Warning: Disconnect power before servicing.
ErrBase

Whirlpool Washer F3 E2 Error Code: Temperature Sensor Shorted

Quick Answer

Whirlpool F3 E2 is a temperature sensor short circuit - the opposite of F3 E1 (open circuit). The NTC thermistor reads near zero ohms instead of the expected 10K-15K ohms at room temperature. This happens when the sensor leads short together from damaged insulation, or when the thermistor element itself fails short internally.

Whirlpool F3 E2 is a temperature sensor short circuit - the opposite of F3 E1 (open circuit). The NTC thermistor reads near zero ohms instead of the expected 10K-15K ohms at room temperature. This happens when the sensor leads short together from damaged insulation, or when the thermistor element itself fails short internally. A shorted sensor tells the control board the water is extremely hot (near boiling) even when it is cold, which causes the washer to skip the heating phase or refuse to start a warm/hot cycle. The sensor is located inside the outer tub, accessible through the rear panel on most models. It is a $10-20 part with a two-wire connector.

WhirlpoolWasherSeverity: mediumDifficulty: intermediate90% DIY Success
Time to Fix
20–60 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
$10 – $20
Tools Needed
Multimeter (20K ohm range), Screwdriver set

What Does the F3 E2 Code Mean?

F3 E2 = temperature sensor shorted (reads near 0 ohms instead of 10K-15K). Sensor tells board water is boiling hot. Replace the NTC thermistor ($10-20).

Most Likely Causes

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

NTC thermistor failed short internally40%
Sensor wire insulation damaged causing short24%
Connector pins shorted from moisture14%
Water leak wetting sensor connector12%
Sensor wire pinched during previous service10%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • F3 E2 on display
  • Washer refuses to start warm or hot cycles
  • Water temperature incorrect (cold when should be warm)
  • Washer may run cold-only cycles fine
  • Error appears during fill phase

Can you reset a Whirlpool washer to clear the F3 E2 code?

Unplug 60 seconds. F3 E2 clears when the sensor reads within normal range.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Multimeter (20K ohm range)Screwdriver setFlashlight

Diagnostic Checklist

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

1

Unplug

Unplug. Access the sensor through the rear panel. Disconnect the 2-wire sensor connector. Measure resistance across the sensor leads with a multimeter set to 20K ohm range. At room temperature (70-77F), it should read 10,000-15,000 ohms.

2

If sensor reads OK

3

Install the new sensor

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
Whirlpool NTC ThermistorW10467289 · $10–$20

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $15 (Parts) vs $700 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between F3 E1 and F3 E2?
F3 E1 = temperature sensor OPEN circuit (infinite resistance, wire broken). F3 E2 = temperature sensor SHORTED (near zero resistance, leads touching). Both require sensor replacement but the failure mode differs. E1 is a break, E2 is a short.
Can a shorted sensor cause the washer to overheat?
No. A shorted sensor reads as if water is already extremely hot, so the washer will NOT activate the heater. The risk is the opposite: the washer may run all cycles in cold water because it thinks the water is already hot enough.
NTC thermistor costs $10-20. Why did the repair shop quote $150?
The part is cheap but accessing it requires removing the rear panel and reaching into the tub area, which takes 30-45 minutes of labor. A $150 quote includes the service call, labor, and part. This is a reasonable DIY repair if you are comfortable with basic appliance work.

Related Whirlpool Washer Error Codes

Code: HUBWhirlpool Washer Error CodesCode: F3 E1Whirlpool F3 E1: Temp Sensor OpenCode: E2Whirlpool E2 Sub-Code Guide

Same Fix Works on These Brands

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

Maytag washerMaytag Washer 5D Code: Too Many Suds (Fix It Fast)Maytag washerAll Maytag Washer Error Codes: Complete Lookup GuideMaytag washerHow to Reset a Maytag Washer (3 Methods That Work)Maytag washerMaytag Washer Troubleshooting: Fix 12 Common ProblemsMaytag washerMaytag Washer LOC Code: How to Unlock the ControlsMaytag washerMaytag Washer Not Draining? Here's What to Check

Models Known to Experience F3 E2 Errors

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

WFW9150WW, WTW5000DW, WFW94HEXW, WTW7000DW

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 15, 2026