rL
Whirlpool Washing Machine
Severity: MinorWhat Does This Error Mean?
The rL error means 'Remove Load' — your Whirlpool washer detected clothes or items in the drum when you tried to start a Clean Washer cycle. The Clean Washer cycle is designed to run on an empty drum. The machine sensed that there was a load inside and stopped to protect your laundry from the high-heat cleaning process. This error is completely harmless. Just remove the laundry and restart the cycle.
Affected Models
- WTW5000DW
- WTW7000DW
- WTW8000DW
- WTW4950XW
- WTW8500DW
- Most Whirlpool Cabrio top-load washers
Common Causes
- Clothes or laundry items were left in the drum when a Clean Washer cycle was selected
- A single forgotten item (a sock, a cloth) is still in the drum
- The load sensor is malfunctioning and detecting a load even when the drum is empty
- A heavy item like a wet towel was left draped over the drum rim and is being detected as a load
- Residue buildup on the drum or basket sensor is causing a false load detection
How to Fix It
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Cancel the current cycle by pressing and holding the Start/Pause button for 3 seconds.
On some models, pressing Cancel or turning the dial to Off will cancel the cycle.
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Open the washer lid and visually inspect the drum. Remove all laundry, even small items like socks or underwear.
Also check around the agitator base on top-load models — small items sometimes end up trapped underneath.
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Close the lid and select the Clean Washer cycle again. Add a washer cleaning tablet or one cup of white vinegar to the drum if you have one.
Washer cleaning tablets (like Affresh) are the recommended cleaning product for Whirlpool's Clean cycle.
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Press Start. The cycle should now begin without showing rL.
The Clean cycle takes about 60 to 75 minutes on most Whirlpool Cabrio models.
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If rL appears again on an empty drum, the load sensing system may need recalibration. Run a calibration cycle: with the washer empty, rotate the dial to the 12 o'clock position and run three complete clicks clockwise, one counterclockwise, and one clockwise. Then select any cycle and press Start.
The exact calibration sequence varies by model — check your owner's manual for the specific steps for your machine.
When to Call a Professional
rL is almost never a mechanical fault — it is simply laundry left in the drum. If the drum is completely empty and rL still appears every time you run a Clean cycle, the load sensor may need recalibration or replacement. A technician can diagnose a faulty sensor in one visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Whirlpool have a Clean Washer cycle?
Over time, detergent residue, fabric softener, minerals from hard water, and body oils build up inside the washer drum, hoses, and pump. This creates odors (that musty smell from your washer) and can transfer onto your laundry. The Clean Washer cycle uses hot water and high agitation — with no laundry in the drum — to flush out this buildup. Whirlpool recommends running it monthly using an Affresh washer cleaning tablet.
What happens if I run the Clean cycle with clothes in it?
The machine's rL protection stops you from doing this intentionally. If it ran anyway, the very hot water and strong agitation of the Clean cycle could damage delicate fabrics, fade colors, and leave washer cleaner residue on your clothes. Always run the Clean cycle on a completely empty drum.
How often should I clean my Whirlpool washer?
Whirlpool recommends running the Clean Washer cycle once a month. If you wash heavily soiled items frequently, or live in a hard-water area, every 2 to 3 weeks is better. In between cleaning cycles, leave the lid open after each wash to let the drum air dry — this prevents mold and mildew from growing inside.