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Error code reference

Kenmore Dishwasher Error Code E1

Heating system fault (heater, Hi-Limit, flow switch, NTC, control heater relay).

Kenmore codesKenmore dishwasher codes

Heating system fault (heater, Hi-Limit, flow switch, NTC, control heater relay).

First step from the service manual

Run test program and measure current to dishwasher during heating steps S:04/S:05; if ~11A heater system is OK, if ~1.5A check heater system components.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
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What E1 means on a Kenmore dishwasher

The E1 error code on a Kenmore dishwasher indicates a heating system fault. This code is triggered when the control detects a problem within the heating circuit, which includes several key components: the heating element itself, the high-limit thermostat (Hi-Limit), the flow switch, the NTC temperature sensor, and the control board's heater relay. Any one of these components failing or falling out of specification can cause the E1 code to appear and halt the wash cycle.

The primary diagnostic method for E1 is to run the dishwasher's built-in test program and measure the current draw during heating steps S:04 and S:05. A healthy heating system will draw approximately 11 amps during these steps. If the measured current is only around 1.5 amps, the heater circuit is not functioning correctly and individual components must be tested. The 1.5A reading typically reflects the control board and other baseline loads operating without the heating element drawing power, confirming the heater circuit is open or interrupted.

Faults in this system can stem from a burned-out heating element, a tripped or failed Hi-Limit thermostat, a malfunctioning flow switch that prevents the heater from activating without confirmed water flow, a failed NTC sensor sending incorrect temperature data to the control board, or a defective heater relay on the control board itself. Proper diagnosis requires a multimeter and a clamp meter to measure resistance and live current during the test cycle, allowing you to isolate which component in the heating circuit has failed.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E1

  1. 01

    Failed Heating Element

    Part replacement

    The heating element is the most common cause of E1. A burned-out or open-circuit element will produce the low 1.5A current reading during test steps S:04 and S:05 instead of the expected 11A.

  2. 02

    Tripped or Defective Hi-Limit Thermostat

    Part replacement

    The high-limit thermostat cuts power to the heater if temperatures exceed a safe threshold. If it has tripped or failed open, it breaks the heating circuit and triggers E1.

  3. 03

    Faulty NTC Temperature Sensor

    Part replacement

    The NTC sensor reports water temperature to the control board. If it is reading incorrectly or has failed, the control may not activate the heater relay, resulting in an E1 fault.

  4. 04

    Defective Flow Switch

    Part replacement

    The flow switch confirms water is present before allowing the heater to energize. A stuck or failed flow switch can prevent the heater from activating even when water is in the tub.

  5. 05

    Failed Heater Relay on Control Board

    Part replacement

    If the relay responsible for switching power to the heating element has failed on the control board, the element will never receive voltage regardless of the condition of other components.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E1

What does E1 mean on a Kenmore dishwasher?
E1 on a Kenmore dishwasher indicates a heating system fault. The control board has detected a problem in the circuit that heats the wash water, which can involve the heating element, Hi-Limit thermostat, flow switch, NTC temperature sensor, or the heater relay on the control board. The dishwasher will not complete a normal cycle until this fault is resolved.
How do I diagnose and fix the E1 error on my Kenmore dishwasher?
Start by running the dishwasher's built-in test program and use a clamp meter to measure current draw during heating steps S:04 and S:05. If the current reads approximately 11 amps, the heater system is functioning correctly and the fault may be intermittent. If it reads approximately 1.5 amps, the heater circuit is interrupted and you need to test each component individually: the heating element, Hi-Limit thermostat, NTC sensor, flow switch, and the control board relay. Use a multimeter to check resistance and continuity across each component to identify the failed part.
Will resetting my Kenmore dishwasher clear the E1 error?
Resetting the dishwasher may temporarily clear the E1 code, but it will return as soon as the control attempts to run the heating cycle again and detects the same fault. A reset does not repair any of the underlying components. The only way to permanently clear E1 is to identify and replace the defective component in the heating circuit.
Is the E1 error on a Kenmore dishwasher a safety concern?
The E1 code is actually a protective response, as the dishwasher stops operation when it detects the heating system is not working correctly. This helps prevent potential overheating or component damage. However, you should not repeatedly attempt to run cycles while the fault is active, and any electrical component inspection or replacement should be done with the dishwasher fully unplugged from power.
How much does it cost to repair an E1 error on a Kenmore dishwasher?
Repair costs depend on which component has failed. A replacement heating element typically costs between $20 and $60 for the part, while a control board can range from $80 to $200 or more. If you hire a technician, expect to add $75 to $150 or more for labor depending on your area. Diagnosing the specific failed component first will help you avoid unnecessary parts replacement and keep costs down.

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