# How to Fix Kenmore Error FE (Overflow Error)
If your Kenmore washer stops mid-cycle and displays the “FE” error code, it means the unit has detected an overflow condition. This guide will walk you through troubleshooting and repairing this common issue, which is primarily caused by a stuck water inlet valve.
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## 1. Explanation: What does the “FE” Code Mean?
The Kenmore error code **FE** stands for **”Filling Error”** or **”Overflow”**.
In simple terms, the washing machine believes there is too much water in the tub, or that the tub is filling when it shouldn’t be.
When this error appears:
* The machine’s control board typically locks the cycle down.
* The drain pump may run continuously in an attempt to pump the excess water out.
* The system often suspects that the pressure switch has failed, or more commonly, that the **Water Inlet Valve** has failed and is allowing water to trickle into the tub even when the machine is powered off.
## 2. Step-by-Step Fix: How to Diagnose the Overflow
The first steps are critical for safety and preventing water damage.
### Step 1: Immediate Safety Actions
1. **Stop the Water:** Immediately turn off the hot and cold water supply hoses connected to the back of the washer. (These are usually located near the spigots on the wall.)
2. **Unplug the Washer:** Pull the power cord out of the wall outlet. This ensures no electrical signals are being sent to the water valves.
3. **Assess the Tub:** Look inside the drum. If the water level is extremely high (above the clothes line) or if water is actively leaking onto the floor, the overflow condition is confirmed.
### Step 2: Test the Water Inlet Valve (The Culprit)
The Water Inlet Valve is an electromagnetic solenoid valve that opens and closes to allow water into the machine. If debris gets lodged in the valve, or if the solenoid fails mechanically, the valve can get stuck in the open position.
**To test the valve:**
1. **Ensure the Machine is Unplugged.**
2. **Ensure the Water Supply to the Wall Spigots is OFF.**
3. **Place a Towel in the Tub.** Dry out any existing water so you can see if more water enters.
4. **Turn the Wall Spigots back ON.** (This pressurizes the hoses leading to the washer, but the washer remains unplugged.)
5. **Wait 15 Minutes.** Check the inside of the tub.
**Diagnosis:**
* **If water begins to trickle or pool in the tub:** The Water Inlet Valve is confirmed to be mechanically faulty (stuck open) because it is allowing water past the solenoid, even though the machine is completely unplugged and not demanding water. **The valve must be replaced.**
* **If no water enters the tub:** The valve is likely functioning correctly. Proceed to Step 3.
### Step 3: Check the Pressure Switch and Air Trap
If the valve is not leaking, the machine may be filling correctly but misinterpreting the water level, which is a signaling issue.
1. **Locate the Air Trap/Pressure Switch Hose:** The pressure switch is located under the control panel or near the tub rim and is connected via a small, clear rubber tube (the air dome hose) running down to the bottom of the tub.
2. **Check for Clogs:** This hose transmits air pressure to the switch. If the air trap (where the hose connects to the tub) or the hose itself is clogged with soap residue or gunk, the switch won’t read the actual water level and might tell the machine to keep filling, leading to an overflow.
3. **Clear the Components:** Disconnect the hose and carefully blow through it to ensure it is clear. You may need to use a small coat hanger or flexible brush to clear the port where the hose connects to the tub.
### Step 4: Final Replacement (If Valve Failed)
If the Water Inlet Valve test confirmed that water is leaking through (Step 2), you must replace the valve assembly.
1. **Access the Valve:** Depending on your Kenmore model (Top-Load or Front-Load), you will need to remove the top panel or the rear access panel where the hoses connect.
2. **Disconnect Components:** Note the wiring and hose connections (usually marked Hot/Cold). Disconnect the electrical harnesses and the small rubber hoses running to the tub.
3. **Install New Valve:** Unscrew the old valve assembly and replace it with the new part, ensuring all connections are secure.
4. **Test:** Plug the washer back in and turn on the wall spigots. Run a short cycle. If the FE code is gone and the tub stops filling when commanded, the fix is successful.
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Check the price for a replacement Water Inlet Valve here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Kenmore+Water Inlet Valve&tag=trivian-20