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Whirlpool Dryer F4E1 / F4E2 Error Code
Heater system or heater relay fault. Here is what it means and how to clear it, easiest fix first.
The control has found a problem in the heating system. Whirlpool says the heater or the heater relays may be at fault, and Sears PartsDirect lists both codes as a heater relay failure; loose connections or a damaged harness between the board and the heater are also checked. The dryer may run without heating, or stop with the code showing.
Maytag Centennial dryers also use F4 E1 and F4 E2 for a heater relay failure. Whirlpool's own page covers F4E1; F4E2 is confirmed only by the Sears PartsDirect tables. The sources do not say how gas models report a heating fault, so check your manual.
How to fix Whirlpool F4E1 / F4E2
Check the breakers
On an electric dryer, make sure neither of its two breakers has tripped, and reset any that has. A dryer that tumbles but doesn't heat can simply be missing one leg of power.
Reset the dryer
Switch off the breaker(s), or unplug the dryer, for 1 minute. Restore power, start a heated Timed Dry cycle, and watch for about 1 minute to see if the code returns.
When to call a technician
If the code returns, a technician needs to test the heater relay, wiring, and heater inside the cabinet. On a gas dryer, do not work on the gas valve or burner yourself, and if you smell gas, leave the house at once and call the gas company from outside.
Parts that commonly cause F4E1 / F4E2
- Main control board (heater relay)
- Heating element (electric)
- Wire harness
Order parts by your exact model number so they fit.
Other Whirlpool dryer codes
- AF / F4E3Restricted airflow: lint screen or vent blocked
- PFPower was interrupted during the cycle
- L2 / F4E4Low or missing supply voltage (electric dryers)
- ERRDoor not fully closed and latched
- LocControl lock is turned on
- F3E2Moisture sensor not reading the load
- F2E1Stuck button on the control panel
- F2E4 / F2E5Control panel (user interface) fault
- F1E1Main control board fault
- F3E1Exhaust temperature sensor (thermistor) fault
- F3E3Inlet temperature sensor (thermistor) fault
- F6E1 / F6E2 / F6E3Communication error between control boards
- F7E1Drive motor system fault
- E1 / E2Temperature sensor fault (older electronic models)
Frequently asked questions
What does F4E1 / F4E2 mean on a Whirlpool dryer?
The control has found a problem in the heating system. Whirlpool says the heater or the heater relays may be at fault, and Sears PartsDirect lists both codes as a heater relay failure; loose connections or a damaged harness between the board and the heater are also checked. The dryer may run without heating, or stop with the code showing.
Can I fix Whirlpool F4E1 / F4E2 myself?
Only the basic checks. You can safely try the steps above, but F4E1 / F4E2 usually points to a part or fault that needs a technician.
What if F4E1 / F4E2 keeps coming back?
A code that returns after a reset and the checks above usually means a part is wearing out. Note when F4E1 / F4E2 appears (which cycle, how often) and have your model number ready; it helps a technician bring the right part on the first visit.
Last reviewed 2026-10-19. Codes and steps can vary by model; check your owner's manual.