ANY MAKEWASHER

Any make · Washing machine

E5 error code on a washing machine

Water temperature sensor

The water temperature sensor has failed, so the machine can't tell how hot the water is.

Also shown as E05

Worth repairing?

Worth fixing

Worth fixing, though it isn't urgent. The machine still washes; it just can't be trusted to reach the temperature you set.

Can you do it yourself?

Moderate

Panels off and a multimeter

Before you start

  • Unplug it before you touch anything inside.

What to do

  1. Test the sensor

    It can be tested for continuity and replaced. Until then, wash temperatures won't be reliable.

When to call an engineer

If you'd rather not take panels off and use a multimeter.

Parts people end up buying

Only if the checks above point to a part. Match it to your model number first: it's on a label inside the door, around the door frame or on the back.

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About this code

Unbranded and less common appliances don't publish one shared code list, so this page gives the most common meaning across makers. Your manual is the final word, and the model number that finds it is on a label inside the door, around the door frame or on the back.

Last reviewed September 2026.

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