F8 E3
What code F8 E3 means on a Kenmore washing machines, what causes it, and which part to check first.
● SEVERITY: HIGH
Kenmore F8 E3 means: Overflow or flood condition. The documented cause is: The electronic control senses a water level that exceeds washer capacity. Check the water level pressure tube for kinks, blockages or air leaks. Replace the water level pressure tube if damaged.
What F8 E3 means
Overflow or flood condition
The display shows F8 E3 and the machine stops until the fault is cleared.
What the technical documentation says
Causes documented in the technical source published by applianceaid.com
| DOCUMENTED CAUSE OR CHECK |
|---|
| The electronic control senses a water level that exceeds washer capacity |
| Check the water level pressure tube for kinks, blockages or air leaks |
| Replace the water level pressure tube if damaged |
| Check to see if water siphons out through the drain hose |
| Install the washer drain system according to installation manual guidelines to prevent siphoning of fill water |
| A leaking water valve can cause the F8E3 code |
| Unplug the washer and see if the tub fills with water |
| If so, replace the water valve assembly |
Replacement parts
Tools you'll need
Before you open anything
Unplug the machine and close the water tap before removing any panel. Water and mains electricity sit centimetres apart inside a washing machine. If the drum still holds water, drain it from the filter first — it can be scalding.
What to check, in order
From the quickest check to the one that needs a technician.
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Frequently asked questions
What does F8 E3 mean on a Kenmore?
Overflow or flood condition The documented cause is: The electronic control senses a water level that exceeds washer capacity. Check the water level pressure tube for kinks, blockages or air leaks. Replace the water level pressure tube if damaged. Check to see if water siphons out through the drain hose. Install the washer drain system according to installation manual guidelines to prevent siphoning of fill water. A leaking water valve can cause the F8E3 code. Unplug the washer and see if the tub fills with water. If so, replace the water valve assembly
Can I fix F8 E3 myself?
It depends on the part involved: The electronic control senses a water level that exceeds washer capacity. Check the water level pressure tube for kinks, blockages or air leaks. Replace the water level pressure tube if damaged. Check to see if water siphons out through the drain hose. Install the washer drain system according to installation manual guidelines to prevent siphoning of fill water. A leaking water valve can cause the F8E3 code. Unplug the washer and see if the tub fills with water. If so, replace the water valve assembly Clearing a filter or straightening a hose is within reach of anyone; anything behind a panel means mains electricity and water together — that is a job for a technician.
Does Kenmore use other codes on this appliance?
Yes: we document 142 other codes for Kenmore on this washing machines. They are listed at the bottom of this page, each with its own meaning.
Does the same code mean the same thing on other brands?
Often not. The same two characters can point to completely different faults depending on the manufacturer — always check the page for your own brand.