Amana washer F8E3 error code
F8E3 does not mean the same thing on every Amana washer. Our data shows 2 documented meanings, depending on which engineering platform the model is built on. Look up your model number to see the one that applies.
F8E3: Overflow
- Brand
- Amana
- Appliance
- Top-load washer
- Code
- F8E3
- Documented meaning
- Overflow
- Applies to
- 24 Amana models on 5 platforms
- Can you keep using it?
- No — stop and have it checked
F8E3 means the control sensed a water level higher than the washer's capacity.
What the washer is detecting
The control monitors the level reading at all times. If it rises above the maximum, the control stores F8E3 and typically runs the drain pump to lower it.
Causes listed for this condition
In the order the service documentation checks them. Documented causes come from the manufacturer's service documentation for these platforms; possible causes are based on how the system works; unconfirmed marks common assumptions that the documentation does not support.
- Documented An inlet valve that lets water in when it should be closed.
- Documented A pinched, plugged or leaking pressure hose that gives a false level reading.
- Documented A fault in the pressure sensor on the control.
- Documented An incorrectly installed drain hose that siphons, confusing the level readings.
- Documented A drain pump problem (listed on some models).
Safe checks you can make
- If water is still running into the tub with the washer off, turn off both faucets behind the washer right away.
- Check that the drain hose hangs loosely in the standpipe or laundry tub with an air gap around it, is not taped or sealed in, and is not pushed deep into the pipe; a sealed or deep hose can siphon water out while the washer fills.
Further diagnosis requires opening the appliance. Beyond the owner checks, diagnosis involves removing panels, testing components and checking wiring. We describe what a technician investigates, not how to do it yourself.
What a technician checks
- Runs the inlet valve test to confirm the valve closes fully.
- Runs the water-level test and inspects the pressure hose.
Typical repairs and cost
Depending on what diagnosis finds, this code can lead to one of these repairs:
| Repair | Typical range | Labor |
|---|---|---|
| Washer water inlet valve replacement | $180–$360 | Light |
| Washer water-level pressure sensor repair | $180–$350 | Light |
| Washer main control board replacement | $300–$720 | Moderate |
| Washer drain pump replacement | $180–$420 | Moderate |
Typical total ranges for the Las Vegas area, parts and labor included. The final cost depends on diagnosis, the exact model, parts availability and whether other damage is found.
Can you keep using it?
Stop using it until it is checked. Turn off the water faucets and unplug the washer. An inlet valve that does not shut off can flood the floor.
Amana models documented with this code
- NTW4500XQ
- NTW4501XQ
- NTW4601XQ
- NTW4605EW
- NTW4610YQ
- NTW4615EW
- NTW4630YQ
- NTW4635EW
- NTW4650YQ
- NTW4655EW
- NTW4665GW
- NTW4705EW
- NTW4755EW
And 11 more. Use the model lookup to check yours.
F8E3: Overflow
- Brand
- Amana
- Appliance
- Front-load washer
- Code
- F8E3
- Documented meaning
- Overflow
- Applies to
- 3 Amana models on 3 platforms
- Can you keep using it?
- No — stop and have it checked
F8E3 means the control detected more water or foam in the tub than it should ever hold, and is draining to prevent a flood.
What the washer is detecting
When the level goes above the overflow point, the control closes the inlet valves and runs the drain pump. After repeated overflow events it stops the cycle with F8E3 and pumps out. On some models this protection is active even when the washer is idle.
Causes listed for this condition
In the order the service documentation checks them. Documented causes come from the manufacturer's service documentation for these platforms; possible causes are based on how the system works; unconfirmed marks common assumptions that the documentation does not support.
- Documented An inlet valve that does not close fully and keeps adding water.
- Documented Heavy suds from too much or non-HE detergent.
- Documented A plugged or kinked drain hose, or a clogged drain pump filter.
- Documented A pinched, plugged or leaking pressure hose that gives a false level reading.
Safe checks you can make
- Turn off both water faucets if water keeps entering the washer while it is off or idle.
- Check the drain hose for kinks and make sure it is not clogged.
- If your owner's manual shows a drain pump filter behind a small door at the bottom front of the washer, follow the manual's steps to drain the remaining water into a shallow pan and clear lint, coins or small items from the filter. Keep towels ready; skip this if your model has no such door.
- Use only HE detergent in the recommended amount.
Further diagnosis requires opening the appliance. Beyond the owner checks, diagnosis involves removing panels, testing components and checking wiring. We describe what a technician investigates, not how to do it yourself.
What a technician checks
- Runs the water inlet valve test to confirm the valves shut off.
- Checks the water level sensor and the drain pump.
Typical repairs and cost
Depending on what diagnosis finds, this code can lead to one of these repairs:
| Repair | Typical range | Labor |
|---|---|---|
| Washer water inlet valve replacement | $180–$360 | Light |
| Washer water-level pressure sensor repair | $180–$350 | Light |
| Washer drain pump replacement | $180–$420 | Moderate |
| Washer main control board replacement | $300–$720 | Moderate |
Typical total ranges for the Las Vegas area, parts and labor included. The final cost depends on diagnosis, the exact model, parts availability and whether other damage is found.
Can you keep using it?
Stop using it until it is checked. Turn off the water faucets and do not use the washer until it is checked. A valve that will not shut off can flood the room.
Amana models documented with this code
And 1 more. Use the model lookup to check yours.
Related problems and codes
Other codes documented on the same Amana platforms:
Repair or replace?
A fault code alone rarely justifies replacing a washer. Most F8E3 repairs involve a single component once diagnosed. Replacement becomes worth considering when the unit is near the end of its typical 10–13-year life and the diagnosed repair is a major one. See the repair-or-replace guide.
Need F8E3 diagnosed in the Las Vegas area?
We repair Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, JennAir, Amana and other Whirlpool-family appliances in Las Vegas, Henderson, Summerlin and Boulder City. A model number helps but is never required to book.