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Whirlpool Water Heater Troubleshooting
If you're looking for help fixing your Whirlpool Water Heater, look no further! Our comprehensive Whirlpool Water Heater Troubleshooting guide will explain common issues, provide tips, and show you how to read your model's error codes.
Step 1
Check for leaks from the tank. There is no fix for a water heater with a leaking tank. It must be replaced.
Step 2
Check the breaker to be sure power is on for the water heater. It is necessary to check the working condition of a water heater with power supplied to the unit. Put on rubber sole work shoes and be sure the floor near the tank is completely dry.
Step 3
Unscrew the cover plates on the upper and lower access panels with a Phillips head screwdriver. Put on work gloves to remove the insulation cut-outs.
Step 4
Check the limiter switch. Some problems will cause the heat limit switch to trip and cut power to the unit. Press the "Reset" button to restore power. Continue testing to find the problem that tripped the switch.
Step 5
Troubleshoot water heaters that put out cold water. Check the power running to the upper element. If the voltage tester shows power, but the element is not heating, then the element is bad. If there is no power coming to the element, then the thermostat has failed and must be replaced.
Step 6
Troubleshoot water heaters giving warm water or small amounts of hot water. Check the temperature setting. Adjust the setting with a slotted screwdriver if necessary. Set the temperature between 110 and 125 degrees F. Check the cold intake tube and fastener ring. If cold water is pouring into the upper tank it reduces the output temperature. Make sure both thermostats are pressed firmly against the tank. Check the power at the upper thermostat connection terminals that transfer power to the lower thermostat. If the tester shows no power at these terminals, then the upper thermostat is faulty. If power registers, then test the terminals at the lower element. If no power shows, the lower thermostat has failed. If there is power but no heat at either element, then that element is bad.
Step 7
Troubleshoot a water heater that puts out overly hot water. Check the temperature set screw. It should not be set above 125 degrees F. If the temperature is properly set, then one of the thermostats is to blame. Check for power at both elements. Any element that is getting power while the water is too hot has a faulty thermostat.
Step 8
Correct the problem of popping sounds. Elements that have mineral build-up make popping sounds when they are working. Drain the tank and shut off power and water supply to the unit before removing an element to clean or replace it.
Step 9
Get rid of bad odors in hot water. Magnesium anode rods cause bad smells when exposed to some of the minerals common in tap water. Drain the tank, shut off the power and water supply and clean the tank thoroughly with bleach water. Replace the anode rod with one made of aluminum.
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Whirlpool Water Heater Troubleshooting
Whirlpool Water Heater problems
Whirlpool Water Heater broken
Whirlpool Water Heater issue
Whirlpool Water Heater difficulty
I bought a water heater in 2008 from Lowes department store. The heater would continually go out causing no hot water. The company had sent several technical repair men out to resolve this problem, and still the problem remains. The Technical Support requested that they will pay for the part and I could install it, not knowing if I am able to do such a job. The technicians who were sent to my home were not able to do the job. How do they expect me to do the job without proper experience? Whirlpool products are not reliable nor is their maintenance contract. Stay away from this company.
I see that I am not the only one with the same pilot problem. I just purchased this new model that came out last summer. I bought my new water heater in September and just this past weekend, it messed up. I have not had it for 8 months. Whirlpool sent out a technician yesterday and he said the assembly is not good and the pilot would not light. Well they sent me a replacement part and they are coming out today to install it. The funny thing was that the technician said, Oh, these are hard to work with. We have a lot of problems with these models and they just came out last summer. Its the on that has the little box and you push the pilot button in and hold it until the red light comes on. Anyway, he said he didnt carry parts for that one, only the old ones which last longer. The ones that have the black round circle that looks like a thermostat. I said, Really? Well the reason I bought this water heater is because my last one that I bought 2 years ago kept having the same issue. Whirlpool sent me the assembly with the pilot and all 3 times and would never replace it. I got tired of it always messing up so after having it for 2 years, we just dumped it and went and bought this new model. Here we are 8 months since we bought it and the same thing is happening. I am so furious. I am pissed off that they dont recall these if they are defective. Why do they keep selling them if people have problems? My cousin called me a couple of months ago and asked if my husband could check her water heater and its the same type I had and it was doing the same thing. I will never buy another Whirlpool water heater again.
Just like a lot of other people, I bought a Whirlpool hot water tank because of the good name. And just like the other people, my tanks pilot light will not stay on, it will be on for a few days and then you get up and no hot water.
I bought Whirlpool water heater model #FG1H5040T3NOV about 5 years ago. Burner assembly was replaced two years ago and now, thermocouple was replaced yesterday.
I bought a whirlpool 40g gas heater with the Honeywell gas valve. In 5 years Ive had to replace the valve two times. Thankfully the valve was under warranty both times. Our old water heater was Twentynine years old before it started to leak, this new electrical diagnostic high tech gas valve keeps breaking showing a overheated error and the only way to fix it is a new valve that only Honeywell sells thats well over 100$. Talk about a scam!!
DO NOT purchase a WHIRLPOOL hot water heater!! The gas valve temperature sensors on these units are faulty. Our technician has replaced several of these defective sensors. Costs $250.00 to install - water tank is only a year old! WHIRLPOOL REFUSES TO ACKNOWLEDGE THIS PROBLEM!! We bought this particular unit because of the reputable name brand. They dont live up to expectations. Dont waste your money on a Whirlpool - youll be replacing it soon! Very disappointed in this company!
I purchased a Whirlpool Water Heater BFG1J5040T3NOV from Lowe’s and have had numerous problems. The biggest issue is having to replace the thermocouple three times. It works fine for about a year then I need to replace it again. This is tiresome and wasteful and Whirlpool should be ashamed. As a company that once had a high reputation, this is sad. I would not recommend buying anything from them, especially their water heaters. After repairing this one, again, I will look elsewhere for the next one.
Pilot light will not lit. I called Whirlpool. They said they could ship me a replacement for $34 or I could go to Lowes and get one for free. Lowes said they were out of type C kits and they have not received replacement kits for 6 months. Lowes informed me about the recall for this part. If its a defective part, Whirlpool should be sending this to me for free. I will not be buying a Whirlpool water heater next time.
On 12/27/2013 I bought a Whirlpool hot water heater from Lowes Model NU50T122-403. On 12-13-2015 the pilot went out. When I called tech support on 12-14-2015 they gave number what were call centers or person who returned the calls. So I called a local plumber that I used before. He came out and told me that had to replace the pilot. On the 16th 2015 of Dec. that did not work and told us the heater needed to be replaced. The replacement will happen today I hope with little to no help from Whirlpool. I would advise you to do your homework before you buy a Whirlpool hot water heater.
Replaced the “brain” twice. No hot water for 2-4 days each time, waiting for part to arrive. Now I have to replace the nylon drain valve because it won’t shut off. Gonna use brass replacement. Fortunately I have it drain to a sump pump so house isn’t flooding. Don’t buy Whirlpool water heater from Lowe’s unless you enjoy this kind of thing. Consolation: the folks at the help line always answer the phone and are knowledgeable. And they’ve heard these same complaints over and over. One guy even said to buy AO Smith as they are made in Tennessee instead of China.
Purchased on 04-26, professionally installed on 04-29 into a clean, large, well-ventilated area within the garage. Has turned itself off every day since then. Flashes code 10, screen is dirty... Pull the burner and the screen is clean. Called Whirlpool. They tell me to clean it again, so I do. This goes on for weeks... I can now pull the screen and clean it with my eyes closed. I get up a half hour early every morning to complete my water heater re-lighting procedure so my family can take a warm shower!!! Whirlpool gives me a phone number to a repair company. They tell me the repair person will have parts on the truck. I wait four days, guy comes out and says, You need a control valve.... did they send it to you? So I had to call Whirlpool back and order the valve... three more days... Very next day after repair, the thing shuts itself off again! I call Whirlpool and they try and push me off to the repair company, saying they are now responsible for the repair, but in the same sentence the tech says the heater needs a burner assembly. Okay, so you know it needs a burner assembly, but you ask me to contact the repair company to come out and fix it knowing they DO NOT have the parts on the truck? Only after I change my tone and raise my voice does she offer to send the part ahead of the repair appointment! In my opinion, Whirlpool has reached the top of a list shared by other mega companies like Bank of America and Time Warner Cable... Too bad the accolade is for the worst product and customer service. DO NOT BUY Whirlpool.
