Whirlpool Dishwasher Error Codes: Flashing Lights and F#E# List
How to read a Whirlpool dishwasher error code
Whirlpool explains that on models with a digital display, “The error code will be displayed as a F#E#.” The F number is the function (the system involved), and the E number is the specific error. Whirlpool adds: “Exact codes vary by model, but many Whirlpool dishwashers follow a similar structure.” Write down the full code and your model number (on the inside edge of the door) before you reset anything.
Flashing light patterns: 3 flashes, 4 flashes and so on
On models without a display, the Clean light flashes the code. Whirlpool’s method:
- “Count the first set of rapid flashes. This is the Function (F) number.”
- “Watch for a short pause (about 1–2 seconds).”
- “Count the second set of rapid flashes. This is the Error (E) number.”
- “Watch for a longer pause (about 5 seconds) before the entire sequence repeats.”
Whirlpool’s example: “If the light flashes 7 times, pauses, flashes 1 time, pauses, and then repeats—that is an F7-E1 error code.” So 3 flashes, pause, 2 flashes is F3E2, 4 flashes, pause, 3 flashes is F4E3, and 9 flashes, pause, 1 flash is F9E1. Look the result up in the table below.
Whirlpool dishwasher error code list
Meanings are Whirlpool’s “potential cause” wording from its support pages. “Service” means Whirlpool’s advice is to reset power once and request service if the code returns.
| Code | Whirlpool’s meaning | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| F1E1 | Control module | Reset power for 30 seconds; service if it returns |
| F2E1 | Stuck key or console error | Check no button is held in; reset; service if it returns |
| F2E2 | Main control communication error | Reset; service if it returns |
| F3E2 | Thermistor or OWI (optical water indicator) sensor | Reset; service if it returns |
| F4E3 | Heating error | Reset; service if it returns |
| F6E1 | User interface error, main control | Reset; service if it returns |
| F6E3 | Excessive suds | See suds |
| F6E4 | Water float switch | Check the dishwasher is level; see float switch |
| F7E2 | Wash motor error | Reset; service if it returns |
| F8E2 | Fill valve electric error | Reset; service if it returns |
| F8E4 | Water detected in drip tray | See leak codes |
| F8E5 | Fill valve stuck open | Turn off the water; don’t cut power (see below) |
| F9E1 | Long drain (not draining) | See drain codes |
| F9E2 | Drain motor error | Clear the drain path; service if it returns |
| FAE4 (F10E4) | Diverter valve error | Reset; service if it returns |
| FAE5 (F10E5) | Diverter leak | Check for leaks under the dishwasher; service if it returns |
| H2O | Not detecting water | Make sure the water supply is on and the hose isn’t kinked |
For KitchenAid models, see KitchenAid dishwasher error codes.
⚠️ Caution: disconnect power and water first
Whirlpool says to “Turn off power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker; do not rely on the control panel alone” before you reach into the sump or remove the toe-kick panel (the one exception is F8E5, below). Never pour drain-opening chemicals into the dishwasher, and never bypass the float switch or door switch. Codes for the control, motors, heater and valves are technician repairs.
Drain codes: F9E1 and F9E2
F9E1 (long drain) means water isn’t leaving in time, almost always a blockage. Work through:
- Filter: remove it and “clean it thoroughly under running water.” Whirlpool’s manual says to clean filters “at least once a month.”
- Drain hose: look for “a kinked, pinched, or clogged hose” under the sink.
- Garbage disposer: on a new install, Whirlpool says “removing the knock-out plug is critical for draining the dishwasher.” Run the disposer to clear it.
- Air gap or high loop: clean the air gap if you have one; otherwise the hose needs “a proper high loop,” as local codes require.
- Suds: too much or the wrong detergent can stop draining (see F6E3).
Whirlpool notes that “Water slightly above the filter screen often indicates a partial restriction in the filter, sump, or hose,” and warns: “Do not use drain-opening chemicals inside the dishwasher.” F9E2 (drain motor error) gets the same checks first; if it returns once the drain path is clear, the drain motor needs service. More help: dishwasher not draining.
