Quick answer
On many Whirlpool and Maytag washers, F5E2 means the door or lid lock failed, F8E1 or LF a long fill (not enough water reaching the washer), F9E1 or LD a long drain (a clogged pump filter or drain hose), F0E2 or Sud too many suds, F7E1 a motor speed fault, F3E1 a pressure sensor fault, and UL an unbalanced load. Check the taps and inlet screens for fill codes and the filter and hose for drain codes. Codes vary by model; your manual's list is the final word. Call (888) 217-0236 to reach an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP; the line is answered 24/7.
Follow the short menu, then your 5-digit ZIP. The line goes quiet for a few seconds while it connects; stay on. If it does not connect, call once more: companies taking calls change minute to minute.
Written & reviewed by Marcus ReedIICRC WRT
Reviewed November 4, 2026· Next review May 2027
Whirlpool and Maytag washers come from the same manufacturer and share many of their fault codes. Some models show F-codes such as F8E1; others show short words such as LF or Sud. Codes and meanings vary by model and year, so check the manual or the manufacturer's support site with the model number.
Common Codes
| Code | Usual meaning | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| F8E1, LF | Long fill: not enough water reaching the washer | Both taps fully open, hoses not kinked, inlet screens clean; see washer won't fill |
| F9E1, LD, F21 | Long drain: water not leaving in time | Drain pump filter, drain hose kinks or clogs; see washer won't drain |
| F5E2 | Door or lid failed to lock | Close firmly, clear the latch; then the lock assembly |
| F5E1 | Door or lid switch fault | Switch or wiring |
| F5E3 | Door or lid failed to unlock | See washer won't unlock |
| F0E2, Sud | Too many suds | Use less HE detergent; run a rinse |
| UL | Unbalanced load | Redistribute the load; level the washer |
| F7E1 | Motor speed fault | Overload, then the motor, belt or drive |
| F3E1 | Pressure sensor fault | Sensor, its hose, or wiring |
| F1E1 | Main control fault | Power-cycle; if it returns, the control |
Clearing a Code
- 1Press Pause/Cancel twice or Power to clear the display.
- 2Fix the likely cause from the table.
- 3Unplug the washer for a minute to reset the control, then run a short cycle.
Talk to an appliance repair technician
One call reaches an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP, answered 24/7.
When It Is a Repair
- F5 lock codes that return with the door firmly shut.
- F7, F3 or F1 codes that return after a reset.
- Drain codes with a clean filter and a clear hose, which point to the drain pump.
- Fill codes with good water flow into a bucket, which point to the inlet valve.
HomeAdvisor puts typical washer repairs at $125–$450. See washer repair. For other brands, see Samsung and LG codes.
The Call
Call with the code and the model number from the label. (888) 217-0236 is answered 24/7 and connects you to an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP for washers, dryers, ovens, stoves, cooktops and freezers. Follow the short menu, enter your 5-digit ZIP and stay on while it connects; if it does not connect, call once more.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does F5E2 mean on a Whirlpool washer?
The door or lid lock did not lock. Close the door firmly and check nothing is in the latch; if it returns, the lock assembly or its wiring has failed.
What does F9E1 mean on a Whirlpool washer?
A long drain: the washer could not drain in time. Clean the drain pump filter if your model has one, and check the drain hose for kinks or a clog.
What does Sud mean on a Maytag or Whirlpool washer?
Too many suds, usually from too much or non-HE detergent. The washer pauses to let them settle; use less HE detergent.
Are Whirlpool and Maytag codes the same?
Many are shared because both brands come from the same manufacturer, but check your model's manual.
Sources
Methodology: How we source and verify data · Report an error
Disclaimer: HearthDry is an independent educational resource. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or insurance advice. Consult licensed professionals before making decisions about your property or insurance claims.