Is your Kenmore washer flashing a persistent IE code? This code makes you unable to resume your usual laundry routine and leaves you with tons of unclean soapy clothes. The Kenmore washer IE code indicates a potential issue with water intake.
Inefficient water intake happens due to a variety of causes, like clogged filters or low water pressure. Therefore, understanding these potential causes behind this error code helps you find proper fixes.
Read on to get deep insight into the IE code problem and its possible troubleshooting.
But before we dive deep into the root causes and fixes, let’s find out the most commonly affected models with the IE code:
Front loading Washers:
- Kenmore Elite HE3 Washer 796.31433710
- Kenmore Elite HE3 Washer 796.91122100
- Kenmore Oasis Washers
Top-Load Washers:
- Kenmore 796.4027
- Kenmore 796.41022100
- Kenmore 796.51022100
- Kenmore 110.26752201
- Kenmore 110.26852201
- Kenmore 904.60222100
What Does IE Code Mean On A Kenmore Washer?
- Meaning: A flashing IE code on your Kenmore washer’s display indicates an inlet issue. This simply means that your washer isn’t receiving enough water to properly complete the wash cycle.
- Safety Feature: This code is a built-in safeguard. It protects the washing machine from operating without sufficient water supply, which could damage internal components.
- Impact on Use: With this IE flashing code, your washing process stops permanently. Your clothes will remain unwashed, and you may wash them by hand.
- Warning Signs: Beyond the IE code, you might notice a shorter wash cycle due to the lack of water filling. Another symptom is that you might hear unusual clicking noises or observe the washer attempting to fill repeatedly.
- Importance of Addressing: Ignoring the IE code can lead to further problems with internal components. Acting fast helps prevent potential damage to the water inlet valve, hoses, or even the control board.
Why Does Your Kenmore Washer Throw IE Code?
If your Kenmore washer isn’t filling adequately, the IE code will keep blinking non-stop. But this issue is associated with various causes. From clogs in the water hose and valve to a faulty switch, you may not know where to start.
Let’s delve into the potential culprits:
1. Clogged Water Inlet Valve
These water valves open to let water in and close when there is enough water to run a cycle. Over time, debris and sediment can accumulate within the water valve. This can eventually obstruct the valve’s open/close motion.
A restricted water flow triggers the IE code because the washer doesn’t sense the necessary water intake to begin the wash cycle.
2. Blocked Water Hoses
Water inlet hoses connect your Kenmore washer to the water supply. These hoses go by water supply hoses too. Rubber hoses like supply and drain hose can develop bends and kinks over time. A bent or kinked hose stalls the smooth water flow.
This can happen if the hose is blocked by debris and sediment. Both scenarios mimic the impact of a clogged valve.
3. Clogged Water Inlet Filters
The inlet valve usually comes with a water supply filter. This built-in filter screen prevents debris like sand, rust, or other small particles from entering the washer. This way, it acts as a shield that protects your washer’s internal components from potential damage.
When this filter is fully clogged, it will have the same impact of a clogged supply valve. This is how you end up with a flashing Kenmore washer IE code.
4. Insufficient Water Pressure
Your washer comes with a minimum pressure threshold. This component monitors the incoming water pressure and notifies the control board that there is enough water to fill the drum. However, If the water pressure entering the washer falls below this minimum threshold, the water pressure switch will detect the issue. This makes the control board interpret the situation as a water filling problem and triggers the IE code.
Sometimes, there is an electrical or technical problem with the water pressure switch triggering the IE code. However, in some other cases, the problem might be as simple as water supply faucets not fully open.
5. Electronic Control Board Malfunction
In rare cases, a malfunctioning control board might be responsible for the IE code. The control board acts as the brain of the washer. It gives orders to various components and receives different signals. If the board malfunctions, it might misinterpret water levels or pressure readings, leading to the IE code even when other components are functioning correctly.
How To Reset Kenmore Washer IE Code
Sometimes, the Kenmore washer IE code results from a temporary glitch. If this is the case with your appliance, you should try resetting it. Here’s how to do it:
- Unplug the washer from the outlet or turn off the circuit breaker controlling the washer’s power.
- Let the washer rest for at least 3 minutes. This pause allows any residual power to drain.
- Power the washer back on by plugging it or turning the breaker back on.
- Run a short rinse cycle to evaluate the success of this solution.
How To Fix Kenmore Washer IE Code
There is nothing worse than a dead washer to mess up your daily routine. The good news is that you can restore the appliance’s functionality with some DIY fixes. Let’s take a look at possible fixes for malfunctioning Kenmore components behind the IE code:
1. How To Fix Clogged Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve lies behind the bottom front panel of your Kenmore washer. So, you will need to remove this panel for visibility and access. Bring a flathead screwdriver and let’s get to work:
- After removing the panel, use the screwdriver to remove the screws holding the valve in place. Detach any connected connectors.
- Take out the valve’s filter and clean it until it’s clog-free. Do this under running water.
- Inspect the valve carefully for damage signs or heavy clogs. If present, you should install a new valve in place of the old one.
- Refer to your user manual for specific part numbers and ensure the replacement valve is compatible with your Kenmore model and the hot and cold-water hose connections.
2. How To Fix Blocked Water Hoses
You shouldn’t look for these hoses anywhere but behind the washer. You don’t have to remove any kick plates or panels, as these hoses are exposed and stretch out. These flexible rubber hoses connect the washer to the water supply shutoff valves on the wall.
Troubleshooting these hoses doesn’t require any advanced repairs. Here’s what to do:
- Disconnect the hose from both ends. Look for any kinks or bends in the hoses that might restrict water flow. Use your hand to gently straighten present kinks.
- Check the hose connection from both ends for blockages. Pour warm (but not hot) water into the blocked hoses to clear any blockages. If you have a long metal hanger, use it carefully to remove obstruction.
- Replace any damaged, leaking, or severely bent hose with a new one.
3. How To Fix Clogged Water Inlet Filters
Troubleshooting the inlet filter is explained as part of fixing the inlet valve. Appliance repair experts suggest replacing these filters every 3-6 months depending on its condition and the overall water quality in your area.
4. How To Fix Insufficient Water Pressure
To detect insufficient water pressure, you don’t have to access specific components. Here’s what you should:
- Check the Shutoff Valve: This valve resides at the wall right behind the washer. Ensure it is fully open. This valve goes by the water supply faucet too.
- Check the water faucets: Verify that the water pressure in your home’s faucets is strong. This helps you determine whether it is a general problem or only associated with the Kenmore washer. There could be clogged pipes behind the weak pressure. In this case, you should contact a plumber.
- General water pressure issue: In rare cases, the issue might be with the municipal water supply. Contact your local water department to ask about this issue.
5. How To Fix Electronic Control Board Malfunction
Kenmore washer’s control board is an expensive and sensitive part. It is not for all DIYers to access and manipulate. It is better to contact a certified repair technician to examine the board. Otherwise, any DIY repairs will be at your own risk and can lead to irreversible damage to this delicate component.
Conclusion
Now that you are armed with sufficient knowledge about the Kenmore washer IE code, you shouldn’t allow it to get your washer down. While indicating an inlet problem. The error code prevents damage.
The culprit could be clogged hoses, a dirty filter, or weak water pressure. In many cases, DIY fixes like cleaning the valve, replacing the filter, or checking pressure can get you back on track.
For trickier issues, call a repair technician.
Stuck with other Kenmore error codes? Check out these guides on how to fix kenmore washer f21 code, or Kenmore Washer LE code