E1
Whirlpool Washing Machine
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
The E1 error means the water temperature sensor in your Whirlpool washer is not reading correctly. The washer can't determine how hot or cold the water is. This prevents it from heating the water to the selected temperature.
Affected Models
- WTW5000DW
- WFW5620HW
- WTW4816FW
- WFW9620HW
- Most Whirlpool top-load and front-load washers
Common Causes
- The temperature sensor (thermistor) has failed
- The sensor wiring connection is loose or corroded
- The hot water supply to the washer is not working
- The thermistor is coated with mineral deposits from hard water
- The main control board has a faulty sensor circuit
How to Fix It
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Check that your home's hot water heater is working.
Run the hot water at a nearby faucet. If there's no hot water, the issue is your water heater, not the washer.
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Make sure both hot and cold water faucets behind the washer are fully open.
If only cold water is reaching the washer, the temperature sensor will read incorrectly.
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Unplug the washer and wait 5 minutes.
Plug it back in and try running a warm water cycle. A power reset clears temporary sensor errors.
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Try running a cold water only cycle.
If a cold cycle works without error, the problem is specifically with the hot water path or the sensor reading at higher temperatures.
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If the error persists on all cycles, the temperature sensor needs replacement.
Contact a technician. The thermistor is a small, inexpensive part.
When to Call a Professional
If a power reset and checking the hot water supply don't help, the sensor likely needs replacement. A technician can test the thermistor's resistance with a multimeter. Expect repair costs of $100–$200 including parts and labor. The thermistor itself is an inexpensive part, usually $15–$40.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still wash clothes with the E1 error?
You can try running cold water cycles as a temporary workaround. The washer may still operate but can't regulate water temperature. Clothes that need warm or hot water won't be cleaned as effectively. Get the sensor replaced soon for proper washing.
What is a thermistor in a washing machine?
It's a small sensor that measures water temperature. The washer uses this reading to control how much hot and cold water to mix. When the thermistor fails, the washer can't tell the water temperature. It's an inexpensive part, usually $15–$40.
Does hard water cause the E1 error?
Hard water can contribute to the problem over time. Mineral deposits can coat the temperature sensor and affect its readings. Using a water softener helps prevent this. Regular descaling of the washer also keeps sensors clean.