Freezer
E6
The E6 error code on a Whirlpool freezer indicates a fault with the evaporator fan motor — the component that circulates cold air around the freezer compartment. Left unresolved, your freezer will lose cooling efficiency and food will spoil, so it’s worth addressing promptly.
What does this error mean?
Your Whirlpool freezer’s control board has detected that the evaporator fan motor is not running correctly or has stopped altogether. This fan draws air across the evaporator coils and pushes cold air into the freezer cabinet — without it, the freezer can’t maintain temperature even if the compressor is working fine. The E6 code is the appliance telling you cold air is no longer circulating as it should.
Est. repair cost
£80–£150 professional repair; £20–£50 DIY fan motor replacement (part only)
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Reset the freezer: Unplug it from the wall socket, wait 5 minutes, then plug it back in. If the E6 code clears and the fan runs normally, the fault may have been a temporary control board glitch.
Check and clear ice build-up: Unplug the freezer and leave the door open for 24–48 hours to fully defrost. Place towels on the floor to catch meltwater. Once defrosted, plug back in and check if the error has gone — a frozen fan blade is a common cause.
Listen for the fan: After resetting, open the freezer door and press the door switch (the small button the door normally depresses). You should hear the evaporator fan running. If there’s silence or a grinding noise, the motor is likely faulty.
Inspect the door seal: Run your fingers around the full perimeter of the door gasket. If it’s torn, stiff, or not sealing flush, replace it. Replacement Whirlpool door seals cost £15–£35 online and clip or screw into place without specialist tools.
Check for visible wiring issues: With the freezer unplugged, remove the interior back panel (usually held by 4–6 screws) to access the evaporator fan. Look for any obviously disconnected or burnt wiring plugs and reseat them firmly. Do not attempt to splice or repair wiring yourself — if wires are damaged, call an engineer.
Replace the evaporator fan motor: If the motor is confirmed faulty, compatible replacement motors for Whirlpool freezers are available for £20–£50 online. The motor typically unclips or is held by two screws. If you’re not confident working inside the appliance with it unplugged, stop here and call a professional.
📞 When to call a professional
Call a qualified appliance engineer if the error persists after a full defrost and reset, if you find damaged wiring, or if the fan motor needs replacing and you’re not comfortable doing it yourself. When you call, tell the engineer: ‘My Whirlpool freezer is showing an E6 error code — I believe it’s a evaporator fan motor fault.’ This will help them arrive prepared with the right parts.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for an E6 evaporator fan fault typically costs £80–£150 in the UK, including parts and labour. If your Whirlpool freezer is under 8 years old and otherwise in good condition, repair is almost always worth it. If it’s over 10 years old or the repair quote exceeds £150, a new freezer — starting from around £200–£300 for a reliable upright model — is the more cost-effective long-term choice.