The error code F8 E3 on a Kenmore washer indicates an overflow fault, which means too much water is entering the washer. This can cause several problems, including:
- Water damage to the washer itself
- Mold or mildew growth
- Ineffective washing due to diluted cleaning solution
Here's a breakdown of the possible causes and troubleshooting steps for the F8 E3 error.
Possible Causes of F8 E3 Error
- Faulty water inlet valve - The valve that controls the water flow into the washer might be malfunctioning and not shutting off properly, leading to excessive water filling.
- Drain pump issue - A clogged drain pump or a malfunctioning drain pump itself could prevent proper water drainage, causing the washer to overfill.
- Pressure sensor problem - A faulty pressure sensor might be sending incorrect signals to the control board, causing it to believe the washer isn't full when it actually is, and leading to overfilling.
- Less likely (Control board issue) - In rare cases, the control board might be malfunctioning and sending incorrect signals to the water inlet valve, causing it to stay open too long.
Important safety precaution - Before attempting any troubleshooting steps, unplug the washer from the power outlet to avoid electrical hazards.
How to troubleshoot the F8 E3 error on your Kenmore Washer
Unfortunately, there are limited troubleshooting steps you can perform yourself for the F8 E3 error due to the potential for water damage. Here's what you can try:
- Reset the washer - Unplug the washer from the power outlet for a few minutes, then plug it back in and restart the cycle. A simple reset can sometimes resolve temporary glitches with the water filling system.
If the F8 E3 Error Persists
- Consult your user manual - Your Kenmore washer's user manual might have specific information about the F8 E3 error code for your model. However, it likely won't recommend extensive DIY troubleshooting.
Professional Help Recommended
Diagnosing the exact cause of the F8 E3 error (faulty water inlet valve, drain pump issue, pressure sensor problem, or control board issue) might require some disassembly of the washer and is best left to a qualified appliance repair technician. They can diagnose the issue, recommend the appropriate solution, and ensure the repair is done safely to prevent further water damage. This might involve:
- Replacing the water inlet valve - If the valve is faulty, a technician can replace it.
- Cleaning or repairing the drain pump - The technician can diagnose the drain pump issue (clogged or malfunctioning) and take appropriate action.
- Replacing the pressure sensor - If the sensor is malfunctioning, a technician can replace it.
- Replacing the control board (very unlikely) - If the control board is indeed faulty, a technician can replace it (though this is the least likely scenario).
Here are some additional tips
- Avoid overloading the washer, as this can put extra strain on the water filling system and potentially contribute to overflow.
- If your Kenmore washer is still under warranty, contacting the manufacturer's customer service might be an option for a free repair related to the overflow fault.