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Whirlpool Dishwasher Error FC

Whirlpool dishwasher error FC usually indicates a fault condition reported by the appliance. ECL records this code as “Water Hardness Sensor Error”. Common causes on this page include Scale buildup on sensor and Faulty hardness sensor, but the exact cause can vary by model and appliance generation. Start with the safe external checks below, confirm model-specific guidance using your exact model number, and arrange repair help if the code returns or any safety warning applies.

Quick answer: Water Hardness Sensor Error

In simple terms

Whirlpool dishwasher code FC usually means Water Hardness Sensor Error. Follow these four steps.

1Understand the code

See what the code usually means and why it may have appeared.

2Try safe checks

Try only the simple checks listed on this page. Do not take the appliance apart.

3Check if it is safe to use

Check the safety section before you keep using the appliance.

4Choose the next step

Use the next-step box to see whether to keep checking, find a part by model or get repair help.

What Whirlpool FC means

The sensor measuring water hardness is returning an out-of-range value.

Common causes

  • Scale buildup on sensor
  • Faulty hardness sensor
  • Empty salt reservoir

Safe checks you can make

  1. Top up the dishwasher salt
  2. Run a descaling cycle

Repair help

Try the safe checks first

Start with the simple checks on this page. If the code comes back, stop guessing and get repair help.

Still showing? Get repair help

No obligation. Your contact details are only shared after you submit the repair request, and only with a suitable ECL Verified repairer where coverage is available.

When to stop and call an engineer

If standard user maintenance does not clear the error, or if you suspect an electrical component failure.

Your model may be different

Error-code meanings can vary by model, market and appliance generation. Confirm Whirlpool FC against the instruction manual or support information for the exact model number before replacing parts or treating this page as a model-specific diagnosis.

Where this information comes from

Publisher: Error Code Lookup Editorial Team. This page is independent information written in our own words and reviewed with safety boundaries in mind.

Manufacturer information: Whirlpool UK. Use the exact model number to verify model-specific wording and instructions.

Last reviewed: 2026-05-18

How Error Code Lookup researches and verifies pages · Report a correction or provide model-specific evidence

Frequently asked questions

What does FC mean on a Whirlpool dishwasher?

The sensor measuring water hardness is returning an out-of-range value.

What usually causes Whirlpool error FC?

Common causes include Scale buildup on sensor; Faulty hardness sensor; Empty salt reservoir.

Can I safely fix FC myself?

Some basic external checks may be safe to try first. Stop if there are leaks, burning smells, overheating, electrical issues, unusual noises or repeated failures.

When should I call a professional for FC?

If standard user maintenance does not clear the error, or if you suspect an electrical component failure.

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