For Whirlpool top-load HE washers, OL is documented as an overloaded washer load, with removal of several items before restarting.
- Source
- Whirlpool Product Help (A)
- Section
- Top-load article table
- Last checked
- 2026-07-21
Model symptom
Whirlpool top-load HE washer shows OL or has an overloaded load
Whirlpool documents OL as an overloaded washer load, so the first safe correction is reducing the load before restarting.
Applies to
Top Load HE Washer; United States. This page is not a brand-wide diagnosis.
What this symptom can indicate
The washer may show OL, stop mid-cycle, or struggle to move a large or tightly packed load.
Checks that do not require disassembly
- Remove several items from the basket.
- Check that bulky items are not packed tightly.
- Restart only after the load can move freely.
Related error codes
- OL
Signs of a safety issue
Stop if the washer bangs, cannot move the basket, or OL returns after a smaller balanced load.
Information to collect before calling a technician
Record the model label, load contents, number of items removed, cycle phase, and whether overload returned.
Why this scope matters
This symptom page is attached to Top Load HE Washer. It is not a brand-wide diagnosis.