Whirlpool Dishwasher 10-5 — What It Means & How to Fix It
Also shown as FA E5, FAE5, F10 E5, F10E5 on some models.
FAE5 or F10E5 signals a diverter leak — look for water under the dishwasher, make sure the water connections are secure, press Cancel twice, and schedule service if it comes back.
What this code means
Whirlpool gives a diverter leak as the potential cause of FAE5 or F10E5. Its steps are to check for leaks under the dishwasher and confirm all water connections are secure, then press Cancel twice and try a new cycle. A code that returns means the leak is real and needs a technician.
Shown as FAE5 on some Whirlpool displays and F10E5 on others. The companion code FAE4/F10E4 is a diverter valve error without the leak element.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Loose water connection under the dishwasher | Common | Partly — inspect, hand-tighten |
| Leaking diverter seal | Common | No — technician job |
| Moisture left from a one-off spill or over-sudsing | Occasional | Yes — dry and retry |
What you can try yourself
- Switch off power at the plug or breaker, then look under the dishwasher with a flashlight for drips or pooled water.
- Check that the water supply connection is secure; if it is weeping, turn off the supply valve.
- Dry up any water you find and restore power.
- Press the Cancel key twice.
- Try to start a new cycle and watch underneath for fresh drips during the first fill.
- If the error returns, schedule service.
Seeing the symptom rather than the code? Dishwasher leak alarm: checks that apply across brands.
When to call a technician
- FAE5 / F10E5 returns after you press Cancel twice and restart.
- Water is dripping from the centre underside of the tub rather than from a hose connection.
- The floor or cabinet base is wet after cycles.
Typical professional repair cost: Repairing a diverter leak typically costs $150–$300 with labor; a loose supply fitting costs nothing to snug up.
Frequently asked questions
What does diverter leak mean on a Whirlpool dishwasher?
It is Whirlpool's stated potential cause for FAE5 or F10E5: water escaping around the diverter under the tub. Whirlpool asks you to check for leaks beneath the unit and secure the water connections.
How do I clear FAE5 on a Whirlpool dishwasher?
Press the Cancel key twice, then try to start a new cycle. If the error returns, Whirlpool says to schedule service.
Is it safe to run the dishwasher with F10E5?
Not if you can see water underneath. Find and stop the leak first; repeated leaks damage flooring and cabinets.
Sources checked
Error meanings can vary by model. This guide was checked against the documentation above; use the manual for the model number on your own appliance when it differs.
Related Whirlpool codes
- Whirlpool Dishwasher 1-1 The control board detected one of its own relays stuck on — a long power-off clears the false alarms, while a genuinely welded relay means board-level repair.
- Whirlpool Dishwasher 6-4 The overfill float switch — the machine's anti-flood backstop — is reading open, usually because the float is stuck or obstructed, occasionally because the inlet valve is dribbling water in when it should be shut.
- Whirlpool Dishwasher 1-2 F1E2 means the dishwasher's main control has logged a communication error — disconnect power for 30 seconds to reset it, and book service if the code returns.
- Whirlpool Dishwasher 2-1 F2E1 points to a stuck key or a console error on the control panel; cycling power for 30 seconds is the fix to try, and a repeat means the console needs professional attention.
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