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Error code reference

Electrolux Washer Error Code F5

Heating pause fault

Electrolux codesElectrolux washer codes

Heating pause fault — the selected temperature has not been reached within 90 minutes.

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  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
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What F5 means on a Electrolux washer

The F5 error code on an Electrolux washer indicates a heating pause fault, triggered when the wash water fails to reach the selected temperature within a 90-minute window. The washer's control board monitors water temperature throughout the heating phase using a thermistor (NTC sensor) that feeds real-time readings back to the system. When the target temperature is not achieved within the 90-minute threshold, the control board flags the fault and halts normal operation to prevent an indefinitely prolonged cycle.

The most common source of this fault is a failed or failing heating element, which is responsible for raising water temperature during wash cycles. A burned-out element will draw no current and produce no heat, making it impossible to reach the target temperature regardless of how much time elapses. Beyond the element itself, a faulty NTC thermistor can cause the board to receive inaccurate temperature readings, either causing it to think the water is cooler than it actually is or preventing it from detecting temperature rise at all.

Electrical supply issues can also contribute to this fault. If the heater circuit is not receiving adequate voltage due to a wiring fault, a failed relay on the control board, or a tripped thermal cutout, the element will not operate correctly even if it is physically intact. Cold water inlet problems, such as restricted water flow leading to a low water level in the drum, can also slow or prevent effective heating, as the element must be adequately submerged to transfer heat efficiently and avoid thermal overload trips.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F5

  1. 01

    Failed heating element

    Part replacement

    The heating element is the most common cause of F5. A burned-out element produces no heat at all, making it impossible to reach the target temperature. You can test it for continuity with a multimeter; an open circuit reading confirms failure.

  2. 02

    Faulty NTC thermistor

    Part replacement

    The NTC temperature sensor reports water temperature to the control board. If it is out of calibration or has failed, the board may not detect temperature rise even when the element is working. Check the sensor's resistance value against specifications for your model.

  3. 03

    Heater relay failure on control board

    Part replacement

    The control board uses a relay to switch power to the heating element. A failed relay will prevent the element from ever receiving power, mimicking a dead element. If the element tests good but receives no voltage during the heat cycle, the control board is suspect.

  4. 04

    Wiring fault in the heater circuit

    Wiring / connection

    Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring between the control board, thermistor, and heating element can interrupt the heater circuit. Inspect connectors and wire harnesses at both the element terminals and the board for signs of burning, corrosion, or disconnection.

  5. 05

    Low water level in drum

    Wiring / connection

    If the drum does not fill to the correct level, the heating element may not be fully submerged. This reduces heating efficiency and can trigger the thermal cutout on the element. Check for restricted water inlet, a partially blocked filter, or a faulty pressure switch affecting fill level.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F5

What does F5 mean on a Electrolux washer?
F5 on an Electrolux washer indicates a heating pause fault. It means the washer attempted to heat the water to your selected wash temperature but could not reach that temperature within 90 minutes. The cycle is paused and the error is displayed to alert you that the heating system requires attention. Common culprits include a failed heating element, a faulty thermistor, or a wiring issue in the heater circuit.
Can I fix the F5 error myself?
Some causes of the F5 error are DIY-accessible if you are comfortable working with appliance electrical components. Testing the heating element and NTC thermistor with a multimeter is straightforward and requires basic tools. Replacing the element or thermistor is within reach for many handy homeowners. However, if the fault traces back to the control board, professional diagnosis and repair is recommended.
Is it safe to use my washer while it shows the F5 error?
You should not continue using the washer with an active F5 error. The fault indicates the heating system is not functioning correctly, and running cycles repeatedly without resolving the issue can stress other components. Additionally, a malfunctioning heater circuit poses a potential electrical safety risk. Resolve the underlying cause before returning the machine to regular use.
How much does it cost to repair an F5 error on an Electrolux washer?
Repair costs depend on the failed component. A replacement heating element typically costs between $20 and $60 for the part alone, while an NTC thermistor is generally in the $10 to $30 range. If a control board replacement is needed, parts alone can run $80 to $200 or more. Adding professional labor, total repair costs commonly range from $100 to $350 depending on the diagnosis and your location.
Will resetting the washer clear the F5 error?
A reset may temporarily clear the F5 error code, but if the underlying fault in the heating system has not been repaired, the code will return as soon as the washer attempts another heated wash cycle. Resetting is useful for confirming whether the fault is intermittent, but it is not a fix. The heating element, thermistor, and associated wiring should be tested and repaired before assuming the problem is resolved.

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