For the KitchenAid dishwasher record covered here, F3E1 is associated with thermistor circuit open or shorted. This wording should be read narrowly: it describes the system or condition the control is reporting, not a guaranteed failed part.
Reviewed by Liam Porter · Last reviewed August 11, 2026
Written by
Liam Porter Appliance Care EditorPublished September 2, 2026
Content status:
Verified
Error codeF3E1
ApplianceDishwasher
Affected model seriesKitchenAid Whirlpool-platform controls with on-display diagnostics (model-dependent)
Quick answer
For the KitchenAid dishwasher record covered here, F3E1 is associated with thermistor circuit open or shorted. This wording should be read narrowly: it describes the system or condition the control is reporting, not a…
Model compatibility: KitchenAid reuses codes across series and model years, so F3E1 may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.
Plain language
What this code means
Wash thermistor circuit open or shorted per family diagnostics. Artisan Repair uses the code as a starting clue; final diagnosis still follows your appliance’s documentation.
Signs
Symptoms you may notice
Temperatures or temperature-dependent cycle behavior may seem inconsistent.
The code may appear intermittently as the sensor reading moves in and out of range.
The appliance may shorten, pause, or alter operation while the diagnostic is active.
Why it happens
Possible causes
A sensor reading outside the expected range.
A loose/open/shorted sensor circuit or harness connection.
A control problem interpreting an otherwise valid reading.
Before you call
Safe checks you can make
These are simple, non-hazardous checks only. If anything is unclear, stop and contact a technician.
Confirm nothing is blocking internal vents or airflow
Note the actual behavior or temperatures if measurable
Perform a manufacturer-approved restart
Keep notes on any recent power outages, filter changes, or installs before the visit
Important safety warning. Do not attempt repairs involving electrical components, gas, water lines, refrigerant or sealed systems. Unplug the appliance if it is safe to reach the outlet, and leave internal diagnostics to a qualified technician.
Please avoid
What not to attempt
Do not open internal panels or access high-voltage components
Do not bypass door locks, safety switches or interlocks
Get help
When to call a technician
If the safe checks do not resolve the condition, schedule an independent KitchenAid appliance diagnosis. Provide the full model number and a photo of the F3E1 display so the technician can start with the correct model-specific code map.
Seeing this code on your KitchenAid appliance?
Book a specialist visit for a clear estimate and approval before any repair. Independent service — not an official KitchenAid service center.
For the exact record already present on the KitchenAid site, use the current verified meaning stored with that record. Do not replace it with a meaning taken from another appliance family just because the display look…
For the record covered by this page, F3E1 relates to thermistor circuit open or shorted. Confirm the exact definition against the full model number before ordering parts or authorizing an internal repair.
You can correct an obvious external condition and use the normal owner-approved restart or acknowledgement procedure. If the same code returns, clearing the display again does not repair the cause.
Only if the condition is clearly a normal status/maintenance indication and the appliance is operating normally. Stop using it for smoke, burning odor, arcing, repeated breaker trips, uncontrolled heating, gas odor, active leakage near electrical parts, or a significant loss of refrigeration.
No. The code identifies a condition or diagnostic path. Model-specific testing should confirm the failed component before parts are ordered.
