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Kenmore Refrigerator ES Error Code
Dispenser failure, often a stuck button on Kenmore refrigerators.
KenmoreAll Kenmore refrigerator codes
ES is a dispenser failure, and the usual cause is a stuck Water/Ice selection button. The giveaway is the dispenser indicator cycling through Water, Crushed Ice and Cubed Ice on its own.
Compatible models
Kenmore Trio bottom-freezer refrigerators whose model number starts with 111.
Also shown as
No other codes are listed for this fault.
Difficulty
Most people can clear this one at home with simple checks.
Not sure you are reading the code right? See how to read Kenmore refrigerator codes.
How to fix Kenmore ES
Watch the dispenser indicator
Stand at the dispenser for a minute. If the selection keeps changing without anyone touching it, the button is stuck.
Free the button
Press the Water/Ice button firmly several times at different spots, corners and middle. Wipe around it with a damp cloth if spilled juice or soda has made it tacky.
Recheck the codes
Go back into diagnostic mode and see whether ES is still listed.
When to call a technician
If the button stays stuck, Sears PartsDirect says to replace the user interface board; book a technician if you'd rather not take the dispenser panel apart.
Parts linked to ES
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 ES code?
Kenmore Trio bottom-freezer refrigerators whose model number starts with 111.
Can I fix Kenmore ES myself?
Usually, yes. Most ES problems clear with simple checks you can do at home. Start with the first step above: watch the dispenser indicator.
Other Kenmore refrigerator codes
- Er FFFreezer evaporator fan fault
- Er IFIce compartment fan has failed
- Er CFCondenser fan motor problem
- Er COBoards aren't communicating
- Er FS / Er rSFreezer or refrigerator temperature sensor fault
- F dH / r dHDefrost didn't warm the coil enough
- F dS / r dSDefrost sensor fault
- Er IS / Er ItIce maker sensor or ice maker fault
- Er gFWater flow meter error
- dAir damper is stuck
- CCompartment temperature sensor failure
- CFControl board and user interface lost contact
- OP / SHSensor circuit reads open or shorted
- SY EFFreezer fan circuit has failed
- SY CE / SY CFControl board and door interface out of contact
- C1Sealed refrigerant system failure
- F3 / r3Defrost heater failure
- dr / dFDoor open over an hour or bad door switch
- d2Forced defrost is running
Last reviewed 2026-10-21. Codes and steps can vary by model; check your owner's manual.