Comprehensive List of Whirlpool Washing Machine Error Codes List, Meaning and Solutions
By Best Washing Machines Repair — bestwashingmachinesrepair.co.ke
Whirlpool washing machines are designed to monitor important functions such as water supply, drainage, temperature, drum rotation, motor operation, door locking and electronic control. When the washer detects an abnormal condition, it may stop the cycle and display an error code.
Understanding Whirlpool washing machine error codes can help you identify the general area of a problem before calling a technician. Some faults are relatively simple, such as a blocked drain hose or insufficient water supply, while others involve components such as the motor control board, pressure sensor, heating element, door lock or main PCB.
It is important to note that Whirlpool has produced different washing-machine platforms for different markets. Consequently, an error such as F05 or F06 does not necessarily mean exactly the same thing on every Whirlpool washer. Official Whirlpool documentation also shows model-specific code systems, including combinations such as F5 E2, F7 E1, F8 E1 and F9 E1.
Whirlpool Washing Machine Error Codes at a Glance
| Error Code | Common Meaning | Common Causes | Typical Solution |
|---|---|---|---|
| F01 | Electronic/control fault | PCB malfunction, wiring fault | Reset and inspect PCB/wiring |
| F02 / F21 | Long drain time | Blocked hose, filter or pump | Clean drain system and test pump |
| F03 | Temperature sensing fault | Thermistor or wiring fault | Test/replace temperature sensor |
| F05 | Temperature sensor or related fault | Faulty NTC, wiring | Test sensor and connections |
| F06 | Motor/tachometer fault | Motor, sensor or wiring | Inspect motor circuit |
| F07 | Motor control fault | Motor control board/triac | Diagnose motor control system |
| F08 | Heating system fault | Heater, relay or wiring | Test heating element and relay |
| F09 | Overflow condition | Inlet valve, pressure system | Check water-level system |
| F10 | Motor control overheating/fault | Control board or motor | Inspect motor/control module |
| F11 | Communication fault | Wiring or control boards | Check harness and boards |
| F13 | Dispenser circuit fault | Dispenser, wiring or PCB | Inspect dispenser circuit |
| F14 | EEPROM/control memory fault | Main PCB memory failure | Diagnose or replace PCB |
| F15 | Motor control unit fault | MCU or wiring | Test motor control system |
| F18 | Control/suds-related fault | Depending on model | Diagnose model-specific system |
| F20 | Water supply/control fault | Tap, inlet valve, sensor or PCB | Check water inlet |
| F22 | Door-lock/control fault on some models | Door lock or wiring | Inspect lock assembly |
| F23 | Heater relay fault on some models | Relay/PCB | Test heater and control board |
| F24 | Overflow | Excess water or pressure-sensor issue | Check inlet valve and pressure system |
| F26 | Drain pump/control fault | Pump blockage or pump failure | Inspect and test pump |
| F27 | Motor/overflow condition on some models | Motor or water-level problem | Diagnose according to model |
| F28 | Communication/motor fault | Wiring or control modules | Check harness and boards |
| F29 | Door lock fault | Door lock assembly | Inspect lock and wiring |
| F34 | Spin/load detection fault | Load, balance or sensor | Redistribute load and diagnose sensor |
| F36 | Pressure/analog sensor fault | Pressure sensor or wiring | Inspect pressure system |
| F60 | ACU/internal control failure | Main electronic control | Professional PCB diagnosis |
| FH | No/insufficient water inlet | Closed tap, low pressure, blocked filter | Check water supply |
| FA | AquaStop fault | Leak protection system | Inspect AquaStop system |
| FP | Drain failure | Blocked hose, filter or pump | Clear blockage/test pump |
| FDL | Door lock error | Door lock mechanism | Inspect/replace lock |
| FDU | Door unlock error | Lock mechanism/control | Inspect lock circuit |
| Sud / Sd | Excessive suds | Too much/non-HE detergent | Reduce detergent and run rinse |
| F5 E2 | Door not locking | Obstruction or lock fault | Check door and lock |
| F7 E1 | Motor speed sensing error | Motor, sensor or wiring | Inspect motor system |
| F8 E1 / LO FL | Low water flow | Low pressure or restricted inlet | Check taps, hoses and filters |
| F8 E2 | Dispenser system fault | Blocked dispenser | Clean dispenser |
| F9 E1 | Long drain time | Blocked drain system | Inspect hose, filter and pump |
The meanings above should be treated as a troubleshooting reference rather than a universal code dictionary. Whirlpool’s official documentation demonstrates that code definitions can be platform-specific.
