# How to Fix Kenmore Error IE (Water Inlet Error)
The “IE” error code on a Kenmore washing machine (often seen on models manufactured by LG, Kenmore Elite, etc.) indicates a problem with the unit’s ability to take in water.
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## 1. Explanation: What “IE” Means in Plain English
The “IE” code stands for **Inlet Error**.
The washer’s control board monitors the flow of water by timing how long it takes to reach a specific level within the drum. If the machine attempts to fill the tub but does not detect a sufficient volume of water after several minutes, the control board assumes the water supply system has failed and displays the “IE” error.
**Likely Culprits (in order of commonality):**
1. Blocked inlet screens (filters).
2. Low household water pressure.
3. A failed **Water Inlet Valve** (the primary device that regulates water entry).
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## 2. Step-by-Step Fix: Diagnosing and Troubleshooting Error IE
Follow these steps, starting with the simplest external checks, before moving to internal component testing.
### Step 1: Check the Water Supply & Hoses (External)
Before assuming the machine is broken, confirm the external supply is adequate.
1. **Check Faucets:** Ensure both the hot and cold water faucets behind the washer are completely turned on. Sometimes they are accidentally bumped or turned off during maintenance.
2. **Inspect Hoses:** Trace the supply hoses from the wall to the back of the washer. Look for kinks, tight bends, or crushing that might restrict flow.
3. **Test Water Pressure:** Remove the supply hoses from the wall connection (you may need a bucket). Turn the faucets on briefly to confirm water is flowing out strongly. If the pressure is weak, the issue is with your home’s plumbing, not the washer.
### Step 2: Clean the Inlet Screens
The most common reason for an IE error is a clogged screen where the hose connects to the back of the washer.
1. **Unplug the Washer:** **Safety First:** Unplug the machine from the wall power outlet and turn off both water faucets completely.
2. **Remove Hoses:** Disconnect the hot and cold water supply hoses from the back of the washer.
3. **Inspect Filters:** Look into the inlet ports on the washer. You will see small mesh screens (filters). These are designed to catch sediment and rust before it enters the expensive inlet valve.
4. **Clean or Replace:** If the screens are coated with sediment, carefully remove them using needle-nose pliers or tweezers. Rinse them thoroughly under running water, scrub them with a toothbrush, or replace them entirely if they are damaged.
5. **Reassemble:** Reinstall the clean screens, reattach the hoses, turn the water back on, and plug the unit back in. Run a test cycle.
### Step 3: Test the Water Inlet Valve (Internal)
If the screens are clean and pressure is good, the internal Water Inlet Valve is the likely culprit. This valve is a dual solenoid component that opens electrically when signaled by the control board. If the solenoid fails, the valve won’t open.
> **WARNING:** This step requires removing the washer casing and working with electrical components. Ensure the machine is **unplugged** before proceeding.
1. **Access the Valve:** Depending on your model, you may need to remove the top panel (often held by two screws in the back) to access the valve, which is typically located near the inlet ports.
2. **Locate Solenoids:** The inlet valve has small, cylindrical solenoids attached (usually two, one for hot and one for cold).
3. **Test for Continuity (Requires Multimeter):**
* Set your multimeter to the Rx1 setting or Ohms (Ω).
* Disconnect the wiring harnesses from the solenoids.
* Place the multimeter probes on the two metal terminals of one solenoid.
* **Expected Reading:** A working Kenmore inlet valve solenoid should show a reading between **850 and 1,200 Ohms**.
4. **Determine Failure:**
* If the reading is within the expected range, the valve is likely fine (the issue might be the pressure switch, though less common).
* If the reading is **infinity (O.L.)** or **0 (short circuit)**, the solenoid is burnt out and the entire valve assembly must be replaced.
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## 3. Call to Action
If your diagnostic steps confirm the solenoids are faulty or the valve is heavily calcified, replacement is the necessary fix.
Check the price for a replacement Water Inlet Valve here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Kenmore+Water Inlet Valve&tag=trivian-20