Whirlpool Refrigerator Error [Solved]
If you’re wondering why there are random numbers displayed on the panel of the fridge, it’s because the system is trying to draw your attention.
By flashing error codes, the refrigerator is trying to tell you something needs to be fixed. It could be that the temperature within is unstable or some part of the fridge is working incorrectly. But, this is how the fridge indicates something’s wrong, and you need to repair it for optimum functioning.
However, the numbers and letters appear randomly, and fridge owners may not know what E1, E2, or E3 might mean. This is precisely why we have created a list of all the common error codes of the fridge along with the meaning behind the error.
Error Codes Appearing On Your Whirlpool Refrigerator
Usually, people are busy going about their day and are not paying attention to household appliances regularly. This is why many appliances including Whirlpool refrigerators have an alarm system to alert fridge owners if anything is wrong. The refrigerators have an in-built method of communicating with fridge owners via the display panel if there is something that needs immediate attention.
With Whirlpool refrigerators, the makers have created a set of codes, each of which is assigned to a particular problem. If any problem occurs in the fridge, the corresponding error code flashes on the screen.
These codes will help you identify the issues in your Whirlpool fridge if you already knew which error codes indicate which problem. Let’s take a look at the error codes and what they mean.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Error Codes And Meanings
1. PO
If you hear a chiming sound coming from your Whirlpool fridge and find a “PO” sign on investigating, it means the fridge has lost power. PO stands for power outage, and the display will start blinking this error code if there is no power supply.
Without any electricity, the temperature in the fridge and freezer will obviously increase, leading to further issues. This is why acting on this error code is important because the food in the fridge is susceptible to spoilage if you ignore the signs.
Once the power is cut, the fridge will make a chiming sound three times, and the word “Confirm” will keep flashing. The flashing will only stop when you acknowledge the issue by pressing the “Measured Fill” button. After this input, the PO sign will vanish since it assumes you are now alerted to this problem.
2. EO
When the freezer temperature display shows EO, it means there is some problem in the ice maker compartment of the fridge. Of course, the sensor will detect the increase in the temperature in the freezer. Make a note of this alert and check the freezer for any visible issues.
One thing you can do is check if ice is forming correctly or melting. Sometimes, the freezer might be overworking to keep the temperature cool even if it’s forming ice. Thus, it is better to contact a qualified technician to investigate the matter and rely on their expert opinion.
If you have a warranty for the fridge, you can always call the Whirlpool customer service center for assistance.
3. E1
The temperature sensor keeps the fridge or freezer cool and regulates the environment within. If there’s something wrong with this part, it will fail to send updates to the condenser, and there may be a case of overcooling. No one wants frozen food in the fridge, and excess ice is also a trouble to remove.
When the display screen in the Whirlpool refrigerator shows E1, it means the temperature sensor or thermistor has stopped working.
4. E2
E2 on the freezer display means that the thermistor or temperature sensor is defective. Issues in the freezer sensor will result in excess ice formation, which can strain the cooling system.
When this error code occurs, it might not be possible for fridge owners to fix it on their own. It is best to contact customer service representatives and book an appointment with a technician.
5. E3
When you see the E3 error code on the refrigerator display, know that there is some fault in the defrost sensor. Mostly in this scenario, the temperature is the first to get affected as the regular function of the sensor is impaired.
However, you may be able to fix this issue on your own without having to hire someone. Sometimes, there is a build-up of dirt and debris in the refrigerator drain pipe which causes the pipe to get blocked. If the pipe is clogged, it can impact the defrost sensor and disable it.
Thus, take a moment to check the drain pipe first and clear any dirt or build-up that may be present within. If the sensor doesn’t get better, there’s no option other than calling for professional help.
6. E4
Unfortunately, the fridge defrost sensor is not immune to issues, and it can face damage as well. If something goes wrong with the refrigerator defrost sensor, it shows the error code E4. Basically, this indicates that the sensor compartments in the Whirlpool fridge are not working properly, and they need some repair.
