What F16 Means
F16 means the control measured water hotter than the range it expects. This code belongs to GE's LCD-display dishwasher controls (the PDT/PDP-style panels that spell out F-numbers), not to the older C1-C8 panels. Very hot inlet water can cause it, and so can a heater or sensor fault inside the dishwasher. Water hot enough to trigger it is also hot enough to scald, which is worth knowing before you open the door mid-cycle.
Common Causes of F16
- Water heater set much higher than 120F
- Heating element or its relay staying on
- Faulty temperature sensor reading high
- Control board relay fault
🔧 One Safe Check You Can Try
Let the cycle stop and wait before opening the door - steam and hot water are the immediate hazard. Check your water heater setting: GE asks for around 120F at the dishwasher, and settings far above that can push the dishwasher out of range. If the heater is set normally and F16 keeps appearing, the dishwasher's own heater or temperature sensor needs checking, which is where owner work ends.
⚠ Why You Shouldn't Go Further Than That
- A heater relay that sticks on is tested live at the control, with the element in a tub of hot water.
- Sensor versus heater versus control cannot be separated without measurements - replacing parts by guess risks leaving a heater fault in place.
- Damage caused during a repair attempt may not be covered - check your warranty terms first.
Opening a panel to inspect or repair something yourself doesn't automatically cancel your manufacturer's warranty — but it can risk accidental damage, and some manufacturers do have specific service conditions. Check your product's warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.