Kenmore Calypso top-load washer Error Code Ob: Meaning & How to Fix It

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

Kenmore Calypso top-load washer error code Ob means: Unbalanced load. [1] Keep using it? Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair. Start with the owner checks below, beginning with: write down the code and model number.

Source: Kenmore Calypso top-load washer error-code chart, via Sears PartsDirect [1].

Quick facts

Code	Ob
Also shown as	None listed by the manufacturer
Brand / appliance	Kenmore Calypso top-load washer
System	Load balance
Meaning (service chart)	Unbalanced load. [1]
Keep using it?	Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair
DIY-safe?	Owner checks only (listed below)
Support	Kenmore customer support (kenmore.com) or a Sears-authorized technician
Source document	Kenmore Calypso top-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 Ob means on a Kenmore Calypso top-load washer

Unbalanced load. [1]

This is a load balance code. Codes and wording can vary by model, so check your owner's manual for your model number.

How to fix Kenmore Calypso top-load washer error code Ob (safe owner checks)

Safety first: disconnect power before you remove any panel or reach into the sump or drum. Do not touch wiring, the control board or the motor. If you see water near electrical parts, stop and call a technician. These steps are based on the Kenmore Calypso top-load washer error-code chart (via Sears PartsDirect) [1], rewritten for clarity.

Write down the code and model number. Note exactly what the display shows (Ob) and copy the full model number from the rating label, so you can confirm this chart applies to your calypso top-load washer and order the right parts.
Rebalance the load. Open the lid and redistribute the clothes inside the basket. Remove some clothes if you overfilled the washer.
Clear the code at the controls. Restart the washer to finish the cycle.
Clean the filter. Try our water filter finder Most common symptoms to help you fix your washers Choose a symptom to see related washer repairs.
Check the fill hoses. Check the water fill lines for kinks or freezing in the winter.
Check the drain hose. Check the drain hose and clear any kinks or clogs.
Do a power reset. Unplug the washer and drain the tub using a wet/dry shop vac.
Close the door or lid fully. Close the lid before starting the cycle.
Fix the detergent dose. Allow the washer to sit idle for 30 minutes to dissipate excessive suds and then run the Rinse/Spin cycle to drain the water.

The first and last steps (and the power reset) are general owner checks added by ErrorCodePro; the rest follow the Kenmore Calypso top-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.

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

When to call a technician

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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

Frequently asked questions

What does error code Ob mean on a Kenmore Calypso top-load washer?

The Kenmore Calypso top-load washer error-code chart lists Ob as follows: Unbalanced load.

Is it safe to keep using the Calypso top-load washer with Ob?

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

Can I fix Kenmore Calypso top-load washer error Ob 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 Calypso top-load washer error-code chart (third-party copy of manufacturer service data)

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