Whirlpool · Dishwasher

F6

Water Inlet Fault

Severity

High

When a Whirlpool Dishwasher shows F6 on its display, the internal diagnostic system has flagged a condition known as "Water Inlet Fault". Most repairs for this code are straightforward and can be completed at home.

Owner's Summary

Your Whirlpool dishwasher stopped because it could not get water. Before anything else, make sure the water supply valve under the sink is turned all the way on. This takes 5 seconds and fixes the problem in many cases.

Symptoms

Whirlpool dishwasher not filling, cycle pauses at wash phase, F6 displayed

Common Causes

Water supply valve closed
Inlet valve screen clogged
Low water pressure
Faulty water inlet valve solenoid

How to Fix

1 Ensure water supply valve under sink is fully open
2 Remove and clean inlet valve screen
3 Check water pressure at nearby tap
4 Replace water inlet valve if it does not open when 120V is applied

Tools You'll Need

Soft Brush Towels / Bucket

Most of these fixes need only basic hand tools. If your repair requires opening electrical housings or testing live components, a multimeter and basic electrical safety knowledge are essential — when in doubt, call a technician.

Technical Explanation

The Whirlpool CCU energizes the inlet valve solenoid and monitors the pressure switch or flow meter for fill confirmation. F6 is generated when the fill confirmation signal does not arrive within the maximum fill timeout after solenoid activation.

Is It Safe to Keep Using?

No risk to the appliance. Resolve within a few days.

Technician's Pro Tip

When testing the inlet valve with 120V, use caution and have the water supply on — the valve body must be pressurized to test properly. A valve can fail to open mechanically even if the solenoid reads correct resistance.

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 F6 mean on a Whirlpool Dishwasher?

Code F6 on a Whirlpool Dishwasher indicates "Water Inlet Fault." In practice, the most common trigger is water supply valve closed. Severity is rated high, and typical repair costs range from $0 to $160.

Can I fix F6 myself, or do I need a technician?

Many cases of F6 can be resolved without a technician. The first step to try: ensure water supply valve under sink is fully open. 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 F6 showing?

No risk to the appliance. Resolve within a few days.

How much does it cost to repair F6 on a Whirlpool Dishwasher?

Repair costs for code F6 typically range from $0 to $160. Screen cleaning: $0; Inlet valve: $40–$160. 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

$0 – $160

Screen cleaning: $0; Inlet valve: $40–$160