Written by
Elena Marsh Appliance Care EditorPublished October 29, 2026
VERIFIED
Error codeF8E1 (8-1)
ApplianceDishwasher
F8E1, sometimes shown as 8-1, tells you the dishwasher is emptying its tub too slowly. The code belongs to Kenmore HE and Elite HE models, the Global HE and the MicroClean HE. If your unit has no digital display, watch for the Clean light flashing instead of a code.
Order of checks on HE, Elite HE and Global HE
Cut electrical power, then close off the water.
Look along the drain path for anything blocking it.
When the path is clear, examine the wiring at the drain pump.
Wiring in good condition leaves the drain pump as the part to replace.
MicroClean HE: wiring comes first
Unplug the dishwasher so nothing is live.
Clear any obstruction found in the drain path.
Inspect the wires running from the drain pump to the electronic control board. Loose ones are pushed back on, and a damaged harness is swapped out.
Only with undamaged wiring is the pump itself replaced.
Similar drain codes
F8E2: an electrical fault in the drain pump circuit
Kenmore dishwasher repair for slow drains around the Bay Area
When clearing the drain path does not end the F8E1 code, book a visit through Kenmore dishwasher repair or phone (415) 825-6393. Callers in San Francisco and nearby Bay Area towns should have the model number, the code, and a short list of what was already checked, including any blockage found.
Model compatibility: Kenmore reuses codes across series and model years, so F8E1 (8-1) may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.
Plain language
What this code means
F8E1 (8-1) means the dishwasher is draining slowly.
Important safety warning. Do not attempt repairs involving electrical components, gas, water lines, refrigerant or sealed systems. Unplug the appliance if it is safe to reach the outlet, and leave internal diagnostics to a qualified technician.
Seeing this code on your Kenmore appliance?
Book a specialist visit for a clear estimate and approval before any repair.
You submit a request with your appliance model and symptom, we confirm an appointment window, and a technician performs an on-site diagnosis. You then receive a clear estimate and decide whether to proceed before any repair begins.
Yes. We provide an upfront estimate after diagnosis. No parts are ordered or installed until you approve the work, so there are no surprise charges.
Replacement parts are selected for the exact model and confirmed with you before ordering or installation.
Service areas are listed on the Locations page. Contact us with your ZIP code to confirm current coverage for your address.
Ready to get your Kenmore appliance working again?
Book a repair online or call us — clear estimates and approval before any repair work begins.
