Kenmore 796 model steam dryer Error Code Add Water: Meaning & How to Fix It

By the ErrorCodePro Editorial Team · Last reviewed October 20, 2026

Quick facts

On this page: Meaning · Steps · Parts · When to call a technician · Related codes · FAQ

What error code Add Water means on a Kenmore 796 model steam dryer

Steam feeder is dry. The steam generator thermistor isn't sold as a separate component. 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This is a water fill code. Codes and wording can vary by model, so check your owner's manual for your model number.

How to fix Kenmore 796 model steam dryer error code Add Water (safe owner checks)

1. Write down the code and model number. Note exactly what the display shows (Add Water) and copy the full model number from the rating label, so you can confirm this chart applies to your 796 model steam dryer and order the right parts.
2. Clean the filter. Try our water filter finder Most common symptoms to help you fix your dryers Choose a symptom to see related dryer repairs.
3. Follow these st. Follow these st...
4. Test and decide. Run a short cycle or restart and watch the display. If Add Water comes back after these checks, stop using the dryer 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 steam dryer 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.

No specific part is implied by the manufacturer's guidance for this code.

When to call a technician

• Main causes: bad gas valve coils, broken heating element, tripped safety thermostat or fuse, bad operating thermostat, c...
• Main causes: clogged exhaust system, heating system failure, deposits on moisture sensor, control system failure...
• Main causes: clogged exhaust vent, bad motor relay, loose dryer door catch, bad door switch, control system failure, fau...
• Main causes: door switch failure, lack of power, broken belt, blown thermal fuse, bad drive motor, control system failur...
• Main causes: lack of electrical power, bad power cord, wiring failure, bad control board, blown thermal fuse, bad door s...
• Main causes: bad timer or electronic control board, door switch failure...
• 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

LG dryer Add Water (steam feeder empty) LG dryer E05 (steam water supply problem) All Kenmore 796 model steam dryer error codes

Frequently asked questions

What does error code Add Water mean on a Kenmore 796 model steam dryer?

The Kenmore 796 model steam dryer error-code chart lists Add Water as follows: Steam feeder is dry. The steam generator thermistor isn't sold as a separate component. 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Is it safe to keep using the 796 model steam dryer with Add Water?

Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair.

Can I fix Kenmore 796 model steam dryer error Add Water 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

1. Sears PartsDirect: Kenmore 796 model steam dryer error-code chart (third-party copy of manufacturer service data)

Last reviewed: October 20, 2026. ErrorCodePro is not affiliated with Kenmore.