There are two main reasons why your washing machine might show a lock symbol:

    Safety Lock: The door lock is a safety feature that prevents the door from opening while the washer is running or the drum is hot. This is to prevent burns or injuries.

  1. Incomplete Cycle: Even after the cycle seems finished, the washer might still be performing tasks like draining or cooling down. The lock will stay engaged until these tasks are complete.

What to Do if the Lock Symbol Stays On After the Cycle

If the lock symbol remains on even after the washing cycle seems finished, here are some steps to try:

1. Verify the Cycle is Truly Complete:

  • Check the timer to see if it has expired.
  • Listen for any remaining draining or spinning sounds.
  • If necessary, you can try canceling the cycle by pressing and holding the “Start/Pause” button.

2. Allow Time for Lock Disengagement:

  • It may take a few minutes for the door lock mechanism to disengage after the cycle is complete.
  • Wait a few minutes and see if the lock symbol disappears and the door unlocks.

3. Check the Door Lock Light:

  • The door lock light should turn off once the washer has finished draining and the door is safe to open.
  • If the light remains on, there might be an issue with the lock mechanism.

4. Deactivate Child Lock (if applicable):

  • Some washing machines, especially front-loaders, have a child lock feature that prevents the door from opening.
  • Consult your user manual for specific instructions on deactivating the child lock on your model. The steps might involve pressing and holding certain buttons on the control panel.

5. Drain the Emergency Hose (front-load washers only):

  • If the above steps don’t work and you have a front-load washer, you can try draining the emergency hose.
  • Important: Always consult your user manual before attempting this step, as the process can vary depending on the model. Generally, it involves locating the emergency hose compartment, draining any residual water into a container, and then rerunning a hot cycle.

If none of these solutions work, it’s best to consult your user manual or contact a qualified appliance repair technician for further assistance.