Does ‘SUD’ keep popping up on your Whirlpool washer display? This error code indicates an excess of soap suds that prevents proper rinsing. Too many bubbles wreak havoc in high-efficiency machines that use less water.
The good news is that the SUD error code nearly always stems from simple issues like too much detergent, clogged drains, or dispenser problems. This guide walks through key reasons for oversudsing and provides a step-by-step process to tackle each one.
Learn what causes annoying suds overload, from using the wrong detergent to overstuffing the washer. Then follow straightforward troubleshooting tips to get your washer bubble-free and cleaned properly again.
What Exactly is the SUD Error Code?
When you see SUD pop up on your washing machine, it stands for “suds.” This simply means there is too much soap and foam building up during the wash cycle.
- SUD indicates excessive foaming or sudsing. That’s a fancy way of saying too many bubbles.
- Why does this matter? HE washers use less water. Unlike old machines that filled up with gallons of water, today’s washers use just enough to get your clothes clean and rinsed.
- Too many suds make it hard for your washer to rinse properly. All those bubbles interfere with the small amount of water HE machines rely on.
That makes sense, right? But what causes the dreaded Super Sudsy SUD code?
Key Causes of the SUD Error Code
- Too much detergent – It’s easy to accidentally add an extra scoop or use a non-HE formula that creates a mountain of froth.
- Overstuffing – Jam packing clothes can lead to detergent buildup and bubbles that just won’t burst.
- Drain issues – A problem with the drain system can trap water and suds inside, growing more foam with each cycle.
Now that you know why SUD happens, let’s walk through how to troubleshoot step-by-step.
Step-by-Step Guide to Troubleshooting the SUD Error Code
Let’s go through this process step-by-step to clear the suds and get your washer clean again! We’ll start with some easy checks before moving on to a bit more work.
1. Verify Detergent Type and Amount
Let’s first check what kind of detergent you’re using. High-efficiency (HE) washers need HE detergent, which makes fewer suds. Is your detergent made for HE washers?
It’s also important to use the right amount of detergent. Too much detergent can cause too many suds and give you problems. How do you know the right amount? Check the detergent bottle and your washer manual. They will say exactly how much to use for each load.
Are you using more detergent than it says? Trying using a smaller amount and see if your washer works better. The smaller amount might be just enough to clean your clothes well without too many suds.
2. Run a Rinse Cycle
If you think there are too many suds, run a rinse cycle without any soap. Your washer should have a button for “Rinse & Spin” that does this. Select that button and run it without adding any detergent. This will rinse out leftover suds that could be causing trouble.
3. Check the Drain System
Problems with drains can cause suds to build up inside. Take a look at the drain hose – is it pinched or kinky in spots? That could slow down drainage.
You’ll also want to clean the drain filter, which catches small stuff that can clog it. Look inside your washer near where the drain hose attaches. There may be a small filter you unscrew and rinse clean.
Also, check that the drain pump is working to suck water out as it should. A broken pump will let water sit inside with suds.
4. Inspect the Pressure Switch
The pressure switch helps the washer know how full it is with water. Check that the pressure switch hose is tight and not leaking anywhere. The pressure switch has to hook up right, or the washer won’t work properly.
If the pressure switch continues having issues, it may need replacing to fix the problem. Your friendly appliance repair person can help with that.
5. Check Water Connections
Make sure the hoses bringing water into the washer don’t have cracks or leaks that could add too much water. Also, look inside where the hoses attach for built-up gunk that blocks flow. Clear any blockages you find.
6. Test the Dispenser
The dispenser drops detergent and softener at just the right times. Check it releases properly without any jams. Take the dispenser drawer out and look inside the slots. Are there any clumps or stuck detergent?
Lubricate squeaky parts so the dispenser motor can turn smoothly. You can also manually spin the dispenser to check it cycles through like it should. A multimeter helps check wires and switches too.
Run a test load with normal detergent amount after cleaning the dispenser. That will prove it’s releasing detergent at the right time again.
7. Recheck with Less Detergent
Give your washer another try with a smaller amount of HE detergent after fixing problems. Stick to the amount listed on the detergent bottle or manual. Maybe a smaller amount will clean well without too many suds now.
8. Replace Control Unit
As a last resort, the control unit inside may need replacing if nothing else works. appliance repair experts can swap it out for you. A new control unit may solve persistent suds error messages.
Getting Your Washer Back on Track
When it comes to the SUD error code, the prognosis is good. While excessive suds may temporarily stop your washer, the problem usually lies with something basic like:
- Using too much detergent
- Forgetting to use HE detergent
- A clog in the drain system
Rather than a complex electronics failure, the SUD error code almost always stems from one of these common causes.
Busting Suds
- Focus first on your detergent type and amount. Using too much or non-HE detergent tops the list for causing extreme suds.
- Try running a rinse cycle with no detergent added. This helps flush out excess suds.
- Check your water connections and drain system for clogs that could leave water and suds lingering.
- Make sure the dispenser is functioning properly, and that detergent is dispensing at the right time.
Methodically troubleshooting these areas will reveal the true suds culprit.
| Issue | Fix |
| Too much detergent | Reduce the amount to match the manual |
| Non-HE detergent | Switch to the HE formula |
| Drain clog | Clear debris from drain & hoses |
| Dispenser malfunction | Clean, lubricate, and test |
Once you’ve identified and fixed the specific issue leading to oversudsing, run a test cycle with a reduced HE detergent amount. Confirm your washer now operates and rinses properly without excess bubbles interfering.
While frustrating at the moment, be assured the SUD error code is relatively quick to diagnose and resolve. With the problem solved, your washer will be back to providing clean, sud-free cycles in no time!