Whirlpool Washer Error Code F14 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The F14 error on a Whirlpool washer indicates an EEPROM error — a problem with the control board's permanent memory. EEPROM is where the washer stores its settings, calibration data, and cycle programs. When this memory is corrupted or fails, the machine cannot operate correctly. This typically means the main control board needs to be replaced or professionally reprogrammed.

Affected Models

WFW9050XW
WFW94HEXW
WTW7300XW
WTW6800WW
Whirlpool Duet and Cabrio front-load and top-load models

Common Causes

Main control board EEPROM chip has failed or become corrupted
Power surge or lightning strike damaged the EEPROM memory on the control board
Battery backup on the control board has died, losing stored calibration data
Software corruption from an incomplete firmware update or power loss during board programming
Age-related failure of the EEPROM chip, common on boards over 8–10 years old

How to Fix It

Unplug the washer for 10 full minutes, then plug it back in. Occasionally a corrupted EEPROM state can be partially reset with a hard power cycle. Try running a cycle after the reset.

This fix works only for very mild corruption. Persistent F14 errors will not clear with a simple reset.
Check if there is any history of power surges or electrical issues in your home around the time the F14 error first appeared. Lightning strikes, power outages, or a tripped breaker during a cycle are all common triggers for EEPROM corruption.

Using a quality surge protector for your washer's outlet can prevent this type of damage in the future.
Contact Whirlpool customer support (1-866-698-2538) before ordering parts. Provide your model and serial number. They can confirm whether F14 is a known issue for your model and whether a service bulletin or firmware fix is available.

Whirlpool has occasionally issued service bulletins addressing EEPROM errors on specific model runs.
Have a technician run the washer diagnostic mode to confirm the F14 error. On many Whirlpool models you can enter diagnostic mode by pressing specific button sequences. This helps confirm the fault before ordering an expensive part.

Your model's service manual (often available online in PDF format) will have the diagnostic mode entry steps.
If the control board is confirmed faulty, replace it. Match the part number on the existing board exactly. Some boards are available as factory reconditioned units at lower cost than new.

After installing a new board, the washer may need to go through a calibration cycle before it operates normally. Follow the instructions in the installation guide.

When to Call a Professional

F14 almost always requires a professional repair. The control board's EEPROM typically cannot be repaired without specialized equipment. Control board replacement costs $150–$400 depending on your model. Some electronics repair specialists can replace just the EEPROM chip at lower cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is EEPROM and why is it important?

EEPROM stands for Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory. It is a type of non-volatile memory chip on the control board. Your washer stores its cycle programs, sensor calibrations, and user settings here. Unlike RAM, EEPROM retains data even when the power is off. When it fails, the washer loses its programming and cannot run correctly.

Can F14 cause my washer to keep resetting to factory settings?

Yes. A partially failing EEPROM may retain some data but lose other parts of its programming. This can cause the washer to behave erratically — forgetting settings, resetting cycles, or defaulting to factory modes. If you notice your washer 'forgetting' settings between uses, suspect EEPROM deterioration.

Is it worth fixing F14 on an older Whirlpool washer?

If the washer is under 8 years old, a control board replacement is usually worthwhile. If it's 10+ years old and the board costs $300+, consider that a new washer may be a better investment. Get a repair quote and compare it to the cost of a new entry-level machine before deciding.