Error Code Reference

KitchenAid Dishwasher Error Code F5-E2

This error code indicates a drain system malfunction, typically related to water not draining properly from your dishwasher or a blockage in the drain pathway. The dishwasher has detected that water is remaining in the tub when it should have emptied.

Technical Advisory
Home Error Codes KitchenAid Dishwasher Error Code F5-E2

Signs

What you may observe

• Dishwasher cycles do not complete and error code F5-E2 displays on the control panel • Water remains standing in the bottom of the dishwasher tub after a cycle • Dishwasher will not start a new cycle • Unusual gurgling or draining sounds during operation • Water backing up into the sink or nearby drain when dishwasher runs • Visible water pooling at the base of the appliance

Possible Causes

Root causes behind this error

• Clogged or kinked drain hose preventing proper water evacuation • Debris, food particles, or soap buildup blocking the drain filter or drain pump • Drain pump motor malfunction or failure • Faulty drain valve not opening properly • Blockage in the home's main drain line or kitchen sink drain • Air gap (if installed under sink) is clogged or improperly installed • Drain hose not properly connected to sink drain or garbage disposal • Dishwasher filter screen filled with debris • Control board issue preventing drain pump activation

Safety Checks You Can Do

Steps you can try at home safely

• Turn off the circuit breaker supplying power to your dishwasher for 60 seconds, then turn it back on to reset the appliance and clear temporary error codes • Verify the dishwasher door is fully closed and the latch engages completely with an audible click • Check that your home's circuit breaker for the dishwasher is in the ON position and not tripped • Confirm the water supply valve under the sink is fully open (turn counterclockwise) • Inspect the drain hose connected to your dishwasher for kinks, bends, or pinching and straighten if necessary • Remove and clean the dishwasher filter basket located at the bottom of the tub by rinsing under running water to remove food debris • Check the kitchen sink drain by running water to ensure it drains freely and is not clogged • If you have a garbage disposal, run it to clear any debris that may block the dishwasher drain connection • Verify you are using only rinse aid and high-quality dishwasher detergent (not hand soap) to prevent excessive suds that can interfere with drainage • Review your dishwasher's control panel settings to ensure you selected the correct cycle and that the dishwasher is not in a paused or delay start mode • Inspect the drain hose where it connects to the sink drain or garbage disposal to ensure it is firmly seated and not disconnected • If your installation includes an air gap device (the cylindrical fitting on the sink countertop), remove its cap and clean out any debris inside the air gap tube
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