E12
Kenmore
Pressure Switch / Combustion Air Proving Failure (Power Vent Models)
Kenmore gas water heater displays E12 and will not attempt ignition
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Blocked vent pipe, failed pressure switch, disconnected or cracked pressure tubing, inoperative inducer fan (blower)
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety: Turn OFF power and gas before servicing venting or blower components.
- Check vent termination: Go outside and inspect the vent termination for nests, debris, or ice. Clear any obstructions.
- Inspect vent piping: Verify that vent and intake (if two-pipe) are properly supported, not sagging, and have correct slope. Look for water accumulation in low spots.
- Check pressure tubing: Remove the front cover and locate the pressure switch and its rubber tubing. Ensure tubing is not cracked, kinked, or disconnected. Replace if brittle.
- Test blower operation: Restore power (gas still OFF). Call for heat and listen for the inducer fan. If it does not run, check its wiring and replace the inducer blower motor if it has failed.
- Pressure switch test: With a multimeter, verify continuity across the pressure switch terminals when the blower is running. If it does not close, replace the pressure switch with the correct Kenmore part.
- Reassemble and test: Restore gas, clear any stored codes per manual, and verify normal ignition without E12.
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Repair Difficulty
Professional Required
5/5
Required Part
Pressure Switch
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