I brought a water heater from Lowes in 2011 and I had a 6 year warranty on it which will end November 2017. Well now the water heater is leaking and they wont replace it because of the location of the water heater and they saying I need to get a direct water heater. Well what is the use of having a warranty if I cant get another water heater. I will never buy another water heater from Whirlpool! I cannot afford to get a direct water heater.
It looks like I have the exact same problem as everyone else. Purchased an Energy Smart Whirlpool water heater at Lowe’s. Now I need a new controller. Hope they send me the non-catching fire type of controller.I am going to predict that the company will provide a response that says something like” “Hey, we really want to help you get your hot water back! Just contact us privately so we can discuss this without everyone being able to see what we tell you to do.” So far we are just out of hot water while we went through their diagnostics. They told me that this often happens and the best way to fix it is to let the hot water run in the shower for 20 minutes, then hold down the reset button on the controller for 5 seconds, and do that every time I experience this problem. I hope mine doesnt catch fire. Fire is bad.
I purchased a 40-gal Whirlpool water heater model 40t91-403 last week and paid a plumber to have it installed. The old one (GE 40 gal) worked fine except for a leak. The new one used all of the old connections except the 2-inch in and out pipes. Same connections, hot, cold and gas. At first I got about a quart of hot water and then all cold. Whirlpool changed the valve and cold water pipe (inside the tank) and still the same. They are trying to tell me that the tank is fine - I have a plumbing problem. Two plumbers have told me different, but still they insist. Yes, I am upset. The old GE, even with a leak, performed better!
This is truly a piece of junk! My water heater is 2 1/2 years old and the pilot light will not stay on. Was told that I needed a thermal coupler and paid $30 for shipping. Installed it and still the pilot light will not stay on. Was told again that I needed to replace the main control. Another $30 for shipping. Had that installed and the pilot light stayed on but no hot water. The light was blinking 4x (temperature too hot). WHAT!!? ALL I GOT WAS COLD WATER! Now I was told I need to replace the temperature sensor and they wanted another $30! I told them to I was going to junk it and buy a different brand.
August 26th 2014 purchased a NG (NO GOOD actually natural gas) Whirlpool water heater from Lowes. Model No. N40561-403. Installed it and everything was fine until this morning August 29th 2014. The indicator light was out and so was the pilot. Tried to light it without success. Called Whirlpool and they are sending me a new controller that now needs to be installed. Called Lowes and they will not take it back. Wish I would have found this site prior to this costly fiasco. Waiting on part now and I will keep you informed as to my progress. I have a feeling this is going to be 2 days wasted and $367.00.
My contractor purchased a Whirlpool NU50T61-403 water heater at Lowes. After several months the gas valve stopped working. Whirlpool sent a replacement gas valve which stopped working after a month. When I complained they offered to send another replacement, which I declined. They also offered to have it repaired by 2 firms which were very poorly rated on Yelp. Whirlpool stubbornly refused any other remedy. As I needed to resolve this right away because tenants were depending on having hot water. I replaced it with another hot water heater. In summary I wasted $570 for 9 months of use.
I bought a Whirlpool water heater not even 3 years ago, and I am already replacing parts; thermostat,thermocouple, and as of yet, no fix. We contacted Whirlpool, and they said that everything has been tried, and if the thermocouple doesnt fix it, well have to hire a plumber at our expense. Its kinda ridiculous. The water heater that we replaced, had been in the home for almost 17 years.This one didnt even make it to 4.
I purchased a gas hot water heater from Whirlpool. I have had problems with it since it was new. Whirlpool kept sending repair parts, which I installed, until the warranty expired. Now they say “Sorry Charlie, the warranty has expired.” The water heater has never been fixed. They just dragged it along until the warranty expired. Whirlpool has no complaint department or the repair place will not give it to you. They told me there would be no use for a complaint department. They would just tell the same thing the repair was telling me.
Having multiple apartments I have some experience with water heaters, with that being said, old school water heaters would last 30 years with basically no maintenance. Since those old, manual no BS flashing light codes were replaced with Whirlpool brand, I see constant problems. Honeywell valve/motherboards was the worst thing that could have been put on any equipment. More or less they all failed within few months past warranty expiration date. Replacement part is cost almost half of what brand new product costs. When called customer service, they are aware of said problem but will not help, or recall above product. There are plenty of videos and forums of people complaining about the same issue. Being poorly treated by customer service, I know that I will no longer be spending my money on whirlpool brand. 3 years off of the water heater is a joke.
Our Whirlpool water heater needs a burner assembly replaced. Second time within the warranty period of six years. Parts have to be ordered, so you will be without hot water for several days to a week. The worst part is reaching them. Between my wife and I, we have almost 4 hours invested in sitting on hold waiting for someone in three different calls. They never answer the phone. They give an option to call back. They never call back. Im so frustrated. No Whirlpool products ever again. Im sitting at my desk, hoping someone will eventually answer the Whirlpool line. I dont even have the part ordered yet after two days of no hot water. Who knows how many more hours I will need to sit here and listen to this music on hold. It is incredible in 2021 a company can remain open while offering this kind of customer experience.
Absolutely the worst hot water heater I have ever owned. Broke within first year which Whirlpool sent me a replacement valve assy which I had to install myself. That one failed in 3 month and unit was out of warranty so I received no help from Whirlpool. Had a serviceman fix it again and it failed again. So I ended trashing the unit. I would not buy another Whirlpool product as long as I live. The last 5 appliances I purchased from Whirlpool all failed within a few months after warranty expired. This is no joke. Everything they sell is farmed out to other countries than the US and the workmanship and quality is the worst I have ever seen. The service people are nice when they tell you that they cant help you with your problem. Dont waste another dime on Whirlpool! Very bad product.
I bought this piece of junk heater (serial no. 0804T411536) from Lowes and had their contract plumber install it in or about 2008. Since that time, I have had nothing but trouble with it. It just doesnt stay lit. Every plumber who works on it tells me that they have numerous problems with them and they cannot repair them - the customer has to get the part from Whirlpool. And today the woman I talked to told me that I had to pay the shipping charges, which vary according to how quickly one wants hot water! I personally find that a true rip off. If you cant guarantee the product you put on the market, then dont put it out there. I will never buy another Whirlpool appliance or shop at Lowes!
We purchased a Whirlpool water heater from Lowes in 2011. Everything was fine up until June 2015. We got the dreaded 4 flashes. We called for service to come out, that costed us around $300. December 23rd of 15 it goes out again. We called Whirlpool instead of a service company and the part was under warranty. We paid for overnight shipping but because of the holiday it was not guaranteed. We told them we are fine with Sat. delivery. In the meantime we had to cancel a holiday party scheduled at our house the 24th. We waited around all day Sat. for the part to show and nothing. We called Whirlpool to get the tracking number and we find out that the other service rep didnt mark our package for Sat. delivery. I am very close to just buying a new heater. I am trying to tell everyone I can about how horrible Whirlpool is. I feel sorry for any suckers that buy based on the name and dont do their research.
I purchased a Whirlpool water heater and after working fine for about 2 1/2 years, I began having problems with it staying lit. I dealt with troubleshooting beginning in January of 2012 and finally in March of 2012, I was sent some replacement parts. The unit worked fine through the summer and once the weather started getting cold in October of 2012, I began to have problems with the unit again. After a couple of months complaining and threatening to file a BBB complaint, I was sent all of the parts left to change on the water heater. And I was told after the parts were changed if the unit still did not work, that it was probably a venting issue and that I would be responsible for that issue and the unit was not defective. I received the parts on 12/04/12 and they were changed out the same day. Now the unit will light when I hold down the button to light it but once I let go, the pilot light goes out. At least before changing out the parts, the unit was able to be turned on and sometimes it would work and other times it didnt, but now it will not light at all. This is very frustrating because the unit is under warranty and Whirlpool has for an entire year fought me tooth and nail just to send me the parts for the unit, only for the unit to still not work. I have a family and it is discouraging to not know when you are going to have hot water, having to constantly fix the unit or to call Whirlpool to troubleshoot and finally for the unit to still not work after replacing the parts. It looks like I will not have any hot water at all now.