Now, the type of repair they need is not easy to figure out, so you can book an engineer to take a look at what’s wrong.
7. E5
Viewing the error code E5 flashing on the refrigerator display is not a good sign. Just as any error code points out the problem area within the fridge, this code indicates issues in the freezer defrost sensor.
As we mentioned earlier, any problem in the freezer may cause overcooling, but it could also melt the ice. Either way, this code also needs to be looked into so that the full function of the freezer is restored.
8. E6
When the Whirlpool refrigerator shows an E6 error code on the fridge display, it means that the main control board and display board are malfunctioning. If this occurs, the user interface control might be compromised, and you won’t be able to input information into the fridge system.
Additionally, this problem will also affect the ability of the display to show accurate information. For instance, it’s possible that the malfunctioning display may show the wrong temperature, which could confuse you.
9. E7 And E8
Although E7 and E8 are two different codes, they point out the same problem. If you see either of these codes on your fridge display, it means that the environment temperature sensor is defective.
Basically, a defect in the sensor that checks the environment temperature might ruin the stable condition in the fridge. However, this issue is not as simple as it seems. There could be many possible reasons why this problem has occurred.
10. E9
The error code E9 will appear when the temperature in the freezer compartment is too high. The device will sound an alarm to get your attention and the first thing you should do is check if the doors are shut tight. If the doors are already closed, check the gasket to see if there is any leakage of cool air.
11. EE
Next, we have the error code EE, which tells you that the circuit of the ice maker in the freezer is having trouble. As you may have guessed, when the circuit malfunctions, it will affect the systems required to produce ice.
So, even if you don’t know what the error code displayed means, you should understand something’s wrong when ice starts melting.
12. 6 On The Fridge Display
Once the number six appears on the refrigerator display, know that it’s a computing error, and the rest of the system might be functioning correctly. Even though this isn’t such a big problem, it needs to be corrected nevertheless.
To fix this issue, unplug the Whirlpool fridge from the power source and allow it to rest for a while. After five minutes or so, plug it back in and check if the number has disappeared. If the computing error is resolved by this test, the screen will go back to normal.
Unfortunately, this method may not work if there is a serious defect or if something’s wrong with the main control board. If this is the case, shutting it off and relying on the reset might not be enough, and you may require professional help.
13. Flashing 6 On The Fridge Display
A few times, the number six will appear on the display and blink constantly, indicating a different problem. The flashing number 6 tells you that the temperature inside the fridge is on the rise for some reason.
The thing is, a Whirlpool refrigerator is designed to prevent the insides from warming. Thus, if the sensors detect an unusual rise in temperature, they try to alert the fridge owner of this occurrence.
Thankfully, this error code does not have to spell disaster because the warming could be corrected by small fixes. We recommend checking the fridge door to see if it’s left open or the seal is working well enough.
Also, avoid placing hot food in the fridge because that can cause a flashing number 6 on the display. Remove the hot food (if any) from the fridge and allow it to come back to its regular temperature, and this issue should be resolved.
14. C On The Fridge Display
When the refrigerator compartment thermistor fails to work correctly, it communicates with you by displaying the letter C on the screen. As you may already know, the thermistor is an essential component in the fridge that regulates cooling.
If it fails, the temperature goes above or below the required range, thus causing other difficulties in a Whirlpool refrigerator. So, if the letter C pops up on your screen, consider looking at the refrigerator thermistor wire harness connections.
For this, you’ll need to unplug the unit first and check the wire harness connections for abnormalities. Loose wiring can cause thermistor failure, so plug them in if they are not connected properly. If this does not bring back the fridge to function normally, you may need to replace it.
15. C On The Freezer Display
Whirlpool fridge freezer displays can show the letter C, which means that the thermistor in the freezer compartment has some complications. Similar to the issue of the fridge compartment, check if the freezer thermistor wire harness is intact.
