Maytag Washer F3 E1 Code: Meaning & Fixes
- Meaning
- Water level sensing error: the washer can't detect the water level, usually a pressure sensor or control fault.
- Can I fix it?
- Sometimes, may need a pro
- Also shown as
- F3E1
- Seen on
- Maytag and Whirlpool top-load washers, and Amana models built on the same platform. Some front-load and all-in-one models show it too.
F3 E1 means the washer can’t read its own water level. On current Maytag and Whirlpool top-loaders the pressure sensor is built into the main control, so a failed sensor usually means a new control board. Try Maytag’s 5-minute reset first. Whirlpool has also issued a service notice about early pressure sensor failures on some top-load models, so ask service whether yours is covered.
Try this first
- Unplug the washer for 5 minutes, then plug it back in.
- Press Start/Pause once to clear the code, then again to restart the cycle.
- If water is left in the drum, run a drain or spin cycle.
- If F3 E1 comes back, contact Maytag service and ask whether your model is covered by a service notice.
What causes F3 E1
| Cause | What you notice | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary control glitch | F3 E1 once, then normal after a reset | 5-minute power reset |
| Kinked, clogged or loose pressure hose | F3 E1 after the washer was moved or serviced | Needs a technician to check the hose to the tub |
| Inlet valve leaking into the tub | Water in the tub with the washer off | Needs a technician |
| Failed pressure sensor on the main control | F3 E1 returns after every reset | Needs a technician; usually a main control replacement |
Fix it step by step
Tap a step number to tick it off as you go. Ticks stay on this device.
-
Reset the control
Unplug the washer for 5 minutes, then plug it back in.
-
Clear and restart
Press Start/Pause once to clear the code, then press it again to restart. If the drum still holds water, run a drain or spin cycle first.
-
Check for a slow leak
With the washer off and the taps open, look into the tub after an hour. Water trickling in points to a leaking inlet valve, which can confuse the level reading.
-
Call service if it returns
If F3 E1 shows again, contact Maytag service. Give them the model and serial number so they can check for a service notice.
Safety: Don't open the cabinet to inspect the pressure hose yourself. It runs next to live wiring and the main control.
When to call a technician
If F3 E1 comes back after the reset, the pressure hose, the inlet valve or the pressure sensor needs a technician. On many current top-loaders the sensor is part of the main control, so the repair is a new control followed by a calibration. Whirlpool has covered some of these repairs under a service notice for early sensor failures, so ask before you pay.
Questions people ask
Is F3 E1 a pressure switch problem?
On older washers, yes. On current Maytag and Whirlpool top-loaders the pressure sensor is built into the main control board, so the usual repair is replacing that board.
Is Maytag F3 E1 covered by a warranty or service notice?
Whirlpool has issued a service notice for early pressure sensor failures on some top-load washers built in a specific period. Contact Maytag service with your model and serial number to find out if yours qualifies.
Is washer F3 E1 the same as dishwasher F3 E1?
No. On Maytag and Whirlpool dishwashers F3 E1 is a different fault. Use the page for your appliance.