We purchased a new Whirlpool water heater April 2013 at Lowes and every 3-4 months the pilot would go out. My husband would simply re-light the heater, I guess he didnt think it was a big deal. However, in September 2014 the water heaters pilot went out and would not re-light, so I contacted Whirlpool about the warranty. It took 4 telephone calls (two of which involved a plumber, per Whirlpools request), and several days of cold showers for an authorization code to purchase a $8 part (thermo coupler). The hassles that Whirlpool put me through, no one should have to endure. Who ever heard of a technician telling you that they have to talk to the plumber, when you call them to explain a problem with your water heater, such as, the pilot will not stay lit and the plumber said it is the coupler (I couldnt remember the whole name of the part, but surely they should have understood what was wrong). Secondly, providing a plumber (unless youre married to one) to converse with them involves more money. Now I have a plumber at my house so I call Whirlpool and this technician insists that the plumber perform a test on thermo coupler to make sure that it was faulty before she gave the authorization for a new one. Yet again, when I called to Whirlpool with the plumber, while I was voicing my problems in resolving the issue of my water heater with this technician, and she just hung-up on me. So as not to be defeated and having already invested in the expense of the plumber, I called Whirlpool again and requested a manager. The technician asked if she could help and I informed her of my previous encounters. She apologized and took my information to have a manager to call me later; however, she did give me the authorization code for the thermo coupler without delay. When I went to purchase the part, I didnt have the old part (as trade; the plumber hadnt removed it), so I paid for it out-of pocket, to return the old part later.
My wife and I bought a Whirlpool water heater NU50T121-403, SER# 0733323 as we researched online the best efficient water heater for the money... which was actually more than we budgeted for. We purchased it from LOWES and our Plumber had to return the first heater due to a huge dent on the outside of the body once it was removed from the box. LOWES replaced it, no problem and he installed it. GREAT, HOT water for about six (6) months. Pilot light went out and has continued failing after relighting numerous times! Now we have the four (4) blinks indicating that the Honeywell gas control needs to be replaced only after 27 months of use. Whirlpool offers 12 year warranty on tank & parts, but come to find out, not this part. We were both raised on Whirlpool products and thought we based on our parents successes of various Whirlpool products, we were buying quality brand. We were soon disappointed and will never buy another Whirlpool manufactured Brand again!!
I purchased a Whirlpool water heater on 9/30/2011. It is leaking at the point of cold water entry and is spewing a brown colored watery substance, leaking on the floor.
I purchased my water heater at Lowes and had it installed professionally. I suspected something was not quite right on numerous occasions because the hot water recovery time seemed excessive. I finally called Whirlpool and they gave me the names and numbers of two companies that were on their list. The first asked for the model number and normal information and never called back. The second showed up spent five minutes charged me 78 dollars and said they could not get the part (gas valve) I needed. And if I could get it from Whirlpool they would charge me 250 to put it on. They also said Whirlpool made horrible water heaters and I should save myself the trouble and just replace it. I have since heard from additional plumbers and the gas company to stay away from Whirlpool. I did have the water heater replaced. When they did it and they drained the old water heater it had so much sludge in it draining it was very difficult. The sludge is mystery since I have a softener in my home and it should have prevented that. The individual from that gas company said that was just one of the many issue others had experienced with these heaters.
I have gallon Whirlpool hot water heater. After 2 1/2 years, the heater started indicating upper sensor failure. I have had servicemen out here every 3-4 weeks since June. I have replaced gas valves, a new sensor and a new gas meter. I have made several calls to Whirlpool, but cant keep this hot water heater going. I am going to have to find a new heater.
I bought an electric hot water tank from Lowe’s less than 3 months. No hot water so I called Whirlpool. They give me service dept over 150 miles away. They will not come. I need hot water and need help. The hot water tank is half way in the attic and half in the closet.
My husband and I purchased a Whirlpool water heater from Lowes about three years ago. We have had trouble ever since! The pilot light will not stay lit. We have done everything imaginable to try to repair it. Every time I call Whirlpool, I get the same reply. They email me some instructions on how to repair this piece of crap. I dont understand how they can make a product that they do not stand behind. Whirlpool use to be a reputable company, not anymore! I will never buy another Whirlpool product ever! And I will tell everyone that I come in contact with not to buy from them either. I am also considering filing a lawsuit against them for making such junk! Do not buy Whirlpool water heater.
Purchased first water heater in 2008 with 6 year warranty. In 2011, pilot light would not stay lit. Whirlpool told me to go to Lowes and get a new one at no cost. But I had to pay for service to identify the problem and installation of new one, costing $250.00. A year and a half later on a six year warranty, the same issue the pilot light not staying lit. They send a pilot light assembly and we pay the shipping and installation cost of $130.00.Two years later, the same issue begins again. Calling tech support, they determine it needs a third pilot assembly at $30.00 for shipping and $265.00 service installation fee by a certified Whirlpool technician. Worked one day! Im so done with this company!!!! I was promised a call from a supervisor with Whirlpool which Im still waiting on days later. Probably for the best at this point. I think I would feel better if I could beat the crap out of a Whirlpool CEO with it! Im cutting my losses and going with a different provider. I will NEVER again purchase another Whirlpool product!
We have had this water heater for less than 5 years. It was purchased new from Lowe’s. This is the second time we have had to replace the thermocouple and are told that we have to order the part from Whirlpool. Really? What do we do for hot water in the meantime? This is a very disappointing response from Whirlpool and Lowe’s. I will never again purchase anything from either company. We had to buy a new heater today, pay for installation and permits. This is a rip-off by Whirlpool and Lowe’s.
40-gal gas water heater - I own several rental properties and unfortunately put Whirlpool water heaters in them when the old ones go. It is because they are at Lowes and they are cheap. Today, another call came in from a tenant with no hot water. I called customer service and they determined I received the repair kit from an original design defect from back in the middle 2000s. Now 3 years later, it goes out again. Because I have already received the conversion kit taking thermal couple threading from LH to RH, I needed another part number to repair for a grand total of $160! The same part before the conversion kit was $60. I will never buy another Lowes/Whirlpool water heater for as long as I live. I own a hundred rentals and Whirlpool will never again see another cent for the junk water heaters.
Purchased a Whirlpool hot water heater from Lowes. Heater has 6 year warranty. Hot water heater is 1 year old and the pilot would not light. Contacted Whirlpool warranty department to what the failure cause. A new control was sent and replaced by a qualified journeyman plumber; still not working. Called whirlpool warranty department, told control valve must be faulty. We have gone 5 days with no hot water. I am not waiting another 5 days to get hot water. I am having the plumber take out this worthless Whirlpool heater and haul to the scrap metal business. That is where I should have sent it from the get go. Dont purchase a Whirlpool product. The money should be spent on a product that works and will last.
Ive had my Whirlpool water heater for almost 4 years now and for the last year and a half, I had to have the pilot light lit at least 5 times. I finally got so frustrated around the 3 times and called the company. They gave me instructions on how to light it and to ensure no draft was around the tank. A couple of weeks ago, it went out again and I called. This time I was told to replace the thermocouple. I did that and guess what? Still no hot water. Im a single parent with 2 kids and weve been boiling water just to bath.A service tech came out and told me I need to replace the tank altogether. I called Whirlpool service and they told me it was nothing they can do. Like many of you, I got this tank from Lowes and they will not do anything about it either. Its hurtful and stressful that doing a holiday season, I have to decide to either buy a hot water tank or give my kids a good Christmas. I know several friends and family who has had their tanks a lot longer with no problem. My problem is its a crappy Whirlpool brand with poor customer service.
