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ErrBase

Whirlpool Washer F8 E1 Error Code: Low Water Level

Quick Answer

F8 E1 is a low water level fault closely related to LF, F20, and LO FL. It often appears when water supply pressure is particularly low or when the inlet valve is not opening fully. The diagnostic path follows the same steps: check supply valves, clean inlet screens, test solenoid resistance.

F8 E1 is a low water level fault closely related to LF, F20, and LO FL. It often appears when water supply pressure is particularly low or when the inlet valve is not opening fully. The diagnostic path follows the same steps: check supply valves, clean inlet screens, test solenoid resistance. The inlet valve WPW10346771 is the most common replacement part. If supply and valve are confirmed good, test the pressure switch, as a faulty switch can report a low level even with adequate water in the tub.

WhirlpoolWasherSeverity: moderate86% DIY Success
Time to Fix
15–55 min
Difficulty
beginner
Parts Cost
$30 – $55
Tools Needed
Multimeter, Needle-nose pliers
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MaytagF8 E1

What Does the F8 E1 Code Mean?

Tub water level below minimum. Same root causes as LF and LO FL. Check supply, screens, and valve.

Most Likely Causes

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

Low water pressure at supply (40%)40%
Clogged inlet valve screens (30%)24%
Pressure switch reporting incorrect level (10%)22%
Failed inlet valve solenoid (20%)14%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • F8 E1 displayed during fill phase
  • Tub visibly under-filled when code appears
  • Machine fills slowly and then faults before reaching wash level

Can you reset a Whirlpool washer to clear the F8 E1 code?

Unplug for 60 seconds after fixing the supply or valve issue. Plug back in and restart. F8 E1 clears when the machine fills to the target level without timeout.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

MultimeterNeedle-nose pliersFlat-head screwdriverTowels

Diagnostic Checklist

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

1

Check both hot and cold supply valves are fully open at the wall

Check both hot and cold supply valves are fully open at the wall. Run the cold-only or warm fill on a short cycle and visually confirm water entering the tub.

2

Turn off supply valves

3

Unplug washer

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
Water Inlet ValveWPW10346771 · $30–$55

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $43 (Parts) vs $700 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can F8 E1 appear during certain cycles only?
Yes. Cycles with a high water level setting (like Heavy Duty or Deep Fill) demand more water in a given time and are more sensitive to supply issues. If F8 E1 appears only on those cycles but not on smaller loads, water pressure or flow rate is borderline and worth improving.
Is F8 E1 different from F8 E6?
Yes. F8 E1 means the water level was too low during fill. F8 E6 means the hot and cold supply hoses are reversed. They are different faults in the F8 code family.

Related Whirlpool Washer Error Codes

Code: LFWhirlpool Washer LF Error Code: Long FillCode: LO FLWhirlpool Washer LO FL Error Code: Low Flow FaultCode: F20What Does F20 Mean on a Whirlpool Washer?Code: RESETHow to Reset a Whirlpool Washer

Same Fix on Other Brands

Maytag washerF8 E1: Maytag Washer F8 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.

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 F8 E1 Errors

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

WTW4816FW, WTW5000DW, WTW4850HW, WTW6120HW

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026