Speed Queen Washer Er, OP Error Code: What It Means & What to Check
Q: My Speed Queen washer is showing Er, OP. What does it mean, and what should I check?
A: On many Speed Queen washers, Er, OP means an open thermistor sensor error. In plain English: the washer’s control is not receiving a normal signal from the water temperature sensor (often described as an “open circuit”). When the washer can’t reliably read water temperature, it may stop to protect the machine and prevent unsafe or incorrect temperature operation.
This is usually not something a homeowner can fully repair without parts and proper testing. But there are a few safe checks you can do to rule out simple causes before calling our friendly technicians in yellow.
What you might notice
- The washer stops and displays Er, OP
- Temperature-related cycles act unusual (warm/hot not behaving normally)
- Error appears early in the cycle or shortly after fill
- Cycle may run briefly and then shut down
Safety first
- Don’t attempt electrical testing or internal disassembly.
- Unplug the washer before checking anything behind it.
- If you notice a burning smell or repeated breaker/GFCI trips, stop using the washer and schedule service.
Step-by-step quick checks (safe homeowner checks)
1) Power reset
- Press Power to stop the cycle.
- Unplug the washer for 2 minutes.
- Plug it back in and try a short test cycle.
2) Confirm the washer is getting normal hot and cold water (simple supply check)
- Make sure both HOT and COLD wall valves are fully open.
- Check that inlet hoses are not kinked or pinched behind the washer.
- Try a short test fill on Cold, then on Hot to confirm both sides flow.
Why this matters: The thermistor reads temperature, but supply problems can sometimes create confusing symptoms. Ruling out basic fill issues helps the diagnosis.
3) Avoid specialty high-temp cycles until it’s fixed
- If the washer allows it, use a standard Normal cycle at Cold for a small load while troubleshooting.
- If Er, OP returns immediately even on cold, that strongly suggests a sensor/wiring/control issue that needs service.
4) Check the environment and recent changes
- If the washer was recently moved, bumped, or installed, mention that—connections and harnesses can sometimes get stressed.
- If you had plumbing work or a water interruption recently, mention that too (it can affect related symptoms even if it’s not the root cause).
5) Document what you see for the service call
- Does the code appear immediately on start, or after filling?
- Does it happen on every cycle?
- Any other codes showing with it?
Common causes (and likely parts)
- Thermistor (water temperature sensor) failed open
- Wiring harness/connector loose or damaged in the sensor circuit
- Control board not reading the sensor correctly (less common)
- Corrosion/moisture at a connector (environment-dependent)
When to call Beacon
If Er, OP returns after a reset—especially if it comes back on a simple cold test cycle—it’s time to call our friendly technicians in yellow. We can confirm whether the thermistor is open, inspect the sensor wiring/connector, and restore normal temperature control so the washer runs safely and consistently.
Request service online or call (352) 726-7530. You can also visit www.BeaconSaves.com.
Content Update & Editorial Review
Date: February 21, 2026
Reviewed by: Chris
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a thermistor in a washer?
A thermistor is a temperature sensor. Your Speed Queen washer uses it to measure water temperature so it can manage cycle temperature safely and correctly.
What does “open thermistor” mean?
“Open” usually means the control isn’t seeing a valid electrical signal from the sensor circuit—often due to a failed sensor or a disconnected/damaged wire.
Can I keep using the washer with Er, OP?
We don’t recommend it. Without a reliable temperature reading, the washer may not control water temperature correctly and can stop mid-cycle. A quick service visit is the safer route.
Will unplugging the washer clear Er, OP permanently?
A reset can clear temporary glitches, but if the sensor circuit is truly open, the code will return until the underlying issue is repaired.
Does Er, OP mean the washer is overheating?
Not necessarily. It means the washer can’t read temperature properly. Overheating codes are different—Er, OP is about the sensor signal itself.
What should I tell Beacon when I call?
Tell us the code (Er, OP), whether it appears immediately or after filling, and whether it happens on every cycle. If the washer was recently moved or installed, mention that too—our friendly technicians in yellow can use those details to diagnose faster.