Whirlpool Washing Machine Error Codes

In this guide, we’ll explain the most common Whirlpool washing machine error codes, what they mean, and how to troubleshoot them. Whirlpool washers use built-in diagnostic systems to detect issues related to water supply, drainage, motor operation, door locking, sensors, and electronic control boards.

We’ll focus specifically on error codes that begin with “FxEx” and “Fx.” These codes provide valuable insights into potential issues affecting your washer’s performance.

Clearing Error Codes and Entering Service Mode on Your Washer

Before attempting any troubleshooting or repairs based on error codes, it’s often helpful to clear previous error codes and potentially enter service mode for diagnostics.

Clearing Stored Error Codes:

1. Ensure Standby Mode: Make sure the washer is in standby mode (plugged in but not running a cycle; all indicators should be off).
2. Enter Service Mode: Press any three buttons (excluding Power) in a specific sequence within 8 seconds. Repeat this exact sequence two more times, for a total of three repetitions.
3. Confirm Service Mode Entry: If successful, all indicators on the user interface will light up for 5 seconds, and “888” will appear in the estimated time remaining display. If there are no stored error codes, only the “888” display will remain.
4. Hold Third Button to Clear: Once in service mode (“888” is displayed), press and hold the third button used in the entry sequence for 5 seconds.
5. Confirm Clearing: If the codes have been successfully cleared, the display will revert to showing “888” without other indicators lit.

Exiting Service Diagnostic Mode:

• Turn Off the Washer: If your model has a power button, press it to turn off the washer. This usually terminates the service mode.
• Unplug the Washer: If turning off the washer doesn’t work, disconnect its power cord from the electrical outlet. This will force a reset and typically exit service mode.

Additional Information:

• Persistent Codes: If error codes reappear after clearing, it indicates an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

Whirlpool Washing Machine Error Codes: FxEx Series

Here’s a breakdown of common Whirlpool washing machine error codes starting with “FxEx,” their explanations, potential causes, and troubleshooting steps.

