Kenmore Dishwasher Error Code OE — Drain Error / Standing Water Remains
What this means
The OE error code on Kenmore dishwashers indicates the machine cannot drain the water from the tub. You may notice standing water at the bottom of the dishwasher after a cycle. This is commonly caused by a clogged drain filter, a blocked drain hose, a kinked hose, food debris in the drain pump, or a garbage disposal knockout plug that was never removed.
Alternate codes: 0E
Step-by-step fix
4 stepsClean the drain filter and sump area
Remove the lower dish rack. Locate the drain filter assembly at the bottom of the tub — it usually twists and lifts out. Remove food debris, broken glass, and buildup. Also clean the sump area beneath the filter.
Clean the drain filter after every few loads to prevent clogs. Scrape dishes before loading to keep food particles out.
Check the garbage disposal connection
If your dishwasher drains through a garbage disposal, run the disposal to clear any food clogs. If the disposal was recently installed, make sure the dishwasher drain knockout plug was removed from inside the disposal inlet.
This is one of the most common mistakes after a new garbage disposal installation — the knockout must be punched out with a screwdriver and hammer.
Inspect the drain hose
Pull the dishwasher forward enough to access the drain hose underneath. Check for kinks, clogs, or a sagging section that traps water. The hose should loop up to the underside of the countertop (high loop) before descending to the disposal or drain.
A high loop in the drain hose prevents dirty water from the sink from back-flowing into the dishwasher.
Check the air gap (if installed)
If you have an air gap on the countertop next to the faucet, remove its cap and clean inside. Air gaps can become clogged with debris, blocking the dishwasher drain path.
Not all installations have an air gap — some use a high-loop method instead. Both serve the same anti-backflow purpose.
When to call a professional
If the drain filter, hose, and disposal are all clear but water still won't drain, the drain pump motor may be faulty. Replacing the drain pump requires removing the dishwasher from the cabinet.
Related error codes
Information compiled from manufacturer service manuals, official troubleshooting documentation, and appliance repair industry resources. This guide is for informational purposes only — always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.
Learn more about our sourcesParts you may need
Drain Pump Motor
Part #WPW10348269 · $30–$60
Only if all drain paths are clear and pump is not running
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