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Error code reference

Whirlpool Washer Error Code F20

No water detected entering machine or pressure switch trip not detected

Whirlpool codesWhirlpool washer codes

No water detected entering machine or pressure switch trip not detected – less than 3.3 oz (0.1 L) entered in 30 seconds during diagnostic test, or maximum fill time of 13 minutes exceeded during a cycle.

First step from the service manual

Make sure both water valves are turned on all the way; check for plugged or kinked inlet hoses or plugged screens; verify inlet valve operation. Press PAUSE/CANCEL twice to clear display.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What F20 means on a Whirlpool washer

The F20 error code on a Whirlpool washer indicates that the control board did not detect sufficient water entering the machine within the expected timeframe. Specifically, the machine requires at least 3.3 oz (0.1 L) of water to enter within 30 seconds during a diagnostic test, or the total fill time during a cycle must not exceed 13 minutes. If either threshold is violated, the pressure switch fails to trip, and the control board registers the F20 fault. The pressure switch is the component that signals the control board when water has reached the appropriate level inside the tub. Without that signal, the machine halts to prevent running a cycle without water.

The most common root causes fall into two categories: restricted water supply and faulty internal components. On the supply side, issues include closed or partially closed water shut-off valves, kinked inlet hoses, or clogged inlet screens where the hoses connect to the back of the machine. These screens filter sediment and can become blocked over time, severely reducing water flow. On the internal side, a failed water inlet valve solenoid may not open when energized, or the pressure switch itself or its connecting hose may be defective.

Diagnosing F20 starts with the simplest checks first: confirm both hot and cold shut-off valves behind the machine are fully open, inspect the inlet hoses for kinks, and remove and clean the inlet screens. If water supply is confirmed adequate, the next step is testing the inlet valve solenoids for proper operation and inspecting the pressure switch hose for cracks or blockages. Pressing PAUSE/CANCEL twice will clear the error from the display, but the fault will return if the underlying cause is not corrected.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F20

  1. 01

    Closed or partially closed water supply valves

    Wiring / connection

    The hot and cold shut-off valves behind the washer must be fully open. A valve that is even slightly closed can restrict flow enough to trigger F20.

  2. 02

    Clogged inlet hose screens

    Wiring / connection

    Small mesh screens at the back of the washer where the hoses connect can accumulate sediment and debris over time, severely restricting water flow. Remove the hoses and inspect the screens, cleaning or replacing them as needed.

  3. 03

    Kinked or damaged inlet hoses

    Wiring / connection

    If the washer was pushed too close to the wall or the hoses were routed sharply, a kink can partially or fully block water flow. Inspect the full length of both hoses for bends or damage.

  4. 04

    Failed water inlet valve

    Part replacement

    The water inlet valve uses solenoids to open and allow water into the tub. If one or both solenoids have failed, water will not enter even when the valve receives power from the control board. A failed valve requires replacement.

  5. 05

    Faulty pressure switch or damaged pressure hose

    Part replacement

    The pressure switch detects water level and signals the control board when the tub is filling. A cracked pressure hose or a defective switch can prevent that signal from being sent, causing F20 even if water is entering normally.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F20

What does F20 mean on a Whirlpool washer?
F20 means the washer did not detect enough water entering the tub within the required time. The machine expects at least 3.3 oz (0.1 L) within 30 seconds during diagnostics, or the full fill must complete within 13 minutes during a cycle. If those conditions are not met, the pressure switch never signals the control board and the fault is triggered. The washer stops to prevent running a dry cycle.
How do I fix an F20 error on my Whirlpool washer?
Start by checking that both the hot and cold water shut-off valves behind the washer are fully open. Then inspect the inlet hoses for kinks and remove them to clean the small screens where they attach to the machine. If the water supply checks out, the next step is testing the water inlet valve and pressure switch for proper operation. Press PAUSE/CANCEL twice to clear the code before running a test cycle.
Is it safe to keep using my washer when F20 is displayed?
The washer will not complete a wash cycle while F20 is active, so there is no immediate safety hazard from attempting to run it. However, you should not ignore the code and attempt to bypass it, as running cycles without confirmed water flow can strain the motor and pump. Diagnose and correct the cause before returning the machine to regular use.
Will resetting the washer clear the F20 code?
Pressing PAUSE/CANCEL twice will clear the F20 code from the display. However, if the underlying cause has not been corrected, the code will return as soon as you start a new cycle and the machine again fails to detect adequate water flow. A reset is a useful step during diagnosis but is not a fix on its own.
How much does it cost to repair an F20 error on a Whirlpool washer?
If the fix is simply opening a shut-off valve or cleaning a clogged inlet screen, there is no parts cost involved. Replacing a water inlet valve typically costs between $25 and $75 for the part, with additional labor if a technician performs the repair. A pressure switch replacement is generally in the $15 to $50 range for the part. Total repair costs including labor from a service technician can range from $100 to $250 depending on the specific component and your location.

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