Error Code	Explanation	Potential Causes	Solutions
F0E1	Load in the drum during the “Clean Washer Cycle” warning.	Items left in the drum when the clean cycle was started.	Remove the load, clear the error code, and restart the “Clean Washer Cycle.”
F0E2	Over-suds warning. The washer detects excessive suds hindering draining/spinning.	Too much detergent used; not using HE detergent; reduced drainage system performance; clogged air chamber; kinked/leaking pressure sensor hose.	Measure water hardness and compare with detergent instructions. Use recommended HE detergent. Fix/reinstall drainage system (hose, siphon). Remove/clean air chamber. Check the pressure sensor hose and housing for leaks and replace if needed.
F0E4	Water too hot error. The washer detects excessively hot water.	Cold water inlet hose connected to the hot water faucet; faulty NTC sensor; heater relay stuck closed (main board issue).	Double-check and switch cold/hot water hose connections; check NTC sensor resistance (should be ~9800 Ω at 86°F/30°C); check main board for stuck heater relay and replace if necessary.
F0E5	Unbalanced load warning. The washer detects an unusual imbalance.	Heavy items concentrated on one side; single or a few large pieces; potential main board issue.	Clear the error code; verify and redistribute the load (single large items are hard to balance)
F1E1	EEPROM error. Data integrity issue with the control board’s memory.	Discrepancy between retrieved data and stored checksum in EEPROM.	Disconnect power for 2 minutes, check outlet voltage, and reconnect; restart the appliance.
F1E2	Motor control unit undervoltage error. The motor control unit detects low mains voltage.	Low main voltage supply; faulty motor control board; faulty main board.	Check the main voltage supply. If the error persists, replace the motor control board.
F1E4	Main relay stuck open or closed error.	Faulty main relay on the main board.	Replace it.
F2E3	The main board software is not compatible with the user interface error.	Faulty harness connection between UI and main board; corrupted firmware; faulty main board; faulty user interface.	Check the wire harness connection between the user interface and the main board.
F3E1	Water level sensor error. Also triggered by defective heater, drain pump, or related harness issues.	Blocked drain pump/filter/hose; blocked air chamber/pressure switch hose; faulty pressure switch/connections; defective heater/connections; defective drain pump/connections; main board issue.	Check the drain pump/filter for foreign objects and clean; clean the drain hose/siphon; check/clean the air chamber/pressure switch hose; verify the pressure switch condition and connections; check connections to the heater/drain pump
F3E2	Wash NTC shorted or open. The water temperature sensor is out of range.	Faulty wiring/connections to NTC; defective NTC sensor; faulty main board.	Check wiring/connections between the NTC and the main board; check water NTC resistance (~9800 Ω at 86°F/30°C)
F3E5	Dry NTC shorted or open. The dry temperature sensor is out of range (washer-dryer).	Faulty wiring/connections to NTC; defective dry NTC sensor; faulty main board.	Check wiring/connections between the NTC and the main board; check dry NTC resistance (~1480 Ω at 68°F/20°C)
F3E6	Accelerometer error.	Faulty main board.	Replace it.
F4E1	Wash heater relay error. The main board cannot detect temperature rise from the heater.	Faulty heater relay; incorrect connector plugging; defective harness; defective heater relay/main board.	Check heater relay function; ensure connectors are plugged correctly; check/replace harness; check/replace heater relay.
F4E2	Heater error. The main control detects a heater circuit failure.	Faulty wiring/connectors to heater, main board, or pressure switch; grounded heater; damaged heater (contact with drum); water/corrosion at heater connector; pressure switch issue; control board issue.	Check/fix/replace wiring/connectors (especially for overheating/damage); check heater resistance to ground (replace heater if grounded); check heater resistance (~18-28 Ω); inspect heater for damage (check bearings, drum, etc.); check heater connector for water/corrosion; verify pressure switch function; and verify control board function.
F4E4	Dry fan motor error. Open or short circuit in the dry fan (washer-dryer).	Motor/fan wheel blockage; faulty wire harness connection; defective fan motor; faulty fan blade; control board issue.	Check motor/fan rotation for blockage, check wire harness connection, check fan motor resistance (~1800 Ω), and check fan blade.
F5E1	Door switch error.	Door not closed properly; faulty wire harness connection; defective door switch contact; faulty main board.	Ensure the door is closed properly. Check the wire harness connection. Check the door switch contact resistance (OL open, ~0.1-1.0 Ω closed).
F5E2	Door lock error. Door fails to lock at cycle initiation.	Door not closed properly; mechanical problem with door lock system (door/hook); faulty harness between control board and door lock; door lock short circuit/water traces; door deformation; faulty harness connections (overload/damage); defective door lock solenoid; control board not supplying 120V to solenoid.	Ensure the door is closed properly. Check/replace mechanical parts of the door lock system. Check/replace the harness between the control board and door lock. Check the door lock for short circuits/water traces/deformation. Check/replace wiring/connections. Check door lock solenoid resistance (~80 Ω). Enter service mode and check if the control board supplies power to the solenoid.
