# How to Fix Whirlpool Error F27 (Overflow Condition)
Error code F27 is a critical safety shut-off code indicating that the control board has detected an overflow condition. The machine believes the water level in the tub has exceeded a safe limit.
While this could be caused by a continuously running inlet valve (a secondary possibility), the most frequent culprit for a false or actual F27 error is a faulty **Pressure Switch** or a blockage in the associated air tube system.
—
## Explanation: What Whirlpool Error F27 Means
**F27 signifies an “Overflow Condition.”**
Your washer uses a small sensor—the Pressure Switch—connected to the tub via an air hose (sometimes called the air dome or siphon tube). As water fills the tub, the pressure increases in this tube. The Pressure Switch measures this pressure to tell the control board how much water is inside.
When the machine throws an F27 error, it means:
1. **The Pressure Switch is reporting an excessively high water level,** triggering the safety shut-off.
2. **The washer is actually overfilling** because the water inlet valve is stuck open.
—
## Step-by-Step Fix: Diagnosing and Replacing the Pressure Switch
**Safety First:** Before attempting any repairs, always unplug the machine from the wall outlet.
### Step 1: Check for Physical Blockages (The Air Dome/Tube)
The most common reason for a false F27 reading is a blocked air pathway between the tub and the Pressure Switch. If the pathway is restricted, the pressure builds up too quickly, fooling the switch into thinking the tub is full.
1. **Locate the Air Tube:** This is a small, usually clear or black rubber hose running from the bottom of the wash tub (the “air dome”) up to the Pressure Switch, which is often located near the top control panel or the back interior wall.
2. **Inspect for Kinks:** Trace the entire length of the hose. Ensure it is not pinched, kinked, or rubbing against sharp components.
3. **Clear Blockages:** Disconnect the air tube at both ends. Gently blow air through the tube to confirm the pathway is clear. If you meet resistance, a foreign object (like residue, socks, or lint) may be blocking the air dome at the bottom of the tub. Clear this blockage manually or use a small snake/wire to dislodge the debris.
### Step 2: Test the Water Inlet Valve (Secondary Culprit)
If the pressure system seems clear, check if the washer is filling even when it shouldn’t be.
1. **Observe the Washer:** Ensure the machine is unplugged from the wall.
2. **Listen and Look:** Wait 5–10 minutes. If the washer begins to visibly fill with water, or you hear the sound of running water while the machine is off, the **Water Inlet Valve** is stuck open and must be replaced.
### Step 3: Replace the Pressure Switch (Primary Fix)
If the air tube is clear (Step 1) and the inlet valve is not leaking (Step 2), the Pressure Switch itself is likely faulty and sending incorrect readings to the control board.
1. **Access the Control Panel:** On most top-loading Whirlpool models, you will need to unscrew or unclip the top main console to access the inner components. (Refer to your specific model’s service manual for precise instructions.)
2. **Locate the Switch:** The Pressure Switch is typically a small, circular or rectangular component mounted near the top of the machine. It will have the air tube connected to a small nozzle and an electrical wiring harness attached.
3. **Disconnect and Remove:** Unclip the wiring harness and carefully remove the air tube. Note exactly how it was connected.
4. **Install the New Switch:** Attach the air tube and wiring harness securely to the new Pressure Switch.
5. **Reassemble and Test:** Reassemble the machine, plug it back in, and run a short diagnostic or rinse/drain cycle to confirm the F27 error has cleared.
—
Check the price for a replacement Pressure Switch here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Whirlpool+Pressure+Switch&tag=trivian-20