SE
American Whirlpool Sensor or Control Panel Communication Error

Display shows SE or SEn and spa may operate erratically or ignore button presses

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Loose ribbon cable between topside panel and control pack, Moisture intrusion into control panel, Faulty temperature sensor data, Control board firmware glitch

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Turn off power at the GFCI breaker before removing the control panel or opening the control pack.

SE/SEn indicates a problem with sensor data or communication between the topside panel and main control board.

  • Inspect topside cable: Remove the control panel bezel and gently lift the panel. Check the flat ribbon cable for kinks, cuts, or corrosion at the connector.
  • Reseat connectors: At both the topside panel and the control pack, unplug the ribbon cable, inspect for moisture or corrosion, and reconnect firmly.
  • Dry any moisture: If you see condensation or water inside the panel area, dry it thoroughly and address any leaks from the spa cover or shell.
  • Power cycle: Restore power and see if the SE code clears after a full reboot.
  • Check sensors: If SE persists, inspect the temperature and high-limit sensors for damage and ensure they are properly connected.

Persistent SE errors often require replacement of the topside control panel or main control board. Have a professional test the components before replacement.

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Repair Difficulty

Hard 4/5

Required Part

Topside Control Panel
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