How to fix error code F08 on a Whirlpool washing machine

Whirlpool washing machines are distinguished by their build quality, reliability, and high washing efficiency, serving their owners faithfully for a long time. However, no household appliance is completely immune to breakdowns. For example, a user may start a wash cycle, the machine may begin operating normally, but after a while, it stops and displays the error code F08. What this error code signifies and what steps to take to fix it will be discussed below.

What could this mean?

This code may appear on the digital display at any stage of the wash cycle. It indicates that the water temperature in the drum does not match the program's set parameters. This type of malfunction on a Whirlpool washing machine can indicate a minor issue or a serious defect that only a qualified technician can fix. It's also possible that the error is triggered by a temporary malfunction, and there's no real problem.

Before attempting DIY repairs or calling in a professional, you need to make sure this isn't a normal washing machine malfunction. To do this, follow these steps:

• Restart the washing machine: turn it off, unplug the power cord, plug it back into the power outlet and press the power button. This method usually solves about 80% of problems; when you reboot, it is quite possible that the error code will disappear as suddenly as it appeared;
• If you have changed the programmed parameters of the selected washing mode (heating temperature, spin speed), it is quite possible that the machine is simply being capricious and does not want to put up with the discrepancy between the settings you have specified and the factory characteristics of the washing program.

If you've reset the machine and confirmed that this error code still appears on the display even with the standard wash cycle settings, it's time to begin troubleshooting. Where do you start?

Let's limit the range of breakdowns

The tubular heating element (TE) is responsible for heating the water in the washing machine's drum. In most cases, the F08 error code appears when the heater fails. If this is indeed the case, the part must be replaced. However, a faulty TTE isn't the only cause of this error. The code could indicate other things as well.

1. Pressure switch malfunction. A problem with the water level sensor can lead to uncontrolled automatic water intake and discharge. The water simply won't have time to heat up to the set temperature.
2. Temperature sensor failure. When the thermostat stops working, the water heats up too slowly, or conversely, so quickly that its temperature suddenly becomes much higher than the set point. The temperature sensor will transmit false information to the central unit, and the control module will then send false commands to various systems of the unit.
3. A defective electronic control module (controller), which is the "brain" of the washing machine. If it fails, the machine will not function properly. It may be necessary to reflash the firmware or replace the element with a new one.

First, you need to eliminate the most minor and easily fixable faults. For example, diagnose the heating element, then the pressure switch or temperature sensor. Only after confirming that these are not the cause should you call a technician who can provide a professional assessment of the condition and functionality of the Whirlpool washing machine's control module.

Let's check the heating element

Error code F08 often appears as a result of a faulty heating element. You can check the heating element very quickly. To do this, follow these steps (the sequence of steps described is for owners of front-loading machines; for top-loading machines, the steps will be slightly different):

• de-energize the washing machine;
• disconnect the drain and fill hoses from the house utilities;
• ensure you have easy access to the rear wall of the washing machine;
• Unscrew the bolts holding the back cover;
• Unscrew the bracket covering the heater.

Important! The heating element is located at the bottom of the machine, under a plastic cover. Only by removing the protective cover can you access the heating element contacts.

Next, disconnect the power contacts, take a multimeter, and connect its probes to the heating element terminals. Set the resistance to 200 ohms, and analyze the results. If the value on the multimeter screen remains approximately the same as the setting, the heater is fully functional. When the number 1 appears, this indicates a break inside the part and it will have to be replaced. When the device displays the number 0 (or a number very close to zero), it means that a short circuit in the heater can be diagnosed; in this case, a new heating element will also have to be installed.

If the heater passes the first multimeter test, just in case, check it for breakdowns. To do this, set the tester to buzzer mode. You'll know the mode is correct when the light comes on and a distinctive beep sounds when the wires are connected. Connect one multimeter probe to the heating element terminal and the other to the element body. If the multimeter doesn't make any sound, everything is fine. If you hear a distinctive beep, there are breakdowns in the element body and the heater will need to be replaced.

Let's check the thermistor

If the heating element has passed the test and proven to be working perfectly, it's time to check the thermistor. It's located between the heater contacts. To remove the temperature sensor, perform the following steps:

• remove the connector with wires from the heater contacts;
• slightly loosen the nut that holds the heating element;
• Carefully remove the thermostat from the housing.

The thermistor is a small metal cylinder. After removing the thermistor from the washing machine, its resistance should be checked using a tester.

• set the multimeter to resistance mode;
• Connect the device's probes to the temperature sensor contacts. For example, if the temperature is 200°C, the resistance displayed on the screen should be 6000 ohms;
• Place the thermistor in warm water and watch the numbers on the device screen change. If the temperature sensor is working properly, the resistance will decrease, so at 50°C it will be about 1350 Ohm.

If the temperature sensor fails, the old part should be replaced. The thermostat cannot be repaired. If the element is fully functional, we continue the diagnostics.

We will inspect and test the pressure switch

Accessing the water level sensor on a Whirlpool washing machine is easy; it's located on the top of the unit, directly under the lid. The pressure switch is rarely located on the bottom. To access this part, carefully remove the mounting screws and the top panel of the washing machine. Follow these steps:

• prepare a tube whose diameter will correspond to the diameter of the pressure switch hose;
• disconnect the fitting by carefully loosening the clamp;
• attach a tube to the pressure hose and blow into it;
• when the pressure switch is working, you will hear 1 or 3 characteristic clicks;
• check the sensor for any damage;
• inspect the fitting for blockages;
• When a blockage is detected, flush the hose with a stream of water from the tap.

If no defects are found after a visual inspection, check the pressure switch with a multimeter. Set the device to resistance measurement mode and connect the tester probes to the sensor contacts. If the values ​​on the screen change, the contacts are working and the pressure switch is working properly. When the resistance value remains fixed, the liquid level sensor is faulty.

So, if you've checked the functionality of the main components that could trigger the F08 error code and found no faults, you should call a professional to determine the root cause. The problem could stem from the main control board, and attempting to fix it yourself is not recommended.

   

2 reader comments

1. April 1, 2020 at 10:47 PM

   Yuri:

   How can I get the temperature to 200 degrees Celsius to test the thermistor?!

   Answer
   • June 1, 2020 at 5:30 PM

     Ha-ha:

     With a lighter.

     Answer