Whirlpool Washing Machine HC error code

HC means the washer detected that the hot and cold water inlet hoses are reversed. It usually appears at the end of a cycle after the washer noticed the temperatures were backwards.

Also shown as: HC, hc, F8E5, Hc

Last updated: October 6, 2026

Quick answer: Whirlpool washing machine error code HC: hot and cold hoses reversed. The most common cause is hot and cold hoses swapped during installation or a move. Try this first — confirm which hose is which. If that does not clear it, swap the hoses.

What causes the HC error?

  • Hot and cold hoses swapped during installation or a move
  • Hoses connected to the wrong supply valves
  • Single-handle or mislabeled shutoff valves causing confusion
  • Failed inlet valve temperature sensing (rare)

How to fix Whirlpool HC — step by step

Work through these in order, from simplest and safest first. Stop as soon as the code clears.

  1. Confirm which hose is which
    Look at the back of the washer: the hose marked H or red should run to the hot water valve, and the hose marked C or blue to the cold valve. Trace each hose from the washer to the wall.
  2. Swap the hoses
    Turn both supply valves OFF. Disconnect the hoses with pliers (keep a bucket and towels handy), then reconnect hot-to-hot and cold-to-cold. Tighten snugly and turn the valves back on.
    Safety warning: Turn the water supply off before disconnecting hoses. Check for drips at both ends after reconnecting.
  3. Run a test cycle
    Run a normal warm cycle. The washer checks temperatures as it fills — if the hoses are now correct, the HC code will not return.

When to call a technician

Stop and call a qualified technician if any of these apply:
  • Hoses are correct but HC keeps appearing
  • A supply valve is broken or will not shut off
  • Hoses are seized onto the valves
  • The inlet valve needs replacement

Frequently asked questions

We just moved the washer. Is that why?

Very likely — swapped hoses after a move are the classic cause of HC. It takes five minutes to swap them back.

Does it matter if the hoses are reversed?

Yes. Wash temperatures will be wrong (cold rinses come out hot), which can shrink clothes, set stains, and waste energy.

The hoses look right but HC persists. Why?

The valves themselves may be mislabeled, or the inlet valve's temperature sensing has failed. Verify hot water actually comes from the hot valve, and call a technician if it does.

Sources

Every meaning and fix above was checked against official manufacturer documentation:

FixCode provides general troubleshooting information only — not professional repair advice. If you are unsure about any step, stop and call a qualified technician. Repairs done incorrectly can be dangerous and may void your warranty.

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