F01 — Electronic Control Board Fault
An F01 error code commonly indicates a problem with the electronic control system. On some Whirlpool platforms it refers to an electronic circuit-board fault, while technical documentation for particular models may assign F01 to another monitored function.
Possible causes
- Failed main PCB
- Damaged electronic components
- Loose wiring
- Voltage-related damage
- Communication problem between control components
What to do
Switch the washing machine off and disconnect it from the electrical supply for several minutes. Reconnect it and select a new cycle. Whirlpool recommends a power reset for certain F01 conditions.
If F01 returns repeatedly, professional diagnosis is recommended before purchasing a replacement PCB.
F02 and F21 — Long Drain or Drainage Problems
F02 and F21 are commonly associated with water taking too long to leave the washing machine on several Whirlpool front-load platforms. Whirlpool specifically identifies F21/F02 as indicating longer-than-expected drain times.
Common causes
- Blocked drain hose
- Kinked drain hose
- Dirty pump filter
- Foreign object inside the drain pump
- Weak or failed drain pump
- Excessive detergent and suds
- Blocked household drain
Troubleshooting
- Switch off the washer.
- Check the drain hose for kinks.
- Inspect the pump filter where accessible.
- Remove lint, coins, buttons and other foreign objects.
- Check the drainpipe.
- Use the recommended high-efficiency detergent where applicable.
Do not repeatedly operate a washer that cannot drain properly because standing water can contribute to unpleasant smells, leakage and other problems.
F03 and F05 — Temperature Sensor Errors
Temperature-related faults can prevent the washing machine from heating water correctly.
A defective NTC thermistor, damaged wiring, poor electrical connection or a failed control circuit can cause temperature-sensing errors. Whirlpool service information for specific platforms identifies F03 with temperature sensing, while other Whirlpool platforms use F05 for temperature-sensor faults.
Symptoms may include
- Water remains cold during a hot cycle
- Washing cycle takes unusually long
- Heater does not activate
- Error appears shortly after filling
A technician can measure the thermistor resistance and inspect its wiring before replacing the sensor.
F06 — Motor or Tachometer Error
An F06 code can indicate that the washer cannot correctly detect or control drum movement. On certain Whirlpool platforms it is associated with the motor tachometer or motor-speed sensing system.
Possible causes include:
- Faulty motor
- Tachometer/speed sensor problem
- Damaged motor wiring
- Loose connector
- Motor control board fault
- Mechanical obstruction
If the drum does not rotate, do not assume that the motor itself needs replacement. The technician should first test the motor, wiring, sensor and control module.
F07 — Motor Control Fault
F07 may indicate a motor control problem on certain Whirlpool washing-machine platforms.
The fault may involve:
- Motor control unit
- Triac or electronic switching circuit
- Motor wiring
- Main PCB
- Motor itself
Because this code can involve high-voltage electrical components, diagnosis should be performed by a qualified appliance technician.
F08 — Heating System Error
An F08 error is commonly associated with the washing machine’s heating circuit on applicable Whirlpool platforms. Whirlpool technical documentation identifies F08 as a heater-related fault.
Possible causes
- Burnt-out heating element
- Heater relay failure
- Damaged heater wiring
- Electrical connection problem
- Main control-board fault
A technician should test the heating element for continuity and insulation condition and then inspect the control circuit.
F09 — Overflow Condition
An F09 code may indicate an overflow condition.
Possible causes include:
- Faulty water inlet valve
- Pressure sensor problem
- Blocked pressure hose
- Excessive water entering the drum
- Control-board fault
Immediately stop the washer if water continues entering when it should not. Shut off the water supply and arrange for diagnosis.
F10 — Motor Control or Overheating Fault
F10 is used on some Whirlpool platforms to indicate a motor control problem or motor-control overheating condition. Whirlpool technical documentation identifies F10 with motor-control over-temperature detection on a specific washer platform.
The technician may inspect:
- Motor
- Motor control module
- Wiring harness
- Ventilation around control electronics
- Main PCB
F11 — Communication Error
An F11 error generally indicates a communication problem between electronic components on applicable Whirlpool models.
The problem may involve:
- Loose connector
- Broken wire
- Corroded connector
- Main PCB
- Motor control board
- User interface/control panel
A reset may temporarily clear an electronic communication fault, but a recurring F11 normally requires electrical diagnosis.
F13 — Dispenser Circuit Error
F13 can indicate a dispenser-circuit problem on certain Whirlpool washing machines.
