FF error code - fills up & won't drain

SOURCE: F2 error code on my Kenmore Elite HE3 washer

Based upon your description, the drain pump has either failed or the pump filter has become clogged.
To check the pump, remove the bottom access panel. There you will find access to the pump clean-out.(Large,white screw cap) BE READY TO CATCH LOTS OF WATER. CAREFULLY AND S_L_O_W_L_Y unscrew the pump clean-out, catching and discarding the water. When the water flow finally stops, completely remove the clean-out filter. Inspect the clean-out filter, the drain hose from the tub as well as inside the pump impeller for any additional debris.

If you need further assistance, let me know
Regards,
reg501

SOURCE: F2 error code on my Kenmore Elite HE3 washer

Had this problem on our Kenmore machine.

This is what done.

1. Unplug the washer

2. Take of the toe panel in the front by removing the three screws.

3. Get a bunch of towels (I mean a bunch!!!)

4. The pump is in the center, and it has a plastic grip handle that one can unscrew to remove the filter. As you unscrew it, LOTS of water will come out. Be ready with the towels. A cookie sheet helps to collect the water too.

5. Clean the filter assembly.

6. If one wishes to check the inlet of the pump, remove the back panel, about 12 screws. (Note, the following works for replace the pump as well)

7. Remove the large bellow from the bottom of the tub that goets to inlet of the pump by removing the clamp

9. Lift up on the plastic cover that covers the wires that power the pump. There may be a small plastic catch that is lifted up as to allow the connector to become free.

8. Remove the Torx screw that holds that is the center just under the filter screen.

9. Pull the pump forward.

10. Unclamp the pump outlet hose.

11. Remove pump

12. Unclamp the large bellow on the pumps inlet and inspect for debris.

13. Clean pump and fitler w/o getting water on the pump.

14. Install in reverse order. Remember, it is much easire to put the inlet bellow and outlet hose on the pump before you put into the washer

SOURCE: kenmore washer...the water just runs it never fills up.

I have seen this problem numerous times on service calls. It sounds like you have a siphoning problem. The key symptom is the wash tub that continously attempts to fill, but cannot achieve the proper water level. This is often caused by not having an air gap on your drain line, improper placement of the drain hose, or a standpipe that is too small in diameter. The following link explains:

http://www.fixya.com/support/r587481-prevent_washer_siphoning

If you place the drain hose in the standpipe too far, or seal the top of the standpipe, this can cause a vacuum which will cause the symptoms you describe. A tell-tale sign will be a sucking noise as you pull the drain hose from the standpipe. Read through the link I provided. If this does not correct your problem please post back and let me know before you rate this solution. This way I can try to assist you further. I hope this corrects your problem.

SOURCE: Sears Kenmore Calypso Washer

Usually "FL" means one of two problems, both with the drain system. The good news is that both are relatively easy to fix yourself. "LD" can also be fixed by doing the following as well.

First, get the washer somewhere outside, in a garage or basement where you can afford to have large amounts of water spill out onto the ground. It may be easier to dismantle the inside of the basin and get as much of the water shop-vac'd out before you move it. Once it's outside, open up the back panel, and on the bottom left you will see a large black hose with clips on either end. Take the clip that attaches the hose to the bottom of the tub off and all the left over water will spill out. Turn it on it's face now, take the bottom panel off, and remove each of the clips on the hoses (drain hose to) and make sure nothing is blocking any of the lines. If it is, then remove it and this MIGHT fix your problem.

The other option (if the previous doesn't work) is to replace your pump motor, because odds are it has gone bad. The Calypso washers are notorious for having drain issues, and there was even a class action lawsuit a few years back that would have likely allowed you to get the washer fixed for free. If you do need to get a new drain pump motor, they go for anywhere between $80-100 and are a breeze to switch out. Hope this helps.

SOURCE: F2 error code on my Kenmore Elite HE3 washer

Depending on how fritzed your drain pump is this may or may not work. I've been using HE detergent because it is supposed to cause fewer suds. However, apparently is causing more suds than needed. I need to use only a couple tablespoons? If your clothes are not dirty enough for the soap to grab onto then extra suds are the result. The repair guy said we had an excessive amount of suds in the system and this affects the sensor and causes the drain pump to run and run and run until it shuts off from overheating. This is why we get the F2 and/or suds error code. He said once a month run the machine on the hottest water cycle with a cup of bleach (no clothes). This will clear out any suds build-up and is cheaper than Afresh which works, too, (but smells cleaner than bleach). After sitting for a day our pump started working again (yay!) It also stopped making the horrible loud sound. So glad I do not have to replace the pump!! yet...(knock on wood!).