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Error code · Dishwasher

Whirlpool Dishwasher FAE5 or F10E5: A Diverter Leak

FAE5, which can also read F10E5, tells you a Whirlpool built-in dishwasher such as the WDF520PADM has detected a diverter leak. The diverter directs wash water inside the machine, and water escaping from that area is…

High · stop use, call now
Code
FAE5
Appliance
Dishwasher
Brand
Whirlpool
Warranty
30-day workmanship

What FAE5 means

FAE5, which can also read F10E5, tells you a Whirlpool built-in dishwasher such as the WDF520PADM has detected a diverter leak. The diverter directs wash water inside the machine, and water escaping from that area is a concern for your floor and cabinet. Owners may see the code, find moisture under the dishwasher, or see the cycle stopped. A leak code deserves a look at the floor before anything is restarted.

Common causes of FAE5

  • Diverter housing or seal weeping water
  • Water connections that have loosened
  • Water collecting under the tub
  • Leak sensing that has tripped after a past spill
✓ One safe check you can try

1. Check for leaks under the dishwasher and make sure all water connections are secure. 2. Wipe up any water you find. 3. Press the Cancel key twice. 4. Try to start a new cycle. 5. If the error returns, schedule service and leave the dishwasher unused in the meantime.

! Why to stop there
  • A leak inside the tub area is not visible without access to the diverter
  • A connection can look dry and still drip under cycle pressure
  • We trace the water source, check the floor and cabinet for damage, and quote in writing first
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.
FAE5FAE5 questions
What should I do first when FAE5 shows?

Look under and around the dishwasher for water, make sure the connections are secure, wipe up any moisture, and press Cancel twice. If you find water, shut the supply and call us.

Can I keep running the dishwasher with FAE5?

If it clears after the checks, you can try a cycle. But if FAE5 returns, stop using it, since a real leak can damage the floor and cabinet over time.

Do you check for water damage?

We look at the area around the dishwasher during the visit and tell you what we see. For an older machine, we also say honestly whether repair is the right call.

Book a visit

Still seeing FAE5?

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