KitchenAid Dishwasher E1 F9 Error Code: Long Drain Fault

Quick Answer

KitchenAid E1 F9 is a long drain fault, and on KitchenAid models with the third rack (KDTM series) there is an additional drain path consideration: the spray arm wiring harness can flex into the drain sump area and partially obstruct the drain pump inlet on models where the harness routing was not properly secured during installation. Before checking the filter or drain hose, confirm the lower spray arm harness (if present) is clipped correctly and is not near the drain opening. The standard E1 F9 causes (clogged filter, kinked drain hose, blocked garbage disposal connection) apply to all models.

KitchenaidDishwasherSeverity: medium85% DIY Success

Time to Fix

15–60 min

Difficulty

beginner

Parts Cost

$45 – $95

Tools Needed

Flashlight, Soft brush

What Does the E1 F9 Code Mean?

KitchenAid E1 F9 means the dishwasher took too long to drain. Clean the filter, check for a kinked drain hose, and confirm the garbage disposal knockout plug was removed. On KDTM third-rack models, also check that the lower rack harness is not blocking the drain sump.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Clogged drain filter and fine mesh filter (most common)40%

Kinked or obstructed drain hose24%

Drain pump motor failed or impeller blocked by debris22%

Garbage disposal knockout plug not removed on new installation14%

Symptoms You May Notice

E1 F9 displayed on KitchenAid control panel
Standing water left in the dishwasher tub after a cycle
Dishwasher stops mid-cycle with water in tub
Dishwasher drains very slowly

Can you reset a Kitchenaid dishwasher to clear the E1 F9 code?

After cleaning the filter and verifying the drain path, press Cancel/Drain. The dishwasher will attempt a full drain cycle. Disconnect power for 60 seconds, restore, and run a test cycle. E1 F9 should not return if the drain path is clear.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

FlashlightSoft brushTowels or wet/dry vacuum

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

Remove the bottom rack

Remove the bottom rack. Locate the cylindrical drain filter at the bottom center of the tub - twist the upper cylindrical part counterclockwise to remove, then lift out the flat mesh filter beneath it. Rinse both under running water. If the filter is heavily clogged with grease or food particles, use a soft brush to clean thoroughly.

Pull the dishwasher forward slightly to inspect the drain hose

If the dishwasher was recently installed and drains to a garbage

If drain is still slow after cleaning the filter and verifying

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name	OEM Number	Estimated Price
Drain PumpW10531320 · $45–$95	W10531320	$45 – $95

Verify part fitment for your Kitchenaid model

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs

Labor Approach

Our Verdict

REPAIR

Estimated Cost: $70 (Parts) vs $1000 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean the KitchenAid dishwasher filter to prevent E1 F9?

KitchenAid recommends cleaning the filter monthly under normal use conditions. If you run the dishwasher daily or wash pots and pans regularly, clean it every two weeks. The filter on KitchenAid dishwashers (unlike older American dishwashers with self-cleaning filters) requires manual cleaning - it does not clean itself.

My KitchenAid dishwasher shows E1 F9 right after installation - what is wrong?

The most common cause of E1 F9 on a freshly installed KitchenAid dishwasher is the garbage disposal knockout plug. When you install a new garbage disposal, a small plastic plug comes pre-installed in the dishwasher drain inlet port. It must be knocked out before connecting the dishwasher drain hose. If it was not removed, water cannot drain into the disposal and E1 F9 results.

Is E1 F9 and F9 E1 the same KitchenAid fault?

Yes. E1 F9 and F9 E1 are the same long drain fault code displayed in different orders depending on the model's firmware version. The diagnosis and repair are identical for both display orders.

Related Kitchenaid Dishwasher Error Codes

Code: HUBKitchenAid Dishwasher Error Codes: F8 E4, Clean Light Blinks, 8-4 Guide Code: F9 E1KitchenAid Dishwasher F9 E1 Error Code: Long Drain Fault Code: F8 E4KitchenAid Dishwasher F8 E4 Error Code: Water Supply Fault

Same Fix on Other Brands

Whirlpool F9 E1:

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Kitchenaid shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

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Models Known to Experience E1 F9 Errors

This repair applies to most Kitchenaid dishwashers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

KDTM304ESS, KDTM354ESS, KDPE234GPS, KDTE234GPS, KDFE104HPS, KDFM404KPS

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026