Whirlpool WET and YWET laundry center Error Code E3: Meaning & How to Fix It

By the ErrorCodePro Editorial Team · Last reviewed October 20, 2026

Whirlpool WET and YWET laundry center error code E3 means: Unbalanced load. The E3 error code appears if a tub switch inside the washer cabinet detects the tub banging against the cabinet sides because of an unbalanced load. The meter should measure near 0 ohms of resistance through the tub switch when the switch lever isn't pushed in. [1] Keep using it? Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair. Start with the owner checks below, beginning with: write down the code and model number.

Source: Whirlpool WET and YWET laundry center error-code chart, via Sears PartsDirect [1].

Quick facts

Code	E3
Also shown as	None listed by the manufacturer
Brand / appliance	Whirlpool WET and YWET laundry center
System	Load balance
Meaning (service chart)	Unbalanced load. The E3 error code appears if a tub switch inside the washer cabinet detects the tub banging against the cabinet sides because of an unbalanced load. The meter should measure near 0 ohms of resistance through the tub switch when the switch lever isn't pushed in. [1]
Keep using it?	Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair
DIY-safe?	Owner checks only (listed below)
Support	Whirlpool: 1-866-698-2538
Source document	Whirlpool WET and YWET laundry center error-code chart (via Sears PartsDirect)

On this page: Meaning · Steps · Parts · When to call a technician · Related codes · FAQ

What error code E3 means on a Whirlpool WET and YWET laundry center

Unbalanced load. The E3 error code appears if a tub switch inside the washer cabinet detects the tub banging against the cabinet sides because of an unbalanced load. The meter should measure near 0 ohms of resistance through the tub switch when the switch lever isn't pushed in. [1]

This is a load balance code. Codes and wording can vary by model, so check your owner's manual for your model number.

How to fix Whirlpool WET and YWET laundry center error code E3 (safe owner checks)

Safety first: disconnect power before you remove any panel or reach into the sump or drum. Do not touch wiring, the control board or the motor. If you see water near electrical parts, stop and call a technician. These steps are based on the Whirlpool WET and YWET laundry center error-code chart (via Sears PartsDirect) [1], rewritten for clarity.

Write down the code and model number. Note exactly what the display shows (E3) and copy the full model number from the rating label, so you can confirm this chart applies to your WET and YWET laundry center and order the right parts.
Rebalance the load. Redistribute the unbalanced load.
Do a power reset. Unplug the laundry center and check the damper assemblies that suspend the tub in the washer cabinet.
Test and decide. Run a short cycle or restart and watch the display. If E3 comes back after these checks, stop using the washer for this function and call a technician, because the remaining causes need meters or part replacement.

The first and last steps (and the power reset) are general owner checks added by ErrorCodePro; the rest follow the Whirlpool WET and YWET laundry center error-code chart published by Sears PartsDirect, rewritten for safe owner use.

Parts that may be involved

Exact parts depend on your model number. This page lists part types only, never part numbers.

Damper assembly
Tub switch

When to call a technician

Technician: replace any damaged or broken damper assemblies.
If the tub isn't banging against the cabinet sides when the E3 error code appears, then a broken tub switch or a wiring failure could be causing the code.
Unplug the laundry center and check the wiring connections between the tub switch and the electronic control board.
Reconnect any loose wires and repair any broken wires.
If the tub switch wires are okay, a technician should check continuity through the switch using a multimeter.
If the meter measures infinite resistance through the tub switch with the lever extended outward, a technician should replace the tub switch.
Anything involving wiring, the control board, the motor or the water valve electrics
The appliance is under warranty: contact Whirlpool: 1-866-698-2538 first

Frequently asked questions

What does error code E3 mean on a Whirlpool WET and YWET laundry center?

The Whirlpool WET and YWET laundry center error-code chart lists E3 as follows: Unbalanced load. The E3 error code appears if a tub switch inside the washer cabinet detects the tub banging against the cabinet sides because of an unbalanced load. The meter should measure near 0 ohms of resistance through the tub switch when the switch lever isn't pushed in.

Is it safe to keep using the WET and YWET laundry center with E3?

Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair.

Can I fix Whirlpool WET and YWET laundry center error E3 myself?

Only with the owner checks on this page, starting with: write down the code and model number. If it persists, call a technician or Whirlpool: 1-866-698-2538.

Sources

Sears PartsDirect: Whirlpool WET and YWET laundry center error-code chart (third-party copy of manufacturer service data)

Last reviewed: October 20, 2026. ErrorCodePro is not affiliated with Whirlpool.