How to Fix a Whirlpool Dishwasher F8 E4 Error Code

The F8 E4 error code indicates that water has been detected by the float switch in the drip pan at the base of the appliance, perhaps from a leak. If your Whirlpool dishwasher is displaying this error code, this guide will help you understand the possible causes and provide steps to resolve it.

Symptoms of the F8 E4 error code

Along with the F8 E4 error code appearing on your Whirlpool dishwasher display, you might also notice the following symptoms:

• The dishwasher will not start or operate
• You’ll hear an alarm tone
• You’ll see accumulated water in the drip tray
• You might notice excessive suds when opening the door.

Purpose of the F8 E4 Error Code

The F8 E4 error code notifies you when water is detected in the base pan or drip tray. This is designed to help prevent flooding or water damage in your home, which could be costly.

When the float switch detects a small amount of water in the drip tray, the F8 E4 error code disables your dishwasher and triggers an alarm.

This prompts users to inspect their appliance and address any leaks that might be causing water accumulation—or hire a professional to do so—thereby reducing the risk of serious flooding and significant damage.

Causes of the F8 E4 Error Code

Here are the most common causes of the F8 E4 error code on Whirlpool dishwashers:

• Water is leaking from the inlet hose or its connection point and dripping into the base pan.
• Water is leaking from the drain hose.
• Excessive condensation is causing water to accumulate in the base pan.
• There’s an issue with the float switch.
• The wrong detergent was used, leading to excessive suds.

How to fix the F8 E4 Error Code

Here are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the F8 E4 error code on your Whirlpool dishwasher.

Step 1: Empty the drip tray

Water has most likely accumulated in the drip tray at the base of your appliance. This is detected by the float switch, which triggers the F8 E4 error.

Removing the water from the drip tray should resolve the error code, but this may only be a temporary solution if the source of the leak isn’t addressed.

However, there are instances where no leak exists and water may have accumulated there randomly—for example, during cleaning of the dishwasher or cabinet, or due to condensation. If this is the case, simply emptying the drip tray could resolve the error permanently.

Follow these steps to empty the drip pan:

1. Unplug the dishwasher and turn off the water supply.
2. Remove the bottom panel or kick plate of the dishwasher by removing the screws securing it.
3. Remove the insulation layer behind the kick plate.
4. Carefully remove the drip pan by pressing the clips on each side and then pulling it out.
5. You may need to remove the drip tray. To do this, disconnect the wire connected to the float switch on the drip tray.
6. If water is in the drip tray, empty it into the sink.

Step 2: Check for leaks

While the drip tray is removed and you have access to the base of the appliance, it’s a good time to check for leaks that might be causing water to accumulate in the tray.

Be sure to inspect the water supply inlet hose and its connection to the dishwasher as these are the most common sources of leaks that trigger the F8 E4 error code. If the inlet hose is wet or damp, try tightening its connection point with pliers to improve the seal and stop the leak.

It’s also a good idea to check the drainage hose and other components in the base of your appliance to see if there are any obvious leaks.

If you can’t spot any obvious leaks, lightly rub a dry tissue against the various components and connection points. Even the smallest amount of moisture will show on the tissue, helping you identify minor leaks that could be enough to trigger the F8 E4 error code.

Repair or replace any leaking components you find.

Step 3: Check the float switch

If the float switch is faulty or not properly connected, it may cause the F8 E4 error code. To ensure the float switch is positioned correctly, remove it by pressing the two tabs on either side and pulling it out. Then, reinstall it, making sure it clicks into place on the drip tray.

When reconnecting the wire to the float switch, ensure it doesn’t touch the dishwasher motor or tub. If the float switch appears damaged or fails a multimeter continuity test, replace it with a new one.

Step 4: Check for excessive suds

Over-sudsing can sometimes cause the F8 E4 error code as suds may lead to leaks by pushing water out of the dishwasher. This water can collect in the drip tray, triggering the float switch.

To check for suds, open the dishwasher door and look inside. If you see suds or foam, turn off the dishwasher and wait for them to dissipate.

To prevent this issue in the future, make sure you’re using the correct type and amount of detergent for your dishwasher.

Step 5: Reinstall the drip tray

Now that we’ve covered all of the most likely causes of the F8 E4 error code, it’s time to reinstall the drip tray and run a test cycle.

After reinserting the drip tray, press the cancel key once to silence the alarm and then press it again to clear the error code. You can now start a wash cycle.

It’s a good idea to run a cycle with the kick plate still removed. This way, you can easily check for any leaks during the cycle or confirm that all leaks have been resolved.

If the cycle runs successfully with no further leaks or recurrence of the error code, you can reinstall the kick plate and start enjoying your fully functioning dishwasher again.