What E50 actually means
The display board is running the wrong software for this machine, so the control panel and the main board can't work together properly.
E50 is a wrong LCD software error that is, the software loaded on the display/control panel doesn't match what the main board expects. The machine stops rather than attempt a cycle it can't reliably control, and it will usually keep showing the code on every restart. It isn't a mechanical fault: nothing is blocked, leaking or overheating, which is why there is very little for the owner to find.
What E50 looks like on a Willow tumble dryer
Most people find this page having searched for what the machine is doing rather than the code itself. On a Willow tumble dryer, E50 usually shows up as one or more of these:
- Not drying
- Blowing cold air
- Clothes still damp at the end
- Takes hours to dry
- Leaking
- Water on the floor
- Puddle underneath
- Shuts itself down and won't restart
Recognise any of those? That is this fault, and the rest of this page explains what causes it and what you can check yourself.
What usually causes it
- Display board loaded with the wrong software version, often after a board has been changed
- A replacement control panel or main board that doesn't match the model
- A software update or reload that didn't complete correctly
- A failed display board that no longer reports a valid software version
What you can safely check yourself
Work through these in order. Anything beyond this — panels off, testing parts, anything to do with the wiring — is an engineer's job, and not one to attempt with the machine plugged in.
- Turn the programme knob to the off position and leave it there for a few seconds — the manual states this resets the machine, and it is worth doing before anything else.
- Switch off at the wall socket for a minute, then power back up and see whether the code returns.
- Note whether the code appears the moment you switch on or only when you start a programme — it helps the engineer.
Which Willow models show E50
E50 means the same thing on all 4 of these models. If yours is not listed, the explanation above still applies — the code is set by the control board, not the model number.
W6120W · W7120W · WWM712BI · WWM814BI
Common questions about Willow E50
What does E50 mean on a Willow tumble dryer?
The display board is running the wrong software for this machine, so the control panel and the main board can't work together properly. E50 is a wrong LCD software error that is, the software loaded on the display/control panel doesn't match what the main board expects. The machine stops rather than attempt a cycle it can't reliably control, and it will usually keep showing the code on every restart. It isn't a mechanical fault: nothing is blocked, leaking or overheating, which is why there is very little for the owner to find.
Can I fix Willow E50 myself?
There are 3 checks you can safely do yourself first.
- Turn the programme knob to the off position and leave it there for a few seconds — the manual states this resets the machine, and it is worth doing before anything else.
- Switch off at the wall socket for a minute, then power back up and see whether the code returns.
- Note whether the code appears the moment you switch on or only when you start a programme — it helps the engineer.
This one usually needs an engineer once you have tried them.
How much does it cost to repair Willow E50?
£66 including VAT for an engineer to come out and diagnose it, or £84 in total including VAT if it is put right on the visit and no parts are needed. Any parts needed are quoted on site before we fit them — you decide. Every repair carries a 90-day workmanship guarantee.
Tried the checks and it's still showing E50?
This one usually needs an engineer once you have tried the checks above. Then it wants someone who can open it up.
What it costs, before you call: the price is the same whatever the fault turns out to be — £66 including VAT for an engineer to come out and diagnose it, or £84 in total including VAT if it is put right on the visit and no parts are needed. Any parts needed are quoted on site before we fit them — you decide. Every repair carries a 90-day workmanship guarantee.
Our own engineers, not a call centre. We cover Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Leicestershire — most tumble dryer faults are seen same day or next day.
Call 0115 648 0929 Book online — postcode and number is all we need
Outside our area? The explanation above still stands — take it to a local engineer and tell them the code. Knowing it saves them time and you money.
Other Willow tumble dryer codes
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