How to Fix Whirlpool Washer E1 F3 Error? [Top/Front Load]

A common issue that exists on Whirlpool washer is that users get the E1 F3 error code displayed on the front screen. Normally that is enough to raise anxiety among the users. So, what exactly does this exactly mean?

The E1 F3 error code on a Whirlpool washer typically means there is not enough water inside the machine to start its operation. Typically this can happen if the pressure sensor is damaged or the outlet hose is clogged with dirt and needs cleaning.

In that case, this article details how you can clean the said components and get your washer back to its operating state.

What is the E1 F3 Error on the Whirlpool Washer?

The E1 F3 error can appear on your Whirlpool washer for many reasons. But mostly if the washer cannot detect water level inside the drum, you will see the code displayed on the tiny screen in front.

This can happen if the pressure sensor is faulty. You can create a gif using the error code in this video.

Even if you see that water is coming properly from the supply pipe, something may be preventing it from entering the washer. These are due to the accumulation of debris in the water pipe.

Here are some places where it can get stuck.

• The water hose is clogged.
• Filter Getting clogged by small particles
• Air trap getting blocked

So, we will need to check these places and see if that’s what is giving the error codes.

How to Fix Whirlpool Washer E1 F3 Error?

Before troubleshooting your washer, remove any clothes inside the drum. Make sure the water inlet pipe into the water is turned on.

Once the above steps are done, follow the methods stated in the troubleshooting guide one by one.

1. Restart the Washer

Sometimes a simple restart can clear your Whirlpool washer E1 F3 error. Maybe there was a problem with its power cable. If you try restarting it, this can get rid of the error.

• Turn off the power switch next to the water and pull out its cable.
• Keep the washer in this state for 10 minutes.
• Connect the plug and make sure it is properly inserted. Turn off the switch.

Turn on the washer and monitor it for some time. See if you can get the same error again.

2. Inspect the Air Hose

The pressure sensor is normally located under the top hatch. On one end, it has a few wires connected while the other end connects to a black air hose. That’s where debris can collect and give the sensor a hard time operating.

The air hose from the sensor goes all the way to the back. There it connects to a small air trap.

So, remove the hose and blow some air into it. This should clear any blockages at its entrance.

Also, pull the air hose to see if there is any damage or if it is bent. Remove any kinks built up and reattach them to the air trap at the back of the washer.

Finally, see if the pressure sensor has its wires attached properly. You can just push the wires into the sensor and ensure they are seated properly.

3. Unclog Water Hose

The supply pipe that brings water to the washer is often overlooked. And normally that does not cause any issues.

But as we are looking into all the possible issues that can give rise to the E1 F3 error, why not check this out too?

The water hose also has a filter that traps particles going into the washer. Sometimes your water from the supply line can contain small debris, and this cleans that out.

So, turn off your washer and close the water tap supplying water to your washing machine. Once you do that, turn off the plastic retainer that holds the inlet hose in place. Turn it until it comes off.

Remove the hose and take out the filter. Run it under a tap to remove the small particles building in it. When you are done, reinstall it.

Now clean the insides of the hose the same way. Reinstall it and surely put it in place. Put the plastic retainer and securely turn it all the way to lock it in place.

Turn on the water supply tap and plug in the washer to its power socket. Then attempt to run a drain cycle to see if you can get any errors.

4. Remove Debris From Drain Trap

The Washing machine has a little filter at the bottom. This typically collects small items which can remain on your clothes such as pennies or small items.

Once the cleaning cycle is completed, the water is drained out and it passes through the drain trap.

Sometimes the drain trap can get clogged and this can cause slowdowns in removing the used water out of the washer.  

Cleaning this can often clear the error code that you get with your washer.

Here’s how to do it.

• Unplug the washing machine’s power cable.
• Locate the drain trap. This is mostly present underneath the drum. You can access this by removing the back panel. Remove the screws holding the back panel and take it off.
• Place a plastic tray underneath the drain unit.   
• Remove the drain trap by unclipping the plastic retainers. There can sometimes be screws which hold it in place. After releasing the clips gently take them off.
• Allow water to drain completely. Also, clean the drain unit separately using water and remove any lint or particles that may have accumulated.
• After cleaning it thoroughly, insert the drain unit and lock it into place.
• Also remove the drain hose at the back, which is a black pipe taking the waste water out of the washer. Clean the hose using a water and vinegar solution and remove any gunks that may accumulate.
• Close the back panel and insert the screws in place.
• Plug in the washer.

As usual, turn on the washing machine and see if it gives out any errors. Complete the drain cycle successfully and that will ensure your washing machine is free of any errors.

FAQs

This section aims to answer any queries related to the E1 F3 error code on your washer. Normally the above steps should help you successfully troubleshoot this, but go through this if you have any further confusion.

Conclusion

If your washer continues to show the error, focus on these two items. The pressure sensor and the washer mainboard.

Our suggestion would be to contact the manufacturer’s support team if the second item turns out to be faulty.

That’s all for this guide. We hope this piece helped fix your Whirlpool washers and get it back working.