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Kenmore Dryer F20 / F21 / F4E1 / F4E2 Error Code
Heater relay fault on Kenmore dryers.
KenmoreAll Kenmore dryer codes
The relay that switches the heater on and off has a problem. On Elite and Elite Oasis dryers the relay is part of the main control board, so the listed fix is a new board. On the VMAX, loose wiring between the board and the heater is checked first.
Compatible models
Kenmore Elite dryers, the Kenmore Elite Oasis dryer and Kenmore 110 model VMAX dryers, according to Sears PartsDirect.
Also shown as
F:20 on Elite models, F-20 or F-21 on the Elite Oasis, and F4 E1 or F4 E2 on the 110 VMAX.
Difficulty
Try the basic checks, but the usual fix is a technician's job.
Not sure you are reading the code right? See how to read Kenmore dryer codes.
How to fix Kenmore F20 / F21 / F4E1 / F4E2
Power down
Turn off the dryer's breaker or unplug it, wait a few minutes and restore power once. If the code shows again on the next heated cycle, stop using the dryer.
Don't keep forcing heat
Avoid running more heated loads with this code showing. A relay fault can mean the heater doesn't switch the way it should.
When to call a technician
The relay is on the control board, and checking the harness at the relays and heater means removing panels near live connections. Book a technician.
Parts linked to F20 / F21 / F4E1 / F4E2
These are the parts most often behind this code. Tap one to see what it does and the signs it is failing.
Order parts by your full model number so they fit.
Frequently asked questions
Which Kenmore models show the F20 / F21 / F4E1 / F4E2 code?
Kenmore Elite dryers, the Kenmore Elite Oasis dryer and Kenmore 110 model VMAX dryers, according to Sears PartsDirect.
Can I fix Kenmore F20 / F21 / F4E1 / F4E2 myself?
Only the basic checks. You can safely try the steps above, but F20 / F21 / F4E1 / F4E2 usually points to a part or fault that needs a technician.
Other Kenmore dryer codes
- AF / F30 / F4E3Exhaust airflow is restricted
- PFPower went out during a cycle
- F31 / F4E4Low or missing voltage on one leg (electric dryers)
- F01 / F1E1Main control board fault
- F02 / F2E1A button on the panel is stuck
- F22 / F23 / F3E1Exhaust thermistor fault
- F24 / F25 / F3E3Inlet thermistor fault
- F28 / F29 / F3E2Moisture sensor fault
- F70 / F71 / F6E2 / F6E3Control boards have stopped talking to each other
- E1 / E2 / tE1 / tE2Thermistor fault on 110 electronic and 796 dryers
- E3 / F1E3Control panel and main board don't match
- dEDoor switch problem on 796 dryers
- E10 / E11 / E12 / EAFControl board fault on 417 dryers
- E24 / E25Temperature sensor fault on 417 dryers
- E4A / E5BNo heat or drying takes too long (417 dryers)
- E8CHigh-limit thermostat keeps tripping (417 dryers)
- F40 to F46Blower system fault on the Elite Oasis
- F26Drive motor fault on the Elite Oasis
Last reviewed 2026-10-21. Codes and steps can vary by model; check your owner's manual.