F5E3	Door unlock error. The control board fails to unlock the door within 240 seconds.	Mechanical issue (door lock, hook, hinge, door centering); main board unable to switch off the door lock.	After 5 minutes, push firmly on the door frame (if it unlocks, check/replace the door lock, hook, hinge, and door centering) if the door locks when the appliance is off and the cancel/reset button is held in service mode (without pressing start).
F5E4 “dr”	Door not open error. START is pressed with the door open or after consecutive cycles without opening.	START button pressed while door is open; pre-set number of cycles completed without opening the door; control board unable to detect door switch opening/closing.	Resolve any underlying F5E1, F5E2, or F5E3 errors. Ensure the door is opened between cycles.
F6E1	Communication between control and motor control board errors (for models with external MCU).	Faulty harness/connections between control board and motor control unit; door switch contact issue; defective motor; faulty motor control unit; faulty main board.	Check the harness/connections between the control board and motor control unit, check the door switch contact, check the motor resistance (~8-22 Ω), and check/replace the motor control unit.
F6E2	Communication between the control board and the user interface is an error.	Faulty harness/connections between control board and user interface unit; faulty user interface unit; faulty control board.	Clear the error code and check the harness/connections between the control board and user interface
F6E3	Communication between the user interface and the control board error.	Faulty harness/connections between user interface unit and control board; faulty user interface unit; faulty control board.	Clear the error code and check the harness/connections between the user interface and the control board.
F7E1	Drive motor or tachometer error. No or unreadable speed signal from the tachometer.	No motor movement (motor defect, blocked, stalled, or open harness); defective tachometer; open tachometer wiring; drum blockage; overload; high ambient temperature; damaged motor (bearings, fit, or broken); activated thermal protector; faulty main board.	Check the drum for blockage/noise/friction. Check for overload/high ambient temperature. Check wire harness connections between the motor and control board. Check the motor condition. Check motor resistance (~8-22 Ω). Check tachometer resistance (~115-170 Ω).
F8E0	Steam inlet valve error. No water supply or steamer valve does not open (steam models).	Water tap closed; clogged water inlet filter; low water pressure; faulty harness connection between steamer control unit and steamer valve; faulty wiring; leaking hoses; faulty steamer control unit; defective steamer valve; faulty main board.	Check water tap/pressure; clean water inlet filter; check/fix/replace harness/wiring between steamer control unit and valve; check/fix/replace hoses for leaks; check steamer control unit function; check steamer valve resistance (~980 Ω).
F8E1	Fill time-out or inlet valve error. Washer not filling or main board not detecting water intake.	Water tap closed; disconnected/damaged/kinked inlet hose; clogged filters; improperly installed drain hose (siphoning); kinked/blocked/damaged pressure hose; faulty wiring/open circuit; defective water inlet valve; faulty control board.	Ensure the water tap is fully open (both hot and cold if applicable); connect/check/install the inlet hose properly; clean all filters; install the drain hose correctly (prevents siphoning); check/clean/replace the pressure hose; check wiring/connections; check water inlet valve resistance (~980 Ω).
F8E2	Dispenser error. Dispenser motor unable to reach desired position.	Faulty wiring/open circuit; defective dispenser motor; dispenser switch not receiving +5Vdc; faulty main board.	Check wiring/connections. Check dispenser motor resistance (~1580 Ω). Check if the dispenser switch receives +5 VDC.
F8E3	Overflow error. Overflow contact on the pressure switch closes.	Inlet valve not shutting off properly; clogged/kinked drain hose; clogged drain pump filter; faulty pressure switch (overflow contact stuck); air leakages in air chamber/pressure switch hose; short circuit in drain pump TRIAC; water leakages (internal hoses, dispenser, tub); overfoaming (too much detergent).	Check/replace the inlet valve; check/clean the drain hose/pump filter; check the pressure switch function (including overflow contact); check/fix air chamber/pressure switch hose air leakages; check wiring between the control board and the float switch; check the float switch for short circuits/water traces; clean the drip tray and check for internal leakages (fix/replace); and verify the pressure switch function (replace the Aquastop switch if the pressure switch is OK).
F8E4	Flowmeter error.	Defective inlet valve; faulty wiring between control board and flowmeter; flowmeter not receiving +5 volts; faulty main board.	Check/replace the inlet valve. Check wiring between the control board and the flowmeter. Ensure the flowmeter receives +5 volts.
F9E1	Drainage error. Water is not properly removed despite pump function.	Excessive foam, an airlock in the outlet system, a clogged outlet system (debris), a water sensor malfunction (incorrectly detects water), a siphon issue, a clogged drain pump filter/hose, a blocked equalization tank, a blocked ecosystem/eco ball, an electrical connections issue, drain pump resistance out of range, a pressure switch contact issue, a blocked air chamber/pressure hose, and a faulty main board.	Check/clean drain pump filter/hose/equalization tank; check ecosystem/ball; address excessive foam/air bubbles; check electrical connections between drain pump and control board; check drain pump resistance (~18 Ω); check pressure switch contacts; check/clean/replace air chamber/pressure hose.

