Kenmore Dishwasher i20 — What It Means & How to Fix It
Also shown as I 20, i 20 on some models.
i20 on a Frigidaire-built Kenmore 587 dishwasher means the unit can't drain - usually a low drain-hose loop or a clog in the trap.
What this code means
On Frigidaire/Electrolux-built Kenmore 587 dishwashers, the i20 error means the drain system isn't clearing water. Frigidaire's own documentation points first at drain-hose placement - the hose must rise at least 32 inches above the floor - and at a blocked filter or food trap.
Verify against the model number printed on the tub or door edge: this is the Frigidaire/Electrolux-built Kenmore 587 dishwasher family, and i20 is its drain fault per Frigidaire's official owner-support documentation.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Drain hose looping too low (below 32 inches from the floor) | Very common | Yes - re-route the hose with a high loop by the sink. |
| Clogged foam filter, glass trap, or food trap | Common | Yes - clean the filter and trap per the manual. |
| Drain pump or pump housing obstruction or failure | Occasional | No - pump access requires disassembly. |
What you can try yourself
- Open the door and press and hold the Start/Cancel button until the display clears (or unplug the unit for about three minutes).
- Check the drain hose where it meets the sink drain - it must make a high loop at least 32 inches above the floor before dropping into the drain.
- Remove and clean the glass trap, food trap, and foam filter at the bottom of the tub, fishing out any debris.
- Run a rinse cycle and watch the water - if it still pools at the bottom, the pump or its housing needs a tech.
When to call a technician
- Stop if water is backing up at the sink as well: clear the clog there first or call a plumber.
- Stop if you see water under the unit - turn power off and call for service before running again.
Typical professional repair cost: $50-$300
Frequently asked questions
Why does my Kenmore show i20 after a power outage?
Power events can leave the error pending; clearing it with Start/Cancel or a power-off reset usually brings the dishwasher back.
Does i20 always need a technician?
No - in the majority of cases it's the drain-hose height or a clogged filter, both easy DIY checks.
Sources checked
Error meanings can vary by model. This guide was checked against the documentation above; use the manual for the model number on your own appliance when it differs.
Related Kenmore codes
- Kenmore Dishwasher i40 i40 on a Frigidaire-built Kenmore 587 dishwasher means the filter or sump is clogged with food soil - clean the glass trap and filter and run it again.
- Kenmore Dishwasher PF PF on a Frigidaire-built Kenmore 587 dishwasher is the power-failure reminder - the cycle was interrupted when electricity dropped.
- Kenmore Dishwasher F8E4 F8E4 is the Whirlpool-built Kenmore 665 dishwasher's flood code - the float detected water in the bottom of the machine.
- Kenmore Washer PF PF means the washer lost power in the middle of a cycle — restart it and you're usually done.
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