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Error code reference

Dacor Dishwasher Error Code F-1

Inlet valve fault

Dacor codesDacor dishwasher codes

Inlet valve fault – after the fill cycle, if the WPS does not detect conductivity (presence of water) in the sump, the controller signals the water valve or related system may have malfunctioned.

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What F-1 means on a Dacor dishwasher

The F-1 error code on a Dacor dishwasher indicates an inlet valve fault detected during or after the fill cycle. The controller monitors the Water Presence Sensor (WPS), which checks for conductivity in the sump to confirm that water has entered the tub. If the WPS does not detect the presence of water within the expected timeframe after the fill cycle begins, the controller interprets this as a failure in the water intake system and triggers F-1.

The inlet water valve is the primary suspect in this fault. This solenoid-operated valve opens to allow water from the household supply into the dishwasher. If the valve solenoid has failed electrically, if the valve screen is clogged with sediment, or if the valve body has seized, water will not enter the tub and the WPS will report no conductivity. Supply-side issues such as a closed shutoff valve or insufficient water pressure can produce the same result.

The WPS itself is also part of this diagnostic chain. If the sensor has failed or has poor electrical continuity in its circuit, it may report no water even when the tub has filled correctly. Wiring between the controller, the inlet valve, and the WPS should be inspected for loose connectors, corrosion, or damaged insulation before replacing components.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F-1

  1. 01

    Failed or clogged inlet water valve

    Part replacement

    The solenoid valve that controls water entry into the tub may have a failed coil or a screen blocked by mineral deposits. Inspect the valve screen for debris and test the solenoid coil for continuity.

  2. 02

    Closed or restricted water supply

    Wiring / connection

    The shutoff valve under the sink may be partially or fully closed, or household water pressure may be too low to open the inlet valve. Verify the shutoff valve is fully open and that adequate pressure is available at the supply line.

  3. 03

    Faulty Water Presence Sensor (WPS)

    Part replacement

    The WPS detects water conductivity in the sump. If the sensor element is fouled, corroded, or has failed internally, it will not confirm water presence even when the tub has filled. Check the sensor and its wiring connector for corrosion or damage.

  4. 04

    Wiring or connector fault in the fill circuit

    Wiring / connection

    Loose, corroded, or broken wiring between the controller, inlet valve, and WPS can interrupt the signal path and trigger F-1. Inspect all related connectors and harness segments for continuity and secure seating.

  5. 05

    Controller failure

    Part replacement

    If the inlet valve and WPS both test as functional and all wiring is intact, the main control board may have failed and is not sending the correct signal to open the valve or properly read the sensor output.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F-1

What does F-1 mean on a Dacor dishwasher?
F-1 is an inlet valve fault code. It means the dishwasher completed a fill cycle but the Water Presence Sensor did not detect conductivity in the sump, indicating that water may not have entered the tub. The controller shuts down the cycle and displays F-1 to flag a failure in the water intake system. The inlet valve, water supply, sensor, or related wiring are the areas to investigate.
Can I fix the F-1 error myself on a Dacor dishwasher?
Some causes of F-1 are DIY-friendly. Start by confirming the water supply shutoff valve is fully open and checking the inlet valve screen for sediment buildup, which can be cleaned without special tools. Inspecting and reseating wiring connectors is also within reach for a confident DIYer. Replacing the inlet valve, WPS, or control board requires basic appliance repair skills and comfort working with electrical components.
Is it safe to use my Dacor dishwasher when the F-1 error is showing?
You should not attempt to run the dishwasher while F-1 is active. The code indicates the machine could not confirm water entered the tub, and running a wash cycle without water could damage the pump, heating element, and other internal components. Resolve the fault before resuming normal use.
How much does it cost to repair a Dacor dishwasher F-1 error?
Repair costs vary depending on the faulty component. A replacement inlet valve typically runs in the range of $30 to $80 for the part, while a Water Presence Sensor can range from $20 to $60. Professional labor adds to those figures and can range from $100 to $200 or more depending on your market. A control board replacement is the most expensive scenario and can push total repair costs significantly higher.
Will resetting my Dacor dishwasher clear the F-1 error?
A power reset may temporarily clear the F-1 code, but if the underlying fault is still present, the error will return as soon as the dishwasher attempts another fill cycle. A reset is useful as a first step to rule out a transient glitch, but it does not repair a failed valve, faulty sensor, or wiring problem. Persistent F-1 errors require component-level diagnosis.

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