Whirlpool dishwashers use error codes to indicate specific problems. Here are the most common error codes, their meanings, and possible solutions:
1. Error Code F1 or E1
Meaning: Water leak detected or excessive water in the base.
Causes:
Leaky hoses or loose connections.
Faulty door seal.
Overfilled dishwasher.
Solutions:
Check for water pooling under the dishwasher.
Inspect and tighten water connections.
Replace a damaged door seal or faulty hoses.
2. Error Code F2 or E2
Meaning: Water not heating properly.
Causes:
Faulty heating element or thermostat.
Wiring issues.
Solutions:
Test the heating element and thermostat; replace if defective.
Check wiring connections for damage or loose connections.
3. Error Code F3 or E3
Meaning: Dishwasher not filling with enough water.
Causes:
Clogged or kinked water inlet hose.
Faulty water inlet valve.
Low household water pressure.
Solutions:
Ensure the water supply is on and has adequate pressure.
Clean or replace the water inlet hose.
Replace the water inlet valve if it's defective.
4. Error Code F4 or E4
Meaning: Drainage problem.
Causes:
Clogged drain filter or hose.
Blocked air gap.
Malfunctioning drain pump.
Solutions:
Clean the drain filter and hose.
Unblock the air gap.
Replace the drain pump if necessary.
5. Error Code F5 or E5
Meaning: Door not closing properly.
Causes:
Misaligned or damaged door latch.
Obstruction in the door seal.
Solutions:
Realign or replace the door latch.
Inspect and clean the door seal for debris.
6. Error Code F6 or E6
Meaning: Water inlet issue.
Causes:
Insufficient water supply.
Faulty water inlet valve.
Solutions:
Ensure the water supply is turned on and has proper pressure.
Replace the water inlet valve if needed.
7. Error Code F7 or E7
Meaning: Flow meter error (water flow not detected correctly).
Causes:
Faulty flow meter.
Blocked water inlet.
Solutions:
Clean or replace the flow meter.
Check and clean the water inlet.
8. Error Code F8 or E8
Meaning: Overflow or flood detected.
Causes:
Excess water in the base.
Faulty float switch.
Solutions:
Inspect the float switch and replace it if necessary.
Check for and repair any leaks.
9. Error Code F9 or E9
Meaning: Continuous water flow into the dishwasher.
Causes:
Faulty water inlet valve.
Stuck float switch.
Solutions:
Replace the water inlet valve if it doesn't shut off properly.
Clean and test the float switch for proper operation.
10. Error Code F10
Meaning: Circulation pump malfunction.
Causes:
Blocked pump or impeller.
Motor failure.
Solutions:
Remove blockages from the circulation pump.
Replace the pump motor if it’s defective.
11. Error Code H2O
Meaning: Low or no water supply.
Causes:
Water supply turned off.
Blocked or kinked water inlet hose.
Solutions:
Ensure the water supply is turned on.
Check and straighten the water inlet hose.
12. Error Code HE
Meaning: Heater fault.
Causes:
Failed heating element.
Thermostat malfunction.
Solutions:
Test and replace the heating element if not working.
Replace the thermostat if faulty.
13. Error Code E1/F5
Meaning: Motor or pump failure.
Causes:
Faulty circulation or drain pump.
Clogged impeller.
Solutions:
Check for debris in the pump impeller.
Replace the circulation or drain pump if necessary.
General Troubleshooting Tips
Reset the Dishwasher:
Unplug the dishwasher or turn off the circuit breaker for 5 minutes.
Restart the unit to clear temporary glitches.
Inspect Connections:
Ensure all hoses, seals, and components are properly connected.
Check the User Manual:
Refer to the dishwasher’s manual for detailed instructions on specific error codes.
Call a Technician:
If the issue persists or is complex, contact a professional repair service.