Whirlpool Dishwasher Error Codes: What They Mean and How to Fix Them
On models with a display, the code appears in F#E# format, sometimes only after you press a button to wake the screen. Models without a display blink the Clean light: count the first set of flashes for the F number, wait for the short pause, then count the second set for the E number. For example, seven flashes, a pause and one flash means F7E1. Codes vary by model, so treat the meanings below as a guide. Whirlpool's first step for most codes is to cut power for 30 seconds by unplugging the unit or switching off its breaker.
Whirlpool Dishwasher Error Codes list
Possible control module problem.
Common causes: Control board fault.
What you can try: Cut power for 30 seconds and restore it.
Call a technician if: The code returns.
Stuck key or control console error.
Common causes: Worn keypad, moisture.
What you can try: Cut power for 30 seconds, then try again.
Call a technician if: The code returns.
User interface error.
Common causes: Control or wiring fault.
What you can try: Power reset.
Call a technician if: The code returns.
Too many suds.
Common causes: Hand soap, laundry detergent or too much dishwasher detergent; rinse aid cap left off.
What you can try: Scoop out suds, add two to three tablespoons of vegetable oil to the tub bottom, run a cycle with no detergent, then one with detergent and no dishes.
Call a technician if: The code returns with the right detergent.
Possible water float switch problem.
Common causes: Unlevel dishwasher, stuck float.
What you can try: Check that the dishwasher is level, then cut power for 30 seconds.
Call a technician if: It returns after leveling.
Wash motor error.
Common causes: Motor or motor wiring fault.
What you can try: Power reset.
Call a technician if: The code returns.
Fill valve electrical error.
Common causes: Inlet valve or its wiring.
What you can try: Power reset. Look under the unit for any sign of leaking at the water connection.
Call a technician if: The code returns.
Water detected in the drip tray.
Common causes: A leak at a water connection, hose or seal.
What you can try: Turn off the water and power and look for the source of the water.
Call a technician if: You find a leak or the code comes back.
Fill valve likely stuck open.
Common causes: Inlet valve failure.
What you can try: Turn off the water supply. Press Cancel once to silence the alarm. If you cannot shut off the water, turn off power.
Call a technician if: Right away; this code can lead to flooding.
Long drain: the dishwasher is not draining.
Common causes: Clogged filter, kinked drain hose, blocked disposer or air gap.
What you can try: Clean the filter, straighten the drain hose, run the disposer and clear the air gap if you have one.
Call a technician if: Water still stands after those checks.
Drain motor error.
Common causes: Clog in the disposer or drain, kinked hose, pump fault.
What you can try: On a new install, confirm the disposer knockout plug was removed. Check the drain hose for kinks, then reset.
Call a technician if: The code returns.
Diverter valve error.
Common causes: Diverter or wiring fault.
What you can try: Power reset.
Call a technician if: The code persists.
The dishwasher is not detecting water.
Common causes: Water supply off, kinked supply hose.
What you can try: Confirm the shutoff valve is open and the hose is not kinked.
Call a technician if: Supply is fine and it still will not fill.
How to clear the code
- If it is plugged in, unplug it for 30 seconds and plug it back in.
- If it is hard-wired, turn off its breaker at the electrical panel for 30 seconds, then turn it back on.
- Run a short cycle and watch whether the same code returns. For F8E5, shut the water off first and do not keep restarting it.
What about KitchenAid and Maytag?
KitchenAid and Maytag are also Whirlpool Corporation brands, but the codes on this page come from Whirlpool's own guide and may not match those dishwashers exactly. Check the tech sheet, often taped inside the lower panel or the console, or the owner's manual for your model. Our KitchenAid and Maytag pages cover those brands.
Whirlpool dishwasher repair near you
Motor, valve, diverter and control codes need parts and testing behind the panels. Mr. Fixer services Whirlpool dishwashers throughout Metro Atlanta, with a written estimate before any work starts. Call (678) 866-3669 or book online, or visit our Whirlpool repair page.
Code still showing?
Our technicians repair Whirlpool dishwashers across Metro Atlanta, usually the same day. Diagnostic from $80, credited toward your repair.
Call (678) 866-3669FAQs
What does F9E1 mean on a Whirlpool dishwasher?
F9E1 is a long drain error, meaning the water did not pump out in time. Clean the filter, check the drain hose for kinks and make sure the disposer and air gap are clear.
How do I read a Whirlpool code from flashing lights?
Count the first group of flashes for the F number, then the second group after the short pause for the E number. Seven flashes, a pause and one flash is F7E1.
Is F8E5 dangerous?
It means the fill valve may be stuck open, so water can keep coming in. Turn off the water supply to the dishwasher and arrange service.
Codes and meanings vary by model and model year. Check your owner's manual for your exact model.
More error code guides
- Whirlpool Washer Error Codes
- Whirlpool Dryer Error Codes
- Bosch Dishwasher Error Codes
- Samsung Dishwasher Error Codes
- LG Dishwasher Error Codes
- GE Dishwasher Error Codes
- Frigidaire Dishwasher Error Codes
- Whirlpool Oven Error Codes
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