Owner’s manual
Error Codes
Where do I find my Kenmore dryer model number?
On Kenmore dryer model 79680272900, the model and serial number are printed on the identification plate located inside the dryer door opening. Open the door and look on the cabinet frame area around the opening; that label is what we use to match the correct parts and manual.
Where to look on model 79680272900
Check these common label locations first:
- Inside the door opening on the cabinet frame (most common)
- Along the inner edge of the door opening near the top
- On the back of the dryer cabinet near the top (less common)
For a picture-based walkthrough, use the 79680272900 use & care manual.
What to write down (and why)
Record these exactly as shown on the label:
- Model number (example: 79680272900)
- Serial number (unique to your dryer)
- Type (gas or electric, if listed)
- Any suffixes or revision codes printed with the model
Quick guide: model vs. serial
| Item | What it tells us | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | The exact dryer design | Correct parts, diagrams, and manual |
| Serial number | When and where it was built | Service history and production details |
Why it matters
Kenmore 796-series dryers can look similar across model numbers, but parts like a door switch, heating element, or lint screen can vary. Using the exact model number helps prevent ordering the wrong replacement part.
Last updated: January 2026
What does PF stand for on a Kenmore dryer?
On the Kenmore dryer model 79680272900, PF stands for power failure. It means the dryer’s control detected an interruption in electrical power during or right after a cycle, so the cycle may have paused or stopped. See the 79680272900 use & care manual for control-panel behavior.
What to do when you see PF
- Press Start/Pause to resume the cycle if the load is still wet.
- If the dryer won’t resume, press Power to clear the display, then reselect the cycle.
- Check the home breaker (electric dryers can run but not heat if one leg of power is lost).
- Make sure the power cord plug is fully seated in the outlet.
- Avoid using an extension cord; plug the dryer directly into a properly grounded outlet.
If PF keeps coming back
Repeated PF codes usually point to an unstable power supply or a loose connection.
| What you notice | Most likely cause | What we recommend |
|---|---|---|
| PF after storms or flickering lights | Brief outage or voltage drop | Restart cycle; consider a surge protector rated for appliances |
| PF when the dryer starts tumbling | Loose plug, weak outlet, or failing breaker | Inspect outlet and cord; have an electrician check the circuit |
| PF plus other symptoms (no heat, shuts off) | Power issue or control/temperature sensing issue | Follow troubleshooting steps in the manual; schedule service if needed |
Why it matters
A power interruption can leave clothes damp and can also cause the dryer to stop mid-cycle. Fixing the underlying power issue helps prevent repeat interruptions and protects components like the electronic control.
For more Kenmore dryer code help, we also recommend Kenmore 796 model dryer error codes.
Last updated: January 2026
How to hard reset a Kenmore dryer?
To hard reset your Kenmore 79680272900 dryer, we recommend a power reset: turn it off, disconnect power for 1 minute, then restore power and start a cycle. This often clears temporary control glitches without changing any settings.
Hard reset steps for Kenmore 79680272900
- Press Power to turn the dryer off.
- Unplug the dryer (or switch the breaker off).
- Wait 1 minute.
- Restore power.
- Press Power, select Normal, then press Start/Pause.
For control-panel details and cycle behavior specific to this model, use the 79680272900 use & care manual.
If the display shows “CL”
On the Kenmore 79680272900, CL indicates Control Lock is enabled (controls are locked), not a failure.
- Press and hold Control Lock for 5 seconds to toggle it off
- Try starting the cycle again
- If the dryer has been stopped for more than 4 minutes, it turns off automatically; press Power and restart the cycle
Quick checks if a reset doesn’t fix it
A reset won’t correct airflow restrictions or a failed switch or sensor. Check these common items:
- Door closes firmly; the door switch must engage
- Lint screen is clean and fully seated
- Vent duct is not crushed, kinked, or heavily restricted
- House power is correct (electric dryers can sometimes run but not heat if one breaker leg trips)
Parts that can be involved (when symptoms match)
| Symptom | What to check | Example compatible part |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t start | Door switch circuit | Dryer door switch EBF61496102 |
| Long dry times, “Check Vent” light | Lint screen and airflow | Dryer lint filter 5231EL1003B |
| Stops too soon on sensor cycles | Moisture sensing | Dryer moisture sensor 6500EL3001A |
Why it matters
A hard reset puts the electronic control back into a normal operating state. If the issue is actually vent restriction or a failing component, fixing that root cause prevents repeat shutdowns and helps protect the heating system.
Last updated: January 2026
