How to fix error F08 on a Whirlpool washing machine

It can be annoying and disruptive if the F08 error code appears on your Whirlpool washing machine. This code denotes a malfunction with the heating element or a connected part that is causing the appliance to shut off in the middle of its cycle. Thankfully, troubleshooting steps can often resolve the issue.

The first step in resolving the F08 error is figuring out what causes it. A malfunctioning control board, a wiring problem, or a defective heating element are frequently the causes of problems. Finding the precise cause of the problem aids in deciding whether it needs expert assistance or a fast fix.

We’ll walk you through the procedures in this post to identify and possibly resolve the F08 error on your Whirlpool washing machine. These suggestions will enable you to restore your machine’s functionality, regardless of your aptitude with tools or preference for easy fixes.

A Whirlpool washing machine’s F08 error typically indicates a heating issue, which is frequently related to a malfunctioning heater, thermistor, or control board problem. Unplug the machine for safety before attempting to fix it. Examine the wiring connections and heating element for any damage; these are frequently the source of problems. The thermistor or control board may need to be replaced if everything looks normal but the error still occurs. Through step-by-step troubleshooting, you can identify the issue’s root cause and resolve the error to restore your washing machine’s smooth operation.

What does this mean?

Any time a user is washing, a code akin to this one may show up on the digital display. It shows that the water’s temperature in the tank is not within the range that the program specifies. This type of malfunction in the WHIRLPOL washing machine could be a sign of a minor issue or a major flaw that can only be fixed by a skilled expert. Additionally, there may not be a breakdown but rather a temporary failure that results in the error being displayed.

Be sure this isn’t just a typical washing machine breakdown before attempting to fix it yourself or calling in a professional. Take these actions to accomplish this:

• reboot the automatic machine: turn it off, pull the cord out of the socket, plug it back into the power supply 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 unexpectedly as it appeared;
• if you 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 specified and the factory characteristics of the washing program.

You should begin looking for a breakdown if you have restarted the device and verified that this error code still shows up on the display even when the washing mode’s standard parameters are followed. How should I begin?

Let"s limit the range of breakdowns

The water in the washing machine tank is heated by the heating element, also known as the tubular heater. The F08 designation typically appears at the exact moment the heater fails. Should this truly be the case, a new part must be installed in place of the old one. But there could be other causes for this kind of mistake besides a broken heating element. There’s a chance the code has another meaning.

1. Failure of the pressure switch. The appearance of problems with the water level sensor can lead to uncontrolled intake and discharge of water automatically. The liquid simply will not have time to heat up to the set temperature.
2. Failure of the temperature sensor. When the thermostat stops functioning, the water heats up too slowly, or, conversely, so quickly that its temperature at the moment becomes much higher than the set one. The temperature sensor will transmit “false” information to the central unit, and the control module will thus give false commands to various systems of the unit.
3. Defect of the control electronic module (controller), which is the "brain" of the washing machine. If it breaks, there are failures in the normal functioning of the machine. It may be necessary to reflash or replace the element with a new one.

First things first, you have to "weed out" the smallest, most easily corrected errors. Diagnose the heating element, pressure switch, or temperature sensor, for instance, and only after making sure that these are not the problem call a technician who can assess the Whirlpool automatic machine control module’s condition and functionality with expertise.

Let"s check the heating element

The most common cause of error F08 is a heater issue. The heating element is easily checked. To accomplish this, follow this algorithm of actions (the steps listed in order will assist owners of machine guns with front-type loads; the order for vertical manipulations will differ slightly):

• turn off the power to the washing machine;
• disconnect the drain and inlet hoses from the house utilities;
• provide yourself with a complete access to the back wall of the washing machine body;
• unscrew the bolts holding the back cover;
• unscrew the bracket covering the heater.

Crucial! The only way to access the heating element contacts is to remove the protective cover. The heating element is situated at the bottom of the machine, beneath the plastic casing.

After that, unplug the power, attach the probes of a multimeter to the heating element’s terminals, adjust the device’s resistance to 200 Ohm, and examine the readings. The heater is fully operational if the value stays roughly the same as it was set on the multimeter screen. If the number 1 shows up, there is a break in the component and it needs to be replaced. In the event that the device shows 0 (or a number very close to zero), a heater short circuit can be identified; in this scenario, a new heating element will also need to be installed.

Check the heater for malfunctions even if it passes the multimeter’s initial test. Turn the test device to buzzer mode to accomplish this. When the wires are connected, a distinctive signal will appear and the lamp will light, alerting you that the mode is correctly selected. Attach one multimeter probe to the heating element’s terminal and place the other probe against the element’s body. If there are no noises from the device, everything is good; if the familiar squeak sound is heard, there are problems with the part’s body and the heater needs to be replaced.

Let"s check the thermistor

It’s time to check the thermistor if the heating element has successfully completed the test and demonstrated that it can perform its duties flawlessly. It is situated in the space between the heater’s contacts. Follow these steps to remove the temperature sensor:

• remove the plug with the wires from the contacts of the heater;
• slightly loosen the nut that holds the heating element;
• carefully remove the thermostat from the housing.

A tiny metal cylinder serves as the temperature sensor. It is required to use a tester to measure the resistance in the thermistor after it has been removed from the washing machine body.

• set the multimeter to resistance determination mode;
• connect the device probes to the contacts of the temperature sensor. For example, if the temperature is 200°C, the resistance value should be displayed on the screen, the value of which will be 6000 Ohm;
• lower the thermistor in warm water, watch the change in numbers on the device screen. If the temperature sensor is working properly, the resistance will decrease, so, at 50°C it will be about 1350 Ohm.

The outdated component needs to be changed when the temperature sensor stops working. It is not possible to fix the thermostat. In the event that the component is fully operational, we proceed with the diagnostics.

If you approach the problem methodically, fixing the F08 error on a Whirlpool washing machine can be fairly simple. As these parts are frequently associated with this error, begin by inspecting the heating element and connections. Once found, a loose wire or malfunctioning heater can be quickly fixed.

In some circumstances, a more thorough troubleshooting procedure may be necessary. Less evident issues can be found by looking closely at the wiring harness, control board, and pressure switch. Usually, replacing the damaged parts fixes the issue.

The F08 error can be avoided by timely repairs and routine maintenance. If you act now, you can guarantee that your washing machine operates properly and prevent needless interruptions to your laundry schedule.

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