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Product Help | Whirlpool

What is an F20 or FH Error Code on a Front Load Washer

What is an F20 or FH Error Code on my Whirlpool Front Load Washer?

An F20 or FH error code indicates a water supply problem.

Here are some common issues:

  • Both hot and cold water must be connected and turned on
  • Water inlet hoses kinked
  • Water inlet valve screen clogged
  • Water pressure less than 10 psi
  • Not using HE High Efficiency detergent
  • Flood-preventing devices that shut off the water to the washer

Removing the Error

To remove the error display, press Pause/Cancel twice.

If Pause/Cancel does not work, perform the following:

  1. Unplug the washer or disconnect the power for one minute. 
  2. Plug in the washer or reconnect the power.
  3. Re-select the cycle and press Start. 

Are both the hot and cold water faucets turned on?

Turn on the water. Check the household faucets to see if the hot and cold water faucets are turned on. Make sure to open both faucets completely for proper fill.
 
NOTE: Both hot and cold water must be connected to the washer supply and turned on. The washer will not properly operate with only one incoming source of water. The water valve inside the machine needs to have the “pressure” from both attached hoses in order for the washer to complete the cycle.
 
If a cold water wash is selected, the washer is designed to add hot water to keep the temperature optimal for cold wash performance (75°F +/-10°).If you want to save energy by not connecting to the hot water line (or only have access to a cold water line if connected in a garage, etc.), purchase a “Y-connector” and an extra inlet hose to connect the hoses to both sides of the water valve.
 
household Hot and cold water faucet

Are the water inlet hoses kinked?

Straighten the water inlet hoses.

Are the water inlet valve screens on the washer clogged?

Turn off the water and remove the inlet hoses from the inlet valves in the back of the washer. Inside the inlet valves are screens. Remove any accumulated film or particles from the screens. Reinstall hoses, turn on the water, and check for leaks. See the Installation Instructions for details.

Hot and cold water inlets of washer

Is the water pressure less than 10 psi? 

If the water pressure is too low, the washer may not properly operate. To find out your exact pounds-per-square-inch (psi) value, contact your local water utility company.

Are you using HE High-Efficiency detergent? 

Always use only HE detergent. Using non-HE detergent or more than the manufacturer's recommended amount of detergent can cause excessive suds, which can lead to the washer leaking, draining concerns, and/or poor rinsing performance. 

Whirlpool recommends using Swash® Laundry Detergent. It is designed to work in both high-efficiency (HE) and non-HE washing machines. With an 8x concentrated formula, you’ll use about a quarter of the detergent you’d need with a traditional 2x concentration detergent. It may look like a small amount, but you’ll be amazed at its effectiveness.

Are you using flood-preventing devices that can shut off the water to the washer?


These hoses have a valve inside that will close if the water pressure is higher than two gallons per minute; this will shut off the water to the washer. If one of these hoses becomes loose, the water flow through the hose will increase, and the valve inside the hose will close, shutting off water to the washer to prevent a possible leak or flood. If the hose is not loose, try taking the hoses back to the store for a replacement set.  

CLICK HERE for more information on use of flood safe devices

 

If you would like to download or view product literature for your appliance, please visit our Manuals and Literature page.