Home Fault Codes

KitchenAid Refrigerator Error Code E1: Meaning and Fix

E1
How E1 appears on a KitchenAid refrigerator display.
KitchenAid refrigerator Board Jazz (part number WPW10503278), the component to check for code E1
Product photo courtesy of AppliancePartsPros.com

Reading the refrigerator display

On a refrigerator the code shows on the control panel or dispenser display. Some models flash a letter or alternate two characters; hold the code in view and note both. KitchenAid pairs the number with a letter group in the manual, so match the exact characters.

KitchenAid is Whirlpool Corporation's premium appliance line. Its dishwashers, ranges, microwaves and refrigerators share Whirlpool boards but use their own panel layouts and numbering in the manuals. The codes apply to model numbers such as KUDS24SEWH1, KUDS01DJSS0 and KHMS155LSS4; check the label on your unit to confirm yours.

What causes E1

How to fix it

  1. Cycle the power: unplug the refrigerator or flip its breaker for five minutes, restore power, and see whether the display shows the code again after a few minutes.
  2. Reset power and see whether the code clears; note when it returns (at start, mid-cycle, at random).
  3. Inspect all harness plugs on the main board for heat discoloration, loose pins or pinched wires.
  4. Check the wiring diagram for the model and test the circuit named by the code for continuity.
  5. Replace the main control board only after the harness and the part it drives test good.
  6. Run a full short cycle or function again and confirm the code stays gone before putting the appliance back into normal use.

Parts you may need

PartPart no.Buy
Board JazzWPW10503278Find part

Part numbers are OEM references; confirm fit by your model number before ordering. Some links are affiliate links; we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Questions

What does E1 mean on a KitchenAid refrigerator?

It is a fault code from the KitchenAid control. It indicates a problem with the control electronics. A power reset is the first thing to try.

Can I keep using the refrigerator while it shows E1?

You can try it after a power reset. If the code returns, the affected function may not run properly, so it is worth fixing soon before it causes a bigger failure.

Do I need a technician to clear E1?

Often yes. Part of this repair means testing live circuits or replacing a control board, so a technician is the safer choice unless you are comfortable with electrical diagnosis.

Other KitchenAid refrigerator codes

KitchenAid refrigerator Board Jazz (part number WPW10503278), the component to check for code E2 (shared reference photo for this part type)E2Control electronics faultKitchenAid refrigerator Thermistor Kit (part number 12002355), the component to check for code Flashing "F"Flashing "F"Cooling system faultKitchenAid refrigerator Thermistor Kit (part number 12002355), the component to check for code PO (shared reference photo for this part type)POCooling system fault

Sources

Part numbers are OEM references; confirm fit by your model number before ordering. Meanings compiled from manufacturer and parts-retailer documentation; see sources below. Unplug the appliance before opening it.

Applies to models including KSCS25INSS00, KSCS25FKSS02, KSCS25FKSS01, KSRB25FHSS02, KSRS25IKSS01, KBUDT4270A02, KSRP25FNSS00, KSRG25FKSS16.