Whirlpool Dishwasher Error Code FA — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The FA error means your Whirlpool dishwasher has a water inlet problem. The machine is not getting enough water, or the inlet valve is not opening correctly. Without proper water fill, the dishwasher cannot wash dishes and stops the cycle. The most common causes are a closed supply valve, low water pressure, or a faulty inlet valve.

Affected Models

WDT750SAHZ
WDT970SAHZ
WDTA50SAHZ
WDF520PADM
Many Whirlpool dishwasher models

Common Causes

Water supply valve under the sink is closed or partially closed
Kinked or pinched water supply hose preventing water from flowing
Clogged inlet valve screen blocked by mineral deposits or debris
Faulty water inlet valve solenoid that won't open to let water in
Household water pressure too low — dishwashers typically need at least 20 PSI

How to Fix It

Check the water supply valve under the kitchen sink.

There should be a hot water shut-off valve connected to the dishwasher supply hose. Make sure it is fully open — turned counter-clockwise as far as it will go.
Inspect the water supply hose for kinks or crushing.

Pull the dishwasher out slightly and trace the supply hose from the valve to the back of the machine. Straighten any kinks and make sure the hose isn't crushed.
Run your kitchen hot water tap to check home water pressure.

Turn on the hot water tap and observe the flow strength. If it's unusually weak, your home may have low water pressure. This affects the dishwasher's ability to fill.
Unplug the dishwasher for 10 minutes and perform a reset.

A power reset can clear an FA error caused by a temporary valve sensor glitch. After the reset, start a new cycle and monitor the fill stage.
If the dishwasher still won't fill, the inlet valve needs replacing.

You may also clean the inlet valve screen — a small mesh filter where the hose connects to the valve. Mineral deposits can clog it over time. If cleaning doesn't help, replace the valve.

When to Call a Professional

If checking the supply valve and hose doesn't clear FA, the inlet valve likely needs replacing. The inlet valve is behind the lower access panel at the front of the dishwasher. A licensed appliance technician can replace the valve and check water pressure. Expect repair costs of $100–$220 for an inlet valve replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much water pressure does a dishwasher need?

Most dishwashers need between 20 and 120 PSI of inlet water pressure to fill correctly. Below 20 PSI, the inlet valve can't open fully and the machine takes too long to fill — triggering FA. If you suspect low pressure in your home, a plumber can test your water pressure with an inexpensive gauge.

What is the inlet valve screen and how do I clean it?

The inlet valve screen is a tiny mesh filter inside the valve body. It catches debris from the water supply before it enters the dishwasher. To clean it, turn off the water supply, disconnect the hose, and use a small brush or toothpick to clear the mesh. Mineral deposits can be dissolved with white vinegar.

Can a faulty inlet valve cause flooding?

A stuck-open inlet valve can cause the dishwasher to overfill. However, most modern dishwashers have an overflow protection float that detects this. A stuck-closed or slow-opening valve causes the FA error — not flooding. Both scenarios require valve replacement, but only a stuck-open valve risks water overflow.