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Error code reference

KitchenAid Dishwasher Error Code F6E6

Incoming water temperature under 18°C/65°F (cool water detected).

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What the F6E6 error code actually means

Your KitchenAid dishwasher is detecting that the water coming in is too cold, below about 65°F, which is not warm enough to wash dishes properly. This usually happens because cold water is sitting in the pipes between your water heater and the dishwasher. Try running the hot water at your kitchen sink for a minute before starting the dishwasher, and make sure your water heater is set to at least 120°F.

Diagnostic procedure

The full F6E6 procedure

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1
First diagnostic step
Be sure dishwasher is connected to the hot water supply. Confirm temperature at sink (recommended 49°C/120°F). Instruct customer to run water at sink before running dishwasher.
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Most common causes of F6E6

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Cold water sitting in supply line
  2. 2Dishwasher connected to cold water supply
  3. 3Water heater set too low or underperforming
  4. 4Faulty inlet water thermistor
  5. 5Excessive heat loss in long supply runs

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Questions people ask about F6E6

What does F6E6 mean on a KitchenAid dishwasher?
F6E6 indicates that the dishwasher is detecting incoming water that is cooler than 18°C (65°F), which is below the minimum temperature required for proper operation. The control board monitors water temperature through a thermistor and triggers this fault when the threshold is not met. This is most often a supply-side issue rather than a failed part, and it can frequently be resolved without any repairs.
Is it safe to use my dishwasher while the F6E6 code is showing?
Running a dishwasher with incoming water below 18°C can result in poor cleaning performance, incomplete detergent activation, and inadequate sanitization. It is best to resolve the water temperature issue before continuing to use the dishwasher. The machine may also interrupt or refuse to complete cycles while the fault condition is active.
Will resetting my KitchenAid dishwasher clear the F6E6 error?
Resetting the dishwasher may temporarily clear the fault code, but the error will return if the underlying cause has not been addressed. If the incoming water temperature is still below 18°C on the next fill cycle, the control board will detect the condition again and re-trigger F6E6. Resolve the hot water supply issue first, then reset or restart the dishwasher for a lasting fix.
How do I fix the F6E6 error on my KitchenAid dishwasher?
Start by running the hot water at your kitchen sink for about one minute before starting the dishwasher, which clears cold water from the supply line. Confirm your water heater is set to at least 49°C (120°F) and verify the dishwasher's supply hose is connected to the hot water valve under the sink. If the error continues after addressing these supply issues, the inlet thermistor may need to be tested and possibly replaced.
How much does it cost to repair a KitchenAid dishwasher F6E6 error?
If the fix is simply running the sink before each cycle or adjusting the water heater setting, there is no parts cost involved. If the inlet thermistor has failed and needs replacement, parts and labor costs typically range from $100 to $250 depending on your location and the service provider. Plumbing corrections to re-route the supply connection to the hot water line may add additional cost.

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