This article focuses on deciphering Whirlpool appliance date codes, including those for brands acquired after 2006 (Maytag, etc.). It explains that the Maytag date code system was phased out after Whirlpool's acquisition in 2006.
The structure of Whirlpool serial numbers is explained. The first alpha character indicates the manufacturing division, the second, the year (with tables provided for code-to-year conversion), and the following digits specify the week and order of manufacture. An additional alpha character may be included for non-Whirlpool-built products.
The article clarifies the use of alpha codes within model numbers to indicate the year of model introduction. Two code systems are detailed: one for before 1981 (code in the second position), and another for after 1981 (code in the eighth position). Charts are provided for both.
The article mentions hidden permanent date codes stamped on appliances and parts, noting that accessing the part date code is sometimes easier than disassembling the entire appliance. An example of a burned dryer is provided, showing multiple parts with different manufacturing weeks.
© Dr. Ray Franco, PhD, PE - 208 Fairways Dr., Vicksburg, MS 39183
In 2006, Whirlpool purchased Maytag. Since then, Whirlpool has been phasing out the Maytag Date Code. Hence, Maytag appliances manufactured after 2006, may have a Whirlpool Date Code.
The breakdown for Whirlpool Serial Numbers is:
1st Alpha Character = Manufacturing Division Code.
2nd Alpha Character = Year Manufactured (See Tables).
1st and 2nd Digit = Week of Year Manufactured.
3rd through 7th Digit = Order of Manufacturing that Week.
For products "not built by Whirlpool", an additional alpha is used after the first alpha to indicate the source. All other alpha and numeric designations remain the same.
For example, the serial number of my Kenmore dryer, MB1402320, indicates that it was built in the 14th week of 1992.
An alpha code in the model number indicates the year the model was introduced. Before 1981, the second digit of the model number contained the code. After 1981, the eight digit contains the code.
Whirlpool has hidden permanent date codes stamped into the metal of their appliances. Except for the shorten length, the hidden date code is the same as on the paper or foil tag. The problem is finding where the date code is stamped into the metal.
Whirlpool also has permanent date codes stamped into the metal of some of its parts. Often, it is a lot easier to access the Whirlpool part date code than to disassemble the appliance.
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The following two date codes were on parts inside the burned Whirlpool clothes dryer shown above.
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Hence, the above burned Whirlpool dryer was manufactured in week 31 of 2008; the thermostat in week 27, and the motor in week 29.
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