Whirlpool Dishwasher Error Codes

Below are the most common Whirlpool dishwasher error codes (also applies to Maytag, KitchenAid, Amana, JennAir). Each code includes what it means, step-by-step DIY fixes, when to call a professional, and repair cost estimates.

Safety Warning

1 high-urgency code(s) should be addressed promptly. If you smell gas, hear unusual sounds, or see sparks, turn off the system and call a professional immediately.

Quick Navigation — 10 Error Codes

Code F2 E2 Code F8 E4 Code F6 E4 Code F9 E1 Code F5 E2 Code F2 E1 Code F3 E1 Code F7 E1 Code F8 E1 Code F1 E1

Whirlpool Code F2 E2: User interface board fault

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $350

Common Causes

  • Failed user interface control board
  • Communication error between the interface and main control
  • Power surge damage to the interface board
  • Loose ribbon cable connection

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Disconnect power to the dishwasher at the breaker for 5 minutes, then restore power.
  2. Press and hold the Cancel/Drain button for 3 seconds to attempt to reset.
  3. Check that the door is closing fully and the latch engages.

Call a professional when: The code returns after a power reset — the user interface board or main control board needs replacement.

Whirlpool Code F8 E4: Water leak detected — float switch activated

High Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $400

Common Causes

  • Leaking water inlet hose connection
  • Damaged door gasket allowing water to drip into the base
  • Cracked or leaking pump or sump housing
  • Loose hose clamp on an internal hose

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Cancel the cycle and turn off the water supply to the dishwasher immediately.
  2. Check under the dishwasher for standing water and mop it up.
  3. Inspect the water supply line connection under the dishwasher for drips.
  4. Check the door gasket for cracks, tears, or debris preventing a proper seal.

Call a professional when: You cannot identify the source of the leak, or it is coming from the pump, sump, or internal hoses — professional disassembly and repair is needed.

Whirlpool Code F6 E4: Water level float switch error — overfill condition detected

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $125 – $300

Common Causes

  • Float switch stuck in the raised position due to debris
  • Water inlet valve stuck open
  • Float switch wiring issue
  • Faulty main control board

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Remove the lower dish rack and check the float (a small dome at the bottom of the tub). Make sure it moves up and down freely.
  2. Clean around the float — food debris can prevent it from dropping back down.
  3. Turn off power at the breaker for 5 minutes, then restore power and test.

Call a professional when: The float moves freely but the code persists — the float switch, water inlet valve, or control board needs professional diagnosis.

Whirlpool Code F9 E1: Diverter motor fault — water diverter position not detected

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $175 – $375

Common Causes

  • Faulty diverter motor
  • Debris blocking the diverter disc from rotating
  • Leaking diverter motor seal in the sump
  • Wiring issue at the diverter motor

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Turn off power at the breaker for 5 minutes, then restore power and run a cycle — a transient error may clear.
  2. Check the bottom of the dishwasher for food debris that could be blocking the diverter.
  3. Clean the dishwasher filter and sump area thoroughly.

Call a professional when: The code persists after a reset — the diverter motor or its seal needs professional replacement, which requires disassembling the sump.

Whirlpool Code F5 E2: Door not opened between cycles

Low Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $100 – $225

Common Causes

  • Door switch not registering door opening
  • User started a new cycle without opening the door
  • Faulty door switch or latch

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Press Cancel, open and close the door firmly, then start a new cycle.
  2. Check the door latch area for debris or food residue preventing proper switch contact.
  3. Turn off power for 1 minute to reset, then test again.

Call a professional when: The code continues appearing even after opening and closing the door — the door switch needs replacement.

Whirlpool Code F2 E1: Control board stuck key — button stuck on the interface

Low Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $125 – $300

Common Causes

  • A button on the control panel is stuck
  • Moisture or food residue behind the control panel buttons
  • Worn-out control panel membrane
  • Faulty user interface board

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Press each button on the control panel several times to try to free any stuck buttons.
  2. Wipe the control panel clean with a damp cloth — do not spray cleaner directly on it.
  3. Turn off power at the breaker for 5 minutes and then restore power.

Call a professional when: No button appears stuck but the code persists — the user interface board or its membrane overlay needs professional replacement.

Whirlpool Code F3 E1: Wash temperature sensor failure — thermistor fault

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $125 – $275

Common Causes

  • Defective thermistor (wash temperature sensor)
  • Loose wiring at the thermistor or control board
  • Water temperature coming into the dishwasher is too low

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Run the hot water at the kitchen sink nearest the dishwasher for 1-2 minutes before starting a cycle — this ensures hot water reaches the dishwasher right away.
  2. Turn off power at the breaker for 5 minutes to reset, then run a normal cycle.
  3. Check that your water heater is set to at least 120 degrees F.

Call a professional when: Hot water is reaching the dishwasher but the code persists — the thermistor needs professional testing and replacement.

Whirlpool Code F7 E1: Wash motor not running — circulation pump fault

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $175 – $400

Common Causes

  • Failed wash motor or circulation pump
  • Food debris jamming the pump impeller
  • Loose wiring at the motor
  • Faulty main control board

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Clean the dishwasher filter assembly at the bottom of the tub — remove, rinse, and replace.
  2. Check for broken glass or hard debris in the sump area that could jam the impeller.
  3. Turn off power for 5 minutes, then restore and test.

Call a professional when: The filter is clean but you hear humming without water spraying, or no sound at all — the wash motor needs professional diagnosis and likely replacement.

Whirlpool Code F8 E1: Water supply error — dishwasher not filling with water

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $120 – $275

Common Causes

  • Water supply valve under the sink is turned off
  • Kinked or clogged water supply line
  • Faulty water inlet valve
  • Flood-safe supply hose tripped (if installed)

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Check the water supply valve under the sink and ensure it is fully open.
  2. Inspect the water supply line for kinks.
  3. If you have a flood-safe supply hose, disconnect it and check if its internal shutoff has tripped — these often need replacement once tripped.
  4. Turn off power for 1 minute, then restore and run a new cycle.

Call a professional when: Water supply is confirmed on and the line is clear but the dishwasher still will not fill — the water inlet valve needs replacement.

Whirlpool Code F1 E1: Main control board error

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $200 – $450

Common Causes

  • Power surge damage to the main control board
  • Communication failure between control board components
  • Faulty main control board

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Turn off power at the breaker for 5 minutes to reset the control board.
  2. Restore power and run a normal cycle. If the code cleared, the error was transient.
  3. If using a surge protector power strip, try plugging directly into the wall outlet.

Call a professional when: The code returns after a power reset — the main control board needs professional replacement.

Need Whirlpool Repair in Central Texas?

Texas Temp Masters provides expert appliance repair for Whirlpool , Maytag, KitchenAid, Amana, JennAir, and all major brands in Killeen, Waco, Temple, and surrounding areas. Call (817) 704-0706 for fast, reliable service, or contact us online.

Error code information cross-referenced from manufacturer documentation, HVAC/appliance professional resources, and verified repair databases. Codes can vary by specific model and control board revision. Always verify against your unit's diagnostic label or owner's manual. Repair costs are estimates based on national averages. Last updated February 2026.

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