Excessive Suds Detected

What it means

This code appears on Whirlpool washers built for North America, and may show as Sud or Sd on the display, meaning the machine detected heavy suds that hinder washing or draining. The machine usually runs extra steps to remove the suds, so the cycle takes longer; the same number can mean something else on other brands. This meaning applies to Whirlpool models built for North America, such as Duet and Cabrio; Whirlpool washers sold elsewhere use different codes, so check your manual.

Models covered: Whirlpool washing machines sold in North America (e.g. Duet front-load, Cabrio top-load); Whirlpool models from other regions use different codes.

Related codes: F21LO FL

Symptoms4

• The suds message shows during washing or spinning.
• Thick foam visible through the door.
• The cycle runs longer because of extra rinses.
• Detergent residue on the laundry.

Possible causes5

• Regular detergent used instead of the HE detergent these machines need.
• Too much detergent, especially with soft water.
• Detergent residue built up from earlier cycles.
• Laundry carrying soap or detergent from hand washing.
• Slow draining keeping the suds in the drum.

How to diagnose5

1. Check the detergent pack carries the HE mark.
2. Reduce the dose to what the manual recommends for the load size.
3. Let the machine finish its suds-removal steps and do not cancel the cycle.
4. Run an extra rinse without detergent to clear residue.
5. If the code returns with the correct dose, unplug and check the drain hose, and call a technician to check draining and the level sensor.

How to fix5

1. Switch to HE detergent.
2. Use less detergent.
3. Run a rinse or tub-clean cycle with no laundry.
4. Fix slow draining if present.
5. Have a technician check the water level sensor if the code keeps returning with no clear cause.

Repair cost

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

It is usually fixed by changing the detergent or dose at no repair cost; a cost arises only if there is a drain or sensor problem.

Prices are rough estimates including the part and the technician’s fee, and vary with brand, model and part source.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions