VERIFIED
Two different faults hide behind F18, and the model series decides which one you have.
Which range do you own?
Kenmore Elite electric range, model numbers beginning 721
The control reports a defective lower oven temperature sensor. F18 can also appear as F4 or F5 on this range. The manual has the range unplugged first, then the sensor tested for resistance: a good lower oven sensor reads 1,090 ohms at 77 F, and it is replaced when the reading is off by more than 100 ohms. That test is technician work.
Glass touch freestanding electric range and Elite slide-in gas or dual-fuel range
Here the code means the oven control board has failed. Models named in the manual for the slide-in group are 790.3263, 790.3264, 790.4260, 790.4261, 790.4275 and 790.4276.
- Disconnect electrical power to the range.
- Wait 30 seconds.
- Restore power and watch the display.
If F18 comes back, the oven control board needs to be replaced.
Other lower oven codes
- F16 covers a lower oven that runs too hot.
- F17 is the related control board code.
- F19 means the lower oven is not heating.
Kenmore range service and repair in San Francisco
A Kenmore range showing F18 in San Francisco or elsewhere around the Bay Area can be looked at through Kenmore range repair. Have the code, the full model number (it shows whether you have a 721 or a 790 range) and the reset you already tried ready when you call (415) 825-6393.
Model compatibility: Kenmore reuses codes across series and model years, so F18 may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.
