What Does SUDS LOCK Mean on a Whirlpool Duet?

We live in a world where many believe that more is better. However, while you may think more detergent means a cleaner, better-smelling clothes, you are putting a lot of pressure on your washer. For the Whirlpool Duet, if you actually use too much detergent in your wash, you may find yourself looking at a SUDS LOCK error code.

If your Whirlpool Duet throws out a SUD error code it is detecting one of many things. It is most likely to be an overload of detergent or too much suds in the wash. It could also be telling you the load is too heavy or even that the pump is bad. However, if you routinely use more than one tablespoon of detergent per wash, it is likely a detergent issue.

The unfortunate reality is that the detergent cups that measure washing detergent are meant for older washers. These days, for the sake of energy efficiency, washers don’t use enough water to cut through more than a tablespoon of detergent.

Previously, your washer could be dealing with this the best it could. It washed, it drained, but a lot of residues was left behind. That residue builds up but still activates with each wash. Unless you poured half a bottle of detergent in with your current load, it is this build up that will cause the SUD error code. If your Whirlpool Duet is old enough, it may also just shut off.

Using too much detergent can cause more damage to the washing machine, which is why the SUDS code exists. It helps prevent expensive calls to appliance repair. To solve this SUDS issue, finish your current load, if possible. Then run the washer on the largest load possible with no detergent and using hot water. This should rinse away the excess. However, if it still feels slimy inside, you may need to repeat as necessary.