My 4-year old water heater has upper/lower sensor issues for the fourth time this year. The rep was supposed to send replacement parts to arrive today (day four with no hot water), but the wrong ones were shipped. A different rep called and offered to exchange the unit for a new one. The expense to me will be $350-$450 for the plumber to uninstall my unit, take it to Lowes and bring the new one back to install. The plumber suggested I take my $450 and just buy a new non-Whirlpool unit. He knew immediately that I had a Whirlpool hot water heater because its the most common repaired vendor. Whirlpool should be covering this expense for re-installation of their inferior product. Poor customer service. Day 4 with no hot water during the holidays with no solution in sight short of me purchasing a new hot water heater. Whirlpool finally got the right parts to me and I paid a plumber $190 to install. One week to the day later, my pilot light will not stay lit. No change in ventilation since it has been installed. I will say I have been dealing with their rep Chris on the phone who is extremely nice and I feel sorry for him. But we all have the exact same issue which is not being resolved.
We purchased a Whirlpool hot water heater approximately 4-5 years ago and have had problems with the pilot staying lit. I contacted Whirlpool and their trouble shooting included doing a draft test (I am a teacher not a plumber) and removing the closet door that houses the unit. I am very frustrated by this entire ordeal and would like if they would replace the entire unit. At this point I dont want another Whirlpool product. The plumber made a service call at 12 noon and by 3:30 we had luke warm water and by 6:00 pm the water was ice cold! I will never recommend any Whirlpool products.
Purchased 9/23/2013 on 5/20/2014 no hot water. Called Whirlpool, unit has a 6 yr warranty. Brian advised me no one close to our area to service. He told me to contact a local plumber, they would pay for parts and $75.00 in labor. I attempted a couple of calls and could not find a plumber that was willing to come out and let us pay just the difference, after parts and $75.00 in labor and them bill Whirlpool for the remainder. They wanted between $225.00 and $300.00 plus parts. Lowes where we purchased the water heater told me to call Whirlpool back and get an RA# and they would be happy to exchange the water heater. I called Whirlpool and they (Leigh) refused but did say they would pay 200.00 in labor plus the cost of parts. The unit was only $231.23, but they would rather pay upwards of $300.00 than just let us get a new one. I asked Leigh if this made sense to her, she said it did. I guess Im just ignorant because it doesnt make sense to me. Whirlpool COULD NOT even find a plumber that would come out to our small town to do repairs under their OUTSTANDING WARRANTY. I have laughed at these people and cried over this whole situation. I can honestly say I will NEVER buy another Whirlpool product and will let everyone I know and even some I dont know (lol) how horrible this experience has been.
I recently purchased a new Whirlpool propane water heater. Dependable name, dependable product, years of trusted service, right?! We have bought many Whirlpool products over the years but never again. Got it home and installed it. It sounded like a plane taking off, and that was in the garage. Next came the lack of hot water. Mind you, we replaced a 40-gallon tank with a 40-gallon tank and the last one we had lasted 18 years without a problem.Well, same showers as usual, and we were turning up the heat mid-shower and again and again during the shower. Even turning up the heat on the water heater didnt relieve the problem. We are not happy with the product. And, no, there is nothing mechanically wrong with it; its just sub-par. Our water heater from 18 years ago worked more efficiently than this newer model. We called customer service, and we were told that unless there was something mechanically wrong with it, such as a defect, there was nothing we could do. There’s simply no recourse.Shame on Whirlpool for not making a quality product and standing behind it. This was a very expensive purchase - over $500.00. We thought we were buying a quality appliance. Very disappointed, and I will be returning it. I’m never buying another Whirlpool product again. I can only hope that the company we bought it from has a better customer service policy. Very frustrated and disappointed.
We purchased an energy efficient Whirlpool water heater on 10-20-2005. This water heater has been serviced at least if not more than three times. The computer box on the top has been replaced twice each time leaving my garage flooded. This time the water is running from the thermostat box again the garage is flooded. I called for service and the representative was very nice and understanding. He gave us the information to pick up a replacement heater. The complaint is the mess that it made. I have already filed a previous claim with my homeowners insurance for the damage. I would like to know why I have to file repeated claims with the risk of losing my homeowners insurance because of the repeated damage caused by Whirlpools obvious defective water heater? I would appreciate some resolution from Whirlpool for the damage this water heater has caused. The replacement heater is fine but I would ask that the to company consider some compensation of the water damage this heater has caused again.
I have a Whirlpool gas water heater that failed after only three years of operation. My previous water heater in the same spot lasted 18 years. The problem is a defective thermo coupler design that burns out if a filter you cant access isnt cleaned every three months.
I have recently installed a Whirlpool water heater and was thankfully home when I heard a pop sound and my water heater had exploded inside. The heating element also caught fire. I called customer service and was not satisfied with the response from their customer service team.
Whirlpool water heater FG1F5040T3NOV - I noticed that when I was taking a shower, my hot water wasnt working. I went downstairs and the pilot light on my water heater wasnt on. I tried to restart it. The pilot light wouldnt work or relight. I gave up and contacted a plumber. I dont feel I should have to pay for a plumber when its a product flaw!
I purchased an 80-gallon electric water heater in 2009 with a Lifetime warranty. When the unit failed in 2021, I was told that Whirlpool no longer manufactures an 80-gallon tank. I was provided an R/A# and was told that Lowes should honor it with a like-kind replacement unit. Lowes originally suggested I order an AO Smith Hybrid online, (at my expense), return my old tank, and they would reimburse my account. When I went back to confirm this offer, it was adjusted to a $200 credit (suggesting that was the value at the time of purchase). Later, Lowes again adjusted their offer to cover $650 toward a replacement 50-gallon tank with a 6-year warranty and 30-gallons less capacity. Other manufactures do produce 80-gallon tanks and Lowes does have AO Smith tanks available online only. I would have to pay the difference beyond the $650 offer.I purchased the original 80-gallon tank because I need the capacity and I assumed the Lifetime warranty would allow for an even trade if/when something went wrong. The proper solution would be for Whirlpool/Lowes to offer a replacement value for any comparable 80-gallon tank regardless of the manufacturer. Currently, similar tanks average $1300-1500. (Westinghouse w/ Lifetime warranty at Home Depot). Lowes should also be able to order the tank for in-store delivery as opposed to having me order online at my own expense. Meanwhile, the current tank is leaking and will soon be out of service...
I call them. Lowe's gave me #. Spoke to man there at CS. He took care of me. I was a Lowe's within 30 mins. Gave them PO. Home within 45 mins. Whirlpool you the best in Johnson city TN. You're just like Lowe's. I pay for Whirlpool because you make it. Thanks for all you do. The best. #1.
I purchased a 50-Gallon Electric Water heater in 2006, sure it lasted and worked well for quite a few years; however, in August 2014 my power bill started to rise dramatically, I live in Arizona and $300-$400 power bills are the norm in the summer months; however, a $700.00 bill will immediately be noticed. I contacted the power company and they sent a tech over who performed a lengthy diagnostic and determined that my water heater was running constantly thus accounting for the great increase in power, I contacted Whirlpool and received 2 heating elements (no charge) which my pricey plumber replaced.The problem still remained and I contacted Whirlpool again and again trying to get this issue resolved. I paid less than $400.00 for the heater installed and since Ive been having the issue Ive almost paid another $400.00 in labor costs trying to get a resolution. Ive decided to get another system and my only reason for posting this is to inform all that the Whirlpool heaters seem to be very problematic, like others Ive had plumbers decline my business when I inform them that I have a Whirlpool tank with the Energy Smart module.
This Whirlpool Water heater was purchased through Lowes on March 29, 2011. This past weekend, water started leaking out of the thermostat/natural gas control located on the side of the tank. I called a plumber to take a look. He stated that a new thermostat/natural gas control was needed. Although the tank has a 12 year warranty, this item does not. Whirlpool did agree to replace the part but would charge me $30 to overnight the item which still would have taken 4 days because of a weekend. To install the item would have cost me almost $500.00.To purchase a new Rheem Water heater was $999. I chose the second choice as the first choice would have still left me with a subpar water heater obviously already out of warranty. The reason for my review is that I saw the number of complaints on the failure of this part. When I purchased this water heater, it was the better model due to the 12 year tank warranty. What use is the tank warranty when the other items dont last? There should be some type of reimbursement but Im not holding my breath. Please buy a contractor grade water heater and not the cheaper models.
