Direct answer
On the covered Whirlpool top-load washer, F3 E2, HC means Whirlpool states the cold water hose is connected to the hot water inlet and the hot water hose to the cold inlet — the supply hoses are reversed. First, trace both hoses at the washer inlets and at the taps.
Definition versus diagnosis
The display names a detected condition—not an automatically failed part.
What this covers
- Whirlpool top-load washer covered by the cited source
- Displayed code or documented alias: F3 E2, HC
- The exact operating state described by the manufacturer
What it does not cover
- ×Another product type or original-manufacturer platform
- ×A visually similar but different code
- ×Internal live electrical, sealed-system, gas, battery-cell or control-board repair
Match every character and the exact product
ReversiblePhotograph the complete display and product label. This record covers F3 E2, HC on Whirlpool top-load washers with electronic controls. Top-load and front-load Whirlpool washers do NOT share a code set — check which type you have before matching a code.
Preserve the failure state
ReversibleTrace both hoses at the washer inlets and at the taps. Record the operating stage, recent change and what still works before clearing the message.
Correct only the documented fault domain
ReversibleSwap the hoses to the correct inlets; this is an installation fault, not a failure. Do not borrow a reset or meaning from a similar code, product or model year.
Verify once, then respect the service boundary
ReversibleRepeat only the shortest safe action that reaches the original stage. If F3 E2, HC returns, stop repeated resets and use model-specific manufacturer support.
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Visible sources support the visible claims. Home Product Support records the publisher, the fact used and the review date; community reports can suggest an issue but do not become a published fact on their own.
Exact questions
Common follow-ups
What does F3 E2, HC mean on a Whirlpool top-load washer?+
Whirlpool states the cold water hose is connected to the hot water inlet and the hot water hose to the cold inlet — the supply hoses are reversed.
Can I reset F3 E2, HC without fixing the cause?+
A reset may hide the display temporarily but does not correct the documented fault. Record the code and complete only the safe checks first.
Why is the complete model number required?+
Manufacturers reuse characters across platforms. The model number determines which official table, controls and service boundary apply.
When should I stop?+
Stop for smoke, arcing, burning odor, uncontrolled water, gas odor, battery swelling, extreme heat or any condition the manufacturer directs to professional service.
Answer for the exact device and software version shown above.