Troubleshooting F20 Error Code on Your Kenmore Washer

Dealing with laundry problems can be frustrating, especially when your Kenmore washer displays an F20 error code. This error code indicates a water supply issue and can prevent your machine from operating properly. However, don’t worry as in this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to troubleshoot and fix the F20 error code on your Kenmore washer.

By following our guide, you can easily diagnose and resolve any laundry problems you may be experiencing. Before we dive into the troubleshooting process, let’s first understand what the F20 error code means and the possible causes of the issue.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the F20 error code is crucial in troubleshooting the problem.
• The error code indicates a water supply issue and may be accompanied by low or no water flow.
• There are various components of your Kenmore washer that can cause the F20 error code, including the water inlet valve, pressure switch, and control board.
• Correctly diagnosing and fixing the issue can save you money and ensure smooth laundry operations.
• Regular maintenance can help prevent future errors from occurring.

Understanding the F20 Error Code

If you’re experiencing an F20 error code on your Kenmore washer, it’s important to understand what it means before attempting to troubleshoot and resolve the issue. The F20 error code indicates a water supply problem and may be accompanied by slow or no water flow.

There are several possible causes of the F20 error code, including:

• Low water pressure
• Kinked or blocked water inlet hoses
• Clogged inlet screens
• Faulty water inlet valve
• Malfunctioning pressure switch
• Clogged or faulty drainage system
• Defective water level sensor
• Faulty control board

By understanding these potential causes, you can systematically check each component to pinpoint and resolve the issue. In the following sections, we will guide you through the troubleshooting process for each possible cause of the F20 error code.

It’s important to note that if you’re uncomfortable performing any of these troubleshooting steps, it may be best to consult a professional technician for assistance.

What to Expect While Troubleshooting the F20 Error Code

When troubleshooting the F20 error code, it’s important to gather some information about your Kenmore washer. This may include the model number and serial number, which can typically be found on the back of the appliance.

You may also need to have some basic tools on hand, such as a screwdriver and pliers, depending on the troubleshooting steps required.

It’s important to follow the troubleshooting steps in order and to test your washer after each step to determine if the issue has been resolved.

In some cases, resolving the F20 error code may require replacing a faulty component. If this is the case, be sure to purchase the correct replacement part for your specific Kenmore washer model.

Check the Water Supply

If you encounter the F20 error code on your Kenmore washer, the first step is to check the water supply. Sometimes the water valves may not be fully open or the water pressure may be insufficient, leading to this error. Follow our step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.

Instructions

1. Turn off the water valves and disconnect the hoses from your washer.
2. Place the disconnected end of the hoses in a bucket and turn on the water valves to check if water flows freely. If the water supply is weak or there’s no water flow, the issue may be with your home’s plumbing or water supply. Contact a professional plumber if necessary.
3. If the water supply is adequate, check the inlet screens to ensure they are not clogged. We will discuss this in detail in the next section.
4. Reconnect the hoses and turn on the water valves, ensuring they are fully open. Restart your washer and check if the F20 error code has been resolved.

By following these simple steps, you may be able to fix the F20 error code on your Kenmore washer. If the issue persists, move on to the next section for further troubleshooting steps.

Inspect the Inlet Hoses

If you’ve checked the water supply and are still seeing the F20 error code on your Kenmore washer, the next step is to inspect the inlet hoses. Inlet hoses can become clogged, kinked, or damaged over time, leading to water supply problems and error codes.

To inspect the inlet hoses of your Kenmore washer, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply valves.
2. Disconnect the inlet hoses from the back of the washer.
3. Check the hoses for any signs of kinks, damage, or blockage.
4. If you notice any issues, carefully remove the blockage or replace the damaged hose.
5. Reconnect the hoses and turn on the water supply valves.

If you’ve identified an issue with the inlet hoses and have replaced them, run a test cycle on your washer to ensure that the F20 error code no longer appears.

Tip: It’s a good idea to check the inlet hoses of your Kenmore washer every 6-12 months to ensure they’re in good condition and functioning properly. This can help prevent future error codes from occurring.

