Error code · Dishwasher

Whirlpool Dishwasher 1 Pause 1 Pause Lights Blinking: Control Module (F1E1)

One blink, a pause, one blink and another pause on an older Whirlpool built-in dishwasher is the blinking form of F1E1. The first count is the F number and the second is the E number. For…

Medium · inspection needed

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Code: 1 Pause 1 Pause
Appliance: Dishwasher
Brand: Whirlpool
Warranty: 30-day workmanship

What 1 Pause 1 Pause means

One blink, a pause, one blink and another pause on an older Whirlpool built-in dishwasher is the blinking form of F1E1. The first count is the F number and the second is the E number. For F1E1 the stated potential cause is the control module, the electronic board that runs the cycles. You will see the sequence repeat and the dishwasher may not start or finish a cycle. Models like this are still in many Houston kitchens, and we repair them.

Common causes of 1 Pause 1 Pause

The control module (main electronic board)
A passing electronic error cleared by cycling power
Connections to the control if the pattern returns

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Count the blinks to confirm one, pause, one. 2. Cycle power to reset the control: if the dishwasher is plugged in, unplug it for 30 seconds and plug it back in. 3. If it is hard wired, turn its breaker off for 30 seconds and back on. 4. Close the door and try a short cycle. 5. If the pattern returns, stop and call us.

! Why to stop there

The control module is the stated cause, but a reset that fails still leaves open whether it is the board or its connections.
We test the control and its connections before suggesting a replacement.
You approve a written price first, and we say plainly if an older dishwasher is not worth the repair.

Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.

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Other Dishwasher codes

F9E1Whirlpool Built-In Dishwasher F9E1 Means Water Is Draining Too Slowly F9E2Whirlpool Dishwasher Code F9E2: Drain Motor Circuit Check FAE4Whirlpool Dishwasher FAE4 or F10E4 Points to the Diverter Valve FAE5Whirlpool Dishwasher FAE5 or F10E5: A Diverter Leak H2OWhirlpool Dishwasher H2O on the Display: No Water Detected Rinse Only LightWhirlpool Portable Dishwasher with the Rinse Only Light Flashing: Stuck Keys SaniLightWhirlpool Dishwasher Sanitize Light Blinking Because the Water Was Not Hot Enough Sanitize Light FlashingOlder Whirlpool Built-in Dishwasher, Sanitize Light Flashing: Temperature Missed

1 Pause 1 Pause1 Pause 1 Pause questions

What does a single blink, a pause, then a single blink tell me?

It is the light pattern for F1E1. The listed potential cause is the control module, and the first step is to cycle power for 30 seconds.

Will unplugging the dishwasher fix F1E1?

Sometimes, as with a computer restart. If the pattern returns after the 30 seconds off, the control needs testing rather than more resets.

Is an older dishwasher worth repairing for a control module?

It depends on the model and the price. We give you the price in writing first and tell you honestly if replacement is the better value.

Book a visit

Still seeing 1 Pause 1 Pause?

A technician diagnoses it on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.

(713) 589-6107