Dehumidifier will not run and displays E1 on the control panel

Safety first: Unplug the dehumidifier before removing any panels. Do not work on the unit while it is connected to power.

Steps to check and address E1:

• Power reset: Unplug the unit for 5 minutes, then plug back in and try to start it. If E1 returns immediately, continue.
• Access the control area: Remove the front grille or top cover (varies by Whirlpool model) by taking out the visible screws. Carefully lift the panel to expose the control board and sensor wiring.
• Locate the ambient thermistor: On Whirlpool dehumidifiers, the room temperature sensor is usually a small bead-type or bullet-type thermistor clipped near the air intake grille or evaporator coil, connected by two thin wires to the control board.
• Inspect wiring and connector: Look for broken wires, pinched harness, or corroded/loose connector at the control board. Reseat the connector firmly. If wires are damaged, repair with proper crimp connectors and heat-shrink tubing.
• Check sensor resistance (if you have a meter): With the unit unplugged, disconnect the thermistor from the board and measure resistance across the two leads. At room temperature (~77°F / 25°C), most Whirlpool NTC thermistors will read between 5k–20k ohms. If it reads open (OL) or near 0 ohms, the sensor is defective.
• Replace the thermistor if faulty: Remove the clip or bracket holding the sensor, route the new Whirlpool-compatible ambient thermistor along the same path, and secure it away from moving parts and sharp edges. Plug into the same control board connector.
• If sensor and wiring are good: The E1 fault may be due to a failed sensor circuit on the main control board. Inspect the board for burn marks or corrosion. If present, replace the main control board.

Test: Reassemble the cabinet, plug the unit in, and power on. Confirm that E1 is cleared and the compressor/fan can start.