Whirlpool · Dishwasher

E1

Thermistor Open or Short

Severity

Medium

Your Whirlpool Dishwasher stopped working and is showing error E1, which corresponds to a fault called "Thermistor Open or Short". This is one of the most searched error codes for this appliance — you are not alone, and there is a clear fix.

Owner's Summary

Your Whirlpool dishwasher's temperature sensor has an electrical fault. This prevents the control board from properly regulating the wash water temperature. The thermistor itself is inexpensive and is the most likely cause.

Symptoms

Whirlpool dishwasher not heating or overheating, E1 displayed

Common Causes

Open or shorted NTC thermistor
Wiring fault to thermistor
PCB ADC circuit failure
Thermistor connector corroded

How to Fix

1 Test thermistor resistance — valid range is 10k–50k ohms at room temp
2 Inspect and clean thermistor connector
3 Replace thermistor if out of range
4 Replace PCB if thermistor tests good

Tools You'll Need

Multimeter Electrical Contact Cleaner Flashlight

These are simple, low-risk fixes most homeowners can do with tools already in a basic toolbox.

Technical Explanation

The Whirlpool CCU reads thermistor resistance via a voltage divider circuit. E1 is generated when the measured voltage falls outside the valid operating window — indicating an open thermistor, a shorted thermistor, or a wiring fault in the sensor circuit.

Is It Safe to Keep Using?

No immediate safety risk. The machine may run without proper temperature control. Fix within a week.

Technician's Pro Tip

Whirlpool dishwasher thermistors are located on the sump assembly near the heater. They are secured with a simple push clip — no tools needed to replace. Always test resistance in ohms before ordering a new part to confirm the thermistor is indeed faulty.

Related Codes

F21 — Whirlpool Washing Machine

Long Drain Time or Drain Pump Fault

High

F20 — Whirlpool Washing Machine

No Water Detected

High

F7E1 — Whirlpool Washing Machine

Motor Speed Sensing Error

High

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code E1 mean on a Whirlpool Dishwasher?

Code E1 on a Whirlpool Dishwasher indicates "Thermistor Open or Short." In practice, the most common trigger is open or shorted NTC thermistor. Severity is rated medium, and typical repair costs range from $15 to $200.

Can I fix E1 myself, or do I need a technician?

Many cases of E1 can be resolved without a technician. The first step to try: test thermistor resistance — valid range is 10k–50k ohms at room temp. If that doesn't clear the code, work through the remaining steps in the "How to Fix" section above before assuming a part needs replacing.

Is it safe to keep using my dishwasher with code E1 showing?

No immediate safety risk. The machine may run without proper temperature control. Fix within a week.

How much does it cost to repair E1 on a Whirlpool Dishwasher?

Repair costs for code E1 typically range from $15 to $200. Thermistor: $15–$40; PCB: $80–$200. Costs on the low end usually reflect a DIY fix with no parts required, while the high end reflects a part replacement plus professional labor.

Estimated Repair Cost USD

$15 – $200

Thermistor: $15–$40; PCB: $80–$200