Reviewed by Liam Porter · Last reviewed August 11, 2026
Written by
Liam Porter Appliance Care EditorPublished September 2, 2026Updated October 17, 2026
Content status:
Verified
Error codeF3E3
ApplianceDishwasher
Quick answer
F3E3 means the thermistor/OWI failed calibration. KitchenAid lists an OWI failure or a leaking drain hose check valve.
Model compatibility: KitchenAid reuses codes across series and model years, so F3E3 may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.
Plain language
What this code means
The thermistor/OWI failed calibration: an OWI failure, or a drain hose check valve that is not sealing so dirty water backs into the dishwasher.
Two very different causes
Where most codes point at one part, F3E3 lists two. The service documents report that the thermistor/OWI “failed calibration” and name the reason as either an OWI failure or a drain hose check valve that is not sealing; with the valve, dirty water is let back into the dishwasher.
A drain part on a sensor code
The sources do not explain why a drain valve belongs with a sensor code. All they give is that water backing in dirty is named among the reasons for the failed calibration. So the list splits: the sensor accounts for one, the drain connection for the other.
About check valves
A check valve lets water go one direction only. On a drain hose it keeps water leaving the dishwasher from running back. If it fails to seal, the flow runs the wrong way. This is only the general principle of such valves.
What you can do
No owner task for F3E3 appears in the service documents. Backflow is one of the two causes listed, so when you call, tell us if the tub had dirty water in it as the code showed. The drain hose and check valve are not for you to work on.
Important safety warning. Do not attempt repairs involving electrical components, gas, water lines, refrigerant or sealed systems. Unplug the appliance if it is safe to reach the outlet, and leave internal diagnostics to a qualified technician.
Seeing this code on your KitchenAid appliance?
Book a specialist visit for a clear estimate and approval before any repair.
