
• Distribute heavy items evenly in the drum to prevent pockets where suds collect.
• Check and clear the pump filter and drain hose periodically to maintain good drainage.
• Store detergent in a dry place to prevent clumping that can create suds spikes.
• When using concentrated detergents, reduce the recommended amount to prevent excessive suds.
• Rinse heavily soiled items before loading if they have excess soap or greasy residues.
• Inspect door seals for trapped detergent or fabric softener buildup and clean as needed.
• Run occasional hot-water cycles when fabrics allow to dissolve residue better than cold cycles.
• Follow the manufacturer s recommendations for water temperature and cycle selection to optimize detergent performance.
• Replace old or degraded dispensers and hoses if they show signs of buildup or deterioration.

FAQs

Q: What exactly does SU stand for on a Whirlpool washer?

A: SU is commonly used to indicate a suds-related condition or excess-sudsing situation. The washer detects more suds than expected and either pauses the cycle or initiates additional rinses to clear the soap.

Q: Will the SU code damage my washer if I ignore it?

A: Repeatedly ignoring suds issues can lead to residue buildup, odor, and increased wear on the drain pump and seals. While a single SU event is often harmless if corrected, chronic problems should be addressed to avoid long-term damage.

Q: How do I clear the SU code quickly?

A: Start by running an extra rinse/drain cycle. If that does not work, perform a power reset, remove excess detergent, and clean the dispenser. If the code persists, inspect drain components and sensors or call a technician.

Q: Can I still dry my clothes if the washer shows SU?

A: You can manually remove clothes and dry them, but they may still contain soap residue. It s best to rinse the load in the washer or by hand to remove excess suds before drying to avoid fabric stiffness and soap stains.

Q: When should I call a professional?

A: If you have confirmed correct detergent use, cleared clogs, cleaned the machine, and the SU code returns repeatedly, schedule a professional service. Persistent SU codes often indicate failing sensors, a malfunctioning drain pump, or control board problems that require diagnostic tools and replacement parts.

Conclusion / Safety Notice

Always prioritize safety when troubleshooting appliances. Unplug the washer or turn off the breaker before inspecting pumps, hoses, or electrical components. Do not attempt repairs beyond basic cleaning and visual inspections unless you are comfortable and qualified to work on appliances. If you suspect faulty electrical components, a damaged pump, or persistent error codes after basic troubleshooting, contact a certified appliance technician to diagnose and repair the unit. Professional service reduces the risk of injury and prevents further damage to your washer.

If you re unsure at any step or the SU error returns despite following the above guidance, call an authorized Whirlpool service provider. Preventing and correcting suds issues early preserves washer performance, extends appliance life, and keeps your laundry smelling and feeling clean.