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Whirlpool Washing Machine Error Code F20

Reviewed by the ApplianceErrors Editorial Team · Verified against manufacturer service documentation · Last verified: June 10, 2026
⚠ Medium Severity 🔧 Easy DIY Also shown as: FH

No water detected entering the machine

F20 (older Duet front-load displays show FH) means no or insufficient water reached the tub within the expected time, or the pressure switch did not detect a fill. The most common causes are closed supply valves, clogged inlet screens, or a failed inlet valve.

💰 DIY cost: $0–$70 👨‍🔧 Pro cost: $120–$260 Save $120+ by doing it yourself
Whirlpool Washing Machine error code F20 on the display panel
How the F20 code appears on a Whirlpool washing machine display

What Does Error Code F20 Mean on a Whirlpool Washing Machine?

No water detected entering the machine.

F20 (older Duet front-load displays show FH) means no or insufficient water reached the tub within the expected time, or the pressure switch did not detect a fill. The most common causes are closed supply valves, clogged inlet screens, or a failed inlet valve.

What Causes Error Code F20?

Here are the most common causes in order of frequency. Start with the most likely cause before moving to the next:

  1. 1
    Hot or cold supply valve closed / partly open 35% of cases
  2. 2
    Inlet hose screens clogged with sediment 30% of cases
  3. 3
    Faulty water inlet valve 20% of cases
  4. 4
    Low household water pressure or kinked hose 15% of cases

How to Fix Whirlpool Washing Machine Error Code F20

🔧 Easy DIY Est. time: 10–20 min
⚡ Safety first: Unplug the appliance before opening any panels or touching internal components.
  1. 1

    Confirm both faucets are on

    Both hot and cold supply valves behind the washer must be fully open — the washer blends both even on cold cycles.

  2. 2

    Clean the inlet screens

    Shut off water, disconnect the fill hoses, and clean the mesh screens inside the inlet ports.

    ⚠️ Shut off the supply valves before disconnecting hoses.
  3. 3

    Check hoses and pressure

    Verify hoses are not kinked and household pressure is at least 20 PSI.

  4. 4

    Test the inlet valve

    Test the valve solenoids for continuity (about 200–500 ohms) and replace if open.

    🔩 Whirlpool water inlet valve ($30–$70)

How to Reset Error Code F20

Press PAUSE/CANCEL twice, then restart. To clear, press Pause or Cancel twice and the Power button once.

Note: If the error returns after resetting, the underlying issue has not been resolved. Work through the fix steps above.

Did this guide fix your appliance?

When to Call a Professional

If supply and inlet valve are confirmed good and F20/FH persists, the pressure switch or main control board needs testing.

Average professional repair cost for this issue: $120–$260

Related Error Codes

F21
Long drain — water not draining in the expected time
⚠ High Severity
F8E1
Low water fill detected — water inlet problem
⚠ Medium Severity

Same Code on Other Brands

Error code F20 appears on these other brands too. See every brand that shows F20 →

Maytag logo
Maytag Washing Machine F20
No water detected — fill failure
Kenmore logo
Kenmore Washing Machine F20
Water supply error — no water detected
Miele logo
Miele Washing Machine F20
Heating fault — water not reaching target temperature

Find Replacement Parts

Use these links to find the exact replacement parts for your Whirlpool Washing Machine:

🔩
Search PartSelect
Whirlpool Washing Machine repair parts
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Step-by-step video guides

External links — ApplianceErrors.com is not affiliated with these retailers.

More Whirlpool Washing Machine Error Codes

F9E1 Drain failure — cycle paused, water not draining F5E2 Door lock failure — latch cannot engage F1E1 Main control board failure SUD Excessive suds detected — too much detergent F0E2 Dispenser cannot dispense detergent or additive F7E1 Motor speed error — motor not reaching target RPM

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code F20 mean on a Whirlpool Washing Machine? +
No water detected entering the machine
How do I fix error code F20 on my Whirlpool Washing Machine? +
Start by Both hot and cold supply valves behind the washer must be fully open — the washer blends both even on cold cycles.. If that doesn't resolve it, work through each step in the fix guide above.
How do I clear or reset error code F20? +
Press PAUSE/CANCEL twice, then restart. To clear, press Pause or Cancel twice and the Power button once.
Is error code F20 serious? +
Medium severity. The appliance may still operate but the issue should be resolved to prevent further damage.

Sources & References

Content verified against manufacturer service documentation. Last verified: June 10, 2026.

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