Whirlpool Duet steam front-load washer Error Code rL: Meaning & How to Fix It

By the ErrorCodePro Editorial Team · Last reviewed October 20, 2026

Whirlpool Duet steam front-load washer error code rL means: Load inside the washer during the Clean Washer cycle. The spin bearing is a component of the outer tub and isn't available as a separate part. [1] Keep using it? Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair. Start with the owner checks below, beginning with: write down the code and model number.

Source: Whirlpool Duet steam front-load washer error-code chart, via Sears PartsDirect [1].

Quick facts

Code	rL
Also shown as	F34
Brand / appliance	Whirlpool Duet steam front-load washer
System	Control / electronics
Meaning (service chart)	Load inside the washer during the Clean Washer cycle. The spin bearing is a component of the outer tub and isn't available as a separate part. [1]
Keep using it?	Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair
DIY-safe?	Owner checks only (listed below)
Support	Whirlpool: 1-866-698-2538
Source document	Whirlpool Duet steam front-load washer error-code chart (via Sears PartsDirect)

On this page: Meaning · Steps · Parts · When to call a technician · Related codes · FAQ

What error code rL means on a Whirlpool Duet steam front-load washer

Load inside the washer during the Clean Washer cycle. The spin bearing is a component of the outer tub and isn't available as a separate part. [1]

This is a control / electronics code. Codes and wording can vary by model, so check your owner's manual for your model number.

How to fix Whirlpool Duet steam front-load washer error code rL (safe owner checks)

Safety first: disconnect power before you remove any panel or reach into the sump or drum. Do not touch wiring, the control board or the motor. If you see water near electrical parts, stop and call a technician. These steps are based on the Whirlpool Duet steam front-load washer error-code chart (via Sears PartsDirect) [1], rewritten for clarity.

Write down the code and model number. Note exactly what the display shows (rL) and copy the full model number from the rating label, so you can confirm this chart applies to your duet steam front-load washer and order the right parts.
Rebalance the load. Remove any clothes from the washer and restart the Clean Washer cycle.
Do a power reset. Unplug the appliance or switch off its breaker for one minute, then restore power and try again. If the code clears and stays away, it may have been a one-off fault.
Test and decide. Run a short cycle or restart and watch the display. If rL comes back after these checks, stop using the washer for this function and call a technician, because the remaining causes need meters or part replacement.

The first and last steps (and the power reset) are general owner checks added by ErrorCodePro; the rest follow the Whirlpool Duet steam front-load washer error-code chart published by Sears PartsDirect, rewritten for safe owner use.

Parts that may be involved

Exact parts depend on your model number. This page lists part types only, never part numbers.

Outer tub

When to call a technician

If you had no clothes in the washer when starting the Clean Washer cycle, then you'll likely need to replace the spin bearing because the spin bearing isn't allowing the spin basket to rotate smoothly.
Technician: replace the outer tub if the spin bearing failed.
Anything involving wiring, the control board, the motor or the water valve electrics
The appliance is under warranty: contact Whirlpool: 1-866-698-2538 first

Frequently asked questions

What does error code rL mean on a Whirlpool Duet steam front-load washer?

The Whirlpool Duet steam front-load washer error-code chart lists rL as follows: Load inside the washer during the Clean Washer cycle. The spin bearing is a component of the outer tub and isn't available as a separate part.

Is it safe to keep using the Duet steam front-load washer with rL?

Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair.

Can I fix Whirlpool Duet steam front-load washer error rL myself?

Only with the owner checks on this page, starting with: write down the code and model number. If it persists, call a technician or Whirlpool: 1-866-698-2538.

Is F34 the same as rL?

Yes. The source chart lists F34 with the same meaning as rL; the display format depends on the model.

Sources

Sears PartsDirect: Whirlpool Duet steam front-load washer error-code chart (third-party copy of manufacturer service data)

Last reviewed: October 20, 2026. ErrorCodePro is not affiliated with Whirlpool.