Westinghouse Dishwasher F8 Error Code

Westinghouse Dishwasher F8 Error Code: Meaning and How to Fix It

Your dishwasher is probably one of your most trusted kitchen helpers, making daily dish cleaning a breeze. But what happens if an incomprehensible “F8” error code suddenly shows up on your Westinghouse dishwasher? Well, you’re not alone, and this is a problem you can fix!

Think of this blog as your friendly, step-by-step guide to understand and solve the F8 error code. Take a deep breath, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get started.

What Does the F8 Error Code Mean?

Short answer-your dishwasher thinks it has a problem with water drainage. The F8 error in general means the sensors of the dishwasher have detected water left in the base after a cycle. This generally happens because of clogging, an issue with the drain pump, or incorrect positioning of the drain hose.

But here’s the good news-it’s usually something that can be fixed without calling in an expert.

Why You’re Seeing It

There are a few common causes for the F8 error. Here’s what might be going on:

Blocked Drain Hose

Bits of leftover food or debris could be clogging the hose, preventing the water from draining properly.

Dirty Filters

Remember that food particles from your dishes can accumulate in the filter of the dishwasher over a period of time. A blocked filter could be the reason for reduced water flow.

Faulty Drain Pump

If the pump is not pumping efficiently, water will accumulate and give this error.

Improper Positioning of the Drain Hose

If the hose is not set correctly-it could be too low or kinked-the water will not drain out as required.

Repairing the F8 Error

Before starting, make sure your dishwasher is turned off and unplugged for safety.

1. Clean the Filters

Filters catch all your food scraps and debris from the dishes, hence they can get dirty rather quickly. How to clean filters:

  • Look inside the dishwasher for removable filters; these are usually on the bottom.
  • Take out and rinse with warm soapy water.
  • Scrub off using a soft brush or sponge to remove more stubborn buildup.
  • Reinstall filters securely before running the dishwasher.

2. Check the Drain Hose

The drain hose is a common cause of F8 problems. To fix this, do the following:

  • Check the hose for kinks, twists, or blockages.
  • Disconnect it-which may require referring to your dishwasher manual for specific instructions-and then run water through it to clean it out.
  • Ensure the hose is refitted at the correct height. It usually needs to be higher than the drain point on the dishwasher for it to function properly.

3. Check the Drain Pump

The drain pump serves the purpose of flushing out water. If cleaning the filter and drain hose didn’t resolve the issue, then the pump could be clogged. Here’s how to check it:

  • Remove the access panels at the bottom of your dishwasher.
  • Locate the pump and carefully inspect it for debris or blockages.
  • If you’re unsure about how to do this, call for professional assistance to avoid causing damage.

4. Power Reset

Sometimes, all your appliance needs is a quick reset! After cleaning, try restarting the dishwasher by unplugging it from the power source for five minutes, then plugging it back in and running a short cycle.

How to Prevent F8 Errors in the Future

Now that you’ve tackled the issue, here are some habits to keep your dishwasher running smoothly:

Scrape Plates Before Loading

While modern dishwashers can handle some food residue, larger chunks could clog filters and ultimately the drain of the system.

Washing Filters Often

Try making a habit of washing your filters at least once per month.

Running maintenance cycles

Consider running an empty cycle in the dishwasher with some cleaning agent, like dishwasher cleaner or white vinegar, to keep it fresh.

Drain Hose Check Time to time.

Drain Hose Check Straight and free of kinks, debris, or blockages

Call a Professional End

If you’ve done all of the above and the F8 error persists, it might be time to get professional help. Issues like a malfunctioning control board or a faulty sensor could be beyond a quick DIY fix.

Final Thoughts

Nobody likes to see an error code flash on an appliance, but understanding what the code means and taking the right steps goes a long way in making a difference. Your Westinghouse dishwasher is designed to make life easier for you, and with just a bit of maintenance and care, it will continue doing that.

Got questions or tips of your own about fixing the dishwasher error codes? Comment below we love hearing from you!

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