Whirlpool Energy Smart Water Heater Startup Failure [12 Errors Fix]

Whirlpool Energy Smart water heater startup failure can happen for several reasons. The unit will diagnose the cause of the startup failure with error codes that indicate specific problems.

However, in our today’s guide, we will tell you the meaning behind each error code and how to remove each error code. So, go on reading…

Whirlpool Energy Smart Water Heater Startup Failure [12 Errors Fix]

Whirlpool Energy Smart water heater self-diagnoses what is wrong with it like most other modern water heaters. This makes the repairs much easier as you won’t have to know how to identify the cause behind the issue.

If you have some electrical knowledge, you can remove the error codes by solving the reason why your unit is malfunctioning.

Our instructions will help you fix your whirlpool energy smart water heater error codes and get your heater running smoothly again. But only perform them yourself, if you are confident with electrical appliances.

1. Whirlpool Energy Smart Water Heater E01 Code

Error code 1 indicates that electrical power is on without a full tank. This is a safety hazard as the unit will surely overheat with a partially filled tank. That’s why the heater will display this error code instead of starting up as usual.

Solution:

Here’s what you need to do when error code 1 flashes on your screen.

1. Turn off the electrical power supplied to the heater at the breaker.
2. Add water to the tank.
3. Turn the electrical power back on at the breaker.
4. Start the water heater up again. Check your unit’s user manual if you aren’t sure how to start up the heater.

Error code 1 should be removed from the display at this point. The heater should start running normally.

2. Whirlpool Energy Smart Water Heater E02 Code

Error code 2 appears when the water temperature has exceeded the high limit. Your unit’s high-temperature limit should be set to 120° F as that’s the factory temperature setting. 

This can be altered if you change the energy smart module. But that is dangerous as the risk of burning is higher at a temperature above 120° F. Error code 02 will show up whenever this high limit of temperature is crossed.

Solution:

Here’s a quick list of things you need to do to get rid of error code 02.

1. Turn off the electrical power supplied to the heater at the breaker.
2. Locate the Whirlpool Energy Smart water heater reset button. It is a red button on the Electronic Thermostat. Press it.
3. Turn the electrical power back on at the breaker.
4. At this point, the error code should be gone. In case, the error code returns, you should call in a licensed professional to figure out the best course of action. You can also contact the manufacturer if the unit is still under warranty.

3. Whirlpool Energy Smart Water Heater E03 Code

Error code 3 flashes when the upper thermistor sensor fails. 

Solution:

You’ll need to replace the Electronic Thermostat. Hiring a professional for this task is best if you don’t have any experience with electrical appliances. You don’t want to damage the unit by tinkering with it.

Alternatively, if you want to do the task by yourself, you can check out the video given below.

4. Whirlpool Energy Smart Water Heater E04 Code

Error code 4 stands for upper element circuit failure. The lower element will still run fine.

Solution:

Here’s the action you need to take to check this problem.

1. Turn off the electrical power supplied to the heater at the breaker.
2. You need to check the resistance of the element circuits with a multimeter. The resistance should read 5-25 ohms. If not, you’ll need to replace the element circuits. 
3. Check the wires at the elements. Also, inspect the Electronic Thermostat for signs of damage. 
4. If the error code persists, you may need to replace the Electronic Thermostat.
5. Turn the electrical power back on at the breaker.

5. Whirlpool Energy Smart Water Heater E05 Code

Error code 5 indicates lower element circuit failure. The upper element can continue to run.

Solution:

To remove this error code, follow the same process as you would for the E04 code.

6. Whirlpool Energy Smart Water Heater E06 Code

Error code 6 appears when the Electronic Thermostat fails. Your unit can’t run with a broken Electronic Thermostat.

Solution:

You need to reset the heater by turning it on and off at the breaker. Check to see if the error code has cleared. Replace the Electronic Thermostat if the code is still there.

7. Whirlpool Energy Smart Water Heater E07 Code

Error code 7 flashes when the lower thermistor sensor fails. 

Solution:

Follow the steps given below to get rid of error code 07.

1. Turn off the electrical power supplied to the heater at the breaker.
2. Inspect the Electronic Thermostat for loose wire connections. Tighten if necessary.
3. If the error code doesn’t clear, you’ll need to replace the lower thermistor sensor. The lower thermistor sensor isn’t a part of the Electronic Thermostat. So, the entire Electronic thermostat doesn’t need to be removed as in the case of upper thermistor sensor failure. 
4. Turn the heater back on.

The error code should be clear at this point.

8. Whirlpool Energy Smart Water Heater E08 Code

Error code 8 is displayed when the Energy Smart Module fails. 

Solution:

Following our instructions given below should help you remove the error code.

1. Turn off the electrical power supplied to the heater at the breaker.
2. At the interface module, check the wire connections for damage.
3. You’ll need to replace the Energy Smart Module if the error code persists.
4. You’ll need to override the Interface Module. By overriding, you will continue to get hot water and the heater can continue to run.

9. Whirlpool Energy Smart Water Heater E09, 10, 11, 12 Codes

Error code 9,10,11,12 stands for Electronic Thermostat error.

Solution:

You should first check for loose or damaged wires at the Electronic Thermostat. If that doesn’t clear the error code, you’ll need to replace the thermostat.

10. Whirlpool Energy Smart Water Heater E51 Code

E51 indicates the unit’s failure to communicate with the Electronic Thermostat.

Solution:

First, check for loose or damaged wires at the Electronic Thermostat. If that doesn’t clear the error code, you’ll need to replace the thermostat.

11. Whirlpool Energy Smart Water Heater E52 Code

E52 appears when Energy Smart Module is receiving the wrong data from the Electronic Thermostat.

Solution:

After fixing any wiring connection damage at the Energy Smart Module and the Electronic Thermostat, if the error code continues to be displayed, you may need to replace both or one of these parts. 

12. Whirlpool Energy Smart Water Heater E53 Code

E53 means Energy Smart Module thermistor failure.

Solution:

Check the wiring at the Energy Smart Module. For further repair, you should contact a professional to assist you.

FAQ

How do you unlock a Whirlpool smart water heater?

You’ll need to touch the Lock button for at least 5 seconds to unlock the user interface of your Whirlpool smart water heater. 

What would cause a water heater to trip the breaker?

The following reasons can be behind your water heater’s circuit breaker tripping:

1. Water dripping on the electrical connections
2. A bad circuit breaker
3. A malfunctioning thermostat

What does a thermal switch do on a water heater?

The thermal switch is a safety device on your water heater. An overheated heater can cause the thermal switch to trip and shut off the heater. This eliminates the risk of house fires.

How long do water heaters last?

Water heaters can last somewhere between 6 to 12 years depending on their maintenance, brand, and quality.

Can I bypass a thermal switch on a water heater?

It isn’t safe for you to bypass the thermal switch as the entire purpose of this device is to reduce the risk of house fires.

Conclusion

With the extensive knowledge you’ve gained on the error codes behind Whirlpool Energy Smart water heater startup failure, hopefully, you’ll fix your water heater problems in no time.

Enjoy the warm baths!

If you have any questions, feel free to comment below. We love hearing from our readers and try our best to help them out.