Kenmore 110 VMAX Top-Load Washer Code F8 E3: Flood level on a VMAX
Top-load VMAX washers by Kenmore, with a 110. prefix, are a Whirlpool-built platform. On them F8 E3 means the electronic control senses a water level that exceeds the washer's capacity, an overflow or flood condition. The…
- Code
- F8 E3
- Appliance
- Washer
- Brand
- Kenmore
- Warranty
- 30-day workmanship
What F8 E3 means
Top-load VMAX washers by Kenmore, with a 110. prefix, are a Whirlpool-built platform. On them F8 E3 means the electronic control senses a water level that exceeds the washer's capacity, an overflow or flood condition. The water level pressure tube is the first suspect, since a kink, blockage or air leak can mislead the sensing. Water siphoning out through the drain hose also confuses it. You will see F8 E3 and the cycle stops.
Common causes of F8 E3
- Water level pressure tube kinked, blocked or leaking air
- Drain hose installed so that water siphons out
- Inlet valve that lets water through when it should not
1. If water is rising, close both faucets behind the washer and unplug it. 2. Check that the drain hose is installed with the proper air gap so it cannot siphon. 3. Look for any visible kinks in hoses. 4. Leave the faucets closed if the tub keeps filling.
- Whether the pressure tube is the cause or the sensing is
- Whether the drain setup is siphoning water
- Whether the inlet valve passes water when closed
Other Washer codes
Can the drain hose really trigger F8 E3 on a VMAX?
It means the control sees a water level above the washer's capacity. On this Whirlpool-built VMAX platform it can be a real flood, or a blocked or leaking level tube giving a false reading.
How is the VMAX different from the VMW here?
The VMAX has a level tube to check and a drain installation that must not siphon. The VMW points more at the inlet valves and the board.
Can the drain hose cause F8 E3?
Yes, if it is installed so water siphons out, the level swings and the control reads it as an overflow. A correct drain setup stops that.
Still seeing F8 E3?
A technician diagnoses it on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.