Kenmore Washer Error Code nW

The nW code stands for No Water and appears during the Install Cycle, a setup check the washer performs after installation. It means the machine attempted to detect incoming water and found none. The most common reasons are that the water supply valves behind the washer are still closed or the inlet hoses have not been connected. Opening the valves and securing the hose connections typically resolves it.

Simply resetting the washer will not permanently clear the nW code if the underlying water supply issue has not been resolved. The Install Cycle is designed to verify the water connection, so the code will return until water flow is successfully detected. Fix the hose connections and open the supply valves first, then complete the Install Cycle for the code to clear properly.

In most cases there is no cost at all, since the fix involves opening supply valves or securing hose connections that were simply missed during installation. If a hose or the rubber sealing washers inside the fittings need to be replaced, parts typically cost between $5 and $30 depending on hose length and quality. A service call to have a technician inspect and reconnect the hoses could range from $75 to $150 if you prefer professional assistance.

Start by checking that both the hot and cold inlet hoses are fully connected at the back of the washer and at the wall supply valves. Then open both shutoff valves completely by turning them counterclockwise. Also check for any kinks in the hoses that could be blocking flow. Once connections are confirmed and valves are open, run the Install Cycle again to clear the code.

The nW code is not a safety hazard. It is an installation check code that prevents the washer from operating without a confirmed water supply, which actually protects the machine from running dry. The washer will not advance to normal wash cycles until the Install Cycle completes successfully, so there is no risk of damage from ignoring it temporarily while troubleshooting the connection.