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

What Does This Error Mean?

Whirlpool dishwasher error FE means the dishwasher has detected an overfill condition — too much water has entered the tub. The water level sensor detected water above the safe fill line. The dishwasher will stop all operations to prevent flooding your kitchen floor.

Affected Models

WDT730PAHZ
WDT780SAEM
WDT970SAKZ
WDF520PADM
WDTA50SAHZ

Common Causes

The water inlet valve has failed in the open position and water keeps flowing even when it should stop
The water level sensor (float switch) is stuck in the down position and is not signaling the control board to stop filling
Excessive suds from using the wrong detergent are fooling the water level sensor
The control board has a fault and is not sending the signal to close the inlet valve
The home water pressure is unusually high, causing water to flow faster than the valve can stop it

How to Fix It

If water is currently overflowing, immediately turn off the water supply valve under the sink.

The water supply valve is under the kitchen sink — turn it clockwise until it stops. This cuts off water to the dishwasher entirely.
Unplug the dishwasher or turn it off at the circuit breaker.

Do not touch any electrical components with standing water present. Turn off power first.
Locate the float switch inside the dishwasher tub — it is a small plastic dome or cylinder on the bottom of the tub near the front.

Lift the float cap and check underneath for debris that may be holding it down. Clean the area and make sure the float moves freely up and down.
If the float moves freely, the water inlet valve is likely stuck open and needs replacement.

When the inlet valve fails open, water continues entering the dishwasher without stopping. The valve cannot be repaired — it must be replaced.
Restore power and water supply, then run a short cycle to test.

If FE returns immediately as the dishwasher begins to fill, replace the inlet valve. If it completes a cycle normally, the float switch blockage was the cause.

When to Call a Professional

FE can lead to a kitchen flood if not addressed immediately. If the dishwasher is actively overflowing, turn off the water supply valve under the sink right now. The inlet valve and float switch are the most likely failed parts — professional repair runs $100 to $200.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is FE dangerous? Can it cause a flood?

Yes — FE is one of the more serious dishwasher errors because it can lead to water overflowing onto your kitchen floor. Act quickly when you see FE. Turn off the water supply and power before investigating. Water damage to floors and cabinets can be very expensive.

What is the float switch and where is it?

The float switch is a safety device inside the dishwasher tub, usually a small plastic dome near the front bottom. As water fills the tub, the float rises with the water level. When it reaches a certain height, it triggers a switch that tells the control board to stop filling. If the float is stuck down, the signal never gets sent and the dishwasher overfills.

Can using too much dishwasher detergent cause FE?

Using too much detergent causes excessive suds, which can overflow through the door seal and create what looks like an overfill. The suds can also trick the float switch into triggering FE. Always use the recommended amount of detergent for your water hardness level. Never use regular dish soap — it will create far too many suds.