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Whirlpool Washer F3 E1 Error Code: Temperature Sensor Fault

Quick Answer

F3 E1 indicates the NTC thermistor in the wash tub is returning a resistance reading that the control board interprets as either a shorted or open sensor. At 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius), a healthy thermistor reads approximately 50,000 ohms. As water temperature rises, resistance drops.

F3 E1 indicates the NTC thermistor in the wash tub is returning a resistance reading that the control board interprets as either a shorted or open sensor. At 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius), a healthy thermistor reads approximately 50,000 ohms. As water temperature rises, resistance drops. A reading of zero ohms means the sensor is shorted. A reading of OL means it is open. Both require thermistor replacement. The part is inexpensive at $15-28 and the replacement is straightforward for someone comfortable with a multimeter.

WhirlpoolWasherSeverity: moderateDifficulty: intermediate88% DIY Success
Time to Fix
25–60 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
$15 – $28
Tools Needed
Multimeter (200k ohm range), Flat-head screwdriver
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MaytagF3 E1

What Does the F3 E1 Code Mean?

The water temperature sensor returned an out-of-range reading. Test resistance against temperature and replace if wrong.

Most Likely Causes

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

Failed NTC thermistor (shorted or open) (70%)40%
Wiring harness fault between thermistor and control board (12%)36%
Thermistor connector corroded or disconnected (18%)24%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • F3 E1 code displayed mid-cycle or at cycle start
  • Machine pauses during wash or heat phase
  • No other error codes present alongside F3 E1

Can you reset a Whirlpool washer to clear the F3 E1 code?

Unplug for 60 seconds. After replacing the thermistor, plug back in and run a warm-water cycle to confirm the sensor reads correctly and F3 E1 does not return.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Multimeter (200k ohm range)Flat-head screwdriverElectrical contact cleaner

Diagnostic Checklist

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

1

Unplug the washer

Unplug the washer. Locate the NTC thermistor mounted on the heater assembly at the bottom of the outer tub. It is a small cylindrical probe with a two-wire connector.

2

Disconnect the thermistor connector and inspect both sides for

3

With the connector disconnected

4

If the thermistor tested good

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
NTC ThermistorWPW10467289 · $15–$28

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $22 (Parts) vs $700 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the NTC thermistor resistance change with temperature?
Yes. NTC stands for Negative Temperature Coefficient. As water gets hotter, resistance drops. At room temperature (68 degrees F) the reading is about 50,000 ohms. At 100 degrees F it drops to roughly 25,000 ohms. At 140 degrees F it drops to around 8,000 ohms. Use these reference points to confirm the sensor is tracking temperature correctly.
Can F3 E1 cause the washer to stop heating water?
Yes. The control board uses the thermistor reading to regulate the heating element. If the sensor reads out of range, the board will halt the heating cycle and display F3 E1 as a safety measure to prevent overheating.

Related Whirlpool Washer Error Codes

Code: F4 E1Whirlpool Washer F4 E1 Error Code: Heating FaultCode: RESETHow to Reset a Whirlpool Washer

Same Fix on Other Brands

Maytag washerF3 E1: Maytag Washer F3 E1 Error Code

Same Fix Works on These Brands

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

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Models Known to Experience F3 E1 Errors

This repair applies to most Whirlpool washers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

WTW4816FW, WTW5000DW, WTW7000DW, WTW4850HW

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026