A plain-language snapshot of F3E1 (3-1) for Kenmore Dishwasher — confirm the model series before you act.
Written by
Lena Hart Appliance Repair Content SpecialistPublished October 20, 2026
Content statusVerified
Error codeF3E1 (3-1)
ApplianceDishwasher
Quick answer
F3E1 on a Kenmore dishwasher is a thermistor or OWI sensor failure; the manual starts with the wiring.
Model compatibility
Kenmore reuses codes across series and model years, so F3E1 (3-1) may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.
Plain language
What thiscode means
Thermistor (water temperature sensor) or OWI (optical water indicator) sensor failure.
F3E1 tells you the dishwasher has a problem with its thermistor or OWI sensor. The thermistor is the water temperature sensor, and the OWI sensor is the Optical Water Indicator, which detects how much debris is in the water. The code is listed for the Kenmore HE, the Global HE and the MicroClean HE dishwashers.
What the manual says to check
Unplug the dishwasher so electrical power is disconnected. The wiring between the electronic control board and the sensor comes next, and a broken wire harness is repaired or replaced. When the wiring is undamaged, the sensor itself is replaced. These steps involve opening the dishwasher, so a technician normally does them.
Nearby sensor codes
A shorted sensor is reported as F3E2. F3E3 covers the OWI failing to calibrate or a drain hose check valve letting dirty water flow back.
Los Angeles Kenmore dishwasher repair
Need a hand in Los Angeles? Call (310) 554-8899 about your Kenmore. Keep the model number close, note that the display reads F3E1, and say which checks you completed. More on dishwasher repair is one click away.
Do not attempt repairs involving electrical components, gas, water lines, refrigerant or sealed systems. Unplug the appliance if it is safe to reach the outlet, and leave internal diagnostics to a qualified technician.
Get started
Seeing this code onyour Kenmore appliance?
Book a specialist Kenmore service visit for a clear estimate and approval before any repair. Experienced technicians, clear diagnostics, and workmanship coverage on completed repairs.
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