I bought three top of the line 40-gallon Whirlpool electric water heaters from Lowes three years ago. One of the three heaters has already developed a leak. I contacted Whirlpool only to find out that they wont do anything to diagnose the problem. I have to pay labor for someone to come out, diagnose the problem and then pay for the labor to either correct the problem or replace the water heater. By the time I pay the labor costs, I could almost buy a brand new unit.
I have had too many problems with the thermocouple beginning about two years after I purchased the water heater in 2003. Whirlpool keeps replacing the thermocouple, but I have to pay for the plumber to come out and repair the unit. This runs me about $180 each time. The thermocouple has burned out three times since September of this year. The plumber didnt charge me anything the second time it went out. But it went out for the 3rd time today and he recommended that I replace the unit. Of course, it is out of warranty and Whirlpool was happy to tell me that I could purchase a new thermocouple at my own expense from them. I have paid for this water heater three times over with repairs. Whirlpool knows that there is a defect with the design of the water heater. There is no way that a regular consumer can get inside the water heater to clean it. I will never purchase any Whirlpool products ever! I advise anyone reading this to follow suit.
Absolutely terrible product. Have had nothing but problems with it since I got it. After 4 months the pilot started going out every couple of days. Would have to vacuum the filter just to get it to light. They eventually sent me a screen to wrap around the bottom, that would only extend the interval to maybe a week instead of going out every few days. Now tonight it wont even relight! So tomorrow Im buying another heater and throwing this piece of junk out, a waste of $750.00 for two years of headaches. Dont, trust me. Dont buy this garbage of a water heater. And like others I bought it a Lowes, done with both of these stores!
Got a Whirlpool hot water heater 5 years ago has 9 year warranty. The threads on the nipple are rusted out and it’s leaking. It has rusted out so badly that it’s leaking. They are refusing to replace it saying it’s a plumbing issue even though the nipples that they installed are what’s leaking.
I just wanted to post a quick response to a problem that so many people are having with their Whirlpool FG1H5040T3NOV Hot Water Heater. The biggest problem is the Pilot Light Wont Stay Lit. Ive had this water heater for many years now (since 2005) and two days ago we didnt have any hot water. I checked the heater and found that the pilot light was out and that when I lit the pilot light with the igniter, it wouldnt stay light. This could have been a number of problems causing this issue but heres what I did to get it fixed. I looked around on the internet and saw that many people had this same problem and several years ago Whirlpool gave out warranty replacement upgrade kits to fix it. I called Whirlpool support, gave them my serial number and mentioned the upgraded kit. Unfortunately, my 9-year warranty expired a few months ago and I am no longer able to get the upgrade kit for free. Apparently this upgrade kit was part of a settlement for this water heater that was sold through Lowes. The upgrade kit has a few enhancements including an adapter to allow the use of a standard right hand threaded thermocouple as well as a larger pilot light window and added safety thermal switch. This is definitely an improvement over the old.Anyway, I looked at Lowes website for this upgrade kit and their description and internal part number is slightly different but it is the same thing as confirmed by Whirlpool. Whirlpools part number is 6910813 for the conversion kit. Lowes calls this part American Water Heater Company Gas Enhancement Kit 5040T NG. This kit is only $35 which isnt bad. So, I went to Lowes, purchased the kit. The instructions are included and are even good for a novice. It took me about an hour to complete the changeover. Youll need to remove the old burner and orifice to use them on the new kit. I then checked for gas leaks. I lit the pilot and when I turned on the heater, the burner lit right up. All is good now!
We bought the Whirlpool water heater and not long after, it quit heating. After many phone calls, we finally got a response and were told to get the replacement thermocouple. We did this and it was the wrong part. We found out that we had to have a right hand thread thermocouple. Now, the heater is out of warranty and we cannot keep it lit at all. It takes at least 3-4 times before it will light once and then it goes out every time the hot water is used.
Warning: Whirlpool water heaters are junk! Spent $553.00 for a high quality ( lmao ) water heater that had a 6 year warranty. Started leaking internally and rusted through, then rusted a hole in the bottom. 6 years and 3 months later they said you are S.O.L. Leak occurred well over 3 months ago, but they said it has to be reported before the 6 years. Do not waist your money on this junk!
I bought 40 gallon gas water heater in June 2004 and had to have it worked on twice, costing more than I paid for it. I am replacing it now because pilot light will not stay on, and it is currently out of warranty, and I have no faith that simple repair will hold more than 1 year stint. Customer service was attentive but product itself failed to meet expectations.
Late on the evening of Monday, January 27, 2014, after springing a leak in my 8-year-old water heater, I purchased a new Whirlpool model N50T61 replacement from Lowes. Installation went smoothly and the unit lit off fine the first time. It heated the initial tank of water rather quickly, but the next morning, I noticed the status light on the control unit was not blinking, which indicated the pilot light had gone out. I relit the pilot light, the water heater fired off and appeared to be working properly. 12 hours later, the status light was out again. I relit the pilot, but within 20 minutes, it went out again.On Wednesday, the 29th, I called Whirlpool customer service and explained to the representative what had been happening. He stated that since the status light was not blinking a code, the problem was either an air supply or venting problem, and he couldnt help me. I relit the water heater again and performed the match smoke test described in the owners manual on the vent connection. It did exactly what the manual said it should do, so I assumed that was not the problem. However, while performing this test, the water heater went out again. This time, being right there when it shut off, I saw the status light blink twice about 5 or 6 times before it quit blinking all together. The two blink error code indicated low millivolt signal from thermopile.I called customer service again and explained to the representative what the first person had told me and also told him the results of my test and that this time, I had observed the two blink error code. He asked if I had a multimeter (which I do), so he had me disconnect the wires for the thermopile, connect the meter to the wires, light the pilot and read the voltage. My meter is an old analog unit, and not capable of reading millivolts (which is what the thermopile output is), and I informed the rep of this, but he had me do it anyway. As I suspected, I saw absolutely no reading on the meter. The service rep stated that he believed the error code and decided to send me a new thermopile assembly. However, their shipping department was closed for the day and I should not expect to see the new part until Friday. This was unacceptable, but he stated that this was the only option available to me.After thinking about this situation for a while, I again called Whirlpool customer service and told the representative that I was not satisfied with the solution previously presented to me and that I wanted a return authorization to take the water heater back to Lowes for replacement. The rep stated he couldnt do that, but said that there were a couple other things I could try. He attempted to explain these procedures to me, but wasnt able to do so clearly. He stated he would email the instructions to me. As of this writing, I still have not received the instructions.In the meantime, I did some internet research and found that Whirlpool water heaters have numerous chronic problems, including the issues I was experiencing. I decided this was not a product I cared to own. I called the Lowes store where I purchased the water heater and spoke with the manager. I explained the entire sequence of events to him, and he told me to bring the water heater back for a full refund. Since my local Lowes store only sells the Whirlpool brand, I took the money and purchased a different brand of water heater from another home improvement store. Needless to say, it will be a cold day in hell before I ever purchase another Whirlpool product.
Water heater was defective from the factory with a pinched wire between the thermostats. After replacing everything on the heater Whirlpool would not reimburse any parts or labor for the unit... Whirlpool is dead to me now, and forever and I love to tell my story to prospective buyers of their products!!! So far, to date I have cost them about 14 sales of major appliances (and still counting!!!). After reading some reviews… Im (sorry, I omitted the personal insults) in respect of your review guidelines.
