Error code · Washer

Kenmore 110 Top-Load Washer Code F8 E1: Tub filling too slowly

Kenmore top-load washers with model numbers starting 110. are a Whirlpool-built platform sold as VMW and VMAX. On both, F8 E1 means water is not filling the tub, or it is taking too long. On the…

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Code: F8 E1
Appliance: Washer
Brand: Kenmore
Warranty: 30-day workmanship

What F8 E1 means

Kenmore top-load washers with model numbers starting 110. are a Whirlpool-built platform sold as VMW and VMAX. On both, F8 E1 means water is not filling the tub, or it is taking too long. On the VMAX the display can show LF as well as F8 E1 for the same long fill. The control expects the tub to reach its level in a set time and stops when it does not. You will see the code and a tub that stays low.

Common causes of F8 E1

Water supply faucets behind the washer not fully open
Fill hoses or inlet screens restricted
Inlet water valve assembly that does not pass enough water
Level sensing that does not register the rising water

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Check that both faucets behind the washer are fully open. 2. Look at the fill hoses for kinks or crushed bends. 3. Run another cycle and watch whether water enters. 4. If no water arrives, leave the faucets open and the washer unplugged.

! Why to stop there

Whether the supply and hoses are clear or the inlet valve is the restriction
Whether water enters but the sensing misses it
Whether a short fill problem hides a failing valve

Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.

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Other Washer codes

PFKenmore 796 Front-Load Washer Code PF: Power failure during the cycle PFKenmore 796 Wi-Fi Front-Load Washer Code PF: Power loss message PFKenmore Calypso Top-Load Washer Code PF: Power failure rL / OU / F34Kenmore 110 HE Front-Load Washer Codes rL, OU and F34: Clothes in the Clean Washer cycle SdKenmore HE2 Front-Load Washer Code Sd: Too many suds SdKenmore HE5 Front-Load Washer Code Sd: Excessive suds SdKenmore HE5 Steam Front-Load Washer Code Sd: Suds not cleared Sd or F71Kenmore 110 Oasis Top-Load Washer Codes Sd and F71: Excessive suds

F8 E1F8 E1 questions

What does LF have to do with F8 E1 on a top-loader?

It means the tub is not filling in time. On this Whirlpool-built VMW and VMAX platform the control stops when the expected water level does not arrive, so it displays F8 E1.

What is LF on my VMAX?

LF is the display shorthand for the same long fill condition. Treat it like F8 E1 and check the faucets and hoses first. Low household water pressure can also slow a fill.

Could the inlet valve be the cause?

Yes, it is a common suspect. We test the supply, the hoses and the valve itself, and measure how the tub fills, before we quote any part.

Book a visit

Still seeing F8 E1?

A technician diagnoses it on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.

(713) 955-7152