Whirlpool Whirlpool WDTA50SAKZ 47 dBA Top Control Dishwasher with 3rd Rack F3E1 Error Fix: Wash Thermistor/Sensor Fault

Error code F3E1 on the Whirlpool Whirlpool WDTA50SAKZ 47 dBA Top Control Dishwasher with 3rd Rack means: Wash Thermistor/Sensor Fault. The wash water temperature sensor (thermistor) has failed — it is reading an open circuit or shorted. The dishwasher cannot accurately measure water temperature, which affects wash performance and sanitize cycle operation. The thermistor is typically located on the sump housing beneath the tub. Test the sensor with a multimeter — it should read approximately 55,000 ohms at 77°F (25°C). If the reading is infinite (open) or 0 (shorted), replace the thermistor.

The most successful fix is "Test and Replace Wash Thermistor Sensor" (medium difficulty, ~45 minutes). Estimated DIY cost: $10-$20. HomeMD has 2 community-ranked fixes for this error.

This error is rated warning severity. It is generally not urgent and can often be resolved with a simple DIY fix.

Yes — the top-ranked community fix ("Test and Replace Wash Thermistor Sensor") is rated medium difficulty and takes about 45 minutes. Tools needed: Phillips screwdriver, Multimeter.

DIY cost: $10-$20. Professional repair typically costs $110-$160. Many homeowners save money by trying the top-ranked community fix first.

The Whirlpool Whirlpool WDTA50SAKZ 47 dBA Top Control Dishwasher with 3rd Rack has 8 other known error codes, including: F1E1 (Stuck Relay on Control Board), F1E2 (Control Board Memory Error), F2E1 (Stuck Button on User Interface), F2E2 (User Interface Board Communication Error), F3E2 (Wash Thermistor Shorted), and 3 more.

Error code F3E1 also appears on 11 other Whirlpool models: Whirlpool WDT750SAKZ 24 in. Top Control Dishwasher, Whirlpool WED5000DW 7.4 cu. ft. Electric Dryer, Whirlpool WED75HEFW 7.4 cu. ft. Electric Dryer with Steam, Whirlpool WFE775H0HZ 6.4 cu. ft. Smart Slide-In Electric Range, Whirlpool WFG505M0BS 5.0 cu. ft. Freestanding Gas Range, Whirlpool WFW72HEDW Duet Front Load Washer, and 5 more. The fix may vary by model, so check each model's specific page for tailored repair steps.