ErrorCodePro · Appliance Error CodesKenmore 796 model front-load washer Error Code FE: Meaning & How to Fix It
By the ErrorCodePro Editorial Team · Last reviewed October 20, 2026
Kenmore 796 model front-load washer error code FE means: Water overflow error. The drain pump runs constantly when the FE error code is displayed. [1] Keep using it? No. Stop using it until the cause is fixed. Start with the owner checks below, beginning with: write down the code and model number.
Source: Kenmore 796 model front-load washer error-code chart, via Sears PartsDirect [1].
Quick facts
| Code | FE |
|---|---|
| Also shown as | None listed by the manufacturer |
| Brand / appliance | Kenmore 796 model front-load washer |
| System | Leak protection |
| Meaning (service chart) | Water overflow error. The drain pump runs constantly when the FE error code is displayed. [1] |
| Keep using it? | No. Stop using it until the cause is fixed |
| DIY-safe? | Owner checks only (listed below) |
| Support | Kenmore customer support (kenmore.com) or a Sears-authorized technician |
| Source document | Kenmore 796 model front-load washer error-code chart (via Sears PartsDirect) |
On this page: Meaning · Steps · Parts · When to call a technician · Related codes · FAQ
What error code FE means on a Kenmore 796 model front-load washer
Water overflow error. The drain pump runs constantly when the FE error code is displayed. [1]
This is a leak protection code. Codes and wording can vary by model, so check your owner's manual for your model number.
How to fix Kenmore 796 model front-load washer error code FE (safe owner checks)
- Write down the code and model number. Note exactly what the display shows (FE) and copy the full model number from the rating label, so you can confirm this chart applies to your 796 model front-load washer and order the right parts.
- Open the water supply. Check the inlet water valves to see if they shut off the water supply properly after the washer is filled.
- Do a power reset. Unplug the appliance or switch off its breaker for one minute, then restore power and try again. If the code clears and stays away, it may have been a one-off fault.
- Test and decide. Run a short cycle or restart and watch the display. If FE comes back after these checks, stop using the washer for this function and call a technician, because the remaining causes need meters or part replacement.
The first and last steps (and the power reset) are general owner checks added by ErrorCodePro; the rest follow the Kenmore 796 model front-load washer error-code chart published by Sears PartsDirect, rewritten for safe owner use.
Parts that may be involved
Exact parts depend on your model number. This page lists part types only, never part numbers.
- Inlet water valve assembly
When to call a technician
- If the inlet water valves are defective, a technician should replace the inlet water valve assembly.
- Anything involving wiring, the control board, the motor or the water valve electrics
- The appliance is under warranty: contact Kenmore customer support (kenmore.com) or a Sears-authorized technician first
Related error codes
Frequently asked questions
What does error code FE mean on a Kenmore 796 model front-load washer?
The Kenmore 796 model front-load washer error-code chart lists FE as follows: Water overflow error. The drain pump runs constantly when the FE error code is displayed.
Is it safe to keep using the 796 model front-load washer with FE?
No. Stop using it until the cause is fixed.
Can I fix Kenmore 796 model front-load washer error FE myself?
Only with the owner checks on this page, starting with: write down the code and model number. If it persists, call a technician or Kenmore customer support (kenmore.com) or a Sears-authorized technician.
Sources
- Sears PartsDirect: Kenmore 796 model front-load washer error-code chart (third-party copy of manufacturer service data)
Last reviewed: October 20, 2026. ErrorCodePro is not affiliated with Kenmore.