FixByModel
uL

Whirlpool uL: Unbalanced load during spin

uL means the load is not evenly distributed in the basket when spinning begins, so the washer pauses spin to avoid excessive shaking and noise. It usually clears with a quick load redistribution.

DIY fix

By the FixByModel editorial team · Verified 2026-09 · Researched against manufacturer support & repair references (below)

Most likely causes

  1. Load bunched to one side of the basket
  2. A single heavy item such as a comforter or rug
  3. Overloaded drum
  4. Washer not sitting level on the floor
  5. Worn suspension rods or shock absorbers (persistent cases)
Before you start — unplug the appliance and turn off the water supply. You'll be working near water and electrical parts, and drained water can be hot. If a step involves the pump, wiring, or opening the cabinet and you're unsure, stop and call a qualified technician.

Step-by-step fix

1Redistribute the loadOpen the lid, spread the laundry evenly around the basket, close the lid and press START to resume the spin.
2Balance heavy itemsWash bulky single items with a few smaller pieces, and avoid overfilling past the top row of holes.
3Drain and restartIf water remains, run a drain cycle, then rearrange or remove some items before starting again.
4Level the washerCheck with a level across the top and adjust the leveling feet until the cabinet no longer rocks.
5Service if persistentIf a properly loaded, level machine keeps posting uL, worn suspension rods or shocks may need a technician.

Still showing uL?

If you’ve worked through every step and uL keeps returning, an internal part likely needs testing and replacement. That’s a job for a qualified appliance technician, who can measure the suspect part against the service-manual spec before replacing it.

Which models this applies to

Whirlpool washing machines. Top-load HE Whirlpool washers (e.g. Cabrio) using the letter code format.

FAQ

What does Whirlpool uL mean?

Unbalanced load during spin. uL means the load is not evenly distributed in the basket when spinning begins, so the washer pauses spin to avoid excessive shaking and noise. It usually clears with a quick load redistribution.

What causes Whirlpool uL?

The most likely cause is load bunched to one side of the basket. Other causes include A single heavy item such as a comforter or rug; Overloaded drum; Washer not sitting level on the floor; Worn suspension rods or shock absorbers (persistent cases).

Can I fix Whirlpool uL myself?

Usually yes. Start by working through the steps above, beginning with: open the lid, spread the laundry evenly around the basket, close the lid and press start to resume the spin.