The dispenser system may fail because of:
- Blocked dispenser
- Failed dispenser motor
- Damaged wiring
- Faulty control board
Clean the detergent drawer and inspect for hardened detergent deposits. If the code remains, the dispenser circuit should be tested.
F14 — EEPROM Failure
F14 is associated with an EEPROM/control-memory fault on certain Whirlpool platforms. EEPROM stores configuration or program information used by the electronic control system.
A persistent F14 generally requires professional PCB diagnosis. In some cases, the control board may need programming or replacement.
F15 — Motor Control Unit Error
F15 may indicate a problem involving the motor control unit.
Possible causes include:
- Motor control board failure
- Damaged wiring
- Motor fault
- Communication problem
- Power-related electronic damage
A technician should test the complete motor-control circuit rather than replacing individual components without diagnosis.
F18 — Control or Suds-Related Fault
The exact meaning of F18 varies by Whirlpool platform. Whirlpool technical documentation for one washer platform identifies F18 as a suds-detection condition, while other Whirlpool code lists associate F18 with control faults.
If excessive suds are visible, use the correct detergent and avoid adding excessive quantities.
F20 — Water Supply or Control Fault
F20 can be associated with a water-entry or control-system problem depending on the model.
Check:
- Water tap
- Inlet hose
- Inlet filter screens
- Water pressure
- Inlet valve
- Pressure-sensing system
- Wiring
A washing machine that fills too slowly may also display a low-flow or fill-related code rather than F20.
F22 — Door Lock Error
Some Whirlpool platforms use F22 in connection with door-lock or control faults.
Before assuming the lock is defective:
- Check that clothing is not trapped in the door.
- Close the door firmly.
- Inspect the door seal.
- Check the locking mechanism for visible damage.
- Reset the appliance.
A failed door-lock assembly may prevent the washer from starting because the machine cannot confirm that the door is safely locked.
F23 — Heater Relay Fault
On applicable Whirlpool models, F23 can indicate a heater-relay problem.
Possible causes include:
- Stuck relay
- Failed heating element
- Damaged wiring
- PCB failure
This is an electrical repair and should normally be handled by a qualified technician.
F24 — Overflow
F24 may indicate that the washer has detected an overflow condition on applicable models.
Potential causes include:
- Faulty pressure sensor
- Blocked pressure tube
- Faulty inlet valve
- Excessive water entering the drum
- Electronic control problem
Turn off the water supply if the washer continues filling unexpectedly.
F26 — Drain Pump Fault
F26 may involve the drain pump or its control circuit on particular Whirlpool platforms. Whirlpool technical documentation lists F26 among the faults detected during the drain-pump test.
Check for:
- Blocked pump filter
- Foreign objects
- Kinked drain hose
- Damaged pump impeller
- Failed drain pump
- Pump wiring problems
F27 — Motor or Overflow Condition
F27 has different meanings between Whirlpool platforms. It can be associated with motor or overflow-related conditions.
Because of this variation, technicians should use the washer’s model number and technical documentation before diagnosing the fault.
F28 — Communication or Motor Fault
F28 can indicate communication problems involving control boards or motor-control systems on some Whirlpool washing machines.
Inspect:
- PCB connectors
- Motor-control connections
- Wiring harness
- Motor
- Electronic control modules
F29 — Door Lock Fault
F29 is associated with door-lock operation on certain Whirlpool platforms.
A washer may refuse to start, pause during a cycle or remain locked when the lock mechanism cannot operate correctly.
Possible repairs include:
- Removing an obstruction
- Repairing wiring
- Replacing the door-lock assembly
- Repairing the control circuit
F34 — Spin or Load Detection Fault
F34 can be related to load or spin detection on particular Whirlpool models. A badly unbalanced load can prevent the machine from reaching its programmed spin speed.
Try:
- Pause the machine.
- Redistribute clothes evenly.
- Remove excessively heavy items.
- Restart the spin cycle.
If the code continues with normal loads, the technician should inspect the motor, sensors and control system.
F36 — Pressure Sensor Fault
F36 may identify an analog pressure-sensor problem on certain Whirlpool machines. Whirlpool technical documentation lists F36 as an analog pressure-sensor fault.
The pressure system helps the washer determine the amount of water inside the drum. A blocked pressure tube, failed sensor or wiring fault can therefore interfere with filling and draining.
F60 — Internal Control Failure
F60 can indicate an internal failure of the appliance control unit on applicable Whirlpool platforms.
This type of error normally requires professional electronic diagnosis. A technician may inspect the PCB, power supply, connectors and associated sensors.
