A plain-language snapshot of F3E3 (3-3) for Kenmore Dishwasher — confirm the model series before you act.
Written by
Lena Hart Appliance Repair Content SpecialistPublished October 20, 2026
Content statusVerified
Error codeF3E3 (3-3)
ApplianceDishwasher
Quick answer
F3E3 on a Kenmore dishwasher means a failed OWI calibration or a drain hose check valve letting dirty water back in.
Model compatibility
Kenmore reuses codes across series and model years, so F3E3 (3-3) 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
OWI failed to calibrate, or the drain hose check valve failed and let dirty water flow back.
F3E3 has two possible sources: the OWI sensor did not calibrate, or the check valve in the drain hose failed and dirty water flowed back into the dishwasher. It is listed for Kenmore HE and Kenmore Elite HE dishwashers with a digital display, the Global HE and the MicroClean HE; display-less models flash the Clean light in a 3-3 pattern.
Drain hose test
Take the drain hose off the air gap, or off the garbage disposal if there is no air gap. Pour water through the hose and watch whether it backs up into the tub. If it does, the section of hose attached to the drain pump needs replacing, because its check valve has failed.
If the hose is fine
Reconnect the hose. A technician then runs the Service Diagnostics Test from the tech sheet and should see a low soil level in the OWI test. A high reading means the OWI sensor is unplugged and cleaned. After reassembly and plugging back in, a diagnostic test cycle lets the control board calibrate the sensor on the next cycle, followed by a normal wash. If the code still shows, the thermistor/OWI sensor is replaced.
Related codes
See F3E1 and F3E2 for the other two sensor faults in the 3 group.
Kenmore dishwasher service in Los Angeles
If F3E3 stays on the display, our dishwasher repair team in Los Angeles can look at your Kenmore at (310) 554-8899. Have the code, the model number and a note of what you already tried ready when you call.
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?
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