Whirlpool Washing Machine Error Codes: Fx Series

Here’s a breakdown of common Whirlpool washing machine error codes starting with “Fx,” their explanations, potential causes, and troubleshooting steps.

Error Code	Explanation	Potential Causes	Solutions
F01	Main board “main board TRIAC’s short or open circuit” error.	Water leaks causing electrical shorts, short circuits at the motor terminal board, issues with wash heating element connections/elements, issues with pressure switch wiring/connectors, issues with dry heating element wiring/connectors, and a faulty main circuit board.	Inspect for water leaks and address them. Inspect the motor terminal board for shorts. Check the wash heating element connections/elements. Check pressure switch wiring/connectors. Disconnect the appliance for 2 mins. Check dry heating element wiring/connectors on the main board.
F02	Motor error.	Water leaks causing electrical shorts; mechanically jammed/seized motor; issues with motor connector; incorrect motor winding resistance; incorrect tachometer resistance; issues with tachometer wiring; faulty motor; faulty main circuit board.	Inspect for water leaks and address them; confirm the motor is not jammed; inspect the motor connector; measure motor winding resistance (~17 Ω for 3-phase); measure tachometer resistance (~115-170 Ω); inspect tachometer wiring; consider replacing the motor.
F03	NTC short/open circuit error. The temperature sensor is not functioning correctly.	Issues with sensor wire harness connector; incorrect NTC sensor resistance; faulty NTC sensor; faulty main circuit board.	Inspect the sensor wire harness connector; measure NTC sensor resistance (~20 kΩ at 20°C) and replace NTC if incorrect.
F05	Pressure switch error.	Issues with connector contacts between PCB and pressure switch; issues with drain pump connector; clogged pump filter, drain hose, or wall drain outlet; clogged air trap; pinholes in pressure hose; issues with pressure switches; faulty drain pump/linear pressure switch; faulty main PCB.	Inspect connector contacts (PCB to pressure switch); inspect drain pump connector; clean pump filter, drain hose, and wall drain outlet; remove/clean air trap; inspect pressure hose for pinholes; check pressure switches. If the problem persists, inspect/replace the drain pump/linear pressure switch.
F06	Door lock error.	Water leaks causing electrical shorts, issues with door lock terminal wiring, issues with door lock assembly, and a faulty main circuit board.	Inspect for water leaks and address them. Inspect door lock terminal wiring. Check door lock assembly with an ohmmeter.
F07	Heating element error.	Contacts on the heater assembly are not properly connected to the main board; incorrect wash heating element resistance; faulty heating element; faulty main board.	Verify heater assembly contacts are properly connected to the main board; measure wash heating element resistance (~30 Ω) and replace if incorrect.
F08	Heater relay stuck error.	Issues with heater assembly connections on the main circuit board, electrical leakage between heater ends and ground, incorrect washing heating element resistance, faulty heating element, and faulty main circuit board.	Inspect heater assembly connections on the main circuit board; verify no electrical leakage between the heater and ground; measure washing heating element resistance (~30 Ω); and replace if incorrect.
F09	EEPROM error.	Faulty main board; faulty user interface.	–
F11	Drain pump error.	Issues with drain pump connections on the main circuit board; clogged pump filter, drain hose, or wall drain outlet; incorrect pump resistance; faulty drain pump; or faulty main circuit board.	Inspect drain pump connections on the main circuit board; clean the pump filter, drain hose, and wall drain outlet; measure pump resistance (~190 Ω); and replace the drain pump if incorrect.
F12	Communication error between the main board and the user interface error.	Issues with connector contacts between main board and user interface unit; faulty user interface; faulty main board.	Inspect connector contacts between the main board and user interface.
F13	Dry NTC sensor open/short-circuiting error (washer-dryer).	Blocked/clogged condenser filter; fluff/debris on blower fan; issues with NTC sensor connector contacts on main circuit board; incorrect NTC sensor value; faulty NTC sensor; faulty main circuit board.	Verify the condenser filter is not blocked; inspect/clean the blower fan; check NTC sensor connector contacts on the main circuit board; measure the dry NTC sensor value (~201 KΩ at 20°C) and replace the NTC if incorrect.
F15	Dry heater element error (washer-dryer).	Issues with dry heating element connections on main circuit board; incorrect dry heating element resistance; electrical leakage between dry heater and ground; issues with drain pump wiring/resistance; issues with water inlet valve connections/wiring; faulty main circuit board.	Inspect dry heating element connections on main circuit board; measure dry heating element resistance (~26 Ω); verify no electrical leakage between dry heater and ground; check drain pump wiring and resistance; inspect water inlet valve connections/wiring.
F18	Communication error between the main board and the 3-phase motor.	Faulty main board.	Check/replace main board if necessary.
F19	Dry fan error (washer-dryer).	Issues with dry fan motor connections on main circuit The washer circuit board, incorrect dry heating element resistance (likely a typo in the original, which should be fan motor resistance), short/open circuits in the fan motor, resistance, motor, seized fan motor, and faulty main circuit board.	Inspect dry fan motor connections on the main circuit board; check dry fan motor resistance; check the fan motor for short/open circuits; ensure the fan motor turns freely.

Final Thought

Whirlpool washing machine error codes help identify faults in drainage systems, water supply, motor operation, door locking, sensors, and electronic controls. While many issues can be resolved with basic maintenance and resets, recurring errors often indicate failing components such as the pump, motor, or control board that may require replacement.