Whirlpool · Washer Moderate

F3E2 — Water Temperature Sensor (NTC) Fault

The NTC thermistor that measures incoming water temperature is reading out of range — either open circuit, shorted, or wildly off. The washer can still wash on cold but loses temperature control.

Keep using it?
Yes, with caution
DIY difficulty
Moderate
Verified against
producthelp.whirlpool.com ↗

How to fix it

  1. Unplug the washer.
  2. Locate the thermistor — usually screwed into the heater housing or the tub sump on front-loaders.
  3. Disconnect the harness and read resistance across the sensor pins with a multimeter: ~20kΩ at room temp, dropping to ~5kΩ at 140°F.
  4. If resistance is open or shorted, replace the thermistor.
  5. If thermistor checks good, repair or replace the harness to the control.

Why it happens

Typical signs: Water doesn't get warm on Warm/Hot cycles · F3 E2 at the start of fill · Cycle aborts or finishes on cold only · Heater never engages on front-loaders

  • Failed thermistor (NTC) Most common — sensor has gone open or shorted. Should read ~20kΩ at 77°F (25°C).
  • Loose or corroded NTC connector Connector at the thermistor in the tub sump has come loose.
  • Wiring harness break Open in the harness between sensor and control.

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.

  • Water temperature sensor (NTC thermistor) Common replacement
    Amazon →

More Whirlpool washer codes

dET dET — Detergent Cartridge Empty F0E2 F0E2 — Over Suds Detected F0E3 F0E3 — Load Too Heavy / Basket Blocked F0E5 F0E5 — Off-Balance Load F0E7 F0E7 — Motor Control Unit Fault F1E1 F1E1 — Main Control Board (CCU) Fault

All Whirlpool codes → All washer codes →

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. Verified against manufacturer documentation: producthelp.whirlpool.com.