Whirlpool Washing Machine Letter-Based Error Codes
Whirlpool washers can also display letter-based codes, especially on particular European and regional models.
| Code | Meaning | Possible Solution |
|---|---|---|
| FH | No water inlet | Check tap, pressure, inlet hose and filter |
| FA | AquaStop failure | Check leak-protection system |
| FP | Drain failure | Check drain hose, filter and pump |
| FDL | Door lock error | Check door lock and wiring |
| FDU | Door unlock error | Inspect lock mechanism/control |
| Sud / Sd | Excessive suds | Reduce detergent and run rinse cycle |
| LO FL / F8 E1 | Low water flow | Check water supply and inlet hose |
Some Whirlpool service documentation uses FH for no water inlet, FA for AquaStop failure, FP for drain failure, and FDL/FDU for door-lock problems.
Whirlpool F5 E2 — Door Not Locking
The F5 E2 error is used on certain Whirlpool front-load washers when the door is not locking properly.
Whirlpool recommends checking that nothing is blocking the door and that it closes completely.
Possible causes include:
- Clothing trapped between door and seal
- Damaged door latch
- Faulty door-lock assembly
- Wiring problem
- Control-board fault
Whirlpool F7 E1 — Motor Speed Sensing Error
F7 E1 indicates a motor-speed sensing problem on applicable Whirlpool models.
Whirlpool recommends checking issues such as shipping bolts that may not have been removed and excessive loading, depending on the model.
If the machine is correctly installed and the error repeatedly appears, the motor, speed sensor and control system should be inspected.
Whirlpool F8 E1 / LO FL — Low Water Flow
This code indicates that the washer is detecting insufficient water flow on applicable models.
Check:
- Water supply tap
- Inlet hose
- Hose kinks
- Water pressure
- Inlet screens
- Anti-flood devices
- Inlet valve
Whirlpool specifically recommends checking that the water supply is turned on, inlet hoses are not kinked and water flow is not restricted.
Whirlpool F8 E2 — Dispenser System Problem
F8 E2 is associated with a dispenser-system problem on selected Whirlpool washers.
A common first step is to inspect the detergent dispenser or cartridge for hardened detergent and blockage.
Clean the dispenser thoroughly and make sure the correct detergent and dosage are being used.
Whirlpool F9 E1 — Long Drain Time
F9 E1 indicates that drainage is taking longer than expected on applicable Whirlpool models.
Whirlpool identifies restricted drain hoses, blocked drainpipes and excessive suds as possible contributors.
Check these areas
- Drain hose
- Drainpipe
- Pump filter
- Drain pump
- Excessive detergent
- Suds accumulation
Sud or Sd — Excessive Suds
The Sud or Sd code does not necessarily mean a mechanical failure. It commonly indicates that the washing machine has detected excessive foam.
Whirlpool recommends using HE detergent where required and avoiding excessive detergent. Excessive suds can interfere with draining and rinsing.
What to do
- Stop adding excess detergent.
- Use the detergent specified for the washer.
- Follow the dosage instructions.
- Run an additional rinse if necessary.
- Check the drain system if the code repeatedly returns.
Why Whirlpool Error Codes Should Not Be Ignored
An error code is a diagnostic message, not simply an inconvenience. Continuing to use the washer while a fault is present can sometimes cause additional problems.
For example:
- A drainage problem can leave water inside the machine.
- A faulty inlet valve can cause overfilling.
- A heating fault can prevent proper washing temperatures.
- A motor fault can damage associated components.
- A door-lock fault can prevent safe operation.
- An electronic fault can cause intermittent operation.
Early diagnosis can therefore prevent a relatively small component problem from becoming a more expensive repair.
Basic Whirlpool Washing Machine Troubleshooting Procedure
Before calling a technician, homeowners can safely perform a few basic checks.
1. Record the error code
Write down the exact code, including letters and numbers. For example, F8 E1 is different from F9 E1.
2. Switch off the washer
Turn off the machine and disconnect it from the power supply before inspecting accessible areas.
3. Check water supply
Make sure the water tap is fully open and that the inlet hose is not kinked.
4. Check drainage
Inspect the drain hose for kinks or visible blockage. Where the design permits, clean the pump filter.
5. Check the load
Remove excessive laundry and redistribute clothes if the machine is struggling during spin.
6. Check the detergent
Excessive detergent can produce excessive suds and interfere with drainage.
7. Perform a reset
Some Whirlpool models can clear temporary electronic faults after being disconnected from power. However, reset procedures vary by model. Whirlpool’s guidance for certain drain codes recommends disconnecting power for five minutes before reconnecting and restarting the cycle.