I have had to replace my Whirlpool 50-gallon hot water heater 2 times. First time it broke, it caused thousands of dollars’ worth of damages plus Im out a $760.00 deductible. I had the last one just over 1 month and couldnt exchange it at Lowe’s because it’s a few days over a month. So I had to get return authorization before I could return it again. I went through speaking to a hateful CSR. After calling back again, the lady, a real nice lady, helped me. I will never buy another Whirlpool product again, and if anyone is smart, they will stay away from them too. Hateful, hateful CSR. Beware.
I replaced a 15 -year-old propane water heater with an electric on 02/01/14, due to the high propane prices, $6 a gallon, and because I felt the heater should be replaced. After installing the electric water heater I filled with water purged all the air out, powered it up, went thru diagnostics and heated water to 120. After an hour I turned on the hot water at the kitchen faucet, hot water was there but not for long, water got cold,.I troubleshot the problem back to the anti-scald valve installed 15 years ago when I had a professional install the first tank. By placing my hand on the hot water line coming out of the tank, I found the water was indeed hot before the anti-scald valve, after the valve the water was cold indicating to me the valve was not functioning properly. I went to Lowes bought the parts to bypass and removed the valve, went home and in another hour had the problem solved! I wondered why I had to turn the temp upon the old heater to get hot water! I am very happy with my electric water heater, not only did Lowes have the last one in stock, it was on sale $100 off regular price, it is a digital controller type with water temperature setting on the front. I checked the temp at the water faucet in the kitchen. I had it set to 120, the water temp out was 119.8 on my digital thermometer. Water was too hot so I lowered it to 110, perfect temp for a hot shower. Even if the thing uses more electric than it should I still save because the fact of propane is so high I couldnt see spending $600 for 28 days of propane, versus $400 on a new electric water heater. I would rather pay a higher electric bill than feel I am getting ripped off with the propane dealers! Also there is absolutely no residual heat loss. This is well insulated even comes with pipe insulation!
Purchased gas water heater from Lowes in 2012. Had no problems until July 2018. Its under warranty but have had to replace the control valve completely and the burner 5 times and it still is not fixed. Dont waste your money. Buy something else.
The heater was bought in March of this yr, 2013! Already, it quit working! Error message... we got the replacement part after much hassle! It was replaced and still doesnt work! Its going on day 11! I am furious! The unit needs to be replaced and I get, Well, you have to pay for labor, etc. You have got to be kidding me! It has been in my house for 3 months! I will call the media, our local guy who investigates, if this is not replaced asap! I already know I will never buy anything Whirlpool and will tell everyone on my media not to either!
Hot water heater model #0833T402747 purchased late 2008 - Several service calls had to be made to a plumber, due to this unit not working. The door assembly was shipped to me by Whirlpool. I had to pay again for the plumber to install this part. Hes been here 3-4 times since I bought the unit. Last Wednesday, May 2, 2012, no hot water again. The same plumber came out and said the door assembly had again gone bad. Whirlpool was contacted on Thursday morning and would not agree to do anything. They were given my plumbers name and number and I never heard back from them. I contacted Lowes in Acworth, GA and they agreed to replace the hot water heater. So now Im forced to pay for another install. I requested that Whirlpool pay this expense, and their representative, **, said no. I intend to sue them for all monies spent on this lemon and due to this lemon, I will never buy another Whirlpool product of any kind. I have told family and friends and theyve agreed that due to the bad product and worse customer service, they will also stay away from purchasing anything made by this company. Whirlpool certainly wont be hurt by me and me alone. But Ill make sure that anyone I run into at Lowes or anywhere else is even looking at a Whirlpool product will get an earful from me. This is the type of customer service that consumers dont have to put up with anymore. There are many resources on the internet to get the word out and I intend to spend a great deal of my time doing just that.
Note that most of the complaints are about gas water heaters, but the electric water heaters dont seem to be much better. Mine, barely made 4 yrs old and both elements and thermostat went. Had plumbers in for estimates in to repair - much cheaper to install a new one (No...not a Whirlpool!). Very disappointed in the product.
I replaced my hot water heater after 22 years and no problems. We got a 50 gal. gas heater from Lowe’s in 6/2008. In 1/2012, we had no pilot light and an alarm on high temp sensor. Whirlpool sent a new sensor and control valve to replace the bad unit. Here we go again, on 3/2013 - same parts same problems. We now have the cost again to have the parts installed for the second time. I have spent 1/2 the cost to have the parts put in than the cost for the heater. I will never pay for any Whirlpool product again. They are plain junk!
Purchased a Whirlpool hot water tank from Lowes 5/12 and have had NOTHING but problems with it since day 2. The tank I replaced was around 20 years old, never a drip, never a problem, it just finally rusted through.. Well this piece of JUNK I had installed is just that JUNK.. I have been in contact with this company many times, they ALWAYS have a new story. I replaced my old thermal expansion tank 3 months after buying this JUNK because I was told it could be that. Well that didnt fix anything and cost me $60.00, then it was pressure relief valve, ok, another $20.00, nope not that. Well back on the phone and emailing this company, now they tell me I am not vented correctly, because with all the repairs being done on this tank, my Son noticed the top plastic pieces melting. Well back on the phone I go, and of course Whirlpool tells me, its me again.. Had piles going into my chimney replaced, no help, replaced thermal expansion tank again, no help, replaced pressure relief valve, no help. So sick of cleaning up water I want to throw up. Well I now know why they say, do not return to store where you purchased it, because it is bad business to have Lowes parking lot, looking like a Whirlpool graveyard for their product. .
I bought new hot water heater. I installed it did and it did not work. I called them, and they sent a new part. A service man installed it, and it still did not work - he was unable to get it working. They said my gas supply line 1/2 od was too small. I had it replaced to 5/8 od 1/2id, and it still did not work. I called them again. They offered to send more parts and try again. This is a brand new water heater, never fired. I asked if they would give me a ra number so I could return it to the store. He would not give it to me. He insisted he send some one out to try to repair it. Meanwhile I have had no hot water for 2 days. He told me do what I have to do and hung up on me. So I removed the heater and took it back to Lowes, where they were glad to give my money back. But still, I lost a day of work and paid the gas yo bring it back. I went to home depot bought a GE hot water heater. I had it installed in about 15 minutes and it is working fine.
In October 2009, I purchased a Whirlpool Energy smart gas water heater with flame lock safety system.$509.00 I had it installed on 5/4/2009 by Westmoreland Affordable Plumbing, $218.00. On 10/15 called Whirlpool stating that the upper thermistor was coding as a failure. They sent me another one to replace it on 10/19/2009. On 10/19/2009, 1 and 1/2 hours later, the tank was coding a bad gas valve, called back and told Whirlpool what had happened and that I smelled gas. I shut off the gas to the water heater and waited for a valve replacement to arrive. On 10/21/2009 I had E.H. Plumbing to install the new gas valve to the water heater, $150.00. On 10/28/2009 the new gas valve went bad. I contacted Whirlpool and argued with them until I had them replace the hot water tank. With their approval I went to Lowes and tried to get the same water tank but they no longer sold that model anymore. I was given their equivalent to the one I had purchased earlier. I had it installed on 10/29/2009, $150.00. I now see a class action suit was filed against Whirlpool for the model in 2008. They were still selling this model after the lawsuit???? I spent $1027.00 for a $509 hot water tank and a lot a days without any hot water. I have all my receipts and returned codes for this transaction. Is it possible to get my $300.00 back (for two extra installations) as a result of this problem? I also kept the old gas valve thermostat.
Our water heater pilot light has started to randomly shut off leaving us with cold water to shower in on numerous occasions. We hired a local appliance company that we are familiar with to come out and look at it. The tech thought that replacing a part would fix it. It didnt (which I will take up with them). After doing what Whirlpool asked us to do it still is not working. I called them back to warranty the tank and the rep keeps repeating it is a limited warranty so basically I have to pay the service call and labor charges to look at, repair or replace which is going to cost nearly as much as it will to just buy a new one.
I am having problems with my Whirlpool Water Heater. The pilot light goes off often and now it wont stay lit at all. I checked the thermocouple and measured the voltage, it is 19+ mV. So according to the manual, the gas valve/thermostat must have gone bad. I called the company and they gave me a name of the contractor but asked me to pay for the labor cost. This is a 50 gallon, 12-year rated heater bought from Lows in 2008. The heaters model number is BFG1J5040T3NOV. This thing has some serious quality issues.
