Whirlpool LA6400XP Automatic Washer

Product Overview

This document provides instructions for the use and care of the Whirlpool Automatic Washer, Model LA6400XP, Design 2000 Large Capacity.

The following appliance types are also manufactured by Whirlpool: Microwave Ovens, Trash Compactors, Room Air Conditioners, Dehumidifiers, Automatic Washers, Clothes Dryers, Freezers, Refrigerator-Freezers.

Parts and Features

Note: Remove the Consumer Buy Guide label before use. Wipe the basket with a damp cloth to remove dust from storage or shipping.

Model and Serial Numbers

To ensure efficient service, keep your Model and Serial Numbers readily available. Record them here:

• Model Number: _________________________
• Serial Number: _________________________
• Purchase Date: _________________________
• Service Company, Phone Number: _________________________

Keep this book, your "Laundry Guide," sales slip, and warranty in a convenient location.

Your Responsibilities

Read this "Use and Care Guide" and your "Laundry Guide" carefully for important use and safety information. You are personally responsible for ensuring your washer:

• Is installed by a qualified installer.
• Is properly installed and leveled on a floor that can support its weight.
• Is connected to the correct outlet, electric supply, water supply, and drain.
• Is properly grounded.
• Is used only for its intended purpose as a home automatic washer.
• Is properly maintained.
• Is protected from the weather and kept where temperatures will not fall below freezing.
• Is not operated by children or individuals unable to use it properly.

Refer to the "Installation Instructions" for complete details.

Safety First

ALWAYS unplug the power supply cord before attempting to service the washer.

• NEVER put flammable fluids (dry-cleaning solvents, gasoline, kerosene) into your washer or use them near it.
• ALWAYS hand launder or air dry fabrics treated with flammable fluids before washing them.
• NEVER put your hands into the washer until all motion stops. The lid will stop the basket automatically if opened while spinning.
• DO NOT allow children to operate or play with the washer.
• ALWAYS store detergent, laundry aids, and other materials in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children, preferably in a locked cabinet.
• ALWAYS read and follow instructions on detergent and laundry aid packages, paying close attention to warnings and precautions.

HAZARDOUS FUMES: Chlorine bleach used in the same wash as ammonia or acids (like vinegar or rust remover) can form hazardous fumes.

GLASS FIBER MATERIALS: DO NOT machine wash glass fiber materials. Small particles can stick to fabrics and cause skin irritation in subsequent loads.

SPECIAL CAUTION: Hydrogen Gas Buildup: If hot water has not been used recently (typically two weeks or longer), explosive hydrogen gases may build up in the water heater and hot water pipes. To prevent injury or damage, turn on all hot water faucets and let water run for several minutes to allow gases to escape. Do not smoke or use open flames near the faucet while it is open.

— SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS —

Starting Your Washer

Before starting your washer:

1. Measure and add detergent.
2. Place sorted load in washer.
3. Start washer.

1. Select Load Size

Turn the knob to a setting that describes the size of the load you want to wash.

NOTE: Use the LARGE water level for best permanent press results.

2. Select Water Temperatures

Match the wash water temperature to the type of fabrics and soils being washed. All rinses are cold.

Recommended wash temperatures can be found in your "Laundry Guide".

IMPORTANT: Use warm water with the PERM'T PRESS or KNITS/GENTLE cycles. For heavily soiled permanent press or knit clothes, pre-wash or pre-soak before washing in warm water.

Load Sizes and Water Levels

For best cleaning results, the load must be able to move freely in the water. Too big a load or too little water can cause wear or tearing of load items.

• LARGE: (17.3 gals./65.5 L)*
• MEDIUM: (14.7 gals./55.7 L)*
• SMALL: (12.1 gals./45.8 L)*
• EX SMALL: (9.5 gals./36.0 L)*

CAUTION: DO NOT OVERLOAD WASHER.

3. Select Cycle and Wash Time; Start the Washer

What Happens in Each Cycle

Each cycle has different agitation and spin speeds designed for various fabrics. Numbers on the dial indicate minutes of WASH agitation time. When the Cycle Control Knob is set and pulled out, the washer fills before agitation begins. After agitation starts, the knob turns clockwise until it points to OFF, ending the cycle.

REGULAR HEAVY Cycle

REGULAR Cycle

PERMANENT PRESS Cycle

IMPORTANT: The washer will pause briefly throughout each cycle. These pauses are normal and allow for motor reversal, normal operations, and the cool-down portion of the PERMANENT PRESS cycle.

Cycle Flowcharts (Detailed Steps)

KNITS/GENTLE Cycle

SOAK AND PRE-WASH Cycles

Pre-wash setting begins here (see page 10).

Special care is needed when soaking or pre-washing laundry. See your "Laundry Guide" for proper use.

Detailed Soak/Pre-Wash Flowchart

Other Operating Instructions

For a Rinse and Spin

Use for heavily soiled loads needing an extra rinse and spin.

1. Push Control Knob in.
2. Turn clockwise to any setting on the dial.
3. Pull Control Knob out.
4. The washer will fill to the selected level, agitate for 2 minutes, drain, and spin.

For a Drain and Spin

Your washer can drain and spin out water.

1. Push Control Knob in.
2. Turn clockwise to the bar just before OFF in any cycle.
3. Pull Control Knob out.
4. The washer will drain and spin.

For agitation and spin speeds in each cycle, see pages 6-9.

For a Soak or Pre-Wash

For best results, use warm water for soaking or pre-washing stained laundry. Hot water can set stains.