8. Call a professional if the code returns
If the same error returns after basic checks, the underlying component should be diagnosed rather than repeatedly resetting the washer.
When to Hire a Whirlpool Washing Machine Repair Technician
Professional repair is recommended when the problem involves:
- Main PCB or electronic control board
- Motor control board
- Heating element
- Door-lock assembly
- Drain pump replacement
- Water inlet valve
- Pressure sensor
- Motor
- Tachometer
- Internal wiring
- Repeated communication errors
- Burning smell or electrical damage
- Persistent error codes after basic troubleshooting
A technician can use electrical testing equipment and the manufacturer’s technical documentation to determine whether a component needs cleaning, repair, programming or replacement.
Important Note About Whirlpool Error Codes
There is no single universal Whirlpool error-code chart that applies identically to every washing machine. Different Whirlpool models and regional platforms can use the same code for different faults. For example, F05 is listed as a temperature-sensor problem on some Whirlpool platforms, while another Whirlpool platform may use F05 differently.
Therefore, the Whirlpool model number, exact error code and symptoms should always be considered together.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the most common Whirlpool washing machine error code?
There is no single code that is most common across every Whirlpool model. Drainage, water supply, motor, door-lock, heating and electronic-control faults are among the recurring categories.
2. How do I reset a Whirlpool washing machine error code?
A basic reset involves switching off the washer and disconnecting it from power for several minutes before reconnecting it. The exact reset procedure depends on the model and fault.
3. What does F21 mean on a Whirlpool washing machine?
On applicable Whirlpool front-load washers, F21 indicates that water is taking longer than expected to drain. Check the drain hose, drainpipe, pump filter and drain pump.
4. What does F05 mean on a Whirlpool washer?
F05 can have different meanings depending on the Whirlpool platform. On some machines it indicates a temperature-sensor problem, while other Whirlpool platforms assign F05 to a different fault.
5. What does F06 mean on a Whirlpool washing machine?
On applicable Whirlpool machines, F06 can indicate a motor tachometer or motor-speed sensing problem. The motor, sensor, wiring and control board may require testing.
6. What does F08 mean?
F08 is associated with the heating system on certain Whirlpool platforms. The heating element, wiring and heater relay may need to be tested.
7. What does F9 E1 mean?
F9 E1 indicates that drainage is taking longer than expected on applicable Whirlpool models. Check for drain-hose restrictions, blocked drainpipes, pump problems and excessive suds.
8. Why does my Whirlpool washer show Sud or Sd?
The washer has detected excessive suds. Using too much detergent or the wrong detergent can create excessive foam and interfere with drainage and rinsing.
9. Can I repair a Whirlpool error myself?
Simple problems such as a kinked hose, blocked accessible filter or excessive detergent can sometimes be corrected by the user. Electrical, electronic, motor and heating-system faults should generally be diagnosed by a qualified technician.
10. Should I replace a part when an error code appears?
Not automatically. An error code identifies a monitored fault or condition; it does not always identify a failed component. Proper diagnosis can prevent unnecessary replacement of expensive parts.
Whirlpool Washing Machine Repair Services
Best Washing Machines Repair provides washing-machine troubleshooting, diagnosis, maintenance and repair services for Whirlpool washers. Professional diagnosis is particularly useful when an error code continues appearing after basic checks.
Services may include:
- Whirlpool washing machine fault diagnosis
- Error-code troubleshooting
- Drain pump inspection and replacement
- Water inlet valve repair
- Heating-element replacement
- Door-lock repair
- Motor and tachometer diagnosis
- Pressure-sensor troubleshooting
- PCB and control-board diagnosis
- Wiring and connector inspection
- Preventive washing-machine maintenance
- Genuine and compatible spare-parts replacement
For reliable troubleshooting, provide the technician with the Whirlpool model number, exact error code and a description of what the machine was doing when the error appeared. This information can significantly shorten the diagnostic process.
Best Washing Machines Repair
Website: bestwashingmachinesrepair.co.ke
Specialist services: Whirlpool washing machine diagnosis, repair, maintenance, error-code troubleshooting and spare-parts replacement.
Whirlpool error codes are useful diagnostic tools, but they should not be interpreted in isolation. Because code meanings vary between models and platforms, the safest approach is to combine the error code with the washer’s model number and symptoms. Basic issues such as restricted water supply, blocked drainage and excessive detergent can often be checked first, while persistent electrical, heating, motor and control faults should be handled by an experienced washing-machine repair technician.