Kenmore Washer IE Error Code
Water supply problem on Kenmore washers.
KenmoreAll Kenmore washer codes
The washer didn't reach its fill level in time. For 796 front-loaders Sears PartsDirect gives the limits as about 8 minutes for the first fill and 25 minutes overall. Closed faucets, kinked hoses and clogged inlet screens are the common reasons.
Compatible models
Kenmore front-load washers, and Kenmore and Kenmore Elite top-load washers, with a model number starting 796.
Also shown as
On the top-load 796 washers IE is described as a slow fill with the same checks. Whirlpool-built 110 models and 417 models use different codes for fill problems (F20, F/H, F8 E1, E11).
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 washer codes.
How to fix Kenmore IE
Open the faucets
Turn both supply faucets fully open and check that other taps in the house have normal pressure.
Check for kinks or ice
Straighten the fill hoses behind the washer. If the washer sits somewhere cold, a frozen hose will block flow until it thaws.
Inspect the inlet screens
With the water off and the washer unplugged, unscrew the hoses at the back and look at the screens in the inlet ports. If they're packed with sediment, Sears PartsDirect recommends a new inlet valve assembly over cleaning them.
When to call a technician
If the supply is good and IE keeps showing, the water inlet valve assembly is the likely part, with the main control board as a less common cause. A technician can tell which.
Parts linked to IE
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.
Step-by-step guides for this problem
- How to Replace Washer Inlet Hoses: Braided vs Rubber Guide
Whirlpool and GE both recommend replacing washer fill hoses every 5 years, sooner if you see bulges, cracks or drips at the couplings.
- Washer Won't Start? 8 Things to Check Before Calling for Service
A washer that won't start usually has one of three simple problems: the control lock is on, the door or lid isn't fully latched, or the Start button wasn't held long enough (Whirlpool says up to 3 seconds on many models).
Frequently asked questions
Which Kenmore models show the IE code?
Kenmore front-load washers, and Kenmore and Kenmore Elite top-load washers, with a model number starting 796.
Can I fix Kenmore IE myself?
Usually, yes. Most IE problems clear with simple checks you can do at home. Start with the first step above: open the faucets.
Other Kenmore washer codes
- F21Front-loader didn't drain in time
- F20Front-loader isn't filling
- F02Slow drain, or a control panel fault on Oasis
- F01Main control board fault
- F9E1Top-loader is draining too slowly
- F8E1Top-loader filling slowly or not at all
- F5E2Lid won't lock
- F7E1Basket speed sensor problem
- F0E5Top-loader load is off balance
- OEFront-loader drains slowly
- UELoad is unbalanced (796 models)
- dEDoor or lid not closed
- LEDrive motor locked or overloaded
- E21417 front-loader drains slowly
- E11417 front-loader is taking too long to fill
- SudToo many suds
- FEToo much water in the tub
Last reviewed 2026-10-21. Codes and steps can vary by model; check your owner's manual.