Whirlpool Dishwasher Error Codes (What They Mean + Fixes)

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If your Whirlpool dishwasher is showing an error code, it means the appliance has detected a condition that may stop the cycle or affect cleaning performance. This guide covers the most common Whirlpool dishwasher error codes, what they usually mean, and safe checks you can try before calling service.

Common Whirlpool Dishwasher Error Codes

F6 E1 — No or Low Water

What it usually means

  • The dishwasher is not detecting enough incoming water.

Try this

  1. Ensure the water tap is fully open.
  2. Check the inlet hose for kinks or pinching.
  3. Restart and try a short cycle.

Call service if

  • No water enters and the error returns immediately.

F6 E4 — Water Supply Issue

What it usually means

  • The dishwasher is detecting inconsistent water flow.

Try this

  1. Check household water pressure.
  2. Clean the inlet filter if accessible.

Call service if

  • The error repeats across cycles.

F7 E1 — Heating Error

What it usually means

  • Water is not heating to the required temperature.

Try this

  1. Restart the dishwasher.
  2. Run a normal (non-Eco) cycle once.
  3. Ensure filters are clean to allow proper circulation.

Call service if

  • Dishes remain cold after multiple cycles.

F8 E2 — Drain or Excess Suds Error

What it usually means

  • The dishwasher cannot drain properly or has detected excess foam.

Try this

  1. Clean the bottom filters thoroughly.
  2. Use only dishwasher detergent and avoid over-dosing.
  3. Restart the cycle.

Call service if

  • Water remains in the base after cleaning.

F8 E4 — Overflow or Leak Detected

What it usually means

  • The dishwasher has detected water in the base or an overfill condition.

Try this

  1. Turn off power immediately.
  2. Check for visible leaks around the unit.
  3. Allow the base to dry before restarting once.

Call service if

  • The error returns or leaking is visible.

F9 E1 — Long Drain

What it usually means

  • The dishwasher is taking too long to drain water.

Try this

  1. Clean filters and check the drain hose for blockages.
  2. Ensure the sink connection is not restricted.

Call service if

  • The dishwasher will not drain.

F2 E1 — Keypad or Button Stuck

What it usually means

  • A control panel button is stuck or not responding.

Try this

  1. Turn power off for 5 minutes.
  2. Restart and try selecting a cycle again.

Call service if

  • Buttons remain unresponsive.

F5 E1 — Door Switch Error

What it usually means

  • The door is not being detected as closed.

Try this

  1. Close the door firmly.
  2. Ensure racks are fully pushed in.
  3. Restart the dishwasher.

Call service if

  • The dishwasher will not start.

F1 E1 — Control Board Error

What it usually means

  • An internal control fault has been detected.

Try this

  1. Turn power off for 5 minutes.
  2. Restart the dishwasher.

Call service if

  • The error returns immediately.

F4 E3 — Wash Motor Error

What it usually means

  • The circulation motor is not operating correctly.

Try this

  1. Ensure spray arms can rotate freely.
  2. Restart after turning power off.

Call service if

  • The dishwasher stops mid-cycle or makes unusual noises.

F10 E1 — Dispenser Error

What it usually means

  • The detergent dispenser is not operating as expected.

Try this

  1. Ensure the dispenser is not blocked.
  2. Restart and test another cycle.

Call service if

  • The dispenser fails to open repeatedly.

How to Clear a Whirlpool Dishwasher Error Code

  1. Turn the dishwasher off.
  2. Switch off power at the wall for 5 minutes.
  3. Restore power and start a short test cycle.

If the error returns immediately, it usually indicates an active fault.

When to Call Service

  • Leak or overflow warnings
  • Repeated drain or fill errors
  • Heating or motor faults that persist
  • Control or keypad errors

FAQ

Can detergent cause Whirlpool dishwasher error codes?

Yes. Excess detergent can cause foam-related drain and overflow errors.

Do Whirlpool dishwasher error codes vary by model?

Yes. Codes can vary slightly by model and region, but the meanings above apply to most Whirlpool dishwashers.

Is it safe to keep resetting the dishwasher?

Occasional resets are fine, but repeated resets without fixing the cause are not recommended.