Whirlpool washing machines are excellent household appliances that’ll last you a long time. Over time, however, some problems will crop up and cause a washing machine to stop working properly. One of those problems is the E1 F9 error.
Still, what does it mean exactly? Keep on reading to understand what it signifies and how you can fix your device.
What Does the E01 F09 Error Code Mean?
In simple terms, the E1 F9 code means that your Whirlpool Duet front-load washer can’t spin or drain properly. It usually appears once the main control has detected that the pump has failed to eliminate the water inside the drum after 8 minutes or so.
What Causes the E1 F9 Error Code?
Many things can cause a drainage problem in your machine, but it’s usually something that has to do with your appliance’s drainage system. That includes the drain pump, hose, and filter.
Exterior drainage components like the drainpipe and sewage system can also affect the washer’s ability to drain water if they’re clogged.
However, sometimes the issue has nothing to do with the drain system, and here’s where it gets a bit tricky. Nonetheless, we’ll explain all the possible causes so that you know how to remedy the problem.
User Error
If you use a normal detergent with your HE Whirlpool front-load washer or more detergent than recommended by the manufacturer, the F9 E1 error will be displayed. That’s because the excessive suds that arise will make the washing machine unable to spin and drain.
A heavy item in the load can also cause this error, so try to balance the load to avoid this predicament.
Drain Hose
When the hose becomes bent or twisted, all washing machines won’t drain properly, and consequently, they’ll display the E1 F9 error. This usually happens when a washer is pushed against the wall, bending the hose as a result.
Again, the same fault also appears if it’s clogged by something. For instance, debris, lint, socks, coins, buttons, or other foreign objects can block it and stop draining.
Moreover, if the hose isn’t installed properly, the same thing will happen. For example, if the drain hose height isn’t between 36 to 96 inches, the pump won’t be able to push the water out of the washer, or the washing machine will simultaneously fill back up with water.
Drain Pump and Filter
When the pump or its filter is clogged, the E1 F9 code will also appear on the screen.
The same washer error will also show up on the display screen if the pump is faulty and you can’t hear it working at the end of the wash cycle. The fault can be due to a defective impeller, burnt motor, or a short circuit, and the malfunctioning part will need to be repaired or replaced.
Pressure Problem
If the pressure hose is blocked, it’ll cause the sensor to think there’s water left in the tub, and consequently, the control unit tells the pump to keep working. If this goes on for an extended period, then the error will appear.
The same error code can also appear on the display screen if the pressure sensor doesn’t work. Here, the control unit won’t know that there’s water in the tub that needs draining, and the machine won’t empty.
Electrical Malfunction
This is usually attributed to a defective main control board. If the control board is faulty, it won’t tell the pump to start draining when the time comes. This can also happen if the connections between them are damaged or have come out of their place.
First, try restarting your appliance. If that doesn’t work, unplug your washing device from the power, water, and gas sources for your safety. Then, inspect the hose for improper installation or any kinks and clogs.
If you find anything wrong with it, correct it, and your machine should drain. If it doesn’t, then look at the drain pump filter. Before you access it, empty the washing machine into a bucket or bowl and put a towel under the filter to catch any remaining water. Then, remove the filter and rinse it under running water to remove all debris.
The next thing you should do is examine the pump. Remove any obstructions you find in it, and make sure the impeller turns freely and is in good condition.
If all is well, measure the resistance across the pump and its wires located beneath the top panel. If the results are out of the range found in the manual, then repair or replace the defective part then close the top panel.
If the problem isn’t gone, then check the pressure sensor and the pressure tube. Test the sensor’s resistance values and empty the pressure tube if you find anything blocking it, then see if the error clears.
If it doesn’t, check the connections between the pump and main control board and make sure they’re all sound and in place. If everything is in order, then the control board is the culprit, and it’ll probably need to be replaced.
Conclusion
An E1 F9 error in Whirlpool appliances signifies that your Whirlpool Duet washing machine has a drainage issue. This is usually because of a blockage or defect in the machine’s drain system, so start your repairs there.
However, if the malfunctioning elements can’t be fixed, order the proper replacement accessories that suit your washer’s model.
And if you can’t do it on your own or your appliance constantly breaks down, you’ll require service providers specializing in appliances and see if you can get an extended service plan to save on some money since appliances always have their issues.
