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ErrBase

KitchenAid Dishwasher F9 E1 Error Code: Long Drain Fault

Quick Answer

KitchenAid F9 E1 is the alternate display order for the long drain fault (also shown as E1 F9 on other models), and the key KitchenAid-specific note is the KDTM third-rack models: the lower spray arm motor wiring harness can partially obstruct the drain sump opening if not correctly clipped during installation or service work. This is a manufacturing or installation routing issue, not a maintenance fault.

KitchenAid F9 E1 is the alternate display order for the long drain fault (also shown as E1 F9 on other models), and the key KitchenAid-specific note is the KDTM third-rack models: the lower spray arm motor wiring harness can partially obstruct the drain sump opening if not correctly clipped during installation or service work. This is a manufacturing or installation routing issue, not a maintenance fault. If F9 E1 appeared after any service work on your KDTM dishwasher, check that the lower spray arm harness is clipped to the routing channel away from the sump drain opening before ordering any drain parts.

KitchenaidDishwasherSeverity: medium85% DIY Success
Time to Fix
15–60 min
Difficulty
beginner
Parts Cost
$45 – $95
Tools Needed
Flashlight, Soft brush

What Does the F9 E1 Code Mean?

KitchenAid F9 E1 is the same as E1 F9 - long drain fault. Clean the filter, check drain hose for kinks, confirm garbage disposal knockout is removed. On KDTM models after service: check lower spray arm harness is not blocking the sump drain.

Most Likely Causes

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

Clogged drain filter40%
Kinked drain hose24%
Drain pump motor failure22%
Garbage disposal knockout plug not removed14%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • F9 E1 displayed on KitchenAid control panel
  • Standing water in dishwasher tub
  • Cycle stops mid-drain with water remaining
  • Dishwasher drains slowly over several minutes after cycle

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

After clearing the drain fault cause, press Cancel/Drain to initiate a drain cycle. Disconnect power for 60 seconds, restore, and run a test cycle. F9 E1 should not return if the drain path is clear.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

FlashlightSoft brushTowels

Diagnostic Checklist

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

1

Remove the lower rack and clean the drain filter (twist

Remove the lower rack and clean the drain filter (twist counterclockwise to remove the cylindrical filter, lift out the flat mesh filter below). Clean both under running water with a soft brush. This resolves F9 E1 in approximately half of cases.

2

Check the drain hose behind the dishwasher for kinks

3

If F9 E1 persists with a clean filter and clear drain path:

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
Drain PumpW10531320 · $45–$95

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

What is the difference between KitchenAid F9 E1 and E1 F9?
There is no diagnostic difference - F9 E1 and E1 F9 are the same long drain fault displayed in different code orders on different KitchenAid firmware versions. Both mean the drain cycle exceeded the 2-minute timeout. The repair is identical: clean the filter, check the drain hose, verify the garbage disposal knockout was removed, and if all else fails replace the drain pump.
My KitchenAid dishwasher shows F9 E1 right after installation - what is the most common cause?
On new installations, the garbage disposal knockout plug is the most common cause. When a new garbage disposal is installed, a pre-installed plastic plug blocks the dishwasher drain inlet. You must knock this plug out by inserting a screwdriver into the disposal drain port and tapping it free before connecting the dishwasher drain hose. If this plug is left in place, water cannot drain and F9 E1 appears immediately.
How do I prevent F9 E1 on my KitchenAid dishwasher?
Clean the drain filter monthly under running water. Avoid washing dishes with heavy grease without pre-rinsing, as grease accumulates in the filter and drain sump quickly. Run a hot water cycle immediately after the dishwasher sits unused for more than a week to prevent debris from drying and hardening in the drain path.

Related Kitchenaid Dishwasher Error Codes

Code: HUBKitchenAid Dishwasher Error Codes: F8 E4, Clean Light Blinks, 8-4 GuideCode: E1 F9KitchenAid Dishwasher E1 F9 Error Code: Long Drain FaultCode: F8 E4KitchenAid Dishwasher F8 E4 Error Code: Water Supply Fault

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 F9 E1 Errors

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

KDTM304ESS, KDTM354ESS, KDPE234GPS, KDTE234GPS, KDFE104HPS

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026