In some cases, it may get unplugged or damaged due to external impacts. Unplugged ones can be plugged back in with ease, but damaged ones need a replacement.
16. d On The Fridge Screen
When “d” appears on the screen, it points to problems in the air damper of a Whirlpool refrigerator. The air damper might be stuck, which is why the fridge alerts you via the display screen. Basically, the air damper is responsible for controlling the airflow between the fridge and freezer compartment in a Whirlpool fridge.
However, you can check these parts to determine whether there is any damage by visually inspecting the air damper. But, remember to unplug the refrigerator from the power source to stay safe. Upon finding that the damper is broken, you’ll have no option other than to replace it.
17. 18F On The Freezer Screen
The freezer compartment is more sensitive when it comes to temperature fluctuations. Even a change of one or two degrees in the fridge freezer can start melting ice quickly that can seep into other parts as well. When the temperature in the freezer compartment gets too high, the error code 18F will pop up on the screen.
This increase in temperature could be the result of a mishap in the electrical outlet or a case of a power outage. For whatever reason, cutting off the power supply will instantly turn the freezer warmer. Check the power plug in case the wires are loose, and fit them properly if required.
If there is a power outage, unplug the refrigerator from the current socket and plug it into an alternative temporary power source. After the temperature drops back in the fridge, press the temperature control button to reset the freezer temperature.
18. CF On The Freezer Screen
Occasionally, the main control board and the user interface control have a communication failure which leads to improper button functioning. It may manifest as the freezer temperature keypad not working even after pressing the designated button.
When the user interface control does not function as it used to, there is sure to be a problem with the internal wiring. This problem is reflected on the freezer display with the error code CF, which tells you that the wire harnesses are in trouble.
To get to the bottom of it, check both the boards and their wire connections. Fix loose wires if required and check the user interface controls again to see if it is working again. However, this quick fix is not applicable when the main controls are faulty. The only solution to this is to replace it and calling a professional might be ideal.
19. 01
When the water dispenser is not operating correctly, it will show the error code 01 on your refrigerator screen. This code means there is some problem in the water pipe connection on either the side refrigerator or in the internal system.
Take a look at the water filter valve connections and water valve to see if many parts are damaged. If they are doing fine, it might be an internal problem that cannot be viewed easily. Again, this might be a main control board complication that a technician can look into and fix it.
20. 02
Upon seeing the 02 code, know that the air damper is not opening and closing as it should. All you need to do is check the air damper to see if it is stuck in a place or not. Many times the 02 code occurs when the air damper is jammed and cannot be used anymore. In such a case, there is little chance for repairs, and the entire damper must be replaced.
However, it is also seen that the air damper is working properly and doesn’t seem to be stuck at all. If that’s the case, the culprit is the main control board which might need to be replaced.
21. 03 And 04
Both the error codes 03 and 04 are displayed on the screen when the evaporator fan or condenser fan is impaired. As the refrigerator ages, such problems with the fans and motor are bound to happen. So, when the screen shows you 03 or 04 error codes, it means that you need to check the connections to the motors first.
If those connections seem to be working just fine, it could be some functional issue with the fans. Sometimes, the fans can get rusted or loose, and they need some small fixes to get rid of these error codes.
That being said, replace the fans if you have to, because that might be the only fix your fridge needs. Once again, when all the other parts are functioning as they should, the problem almost always happens to be with the main control board.
22. 05
The 05 error code means that the temperature sensors and defrost thermostat are impaired and could be the reason behind the fridge becoming warmer. If you see this code, check the connections to the temperature sensors to rule out loose or damaged wires.
Additionally, the freezer defrost thermostat and the printed circuit board are the most susceptible to damage. So, it only makes sense to go through these aspects of the freezer first. As we always say, when the functioning parts like sensors and circuit boards are working, it is the main control board that isn’t.
