Error code · Washer

Kenmore 110 VMW Top-Load Washer Code F8 E3: Overflow sensed on a VMW

High · stop use, call now

Code: F8 E3
Appliance: Washer
Brand: Kenmore
Warranty: 30-day workmanship

What F8 E3 means

On Kenmore VMW top-load washers whose model numbers start with 110., a Whirlpool-built platform, F8 E3 reports an overflow condition: the control believes there is too much water in the tub. The inlet valves can fail to shut off and keep filling, or the level sensing, which lives on the main electronic control board, can misread when the tub is not actually overflowing. You will see F8 E3 on the display and the cycle stops.

Common causes of F8 E3

Inlet water valves that do not shut off
Water level pressure switch on the main electronic control board reading wrongly
Main electronic control board itself

✓ One safe check you can try

1. If water is rising, close both faucets behind the washer and unplug it. 2. If the tub is not overflowing, check whether water still enters while the washer is off. 3. Check the drain hose is not siphoning. 4. Leave the faucets closed if the tub keeps filling.

! Why to stop there

Whether the inlet valves are passing water when closed
Whether the tub is truly overfull or the level reading is wrong
Whether the level sensing on the board is the cause

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

Sud / SUDSKenmore Washer Codes Sud and SUDS: Excessive suds on 110, 796 and 402 front-loads tEKenmore 796 Washer Code tE: Thermistor and heating UEKenmore 796 Washer Code UE: Unbalanced load uLKenmore 110 Oasis Top-Load Washer Code uL: Unbalanced load Wash LED onKenmore 110 VMW Top-Load Washer Wash Light On: No fill or slow fill 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

F8 E3F8 E3 questions

Why would a VMW say overflow when the tub looks fine?

It means the control detected an overflow. On this Whirlpool-built top-load washer, either the tub really holds too much water or the level sensing on the main board is reading wrong.

Is F8 E3 the same on the VMAX?

The characters match, but the VMAX version has its own page because the checks differ, such as the level tube. Make sure you confirm your washer version.

Should I shut the water off?

If you see water rising, yes. Close both faucets, unplug the washer and tell us. If the tub is dry, the code likely points at the sensing.

Book a visit

Still seeing F8 E3?

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

(713) 955-7152