How to Read Appliance Error Codes (And What to Do Next)

When your washer flashes "F5E2" or your oven beeps with "F1," it feels like a crisis. But that error code is actually your appliance doing you a favor — it's telling you exactly what it thinks is wrong. The trick is knowing how to read them.

Error codes display differently depending on the appliance type:

• Washers and dryers: On the main display panel. Some models flash the code briefly — if you miss it, start a new cycle and the code will reappear if the problem persists.
• Dishwashers: On the display, or as a pattern of flashing lights (e.g., "Clean light blinking 7 times"). Count the blinks — that's the code.
• Ovens: On the display panel. The error usually appears with a beep. Press "Cancel" to silence the beep, then note the code.
• Refrigerators: On the temperature display, or accessible through a diagnostic mode. Each brand has a different button combination to enter diagnostics — search your model number + "diagnostic mode."

Error codes follow brand-specific formats:

• Whirlpool/Maytag/KitchenAid: F + number + E + number (e.g., F5E2 = door lock error)
• Samsung: Letters or numbers (e.g., 5E = drain error, HE1 = heater error)
• LG: Usually two letters (e.g., OE = drain, UE = unbalanced, LE = motor)
• GE: Letters or numbers depending on the product line
• Bosch: E + number (e.g., E24 = drain, E15 = leak detected)

For specific codes, check our error code database or search your brand, model number, and error code online.

Step 1: Write it down

Write down the exact code before doing anything else. If you reset the appliance, the code might clear — and the tech will need it.

Step 2: Try a reset

Unplug the appliance for 5 minutes (not 30 seconds). Some error codes are caused by software glitches, and a power cycle clears them. If the code comes back after the reset, it's a real problem.

Step 3: Look up the code

Search your brand + model number + error code. The manufacturer's support site, our error code pages, and appliance forums are all good resources. Some codes have simple fixes (clean a filter, reset a sensor). Others indicate component failures that need parts.

Step 4: Decide your next step

If the fix is simple (clean a filter, reset a breaker), do it yourself. If it involves replacing a part or you're not sure, a $49 video diagnosis can confirm the code's meaning and tell you exactly what to do.

• Drain errors (clogged filter or hose)
• Door/lid lock errors (mechanical alignment issue)
• Water supply errors (check that valves are open)
• Overheating warnings that clear after reset (one-time glitch)

• Communication errors between boards (main control board issue)
• Motor or compressor errors (component failure)
• Repeated heating element errors (wiring or element replacement)
• Any code that comes back after a reset and a filter cleaning

Not sure which category your code falls into? A $49 video diagnosis takes the guesswork out of it.