Whirlpool · Washing Machine
Whirlpool Washing Machine F27 Error Code
Water level above overflow threshold
What this error means
F27 is an overflow error—the water level sensor reports the tub at or above the overfill threshold. Unlike F09 on some models, F27 specifically tracks sustained high level readings during or between cycles.
How F27 is detected
Whirlpool washing machine models lock the door or lid before energizing fill, heat, or high-speed spin. F27 means the latch switch never sent a "locked" signal to the main control, or the lock motor did not complete its travel. On Whirlpool WFW8620HC, Whirlpool WFW9620HW, and similar variants, clothing caught in the gasket, a misaligned strike, or a failed latch assembly are the most common mechanical causes—not the board itself.
Inspect the door gasket perimeter and strike alignment before replacing the latch. Inlet valve leaking or slow-filling when commanded closed is reported frequently on this code. After correcting mechanical issues, shut off both supply faucets and observe whether the tub level drops on its own. If the latch clicks but F27 persists, the door lock switch or wiring harness to the control board likely needs testing with a multimeter.
Do not force the door open during an active cycle; wait for the lock to release when the board de-energizes the lock motor—usually two to three minutes after canceling power on most Whirlpool units.
Common causes
- Inlet valve leaking or slow-filling when commanded closed
- Pressure switch stuck reporting a low air pressure (high water) reading
- Drain pump not removing water during a concurrent fill command
- Main control board incorrectly energizing fill valves
Step-by-step fixes
- 1Shut off both supply faucets and observe whether the tub level drops on its own
- 2If water enters with the washer unplugged, replace both inlet fill valves immediately
- 3Run a drain-only cycle to empty the tub before investigating further
- 4Inspect the pressure switch hose for water inside indicating a cracked tub air dome
When to call a technician
Persistent overfill with good valves and pump points to a main control board or pressure switch failure.
Affected models
- Whirlpool WFW8620HC
- Whirlpool WFW9620HW
- Whirlpool WFW560CHW
Prevention & maintenance
- Wipe the door gasket weekly and avoid overloading items against the seal—F27 often starts as a slow leak or latch misalignment.
- Record when F27 appears in the cycle and whether it clears after a 60-second power reset on your Whirlpool washing machine—that detail speeds diagnosis if you call service.
- Keep the model and serial number from the rating plate when ordering parts for F27; Whirlpool uses multiple revisions with different harness lengths and board firmware.
- Photograph wiring connector orientation before disconnecting any component while troubleshooting F27; reversed plugs on pumps and valves cause immediate repeat faults.