A plain-language snapshot of ES for Kenmore Refrigerator — confirm the model series before you act.
Written by
Lena Hart Appliance Repair Content SpecialistPublished October 20, 2026
Content statusVerified
Error codeES
ApplianceRefrigerator
Quick answer
ES is a dispenser failure on Kenmore bottom-freezer Trio refrigerators with model numbers starting 111; a stuck Water/Ice button is the first thing to check.
Model compatibility
Kenmore reuses codes across series and model years, so ES 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
Dispenser failure.
The ES code on a Kenmore bottom-freezer Trio refrigerator, model numbers starting 111, is a dispenser failure.
What to look at first
The manual tells you to check the display panel. If the indicator light keeps toggling through the Water, Crushed Ice and Cubed Ice selections, the Water/Ice button is stuck.
Freeing a stuck button
Look at the display panel and watch the indicator light.
If it cycles through Water, Crushed Ice and Cubed Ice, press the Water/Ice button in various spots to free it.
If the button will not come free, the manual lists replacing the user interface board.
The user interface board is the only part named for this code.
Other codes to know
Ice and water related messages carry their own codes, such as Er It for a system error inside the ice maker and Er gF for a flow meter error.
Kenmore refrigerator service in Los Angeles
When the button stays stuck, call (310) 554-8899 for Kenmore refrigerator service in Los Angeles. Have the ES code, your 111-series model number and a note of what you pressed ready, and see the refrigerator repair section for more.
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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