• Use the recommended amount of detergent or pre-soak product.
• Push Control Knob in.
• Turn clockwise to point at a number in the SOAK Cycle (use the 6-minute mark for a pre-wash).
• Pull Control Knob out to start the washer.
• When the cycle is over, add detergent for the next selected wash cycle. The SOAK Cycle should always be followed by a Wash Cycle.
• Set the washer and start the next selected wash cycle.

Important: See additional care information on page 7 of your "Laundry Guide!"

*To start soak or pre-wash with agitation, the Cycle Control Knob must point to a number in the SOAK Cycle.

Dispensers and Filters

Liquid Bleach Dispenser

Always measure bleach. Do not guess. Never use more than 1 cup (250 mL) for a full load. Use less with lower water level settings. Follow directions on the bottle for safe use. Use a cup with a pouring spout to avoid spilling.

1. Load the washer first.
2. Pour measured bleach carefully into the dispenser. DO NOT let bleach splash, drip, or run down into the washer basket. Undiluted bleach can damage fabrics.
3. Start the washer. Bleach will be diluted automatically during the wash part of the cycle.

For more information on bleaching, see "Laundry Guide" page 11.

Liquid Fabric Softener Dispenser

1. Add detergent and load to the basket.
2. Add liquid fabric softener to the dispenser using the amount recommended on the bottle.
3. Avoid dripping or spilling any fabric softener on the load.
4. Dilute fabric softener with hot water. Add enough hot water to fill the dispenser up to the opening.
5. Start the washer. Diluted liquid fabric softener will be added to the load during the deep rinse portion of the cycle.

NOTE: Do not stop the washer during this time, as the softener may mix with soapy wash water and cause stains. Do not put detergent in the liquid fabric softener dispenser.

If the dispenser needs cleaning, flush with hot water. NOTE: Do not wash clothes with the dispenser removed.

MAGIC CLEAN® Lint Filter

The lint filter in your washer cleans itself. Collected lint is drained away with the wash and rinse water. If your washer drains into a tub, remove any lint collected in the drain or strainer.

Caring for Your Washer

WHEN NOT WASHING: Keep both water faucets turned off. This relieves pressure on the water inlet valve and hoses.

AFTER WASHING: Use a soft dry cloth to wipe the outside and inside dry. Leave the lid up until the basket is dry. Wipe up spills immediately, as they can dull or damage the finish.

REMOVE SHARP OBJECTS: Remove items such as pins and buckles from clothes before washing. Close metal zippers.

SHARP OR HEAVY OBJECTS should never be put on or in the washer. Check pockets for bolts, nuts, tools, etc.

NEVER USE THE WASHER TO...

• Store wet or dry laundry.
• Soak for more than 2 hours.
• Soak with chlorine bleach.
• Soak with vinegar or other acids.
• Soak or store urine-soaked clothes.

SOME PRETREATMENT PRODUCTS can damage washer and dryer dials, consoles, and finishes. Do not use these products on or near your washer or dryer.

Winterizing

Because some water remains in the washer, freezing can cause significant damage if the washer is stored or moved during cold weather.

To use the washer again...

1. Flush water pipes and hoses.
2. Connect hoses to the washer.
3. Turn on the water faucets.

If You Need Service or Assistance

We suggest you follow these four steps:

1. Before Calling for Assistance...

Performance problems often result from simple issues you can find and fix yourself without tools.

If your washer does not fill:

• Is the power supply cord plugged into a live circuit with the proper voltage?
• Are both water faucets open?
• Have you checked your home's main fuses or circuit breaker box?
• Are the water supply hoses kinked?
• Is the Cycle Control Knob set and pulled out?

If your washer does not spin:

• Is the lid closed?
• Is the power supply cord plugged into a live circuit with the proper voltage?
• Have you checked your home's main fuses or circuit breaker box?

If your washer stops during a cycle:

• Remember, the washer pauses briefly at different times in each cycle. These pauses are normal.

If your washer fills and drains without running:

• Make sure that the Cycle Control Knob is pointing to a number in the cycle.

Make sure the drain hose is higher than the water level in the washer. If it isn't...

• The washer may seem to be draining during wash and rinse cycles.
• Water can siphon out. (See "Installation Instructions")

2. If you need assistance*...

Call Whirlpool COOL-LINE service assistance telephone number. Dial free from:

• Continental U.S.: (800) 253-1301
• Michigan: (800) 632-2243
• Alaska & Hawaii: (800) 253-1121

Talk with one of our trained Consultants. They can instruct you on satisfactory operation or recommend a qualified service company.

3. If you need service*...

Whirlpool has a nationwide network of franchised TECH-CARE Service Companies. TECH-CARE service technicians are trained to fulfill product warranty and provide after-warranty service anywhere in the United States. To locate TECH-CARE service, call our COOL-LINE service assistance telephone number (see Step 2) or look in your telephone directory Yellow Pages under:

• APPLIANCES - HOUSEHOLD - MAJOR - SERVICE & REPAIR
• ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES - MAJOR - REPAIRING & PARTS
• WASHING MACHINES, DRYERS & IRONERS - SERVICING

4. If you have a problem*...

Call our COOL-LINE service assistance telephone number (see Step 2) and talk with one of our Consultants, or write to:

Mr. Robert Stanley
Division Vice President
Whirlpool Corporation
2000 US-33, North
Benton Harbor, MI 49022

If you must call or write, please provide: model number, serial number, date of purchase, and a complete description of the problem.