Nobody enjoys coming across error codes on their washing machines, but they are incredibly helpful in directing us to the precise problem your appliance is having.
Meaning, we can focus our efforts on a specific set of troubleshooting processes and get back up and running as quickly as possible!
Let’s break down what Whirlpool Washer E01 F03 means and how to go about fixed.
What Does Whirlpool E01 F03 Error Code Mean
The E01 F03 error message is displayed when the machine doesn’t have enough water to complete a wash cycle. This could be due to several different problems that are preventing the appliance from receiving sufficient water.
What Causes an E01 F03 Error Code?
Before we move on to the troubleshooting section of this article it’s worth identifying each possible cause for this error code. It may prompt you to find a really obvious reason and save you time in running the diagnosis steps recommended later on in this guide.
1. Problems with Water Supply
An E01 F03 error code may be triggered due to a problem with your water supply to the washing machine. This could be due to issues with the main weather supply to your home, a blockage, or when multiple faucets are being used simultaneously reducing water pressure.
2. Low Water Level
Too little water in your machine will lead to your washer displaying the E01 F03 error code. There are a couple of potential reasons for this sudden decline in water levels, such as problems with your washing machine’s water intake valve or a fault with the washer’s control board.
3. Blockage in Inlet Hose
When it comes to your washer, the inlet hose can be found at its rear. As with all hoses and pipes that permit water flow, an obstruction may occur over time due to collect debris which then reduces how much water is able to move through it. This could be a build-up of hard water minerals or even a kink in the pipeline.
4. Clogged Inlet Hose Filter
The inlet hose filter is a vital element of the water inlet valve, ensuring that no debris enters your water supply. Unfortunately, many people are not aware of this crucial part and neglect to clean it.
This often leads to clogging which can cause a serious reduction in water supply and water pressure.
How To Fix E01 F03 Error on Whirlpool Washer
1. Reset Your Washer
If your Whirlpool washer is displaying the E01 F03 error code, it appears to be locked in a washing cycle. To restore normal operation and get things running smoothly again, you have two options:
Power Reset: Unplug your appliance for five minutes before plugging it back in.
Dial Reset: Using the mode dial as a resetting mechanism.
- Turn the dial counterclockwise until it clicks
- Then three clicks in the clockwise direction.
- Then rotate back once more counterclockwise and end with one final click coursing through it clockwise before pressing
- Press START to reset your washing machine
2. Check Main Water Taps Are Open
To ensure that your Whirlpool washer is functioning optimally, both the cold and hot water taps must be switched on. These two main water sources allow for a complete washing cycle, optimizing the efficacy of your machine.
Just double check you have a water supply in your home, by running the kitchen or bathroom cold water faucets to check for running water.
Then check the washer’s inlet water line faucets are both fully open. It may be the case that they are partially open but not fully open, meaning they are on the threshold of only just delivering enough water pressure.
3. Inspect the Water Hose for Kinks or Blockages
Resolving an E01 F03 error requires a thorough inspection of the water hose for any kinks or blockages. To inspect the hose, you must first remove it from your machine, here’s how to do it:
- Pull the washer away from the wall so that you have enough space to detach the hose.
- Shut off the water supply to the appliance.
- Detach the water hose with a pair of needle-nose pliers. Some models may be hand screw connectors, that can be loosened by hand.
- Check if the hose is damaged, kinked, and shows signs of blockages.
- Determine if there is debris buildup blocking the hose and clean it or replace it.
4. Inspect Mesh Inlet Filter
Detaching the inlet hose found on the back of your washer is all that’s required to inspect its mesh inlet filter. Here are a few simple steps for inspecting this component:
- Use needle-nose pliers to remove the hose, found on the back of the machine.
- Grab a small flathead screwdriver to remove the mesh filter from the valve.
- Carefully inspect the filter to see if there is any debris buildup or visible damage.
- Clean the filter with running water in the event of a debris buildup.
- Replace the mesh inlet filter if there is visible damage on this component.
Check out the video below for a great guide on how to clean a mesh inlet filter.
5. Inspect The Pressure Switch Hose
To locate the switch hose in your Whirlpool washer, you’ll first have to remove its control panel. Once exposed, look for a rubber component that is unmissable as there is only one PVC hose component. It is usually clear hosing approximately ¼ inch wide. Inspect if there are signs of damage or dirt buildup that can impede the flow of water.
If after inspection if you see that it needs replacing, below is an instructional video with useful information on how to change over to a new replacement pressure hose.
6. Check The Air Trap Pipe
To guarantee that wastewater doesn’t reenter the water supply, Whirlpool washers are fitted with an air trap, a small metal component situated on the water line. It’s important to periodically clean this pipe in order to avoid any potential issues related to your water supply.
Control Board Failure
If none of the above methods worked for you, here’s an additional solution that may solve your issue with the E01 F03 error. You need to examine the main control board from your Whirlpool washer as it could be sending out incorrect signals which display this particular error message. To take a look at it and replace it if necessary, get yourself a multimeter and screwdriver ready first! Follow these easy steps:
- Make sure that the appliance is not plugged in.
- Unscrew the screws that secure the control panel and remove it. The board is located behind the panel.
- Set your multimeter to the lowest resistance setting and connect its leads to the board’s terminals.
- Check whether there is any continuity. If you get a reading of infinity or a high number, it means that the board is defective.
Watch the video below to learn how to replace the main control board in your Whirlpool washer.
Verdict: Whirlpool Washer E01 F03
If you’re dealing with a Whirlpool washer E01 F03 error code, start by verifying all the main water taps, hoses and pipes are in optimal condition. Inspect the air trap pipe, as well as its mesh inlet filter for any blockages or damage. If everything seems to be working properly so far, test the control board to ensure it’s functioning correctly too!
Whirlpool Models Covered
This article will help guide you on how to fix the E01 F03 error code in a few easy steps. However, the steps mentioned above apply only to the following Whirlpool washer models:
- RLM20K
- WD-10271BD
- WD-11275BD
- WD-13276BDM
- WD-90282BD
- WM2233HW
- WM2277HS
- WM2301HR
- WM2301HW
- WM2455HG
- WM2455HW
- WM2455HW/00
- WM2487HRMA/00
- WM2487HWMA/00
- WM2496HSM
- WM2496HWM/00
- WM2688HNM
- WM2688HWMA/00
- WM3070HWA
- WM3470HVA
- WM3470HWA
Andy has over 8 years of experience working on residential household appliances, performing diagnostics, and repairs across most major brands. He graduated from the Denver Institute of Technology, is NASTeC certified, and has worked for Mr. Appliance. Andy has contributed to features on major publications including Better Home & Gardens, Family Handyman, and Yahoo.com.