I bought a 40 gal. Whirlpool water heater from Lowes. It was just outside the 6-year warranty when the pilot light went out and wont relight. I called Whirlpool. They are about as worthless as box of rocks. They refuse to replace the thermocoupling free of charge or at least no shipping charge, when they know in fact there is a problem. It was because no class action lawsuit was filed. Its too bad for the customers. I wished they would have just said: “lady, please take your business somewhere else.” It would have made things easier. Or, better yet, they should just put a sign on their water heaters in the store stating: “If you have problems with our product, sorry about your luck. ** you and have a nice day.”
I just bought a Whirlpool 50-gallon water heater from Lowes because my old one took a turn for the worse. I brought it home, installed it just as the directions said, and immediately got an FVS fault detected code as soon as I plugged it in and tried to ignite it. This is by far the worst experience I have ever had with an appliance. And wouldnt you know it whirlpool service center is closed on weekends. What an absolute piece of trash. Im draining it and taking it back ASAP. Lowes and Whirlpool just lost my business for good.
My 3 year old water heater failed and the service line would send us the part but the install was my responsibility. Shipping was free but would take 3-5 BUSINESS days. Whole has a week to wait with no hot water, $35 for expedited shipping (which took 2 days), $175 for the plumber (authorized by Lowes (1star also) for installs). 2 days later the unit is cold again... Plumber comes back, plays with wiring and gets it fired up again. Says if there is a problem again to refer the techs to the plumbers office for new tank. Well now Whirlpool says they will only take the word of their own plumber AUTHORIZED HEATING 24 hours wait for a service call. You will be the 1st job Wednesday morning. Wednesday 930 call from AH we are backed up. Hope to be there between 1 and 4 pm. How did you get backed up if I was 1st job? Never again will I buy Whirlpool and nothing from Lowes as well. Still no hot water day 3 second time in 2 months.
I was having trouble with our Whirlpool water heater and thought that wed have to shell out and buy a whole new one. Chris saw my complaint and helped me find the right replacement kit at a minimal cost, as my unit was out of warranty. He even took the extra step and overnighted the parts for us at no extra cost. I was extremely impressed with Chris professionalism and customer support skills.
Whirlpool Energy Smart Residential Electric Water Heater - On top of this water heater is a junction box. If it goes out, so does the water heater. I am on my fourth junction box, at my expense on three of them plus the electricians bill times two. They finally sent me one free!
I had water heater EE3Z50RD0550V installed on 11/3/11 and it started leaking July 29, 2013. Whirlpool gave me Return authorization # and said I have to return the water heater to Lowes (purchase place and original installer) to get a new one. Fortunately, Lowes said I only have to bring them the RA # and they will swap out the water heater. However, there is a $300 charge for installation. Whirlpool says they only cover this the 1st year, except when its a manufacturer defect. But they cant tell me how to prove its a manufacturer defect. Why else would a glass lined water heater start leaking only 21 months after installation?
Do not buy whirlpool water heater!!! It will only last 3 years.
Talked to tech & checked the manual for testing the thermocouple on my natural gas water heater. Everything checked out fine but pilot wouldnt stay lit. Tested thermal switch.... everything. They said replace the valve/thermostat. Still no dice. Turns out the thermocouple was cracked on the inside near the burner assembly & would give passing readings on the voltmeter 9 out of 10 times. If you have any pilot problems, replace the thermocouple first. Was only 10 bucks. I keep a spare now. Dont forget to vacuum any dust from the fine mesh screen on the very bottom. Fresh air supply.
Two water heaters three yrs old that went kaput. Thankfully, they are under warranty. However, the tech that I called out said that his company doesnt work on Whirlpool because they are junky and they try to blame the tech if something doesnt work. I called to get new part, and of course now, I get to pay for labor. The lady on the phone actually suggested that I hire an electrician and replace a breaker instead of receiving parts for Whirlpool. Unbelievable. Needless to say, I echo all of the same concerns as the other posts. Im done with Whirlpool.
Purchased a new Whirlpool water heater from Lowes. Two days into the reset switch kept tripping, Whirlpool wanted me to wait for someone to repair it. Lowes exchanged it for me. When I called Whirlpool service myself, Jessie was in technical support could have careless about my business and was dismissive about any issues or concerns I was having. This will be my last Whirlpool product ever.
Be very careful when you buy this heater. It will go bad within a short time, and you wont have any hot water heater. You call Lowes, they wont take it back, they will tell you to call Whirlpool who may send you a part or send someone to fix it. No hot water for many days. Again, after a short time, it will stop working and by the time you get it fixed, again no hot water for a long time. This is the pattern with this piece of garbage. So you get disgusted, rip the thing apart and take it to Lowes for a refund.. Sorry Dude, they wont take it...it is stated in their receipt or on the literature that came with the heater. Your best bet... put a bunch of dents in the heater and tell them it was damaged when you opened it... Lowes will be obligated to refund the money. With so many complaints on Consumer Affairs and other web sites, why is Lowes still selling this heater and no other brand??? Maybe Superbowl tickets or a trip to Hawaii for the buyers...who knows...but one thing for sure, since Whirlpool does not respond to these complaints, I will guarantee you that their other products will suffer in sales because, I for one, will not buy another Whirlpool product.
I purchased a Whirlpool electric water heater from Lowe’s in 2007. It lasted 2 years until a faulty weld on the tank started leaking and flooded my basement. Whirlpool did replace it. However, my second water heater did the same exact thing in a different location on the tank after 2 1/2 years. It also flooded my basement.I am now on my third Whirlpool water heater in 5 years and the one I have now has a bad thermistor. It has cost me about $225 each time the water heater has been replaced. In my opinion, these Whirlpool water heaters are junk and their quality control needs to get out of the break room and start doing their job. Never will I purchase another Whirlpool appliance.
Bought a propane hot water heater and 2 years after buying it pilot wouldnt light. Had to buy a conversion kit because they didnt make the part anymore. Now had to buy a gas valve and it didnt work so went to Lockes and bought a new water heater and now they wont refund my money for the part $300.00 with shipping. They said they could only replace it. Well I dont need it now because I bought a better product. Whirlpool is junk and you have to buy the parts from them and RIP you off. Way to take care of your customers Whirlpool. Buy something else with your money.
Bought a brand new 40 gal water heater from Lowes. Installed it and it worked fine. Next day no hot water... After doing all the tests with tech support. This smart mouthed CSR explained to me how her uncle is a master plumber and she knows what shes talking about. Still couldnt tell me what was causing it to not work. Other than the reset being tripped. I have had good luck with Whirlpool products. But customer service has always been poor.
I purchased a rental home with a Whirlpool hot water heater. In the home inspection, it was deemed to be in good working order. The first day the tenant moved in, I received 3 service calls for no hot water. My contractor told me I needed to replace the start up assembly and it needed to be ordered from Whirlpool directly, as it is not available in stores. When I contacted Whirlpool Customer Service, the operator, Stacey, was rude and unhelpful. She told me that the warranty was void because I was not the original owner, even though it does not state that the warranty is not transferable. She also told me she could not help me order a replacement part without the item number.
Water heater failed to maintain temperature. ** heads (more than 2) sent out by Whirlpool couldnt fix it! Calling the company was a waste of time! They run you in circles. Will never waste my money on a Whirlpool product again!!!! This was not my first problem with this company, but it is my last!
We purchased a Whirlpool water heater at Lowes for $1100.00. Four years later it isnt working. There are no parts to fix it available at any store in Dallas, TX. We had to call the company. They made us pay the overnight shipping fee for the part. Then the part didnt show up. When we called to find out why isnt the part at my house, they said they found out FedEx doesnt deliver on Saturdays. No one ever called to notify us of this, instead the response was that they would use it as a coaching lesson for not notify the customer. We have now been without hot water in the middle of winter for 5 days. We have no idea when the part will arrive and if it will even fix my defective water heater. We will never buy another Whirlpool product and I strongly encourage anyone who reads this to not buy Whirlpool. They dont stand by their product and have horrible customer service.
