How to Fix Error Code F8E4 on a Whirlpool Front Load Washer

Have you started a load of laundry only to see your Whirlpool front-load washer flash the F8E4 error, leaving you puzzled as water keeps filling unexpectedly? Don’t worry. We’ve got a simple guide to help you tackle this issue and get your washer back in action!

If you need any replacement parts for your Whirlpool front load washer, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

Materials you need

• ¼” nutdriver
• Multimeter
• Channel lock pliers

Safety precautions

Your safety should always be the top priority when performing any appliance repair. 

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it. 
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.

How to troubleshoot the F8E4 error on a Whirlpool front load washer

Remove the top panel

1. Disconnect your washer by unplugging it or turning off the breaker to eliminate the risk of electric shock.

1. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the two screws located at the back of the washer’s top panel.
2. Slide the panel back, lift it up, and set it aside.

Test the flow meter

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the washer needs to be plugged in and powered on. Please be very careful to protect yourself from electric shock, which has the potential to cause serious injuries. Don’t ever test live voltage if you’re uncomfortable using a multimeter.

1. Reconnect the washer by plugging the power cord back in or turning the breaker back on. 
2. Set your multimeter to Volts DC (indicated by a “V” symbol with a dotted line).
3. Start a wash cycle to allow water to flow into the tub.
4. Use the multimeter to test the voltage on the wires connected to the flow meter while water is flowing.
5. Check the reading. If the reading is 200mV, the flow meter is functioning correctly, and the problem lies with the main control. If the reading is 0 Volts, the flow meter has failed and needs to be replaced.

Test the main control

1. Stop the washer cycle and unplug the power cord or turn off the breaker.
2. Inspect the wires connected to the flow meter and the main control for loose or damaged connections.
3. Secure any loose connections and retest if necessary.
4. If connections are intact and the washer still malfunctions, the main control is faulty and will require replacement.
5. Replace the flow meter if it is faulty. Replace the main control if it is determined to be the source of the issue.

Need more help?

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your washer working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos. 

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

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