Whirlpool Refrigerator Error Code E6 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The E6 error on a Whirlpool refrigerator means the condenser fan motor has a fault. The condenser fan blows air over the condenser coils at the back or bottom of the refrigerator to release heat. If the fan fails, the compressor overheats and the refrigerator stops cooling properly. The condenser area must be kept clean and the fan motor must be working.

Affected Models

WRF535SWHZ
WRS325SDHZ
WRF767SDHZ
WRT318FZDW
Most Whirlpool refrigerators with bottom-mounted compressors

Common Causes

The condenser fan motor has worn out and is no longer spinning
Dust, lint, or pet hair buildup is clogging the fan blades and overloading the motor
A wire or object has fallen behind the refrigerator and is blocking the fan blade
The fan motor wiring connector has loosened or corroded
The main control board has failed to send power to the condenser fan motor

How to Fix It

Unplug the refrigerator and pull it away from the wall to access the back or bottom panel.

The condenser fan is located near the compressor at the bottom rear of most Whirlpool models.
Remove the rear access panel (usually held by a few screws) to expose the condenser fan and compressor area.

You may need a quarter-inch or Phillips screwdriver depending on your model.
Inspect the condenser fan blades for obstructions. Clear away any dust, lint, pet hair, or debris. Try to spin the fan blade by hand — it should rotate freely.

If the fan blade won't turn freely, the motor bearing has seized. Cleaning won't help — the motor must be replaced.
Check the condenser coils. If they are coated with heavy dust, clean them with a refrigerator coil brush or a vacuum with a brush attachment.

Dirty condenser coils reduce cooling efficiency and make the compressor work harder even after the fan is fixed.
Plug in the refrigerator and listen for the condenser fan. It should start running within a few minutes. If it does not start after cleaning, the motor needs replacement.

A condenser fan motor typically costs $25–$60 and takes about 30 minutes to replace.

When to Call a Professional

Cleaning the condenser coils is a straightforward DIY task. Condenser fan motor replacement is moderate difficulty and costs $25–$60 for the part. If the fan motor is confirmed dead and the compressor is also warm or noisy, call a technician. An overheated compressor may have developed additional damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my refrigerator condenser coils?

Ideally every 6 to 12 months. In homes with pets, every 3 to 6 months is better. Dirty coils reduce energy efficiency by 25% or more and shorten the life of the compressor and fan motor. Cleaning takes about 10 minutes and is one of the best ways to extend your refrigerator's life.

What happens if the condenser fan stops and I ignore E6?

Without the condenser fan, heat cannot escape from the refrigerant. The compressor overheats and shuts down on thermal protection. The refrigerator stops cooling. Repeated overheating cycles can permanently damage the compressor. A failed compressor is the most expensive refrigerator repair — typically $300–$700 or more.

My refrigerator is cooling but I see E6. Should I be concerned?

Yes. Even if the refrigerator is still cooling, the condenser fan fault means it is working harder than it should. This puts extra stress on the compressor. Address E6 promptly to avoid a more expensive failure later.