After proudly bringing home a new Whirlpool gas hot water heater NU40T61-403 day 2 no hot water. Wait 10 min and reset. This became a 3 times a week habit and now it will not relight. The repairman they sent out wanted us to rebuild our house to conform to code. Our old heater worked fine in this location. After talking to their tech, they sent us new parts overnight. Still cannot get this thing to light. All we want is hot water!!! Calls to the tech line end one way, it has to be your fault. I worked for The Gas Company!
After years, the gas hot water heater model fg1f5040t3nov went out. The plumber had me get a new part. 2-3 weeks ago, it went out again. I am trying another new igniter assembly. If it goes again, Im getting a new heater - not a Whirlpool! My plumber says he can get me a new one for a little more than I spent on the Whirlpool, and its much more dependable.
I bought my Whirlpool 50-gallon gas water heater from Lowe’s 10 years ago. After the first year, it was nothing but problem. The thermocouple was replaced so many times and there’s the inconvenience of not having hot water. Customer service sucks and they continue to send you to Lowe’s to pick up the part for free. I have 2 more years on the warranty and Im replacing it after its over! 3 days ago my water heater stopped working and now again I will replace the thermocouple. Dont buy Whirlpool products: they are junk!
I filed a complaint late Oct. 4, 2011 about a problem I was having with one of my Whirlpool water heaters. Chris from Whirlpool emailed and phoned me twice within 12 hours! He was courteous and very helpful. He shipped the parts that I needed overnight. They came in this evening, I installed them and everything is working great! Thanks to Whirlpool and Chris, we now have hot water!
Electric hot water heater model E40H6-45-100 - Purchased at Lowes. Husband installed, tank filled, no hot water coming through house lines. Called support center several times after trying each recommendation that did not work. They kept saying it was a plumbing problem. My husband is very smart when it comes to electrical and plumbing. He has done numerous repairs to our homes over the last 30 years we have been married. He knows what he is talking about and told the support tech that he believed it was a faulty water heater. She immediately said the units are all tested before they leave the factory. The final step was to remove the nipple that the hot water flows through out of the tank and remove the two black bellows. Now my husband can see directly through the piece but also decides to put his finger through the the open whole on the top of the tank and cannot get his finger through - it is blocked. He gets a flashlight and a screw driver. Puts the screw driver through a thin plate that was blocking where the water should be coming through. He can now actually see the water in the tank. This was the whole problem! So they could not have tested this tank. They did give us a ref number to take parts back to store to replace parts we already bought and cannot use. Its the time and energy on whats suppose to be an easy job that counts. Will not recommend Whirlpool products to anyone and probably will not purchase any in the future. Ours was not as bad as most of the other reviews I read but wanted to advise others who may think about what brand to purchase.
I bought a Whirlpool water heater 5 years ago and after one year I had to replace the thermocouple every 3 months. Each time I call to complain, they would just send me a new thermocouple. I asked them several times to replace the item and they refused and just continued to send me replacement parts and refuse to honor their warranty. The water heater had some type of defect, but they still refuse to replace the item and did admit on the phone they have records of several parts that they sent.
I Purchased 9 year warranty, Whirlpool water heater and installed it. Started having problems in the first month. It started giving a water temp too high error code, yet water was barely warm. Called Whirlpool. They had me do a bunch of diagnostic checks. Determined it was a bad control module. Sent me a new one. I installed it. Within a week or two, same problem. Called Whirlpool. This time they sent a Tech out. Everything on water heater tested normal, nothing wrong with any part. The tech finally, found a TSB that indicated that you couldnt have any re-circulating valves or systems connected to the water heater. We had one to keep hot water at the taps. So I removed the re-circulating kit and water heater worked for a few months. Then same problems, it keeps going into error. Error code indicates water temp too high, but water is barely warm to cold. Call whirlpool several times, they send out another control module and heating elements and I replace them. All work temporarily. Finally replace control module again, and it works for several months. Then back to error codes. Not always the same code. Sometimes it is water temp too high, other times it is check one of the heating elements. We have lived with it like that for about 3 years. We get hot water by resetting the water heater several times a day. Well, about 3 months ago it started tripping the circuit breaker in the electrical panel. I called Whirlpool and explained what has been going on since I bought their piece of junk. They will not do anything unless I call and pay for a service tech to come diagnose and repair the problem. They will provide the parts for the repair. I am not a certified appliance repairman, but I do handy man repair work for a living and do appliance repairs quite regularly. I am capable of doing every test that the repairman will do, but Whirlpool insists that I pay to get their defective product repaired. Then if I have problems again in a couple of months, I will have to pay a service tech again. I have friend that had this same water heater. I replaced the control module on his once. I was telling him about my woes and he told me he got fed up with all the problems and ate the cost and got a new water heater, not a Whirlpool. I am going to call Whirlpool one more time and then I am sure I am going to do what my friend did and put the money I would spend on a service tech into a new water heater. It will not be a Whirlfool.
Problem resolved - This is an update to my previous complaint... The repair man arrived this morning and after resetting the thermostat, the water heater started up again. He explained to me that these new water heaters are super sensitive because of the new designs and systems that are required by the State of California. He said that all brands have to have the same system. He said that the new water heaters dont breathe as well as the old ones. In our case, he suspected that after being installed, there were probably some air bubbles in the pipes which tricked the computer into telling it that there was not enough ventilation, when in fact our ventilation was fine, but that triggered a total shut down! In my previous written complaint, I was really upset because I have not had a shower in 3 days and thought this problem water heater would not be fixed until next week. I was furious! My understanding is that basically the way the new water heaters are designed is not very well and there is nothing we can do because about it they are all the same, unless we want to go to a tankless water heater system which plumbing included would cost $4000.00... so we are stuck and hope this will not happen again!
Two years ago, I bought two Whirlpool Water Heaters. Like the others who have posted, after one year the first one went out. Last night the second one went out. I just wish that I had read the prior reviews before I bought these replacement water heaters. I also had to navigate a very unfriendly customer experience, first with Whirlpool and then the manufacturer. After that I had to wait a week to get a repair person out only to have to order the part and then be asked to pay for it and the express shipping. Totally amazing! I have decided to buy new water heaters next quarter because I just cannot put up with either the aggravation or the expense of constant repairs. I will returning these two water heaters to Lowes, where they were purchased. Perhaps if enough of us return them, Lowes will decide its not worth damaging their brand to sell a known inferior product. When this many people complain about a product and they all have the same experience its a lack of quality, plain and simple. And I would think that Lowes would not want to go on supporting a known inferior product when even Whirlpool is lukewarm in their response to our complaints.
Water heater model N40t61-343 - Why does a water heater fail after 4 years when there is a warranty for 6 years? Is this water heater an omen for Whirlpool? I have a wife who is terminal and I trusted the Whirlpool name for hot water. What are Whirlpool going to do about this water heater?
My family has been without hot water for two weeks. We have the same water heater, we have been to Lowes where we were told the recalled parts were no longer available, unless we wanted to drive 3 1/2 hours to Arkansas to get it. Whirlpool wants to give me a free part for $36.00 worth of shipping and handling! All the local suppliers say I have to go through Lowes, or the manufacturer. I dont want to give whirlpool another dime. This has been a fiasco. How much more can a company disrespect their customer, than to make us pay for a faulty product replacement? It is unacceptable. This is ridiculous. It is December, and I have a family of 7, including a child in a wheelchair.
I purchased a Whirlpool gas water heater for one of my properties that developed an issue outside of the warranty period. My initial CS complaint is with Whirlpools IVR system, which was far less than a desirable experience. After tricking the system, a CS agent answered promptly but was not able to address my concerns. I asked to speak to a supervisor and received a return call from Chris within minutes. I found Chris to be patient and understanding of my issues. Chris promptly assisted me with my issues and offered an equitable resolution. Chris is whats right with American companies and domestic customer support.