Dishwashers are an essential appliance in any modern household, and Kenmore is a well-known brand that produces high-quality dishwashers. However, like any other appliance, Kenmore dishwashers can also malfunction, and error codes are the most common way to identify the issue. In this article, we will discuss various Kenmore dishwasher error codes, their meaning, and the troubleshooting steps to fix them.
Table of Contents
Kenmore Dishwasher Error Codes Guide
| Error Code | Description | Possible Causes | Troubleshooting |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-1 (or F1E1) | Stuck relay on the main electronic control unit | This indicates an issue with the control board. | Try resetting the dishwasher by turning off the power at the breaker for a few minutes. If the code returns, it likely needs professional repair. |
| 1-2 (or F1E2) | Faulty main electronic control unit | The control board itself might be malfunctioning. | Similar to 1-1, try a reset first. If it persists, the control board may need replacement. |
| 2-1 (or F2E1) | Jammed button on the user interface control | A button on the control panel might be stuck. | Try pressing all the buttons to see if any are stuck. If so, you might be able to carefully dislodge it. Otherwise, the control panel might need replacement. |
| 3-1 (or F3E1) | Thermistor or OWI sensor malfunction | The thermistor (temperature sensor) or OWI (Optical Water Indicator) sensor is having problems. | These sensors might need to be checked or replaced by a technician. |
| 3-2 (or F3E2) | Thermistor or OWI sensor malfunction | Similar to 3-1, it’s a sensor issue. | Professional help is usually needed. |
| 4-4 (or F4E4) | The electronic control unit fails to communicate | There’s a communication problem between the control board and other components. | This often requires a technician to diagnose and fix the communication issue. |
| 5-1 (or F5E1) | Door switch failure | The dishwasher isn’t detecting that the door is closed properly. | Make sure the door is fully closed and latched. If the problem continues, the door switch might need replacement. |
| E24 | Drainage problem | This is a common code, often indicating a clogged drain hose, filter, or pump. | Check for blockages in the drain hose and filter. You might need to clean or replace them. |
| E25 | Drain pump issue | The drain pump itself might be malfunctioning. | This often requires a technician to diagnose and repair or replace the pump. |
| F9 | Overflow or overfill | The dishwasher has too much water. | This could be due to a faulty water inlet valve or water level sensor. |
Important Notes
- “PF” Code: This usually indicates a power failure during a cycle.
- Combined Codes: Sometimes you might see a combination of codes (like “PF, C1”), indicating multiple issues.
- Resetting: Always try resetting the dishwasher at the breaker before diving into more complex troubleshooting.
Where to find more information
- Kenmore Website: The official Kenmore website might have some troubleshooting guides.
- User Manual: Your dishwasher’s user manual is the best source for model-specific error code information.
- Appliance Repair Websites: Websites like RepairClinic, AppliancePartsPros, and Sears PartsDirect often have detailed information about dishwasher error codes and troubleshooting tips.
Professional Help
If you’re not comfortable troubleshooting dishwasher problems yourself, or if the error code persists after basic troubleshooting, it’s best to call a qualified appliance repair technician. They can properly diagnose the issue and get your Kenmore dishwasher running smoothly again.
Kenmore Dishwasher Error Codes and Their Meanings:
- Error Code E1 – Water not entering the dishwasher The E1 error code indicates that the dishwasher is not receiving enough water. The possible reasons for this issue could be a clogged or faulty water inlet valve or a kinked or blocked water supply line.
To fix this error code, first, check the water supply line for any obstructions. If the water supply line is clear, then inspect the water inlet valve for any damage or debris. If the valve is damaged or clogged, then it needs to be replaced.
- Error Code E2 – Water not draining from the dishwasher The E2 error code indicates that the dishwasher is not draining properly. This issue could be due to a clogged drain pump or a blocked drain hose.
To fix this error code, first, check the drain hose for any obstructions. If the drain hose is clear, then inspect the drain pump for any debris or damage. If the pump is clogged or damaged, then it needs to be replaced.
- Error Code E3 – Dishwasher not heating water The E3 error code indicates that the dishwasher is not heating the water to the required temperature. This issue could be due to a faulty heating element or a malfunctioning thermostat.
To fix this error code, first, check the heating element for any damage or burns. If the element is damaged, then it needs to be replaced. If the element is in good condition, then inspect the thermostat for any damage or malfunctioning. If the thermostat is faulty, then it needs to be replaced.
- Error Code E4 – Overflow error The E4 error code indicates that the dishwasher has overflowed. This issue could be due to a faulty float switch or a malfunctioning water inlet valve.
To fix this error code, first, check the float switch for any damage or debris. If the float switch is in good condition, then inspect the water inlet valve for any damage or blockages. If the valve is faulty, then it needs to be replaced.
- Error Code E5 – Dishwasher door not closed properly The E5 error code indicates that the dishwasher door is not closed properly. This issue could be due to a faulty door latch or a misaligned door.
To fix this error code, first, check the door latch for any damage or malfunctioning. If the latch is faulty, then it needs to be replaced. If the latch is in good condition, then check the door alignment and adjust it if necessary.
- Error Code E6 – Water sensor error The E6 error code indicates that the dishwasher is not detecting the water level properly. This issue could be due to a faulty water level sensor or a clogged water supply line.
To fix this error code, first, check the water supply line for any obstructions. If the water supply line is clear, then inspect the water level sensor for any damage or malfunctioning. If the sensor is faulty, then it needs to be replaced.
- Error Code E7 – Ventilation error The E7 error code indicates that the dishwasher is not ventilating properly. This issue could be due to a clogged or malfunctioning ventilation fan or a blocked air gap.
To fix this error code, first, check the ventilation fan for any debris or damage. If the fan is clogged or damaged, then it needs to be replaced. If the fan is in good condition, then inspect the air gap for any blockages. If the air gap is blocked, then clean it thoroughly.
- Error Code E8 – Water temperature sensor error The E8 error code indicates that the dishwasher is not detecting the water temperature properly. This issue could be due to a faulty water temperature sensor or a malfunctioning control board.
To fix this error code, first, check the water temperature sensor for any damage or malfunctioning. If the sensor is faulty, then it needs to be replaced. If the sensor is in good condition, then inspect the control board for any damage or malfunctioning. If the control board is faulty, then it needs to be replaced.
FAQs:
- How do I reset my Kenmore dishwasher?
To reset your Kenmore dishwasher, press the “Cancel” button for three seconds. This will reset the dishwasher to its default settings.
- Why is my Kenmore dishwasher not starting?
There could be several reasons why your Kenmore dishwasher is not starting. First, check the power supply and ensure that the dishwasher is properly plugged in. Second, check the door latch and ensure that it is closed properly. Third, check the control panel and ensure that the buttons are not stuck.
- How often should I clean my Kenmore dishwasher?
It is recommended to clean your Kenmore dishwasher every month. This will help to prevent any buildup of debris and ensure that the dishwasher operates efficiently.
- How do I clean my Kenmore dishwasher?
To clean your Kenmore dishwasher, first, remove any debris or food particles from the dishwasher. Then, fill a cup with white vinegar and place it on the top rack of the dishwasher. Run the dishwasher on a hot water cycle. You can also use a dishwasher cleaner to clean your Kenmore dishwasher.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Kenmore dishwashers are reliable appliances that can provide years of trouble-free service. However, like any other appliance, they can also malfunction. The error codes listed in this article can help you identify the issue and take the necessary steps to fix it. If you are unsure about how to fix the issue, it is recommended to contact a professional technician to assist you. By taking proper care of your Kenmore dishwasher, you can ensure that it operates efficiently and lasts for many years.
