F4E1 Moderate Moderate DIY

Maytag Dishwasher F4E1 — Heater Circuit Fault

Maytag Dishwasher · Error code F4E1

What F4E1 Means

The control didn't see proper resistance or current through the heating element circuit. Heat-dry and water heating may not function, and some cycles will abort.

Symptoms

  • Dishes not drying
  • Water doesn't heat
  • Cycle ends early
  • Plastic items still wet

Common Causes

1
Failed heating element

Open element — no continuity end-to-end.

2
Failed high-limit thermostat

Trip protection has opened the circuit.

3
Failed heater relay on the ACU

Onboard relay welded open or stuck closed.

4
Loose heater terminal under the tub

Corrosion or vibration loosened a spade connector.

How to Fix It

  1. Power off at the breaker and remove the kickplate.
  2. Pull both heater terminals at the bottom of the tub and ohm-test the element (typical 15-30 ohms).
  3. Inspect terminals for corrosion or burning; clean or replace as needed.
  4. If the element is open or shorted, replace it with the gasket.
  5. If the element tests good, suspect the ACU heater relay — replace the ACU.

Parts You May Need

If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Common replacement Maytag dishwasher heating element View on Amazon→

More Maytag Dishwasher Codes

F1E1 F1E1 — Control Board Failure F2E1 F2E1 — Stuck Key on Control Panel F2E2 F2E2 — User Interface Communication Error F3E1 F3E1 — Thermistor / OWI Sensor Failure F3E2 F3E2 — Thermistor Open / Out of Range F5E1 F5E1 — Door Switch Failure

All Maytag codes → All dishwasher codes →

Verified against manufacturer documentation: maytag.com

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician.