Kenmore dishwashers do not share one error code system — the codes depend on the model number. Models starting 722.146 use letter codes like IE (not filling) and OE (not draining); Global HE models use F#E# or flash-count codes like F1E1; and 363-series models use C-codes such as C1 and C2 for drain-time problems.
Find your model number first
Look at the first digits of your model number (on the rating plate, usually inside the door frame). The codes below are documented on Sears PartsDirect, Kenmore’s long-time parts and repair-help site, for specific model families; a code from one family does not necessarily mean the same on another.
722-series: IE, OE and friends
| Code | What it means (model 722.146 family) |
|---|---|
| IE | Not filling — check the water supply valve is fully open, the inlet hose for kinks, and the inlet valve filter screen |
| OE | Not draining — check the sink drain or disposal, the drain hose for a grease clog, and the drain pump |
| FE | Water overflow detected |
| tE | Thermistor / temperature sensor failure |
| LE | Locked circulation pump motor |
| HE | Heating failure |
| nE | Diverter motor failure |
Global HE: F#E# and flash codes
Digital display models show the code on the panel. Models without a display flash the Clean light: first the Function code, a 2-second pause, then the Problem code, repeating after a 5-second pause — for example 6 flashes then 1 flash is 6-1.
| Code | What it means |
|---|---|
| 1-1 / F1E1 | Stuck relay on the electronic control board — shut power off for 5 minutes and retest |
| 1-2 / F1E2 | Damaged or corrupted control board memory |
| 2-1 / F2E1 | Stuck button on the user interface control |
| 3-1 / F3E1 | Thermistor / sensor failure |
| 4-4 / F4E4 | Communication error |
| 5-1 / F5E1 | Door switch failure |
| 6-6 / F6E6 | Incoming water too cold |
| 7-1 / F7E1 | Heating element does not work |
| 9-2 / F9E2 | Diverter motor stuck |
363-series: C-codes
| Code | What it means |
|---|---|
| C1 | Drain time exceeded 2 minutes |
| C2 | Drain time exceeded 7 minutes |
| C3 | Won’t drain |
| C4 | Dishwasher overfilled — check for an item stuck under the overfill float |
The most common problem: draining
- Clear the sink drain or disposal
A clogged disposal or sink drain is the first thing to rule out — see our dishwasher won’t drain guide.
- Clean the filter
Follow our filter cleaning guide.
- Check the drain hose and pump
With the dishwasher unplugged, clear clogs from the hose and check the pump for a clog or damage.
When to call for service
Codes that point to the control board, heater or diverter motor generally need parts and a technician. See our dishwasher repair cost guide before deciding between repair and replacement.
