F44
What code F44 means on a Kenmore washing machines, what causes it, and which part to check first.
● SEVERITY: HIGH
Kenmore F44 means: Heater relay failed. The documented cause is: On washers with a heating element, unplug the washer and replace the main electronic control board because the heater relay on that board is defective.
What F44 means
Heater relay failed
The display shows F44 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 |
|---|
| On washers with a heating element, unplug the washer and replace the main electronic control board because the heater relay on that board is defective |
| For washers without a heating element, replace the user interface control board because a diode on the user interface control board is defective |
| If you just installed a new user interface control board when this code appears, then you likely installed an incompatible user interface control board |
| Check the user interface control board part number and then order and install the correct part |
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 F44 mean on a Kenmore?
Heater relay failed The documented cause is: On washers with a heating element, unplug the washer and replace the main electronic control board because the heater relay on that board is defective. For washers without a heating element, replace the user interface control board because a diode on the user interface control board is defective. If you just installed a new user interface control board when this code appears, then you likely installed an incompatible user interface control board. Check the user interface control board part number and then order and install the correct part
Can I fix F44 myself?
It depends on the part involved: On washers with a heating element, unplug the washer and replace the main electronic control board because the heater relay on that board is defective. For washers without a heating element, replace the user interface control board because a diode on the user interface control board is defective. If you just installed a new user interface control board when this code appears, then you likely installed an incompatible user interface control board. Check the user interface control board part number and then order and install the correct part 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.