Water, suds and leak codes
- F8E5 (fill valve stuck open): Whirlpool’s steps: “Turn off water to the dishwasher (if possible).” Then “Press Cancel key one time to silence alarm tone, then shut the door. DO NOT turn off the power and keep the door closed.” Only “If you are unable to turn the water supply off, then turn off power to the dishwasher.” Then request service.
- F8E4 (water in the drip tray): the dishwasher has found water under the tub. Check under the dishwasher for a leak, make sure the water connections are tight, and request service if it returns.
- F6E3 (excessive suds): usually dish soap or too much detergent. Scoop out the foam, run a cycle with no detergent, and use only automatic dishwasher detergent.
- F6E4 (water float switch): Whirlpool says incorrect leveling can trigger the overfill float switch, so check the dishwasher is level and the float in the tub moves freely. Never wedge or bypass the float.
- H2O (not detecting water): make sure the water supply valve is on and the supply hose isn’t kinked.
Other lights that aren’t error codes
- Front status light: on models that have it, Whirlpool lists “Blue – Washing In-Progress,” “Red – Drying In-Progress,” “White – Cycle Completed” and “Blinking – Cycle has paused.”
- All the cycle lights flashing: usually the door was opened during a cycle; close it firmly until it latches.
- Sani light flashing: Whirlpool says “The Sani LED will flash if the dishwasher detects the temperature requirements for sanitization were not met.” Run the hot tap at the sink before starting so the incoming water is at least 120°F.
How to reset a Whirlpool dishwasher fault
Fix the cause first, then reset the control. Whirlpool: “it needs to be disconnected from the power source for 30 seconds.” Unplug it, or switch off the breaker if it’s hardwired, wait 30 seconds and restore power. Don’t use this reset for F8E5; follow the water-off steps above. If the same code comes back after a reset, request service.
Whirlpool’s homeowner pages don’t publish a diagnostic or test mode. If the lights don’t match a code above, check your owner’s manual or request service rather than following generic sequences found online.
What Whirlpool dishwasher repairs usually cost
| Repair | Typical cost | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Typical dishwasher repair | $175 to $325 | Angi (Oct 2026) |
| Drainage or clog repair | $100 to $250 | Angi |
| Drain pump | $150 to $350 | Angi |
| Control board | $200 to $400 | Angi |
| Service call | $50 to $80 plus $75 to $125 an hour | Angi |
Frequently asked questions
How do I read Whirlpool dishwasher flashing light codes?
Count the flashes of the Clean light before the short pause (the F number), then the flashes after it (the E number). 9 flashes, pause, 1 flash is F9E1.
What does F9E1 mean on a Whirlpool dishwasher?
Long drain: the dishwasher isn’t draining in time. Clean the filter, check the drain hose, disposer and air gap, then reset the power.
How do I reset a Whirlpool dishwasher error code?
Fix the cause, then disconnect power for 30 seconds by unplugging it or switching off the breaker. Don’t do this for F8E5; turn the water off and keep the power on.
What does 4 flashes mean on a Whirlpool dishwasher?
It’s the F number. Count the flashes after the pause: 4 then 3 is F4E3, a heating error.
Is there a printable Whirlpool dishwasher code list?
The table above lists the codes Whirlpool documents. Whirlpool’s own support site has a page for each code, and your owner’s manual covers your model.
Sources: Whirlpool: reading dishwasher error codes · Whirlpool: F8E5 · Whirlpool: dishwasher not draining · Whirlpool: newly installed dishwasher not draining · Whirlpool: front status lights · Whirlpool: Sani light flashing · Whirlpool owner’s manual W10903644 · Angi: dishwasher repair cost.
Updated October 22, 2026. Written and edited by Jordan Hale. Code meanings taken from Whirlpool’s support pages; no hands-on test is claimed. Codes vary by model, so confirm yours in the owner’s manual.
