F37
Whirlpool Washing Machine
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
The F37 error on a Whirlpool washer indicates a problem with the inlet water valve for cold water. The control board detected that the cold water inlet valve is not opening or closing correctly. This can prevent the washer from filling with water at all, or cause it to fill with only hot water. The inlet valve or its wiring is typically the cause.
Affected Models
- Whirlpool Duet WFW94HEXW
- WFW96HEAW
- WFW70HEBW
- WFW75HEFW
- Most Whirlpool front-load washers with individual water inlet valves
Common Causes
- Cold water inlet valve solenoid has failed — the valve will not open when commanded
- Water inlet filter screen on the cold hose connection is clogged with sediment
- Wiring to the cold water inlet valve is loose, corroded, or damaged
- Cold water supply faucet is turned off or water pressure is too low
- Control board fault causing the cold valve signal to be absent or incorrect
How to Fix It
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Check the cold water supply faucet at the back of the washer. Confirm it is turned fully counterclockwise (open). A closed cold water faucet immediately causes fill problems.
This is the simplest check and takes 10 seconds. It is surprising how often the faucet gets accidentally bumped closed.
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Disconnect the cold water supply hose from the back of the washer. Look inside the inlet fitting for a small mesh filter screen. Remove it with needle-nose pliers and rinse it under running water.
Sediment and mineral deposits clog these screens over time, restricting water flow. This is especially common in areas with hard water.
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Check cold water pressure. Place the hose end in a bucket and turn the faucet on briefly. Water should flow with strong pressure. Weak flow means a supply issue — not a washer problem.
Whirlpool washers require at least 20 psi of water pressure to open the inlet valve properly.
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Inspect the wiring connector on the cold water inlet valve at the back of the washer. Unplug and replug the connector to ensure a firm connection. Look for corrosion or damaged wires.
The cold water valve connector is accessible from the back panel of the washer.
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If all supply and wiring checks pass, replace the cold water inlet valve. Unplug the washer, shut off the cold water supply, remove the hose, unscrew the valve from the back panel, swap in the new valve, and reassemble.
Always use a new hose washer when reconnecting the supply hose to prevent leaks.
When to Call a Professional
Cold water inlet valve replacement is a beginner-to-intermediate DIY repair. The valve typically costs $20 to $60 for the part. A technician can replace it in 30 to 45 minutes. Total repair cost is $100 to $200.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the cold water inlet valve actually do?
It is a solenoid valve that opens and closes to let cold water into the drum. The control board sends a signal to open it when filling is needed and closes it when the correct water level is reached. If the valve fails open, water keeps running in. If it fails closed, no water enters. F37 indicates the valve is not responding correctly to the board's commands.
Can I use my Whirlpool washer with only hot water while waiting for repair?
You can try a warm or hot cycle if your hot water valve is working, but using hot water only is not ideal. Some cycles require cold water for rinsing. Using hot water for rinse cycles can set stains and shrink certain fabrics. Repair or replace the cold valve as soon as possible.
How do I test the inlet valve solenoid with a multimeter?
Unplug the washer and disconnect the valve's wiring connector. Set your multimeter to measure resistance (ohms) and touch the probes to the solenoid terminals. Most solenoid coils read between 100 and 1000 ohms. An open reading (infinite) means the coil is burned out and the valve needs replacement.