23. 06
Next, error code 06 means that the Whirlpool refrigerator is unable to detect or read the fridge sensors. If this happens, the display might not show accurate information, or it could even go blank.
Fortunately, testing the sensors for resistance is easy with a multimeter. If the result shows that there is no resistance at all or it is at infinity, there is no hope for that fridge sensor. It would be best to replace it without wasting much time.
24. 07
The refrigerator error code 07 indicates inability to read and detect the defrost heater. There could be three possible problems—defrost heater malfunction, incorrect wire connections, or faulty main control board.
Thankfully, one of the three problems, the improper wire connections can be solved immediately. If the wire harness connections are in good condition, you can simply tighten them in place, and the error should be fixed.
However, it won’t help if the defrost heater is the one that needs fixing. The heater can be checked for continuity with a multimeter, and if the readings are all over the place, it needs a replacement. If the reading is normal and the connecting wires are intact, then check the main control board for potential repair requirements.
25. 08
When the screen shows error code 08, it’s a direct indication that the main control board needs help. Generally, there’s not much you can do to fix it on your own since the entire control board might need to be thrown out.
However, you can check for burns and damage signs so that you can call the Whirlpool customer service team with some information. Don’t hesitate to call a technician immediately to investigate the main control board and have it fixed/replaced.
26. -7
Whether it’s a power failure or a loose power cord, the error code -7 tells you that there’s not enough electric supply to the fridge. When the code appears, it is accompanied by a bleeping sound to draw the attention of fridge owners. If you press the alarm reset button, the constant bleeping sound will cease instantly.
Now, begin by checking the power cord and electric supply to the fridge, and make alternative arrangements if something’s wrong.
How To Prevent Refrigerator Issues
Although there are bound to be some issues in any fridge, there are a few good practices we can follow to keep a refrigerator healthy. Frequent maintenance can increase the lifespan of your fridge, and it won’t need as many repairs, either.
1. Avoid Overfilling The Fridge
Avoid putting all the new food in the refrigerator at once after returning from your weekly grocery shopping routine. When the fridge gets stuffed suddenly, it takes a really long time to bring the temperature down to the regular range.
Also, the error code system might get activated as a warning to prevent warming the fridge with too many items.
2. Check The Door Gasket
Door gaskets can get worn out and loose over time which causes cool air from the fridge to leak outside. This puts additional strain on the cooling system to maintain a low temperature inside. Mainly, the door gasket should seal shut when you close the fridge door.
Luckily, one easy way to maintain the gaskets is by cleaning them to remove any sticky or grime so that they do not wear easily.
3. Clean The Freezer Vents
Cleaning the freezer vents might take some time, but you don’t have to clean them that often. Just focus on clearing the vent that controls airflow so that it does not get jammed and frozen. If the vents get covered with ice, there won’t be enough cool air to keep the food frozen.
Similar to the refrigerator, allow it some room to breathe and avoid overstuffing the freezer with food items.
4. Check The Temperature Controls
If you observe unusual ice formation in parts of the fridge, don’t wait for the error code to buzz in. Instead, adjust the temperature settings manually by raising the controls by one degree to prevent unwanted ice formation.
Similarly, lower the temperature by one degree in a fridge that feels warmer than usual.
Final Words
It’s important to remember that Whirlpool refrigerator error codes are built to assist you. And, we understand that remembering the meaning of all the codes is impossible, so come back to this article if required in the future.
Also, we have tried to share some quick checks and possible solutions to all the error codes since that might be enough sometimes. Often we have seen that unplugging the fridge and resetting it fixes the error codes, and the refrigerator continues to function as it used to.
However, if the error codes appear once again after resetting and trying out the solutions, it is best to contact the Whirlpool service center. The representative can assist you in booking the services of a qualified and experienced refrigerator technician.
To add to that, utilize your warranty if the fridge is relatively new, and you’ll receive the service free of cost. Once the technician checks the fridge, they can accurately detect the problem area and offer the best possible solutions.
