Home Fault Codes

Whirlpool Refrigerator Error Code E1: Meaning and Fix

E1
How E1 appears on a Whirlpool refrigerator display.
Whirlpool 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. Whirlpool-family codes are usually read as a letter and number pair, with an E sub-code after it.

Whirlpool is the parent platform for Maytag, KitchenAid and Amana, so many of its control boards and fault codes reappear across those brands. Its panels typically report two-part codes such as F5 E2 or flash sequences on the keypad. The codes apply to model numbers such as GU980SCGB2, GU980SCGQ2 and GEW9200LW0; 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 Whirlpool refrigerator?

It is a fault code from the Whirlpool 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 Whirlpool refrigerator codes

Whirlpool refrigerator Board Jazz (part number WPW10503278), the component to check for code E2 (shared reference photo for this part type)E2Control electronics faultWhirlpool refrigerator Thermistor Kit (part number 12002355), the component to check for code Flashing "F"Flashing "F"Cooling 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 ED25RFXFW01, GS5SHAXNL00, GS6SHEXNL00, ED25RFXFW00, GD5RHAXNQ00, GS6SHAXKS01, ED25DQXBW00, ED5VHGXMQ10.