Kenmore Washing Machine F20 error code

The washer is not getting enough water, or no water at all. It expected the tub to fill within a set time and it did not happen.

Also shown as: F20, F 20

Last updated: October 6, 2026

Quick answer: Kenmore washing machine error code F20: washer isn't getting water. The most common cause is hot or cold water valves behind the washer are off or only partly open. Try this first — open the water valves fully. If that does not clear it, check the hoses and inlet screens.

What causes the F20 error?

  • Hot or cold water valves behind the washer are off or only partly open
  • Kinked inlet hoses or clogged inlet valve screens
  • FloodSafe auto-shutoff hoses that choke water flow
  • Drain hose siphoning water out of the tub as it fills
  • Water leaks under the washer
  • Failed inlet valve, pressure switch, flow meter, or control board

How to fix Kenmore F20 — step by step

Work through these in order, from simplest and safest first. Stop as soon as the code clears.

  1. Open the water valves fully
    Pull the washer out enough to reach the taps. Make sure both the hot and cold valves behind the washer are turned fully open. Restart the cycle.
  2. Check the hoses and inlet screens
    Turn off both taps and disconnect the hoses where they meet the back of the washer. Hold the hose ends in a bucket and turn the taps on briefly to check flow and pressure. Clean the small mesh screens inside the washer's inlet ports.
    Safety warning: Turn off the water taps before disconnecting any hose.
  3. Replace FloodSafe hoses
    If you have FloodSafe or other auto-shutoff hoses on the washer, they can trip and restrict flow on HE washers. Swap them for standard braided stainless hoses and retest.
  4. Fix the drain hose setup
    Make sure the drain hose goes no more than about 8 inches into the standpipe and that the top of the pipe is not taped airtight. An airtight seal lets the hose siphon water straight out of the tub.
  5. Power-reset the washer
    Unplug the washer for a few minutes, then plug it back in and start a cycle. If F20 returns while the washer is clearly filling normally, a part such as the inlet valve or pressure switch likely needs replacement.

When to call a technician

Stop and call a qualified technician if any of these apply:
  • Both valves are open and hoses flow strongly, but F20 returns
  • You find water leaking under the washer
  • The inlet valve screens are clean but the washer still will not fill
  • A new inlet valve, pressure switch, or flow meter is needed

Frequently asked questions

Why do I get F20 when water is running?

The washer may be losing water as fast as it fills. A drain hose pushed too far down the standpipe or an airtight pipe opening can siphon the water out, so the tub never reaches the expected level.

What are FloodSafe hoses?

They are inlet hoses with a built-in device that shuts off water if it detects a burst. On HE washers they can falsely trip and starve the washer of water, so most technicians recommend standard hoses instead.

How do I reset the F20 code?

Press Stop twice to clear the display. Fix the water supply issue first, then unplug the washer for a few minutes before starting a new cycle.

Sources

Every meaning and fix above was checked against official manufacturer documentation:

FixCode provides general troubleshooting information only — not professional repair advice. If you are unsure about any step, stop and call a qualified technician. Repairs done incorrectly can be dangerous and may void your warranty.

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