Error code · Washer

Kenmore 796 Front-Load Washer Code OE: Slow draining

Medium · inspection needed

Code: OE
Appliance: Washer
Brand: Kenmore
Warranty: 30-day workmanship

What OE means

On Kenmore front-load washers whose model numbers start with 796, an LG-built platform, OE means the washer drains slowly. The tub should empty at a steady rate, and when it does not, the control shows OE and the cycle stalls with water still inside. The Wi-Fi front-load reports it the same way. On a 402 front-load, OE stands for water overflow, which is a different condition, so the model prefix decides how we read these letters.

Common causes of OE

Clog in the washer drain
Kinked or restricted drain hose
Wire harness between the control board and the drain pump
Drain pump that does not run when called

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Check the washer drain in the wall for a clog. 2. Look at the drain hose for a kink or restriction behind the washer. 3. Unplug the washer before you look at anything near the pump. 4. Run a drain and spin cycle to see whether OE returns, and call us if it does.

! Why to stop there

Whether the drain pump runs when the control activates it
Whether the harness to the pump is intact
Whether the drain itself is the limit on how fast the tub empties

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

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 rL / OU / F34Kenmore 110 HE Front-Load Washer Codes rL, OU and F34: Clothes in the Clean Washer cycle

OEOE questions

Is OE here the same as overflow?

No. On your 796 front-load OE means slow draining. Overflow is what the same letters mean on a 402 front-load. We check your model number to know which meaning applies.

Can a slow drain turn into a leak?

If the tub sits full and a door is opened, water can spill. Do not open the door while the tub holds water. Wait for the washer to be unplugged and checked.

Does OE mean I need a new pump?

Not always. A blocked drain gives the same reading as a weak pump. We test the drain path first and quote in writing before replacing any part.

Book a visit

Still seeing OE?

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

(713) 955-7152