What the code means
F9E1 means the washer can't drain properly, so draining takes longer than expected. Whirlpool's front-load code list puts that at usually more than eight minutes.
Most of the checks are about how the drain hose is installed. Two parts can also clog: the drain pump filter and the door seal.
Before you start
- Unplug the washer, or switch off its power, before you clean the filter or handle the drain hose.
- Put a large container under the drain pump before you open the filter, and open it slowly so the water runs into the container.
- Steps differ from model to model, so follow your owner's manual where it differs from this page.
What the manufacturer says to check
- Check how far the drain hose goes into the drainpipe or laundry tub. Whirlpool says no more than four and a half inches. A hose pushed in too far can siphon water back into the washer. The U-shaped hose form sets the right length.
- Don't tape or seal the hose into the drainpipe. It should be loose but held in place, with a gap that lets air in to break the suction.
- Check that the drain hose isn't kinked or clogged.
- Check the standpipe. Whirlpool says it should be at least thirty-nine inches and no more than ninety-six inches tall.
- Clean the drain pump filter, if your model has one. On some models it sits behind the bottom dispenser or a storage drawer.
- Clean the door seal. It has small drain holes that can clog.
- Use HE detergent. Extra suds slow down draining.
- Plug the washer back in. Press Pause/Cancel twice and Power once to clear the code.
Stop and call for service
Stop and call for service if any of these happen.
- The code comes back after you have done all of these checks. Whirlpool's page for this code stops at these checks, so that is the time to call for service.
Source: Whirlpool: F9 E1 on a front-load washer; Whirlpool: Error codes in front-load washers; Whirlpool: Cleaning the pump filter on a front-load washer; Whirlpool: F9E1 on a top-load washer; Maytag: F9 E1 on a front-load washer.
Based on the manufacturer's support pages. Codes can differ by model, so your model's owner's manual comes first.