Electric Supply

• Whirlpool washing machines need electricity to power the machine parts that take a washer through its cycles. If the power is interrupted, or goes off, the washing machine won't work. Check that there is power to the outlet where the Whirlpool is plugged in. If this is a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet, see if it has been tripped and, if so, press the "Reset" button. Change out any fuses at the main circuit breaker if this is where the power has been cut.
  
  

Water Supply

• Washing machines also need water to operate. As a matter of fact, they can become damaged if operated without water inside. Many newer model Whirlpool washers have sensors that won't allow the washer to operate if it senses that there is no water inside the tub. Verify that the water supply valve for the washer is on and that there aren't any problems with the main water supply for your house.
  
  

Faulty Motor

• The motor on a Whirlpool controls the hub that spins the agitator in the center of the cabinet. On some models, this motor also powers a pulley that rotates the washer tub. A seal protects the motor from water in the cabinet above. If the seal becomes damaged, water can leak out onto the washer, burning it out. Replace a faulty motor with a new one. The washer cabinet will need to be disassembled for you to reach the motor.
  
  

Loose or Broken Agitator

• The agitator is the plastic, cone-shaped device in the middle of the washer tub, which connects to the agitator shaft underneath and is powered by the motor. The purpose of these parts is to help move the clothes in the tub through the water inside, helping to get them clean and odor free. A bolt holds the agitator in place on the shaft. These bolts can be accessed by prying off the agitator cap. Tighten the bolt with a socket wrench. A broken agitator can be removed by pulling it off the shaft and replacing with a new one.
  
  

Bad Drain Valve

• The drain valve opens and closes in response to signals from the Whirlpool washers. These drain valves are typically solenoids that convert electrical impulses into mechanical ones. A signal from the washing machine to the drain valve will tell the valve when to open the gate for draining and when to shut it again. If these parts malfunction or burn out, the Whirlpool won't drain. Check the resistance across the drain valve solenoid with a ohmmeter and, if faulty, replace.