Display shows ERR5 and unit will not initiate regeneration
Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
Possible Causes
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Unplug the softener before removing the control cover.
Steps to check:
- 1. Perform a hard reset: Unplug the unit for at least 10 minutes to allow capacitors to discharge. Plug back in and re-enter the time, hardness, and regeneration settings according to the Whirlpool manual.
- 2. Verify keypad operation: Press each button and confirm it responds on the display. If some keys do not respond or stick, the keypad or control panel may be defective.
- 3. Check for moisture: Inspect inside the control housing for condensation or salt dust. Gently clean with a dry cloth. Do not use water or cleaners on the board.
- 4. Replace control board: If ERR5 returns after reprogramming and the keypad is functional, replace the electronic control board with the correct Whirlpool part number.
When to call a technician: If you are unsure of the correct programming values (hardness, capacity, salt settings) or need to transfer settings from an old board, a technician can ensure proper configuration.
Repair Difficulty
Required Part
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