Kenmore water heater shows E50 and will not power on the display or respond to inputs

Safety: Turn OFF power at the breaker and verify with a meter before touching internal components.

• Check external power: Confirm 240V (electric) or 120V (hybrid) is present at the heater junction box. If not, correct supply issues first.
• Inspect control board: Remove the control cover and visually inspect the main board for burnt spots, swollen capacitors, or corrosion.
• Check fuses: Some boards have onboard fuses. Test for continuity and replace with identical type and rating if blown. If the new fuse blows immediately, the board or connected component is shorted.
• Dry moisture: If there is evidence of water intrusion, dry the area thoroughly and correct the source of the leak.
• Replace board: If the board is visibly damaged or E50 persists, replace the main control board with the exact Kenmore replacement part.
• Reassemble and test: Restore power and verify that the display powers up and normal operation resumes.