Clean the Inlet Screens to Fix Kenmore Washer Error Code F20

If you have checked the water supply and the inlet hoses of your Kenmore washer but are still experiencing the F20 error code, the next step is to clean the inlet screens. These screens can become clogged with debris and prevent proper water flow, leading to the error code.

Here are the steps to clean the inlet screens on your Kenmore washer:

1. Turn off the power to your washer and unplug it from the electrical outlet.
2. Locate the water inlet valve at the back of the machine.
3. Turn off the water supply to your washer by closing the valves on the wall.
4. Disconnect the hoses from the water inlet valve.
5. Use a small brush or toothbrush to gently clean the screens inside the valve.
6. Rinse the screens with water to remove any remaining debris.
7. Reconnect the hoses to the water inlet valve.
8. Turn on the water supply and check for any leaks.
9. Plug the washer back in and turn it on to see if the error code has been resolved.

If the F20 error code persists after cleaning the inlet screens, there may be an issue with the water inlet valve or another component of your Kenmore washer.

“Cleaning the inlet screens is a simple and effective solution to the F20 error code on your Kenmore washer. It may not always be the fix, but it is an important step in the troubleshooting process.”

Inspect the Water Inlet Valve

Another potential culprit for the F20 error code on your Kenmore washer is a malfunctioning water inlet valve. The water inlet valve is responsible for controlling the flow of water into your machine, and if it is not working correctly, it can trigger the F20 error code.

To inspect the water inlet valve, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply to your Kenmore washer by shutting off the valves.
2. Disconnect the inlet hoses from the back of the washer.
3. Locate the water inlet valve. It is typically located at the back of the washer and can be identified by the hoses that attach to it.
4. Inspect the valve for any visible signs of damage or wear. If it looks damaged, it will need to be replaced.
5. Test the valve with a multimeter to ensure it is functioning properly. Set the multimeter to the ohms setting and touch the probes to the terminals on the valve. The reading should be between 500 and 1500 ohms. If the reading is outside of this range, the valve will need to be replaced.

If the water inlet valve is damaged or not functioning correctly, you will need to have it replaced. Consult your Kenmore washer’s user manual or contact a professional technician for assistance with this process.

Check the Pressure Switch

If the water supply and inlet hoses check out, the next component to examine is the pressure switch. As we mentioned earlier, the pressure switch regulates water levels in your Kenmore washer. If it malfunctions, it can trigger the F20 error code. Follow these steps to check the pressure switch:

1. Turn off your Kenmore washer and unplug it from the power source.
2. Locate the pressure switch. This is typically on the control board or near the top of the washer tub.
3. Disconnect the pressure switch hose and blow into it to clear any blockages.
4. Reconnect the hose and turn the washer back on.
5. If the F20 error code persists, use a multimeter to test the pressure switch for continuity.
6. If the pressure switch fails the continuity test, it will need to be replaced.

If you are unsure about how to check the pressure switch or do not have a multimeter, it may be best to consult a professional technician.

Verify the Drainage System

If you have followed the troubleshooting steps so far and the F20 error code on your Kenmore washer persists, it’s time to examine the drainage system. A clog in the system can cause water to back up and result in the error code. Follow these steps to verify the drainage system:

1. Turn off your washer and unplug it
2. Locate the drainage hose at the back of the machine and detach it from the drain
3. Check for any blockages such as lint, debris, or foreign objects
4. Clean the hose by running water through it and clearing any obstructions
5. Reattach the hose and ensure it is properly connected
6. Confirm that the drainage system is functioning correctly by running a cycle with no laundry

If the drainage system was the cause of the error, this step should resolve the issue. However, if you are still experiencing the F20 error code on your Kenmore washer, continue with the remaining troubleshooting steps.

Visual Inspection of Drainage System

If the aforementioned steps did not resolve the issue, visually inspect the drainage system for any damage. Look for any leaks, cracks, or kinks in the drain hose or the connection between the hose and the washer. If you notice any damage, replace the hose or fix the connection to achieve proper drainage.

Ensuring the proper functioning of the drainage system is crucial to prevent water buildup and the F20 error code on your Kenmore washer. If you need assistance or have difficulty inspecting or repairing your drainage system, consider consulting a professional technician.

