F2
Whirlpool Dishwasher
Severity: CriticalWhat Does This Error Mean?
The F2 error means your Whirlpool dishwasher has detected water leaking inside the base. A float switch or leak sensor in the bottom pan has been triggered. Stop using the dishwasher immediately and find the source of the leak.
Affected Models
- WDT750SAHZ
- WDF520PADM
- WDT970SAHZ
- WDTA50SAHZ
- Most Whirlpool built-in dishwashers
Common Causes
- The door seal (gasket) is cracked, warped, or has debris preventing it from sealing
- A water supply hose or drain hose connection under the sink has come loose
- The pump housing or tub has a crack allowing water to escape into the base
- Excessive foaming from using regular dish soap (not dishwasher detergent) is overflowing
- The float switch in the base pan is stuck in the 'triggered' position even after water has dried
How to Fix It
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Stop the cycle immediately and turn off the water supply valve under the sink.
The supply valve is usually a small knob or lever on the hot water pipe under the kitchen sink.
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Open the dishwasher door and check the door seal around the entire perimeter.
Look for cracks, gaps, or food debris that might be breaking the seal. Clean the gasket with a damp cloth.
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Check under the sink for loose or leaking hose connections.
The fill hose connects from the supply valve to the dishwasher inlet. The drain hose connects to the sink drain or garbage disposal.
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Tilt the dishwasher forward slightly (or pull it out) to check if water has pooled in the base pan.
If the base pan has water, dry it out with towels or a wet/dry vacuum. The float switch will reset once the pan is dry.
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Run a test cycle and watch for water appearing on the floor or under the dishwasher.
Identifying exactly where the water is coming from will determine what part needs replacing.
When to Call a Professional
Water leaks can cause floor and cabinet damage quickly. If you cannot find the source of the leak, call a technician right away. A cracked tub or pump housing is a serious repair that may not be cost-effective on an older dishwasher.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use my dishwasher with the F2 error?
No. Do not run the dishwasher until you find and fix the leak. Water can damage your floor, cabinetry, and subfloor. Turn off the water supply until the leak source is identified.
I dried out the base pan but F2 keeps coming back. Why?
The float switch may be stuck in the raised position. Check that the float (a small plastic cap in the base of the tub) moves up and down freely. If it is stuck up, the dishwasher will think there is always a flood condition.
Can using the wrong detergent cause an F2 error?
Yes. Using regular dish soap — the kind you use for hand washing — creates massive foam. The foam overflows into the base pan and triggers the leak sensor. Always use detergent specifically labelled for dishwashers.