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Error code reference

Electrolux Dishwasher Error Code F3

Thermistor fault (heater control)

Electrolux codesElectrolux dishwasher codes

Thermistor fault (heater control) — heater will be disconnected if the thermistor is short-circuited or loosened from the circuit board.

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What F3 means on a Electrolux dishwasher

The F3 error code on an Electrolux dishwasher indicates a thermistor fault in the heater control circuit. The thermistor is a temperature-sensitive resistor responsible for monitoring water temperature during wash and dry cycles. The dishwasher's control board uses the thermistor's resistance readings to regulate heating element operation. When the thermistor signal falls outside expected parameters, the control board interprets this as a fault and disables the heater to prevent unsafe operating conditions.

This fault is triggered by one of two specific conditions: a short circuit in the thermistor or a loss of electrical continuity between the thermistor and the control board. A short circuit causes the thermistor to report an abnormally low resistance, which the board reads as an unrealistically high temperature. A broken or loose connection from the circuit board, on the other hand, produces an open circuit condition, resulting in no signal reaching the control board. In both cases, the heater is deliberately disconnected as a protective measure.

Common root causes include a failed thermistor component, corrosion or damage at the wiring harness connectors, a loose thermistor that has physically separated from its mounting point on the control board, or damage to the wiring between the thermistor and the board. Because the heater is disabled when F3 is active, the dishwasher will not properly heat water for washing or complete the heated dry cycle. Resolving the fault requires identifying whether the thermistor itself has failed or whether a wiring or connection issue is responsible.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F3

  1. 01

    Failed thermistor

    Part replacement

    The thermistor itself may have internally short-circuited or opened, producing a resistance value outside the normal operating range. Testing the thermistor with a multimeter will reveal if its resistance reading is abnormal or non-existent.

  2. 02

    Loose or disconnected thermistor from the control board

    Wiring / connection

    The thermistor may have physically loosened from its mounting point on the control board, breaking the electrical connection. Visually inspecting the board for a dislodged or improperly seated thermistor is the first check to perform.

  3. 03

    Corroded or damaged wiring harness connector

    Wiring / connection

    Moisture and heat inside the dishwasher can cause the connectors in the thermistor wiring harness to corrode or loosen over time, interrupting the signal to the control board. Inspect the connector pins for corrosion, burn marks, or looseness.

  4. 04

    Damaged wiring between thermistor and control board

    Part replacement

    The wire leads connecting the thermistor to the control board may be pinched, frayed, or broken, causing an open or short circuit in the signal path. A continuity test along the wiring run can confirm whether the wiring is intact.

  5. 05

    Faulty control board

    Part replacement

    If the thermistor and all associated wiring test correctly, the control board itself may have a fault affecting how it reads or processes the thermistor signal. This is the least common cause and should only be considered after all other components are confirmed good.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F3

What does F3 mean on a Electrolux dishwasher?
F3 on an Electrolux dishwasher indicates a thermistor fault in the heater control circuit. The thermistor monitors water temperature and reports it to the control board. When the thermistor is short-circuited or has lost its connection to the board, the control board disables the heating element as a safety precaution. This means the dishwasher will not heat water for washing or use heated drying until the fault is corrected.
Can I fix the F3 error code myself?
Some F3 causes are accessible to a knowledgeable DIYer. If the thermistor has simply become loose from the control board, reseating it may resolve the fault. You can also inspect wiring harness connectors for corrosion or looseness and test the thermistor with a multimeter for correct resistance. However, if the thermistor itself or the control board needs replacement, comfort with appliance disassembly and electrical testing is required.
Is it safe to keep using my dishwasher with an F3 error?
The dishwasher disables the heater when F3 is active, so there is no immediate heating-related safety risk. However, without a functioning heater, wash performance will be significantly reduced and sanitation standards may not be met. It is best to resolve the fault before continuing regular use.
How much does it cost to repair an F3 error on an Electrolux dishwasher?
Repair costs depend on the root cause. If only a wiring connector or the thermistor needs replacement, parts typically cost between $10 and $50, with labor adding $75 to $150 if a technician is hired. If the control board is at fault, parts alone can range from $100 to $300 or more, making professional diagnosis worthwhile before committing to that repair.
Will resetting my Electrolux dishwasher clear the F3 error code?
A reset may temporarily clear the F3 error code, but it will return if the underlying thermistor or wiring fault has not been corrected. Resetting the appliance does not repair a failed thermistor or fix a broken electrical connection. A proper repair requires diagnosing and addressing the specific fault in the thermistor circuit before the code will stay cleared.

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