Examine the Water Level Sensor

The water level sensor plays a crucial role in regulating the water levels inside your Kenmore washer. If it is not functioning correctly, it can lead to the F20 error code. Follow the steps below to examine and test the water level sensor:

1. Unplug your Kenmore washer from the power outlet.
2. Locate the water level sensor, which is typically located near the top of the washer.
3. Remove the wire harness and vacuum tube from the sensor.
4. Use a multimeter to check the resistance across the sensor’s terminals. Refer to your Kenmore washer’s user manual for the recommended resistance value.
5. If the resistance value is outside the recommended range, replace the water level sensor.
6. If the resistance value is within the recommended range, check the wiring and connections to the sensor for any damage or looseness. Repair or replace as necessary.
7. Reattach the wire harness and vacuum tube to the sensor.
8. Plug your Kenmore washer back into the power outlet and run a test cycle to confirm that the F20 error code has been resolved.

By troubleshooting each possible cause of the F20 error code on your Kenmore washer, you can resolve the issue and get back to doing laundry quickly and efficiently.

Check the Control Board

If you have followed all the previous troubleshooting steps and continue to encounter the F20 error code on your Kenmore washer, it may be time to check the control board. The control board is the brain of your appliance, responsible for regulating various functions, including the water supply.

To examine the control board, first, unplug your washer and remove the top panel. Locate the control board, which is usually located near the top of the washer, on the back or side panel. Check for any obvious signs of damage, such as burn marks or loose connections. If the control board appears damaged, it will need to be replaced.

If there are no visible signs of damage, you can try resetting the control board by unplugging the washer for a few minutes and plugging it back in. This may clear any stored error codes and resolve the F20 issue.

If the error persists, you may need to call a professional technician to further examine the control board and make any necessary repairs or replacements.

Table: Control Board Troubleshooting Steps

“The control board is a crucial component of your washer, responsible for regulating various functions. By following the troubleshooting steps mentioned above, you can diagnose and resolve any issues with the control board and ensure smooth laundry operations.”

Maintenance Tips to Prevent Future Errors

Preventing errors in your Kenmore washer is key to ensuring that it runs smoothly and efficiently. Follow these maintenance tips to minimize the risk of encountering error codes in the future:

• Regular cleaning: Keeping your washer clean can help prevent clogs and other issues. Wipe down the exterior and clean the interior of the washer, including the drum and dispensers, on a regular basis.
• Proper loading: Overloading your washer can strain the machine and lead to errors. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for how much laundry to load in the washer.
• Use the right detergent: Using too much or the wrong type of detergent can cause buildup or clogs in your washer. Be sure to use HE detergent recommended for your Kenmore washer.
• Inspect hoses and connections: Regularly check your washer’s inlet and drain hoses for kinks, leaks, and other damage. Replace any damaged hoses and ensure that all connections are tight.

By following these maintenance tips, you can help keep your Kenmore washer functioning at its best and avoid encountering error codes such as the F20. Regular maintenance can also prolong the lifespan of your washer, saving you time and money in the long run.

Conclusion

Now that you have successfully resolved the F20 error code on your Kenmore washer, it’s important to take steps to prevent it from happening again in the future.

Maintenance Tips to Prevent Future Errors

Regular maintenance of your Kenmore washer can help prevent errors and prolong the life of your appliance. Here are some tips to keep your washer in optimal condition:

• Check and clean the inlet screens regularly to prevent blockages.
• Ensure the water valves are fully open and the water pressure is sufficient.
• Inspect the inlet hoses for any blockages or kinks.
• Examine the drainage system for any clogs or malfunctions.
• Test the water level sensor and pressure switch to ensure they are functioning correctly.

By following these maintenance tips, you can minimize the risk of encountering the F20 error code or other errors on your Kenmore washer.

Thank you for reading our comprehensive guide on how to troubleshoot and resolve the F20 error code on your Kenmore washer. We hope this article has been helpful in restoring your washer to full functionality. If you continue to experience difficulties, it may be necessary to consult a professional technician for further assistance.