How do you reset the F1 code on a Kenmore stove?
On a Kenmore 79045062401 electric range, you reset an F1 code by clearing the fault on the control, then power-cycling the range. Press CLEAR/STOP (or CLEAR/OFF) to stop the beeping and clear the display; if the code returns, shut off power at the breaker (or unplug) for several minutes, then restore power.
Quick reset steps (in order)
- Press CLEAR/STOP to clear the code and stop the alarm.
- Wait 30 seconds; try setting BAKE again.
- If F1 comes back, turn OFF the range circuit breaker (or unplug the cord).
- Leave power off for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Restore power and test BAKE and BROIL.
- If F1 returns during use, the electronic oven control is detecting a fault condition.
What F1 usually means on this model
On this Kenmore 790-series range, F1 is tied to an electronic control fault (the control senses an abnormal condition and triggers the alarm). Clearing the code may get you cooking again temporarily, but a repeating F1 points to a control or keypad issue that needs diagnosis using the troubleshooting guidance in the owner's manual.
What to check before replacing parts
- Make sure the control panel is dry; moisture around controls can cause problems.
- Turn all knobs to OFF and verify no surface element switch is stuck between settings.
- If the oven was just cleaned, allow extra time for the control area to fully dry.
- If the range recently lost power, restore power and reprogram the oven.
Common outcomes and next steps
| What happens after reset | What it indicates | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| F1 clears and does not return | Temporary control glitch | Keep using; monitor |
| F1 returns immediately | Persistent control/keypad fault | Follow diagnostics in the manual; service recommended |
| F1 returns when heating | Heat-related control issue | Check wiring connections and control area; service recommended |
Why it matters
An F1 alarm is the range telling you the oven control detected a fault. Resetting stops the beeping, but addressing a repeating F1 prevents unexpected shutdowns during baking or broiling.
Last updated: February 2026
How do I get my Kenmore oven out of lock mode?
To take your Kenmore 79045062401 electric range out of lock mode, press and hold STOP/CLEAR for 3 seconds. The display should clear the lock message and the door lock motor will unlock; normal oven controls will work again (give it about 15 seconds). See the owner's manual for the exact button labels on your control panel.
Quick unlock steps (control lockout)
- Make sure the oven is not running a bake, broil, or self-clean cycle.
- Press STOP/CLEAR.
- Keep holding STOP/CLEAR for 3 seconds.
- Watch the display; the lock message should go away.
- Wait about 15 seconds for the motor-driven latch to finish unlocking.
- Try opening the door and selecting Bake or Broil.
What you should see on the display
| What you see | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
LOC |
Oven door/control lockout is active | Hold STOP/CLEAR for 3 seconds to toggle off |
LOT (when pressing a pad) |
A key was pressed while lockout is active | Release the pad, then hold STOP/CLEAR for 3 seconds |
| Door locked light flashing | Latch is moving | Do not pull on the door; wait until it stops |
Why it matters
Lock mode disables the oven controls and can keep the door latched. Waiting for the latch motor to finish prevents damage to the door latch and helps the control return to normal operation.
If it still will not unlock
- Confirm you are holding STOP/CLEAR a full 3 seconds.
- Wait for the latch to stop moving before trying again.
- If the door is stuck after a power outage, reset power at the breaker for 1 minute, restore power, then try the unlock steps again.
- If the display continues to show an error code, use our Kenmore 790 self-cleaning range error codes guide to identify the next best fix.
Last updated: February 2026
What is simmer select on Kenmore stove?
On the Kenmore 79045062401 electric range, “simmer select” is a low-heat surface cooking setting used to keep food warm, melt, or gently simmer without boiling. It’s essentially the lowest range of the surface element control, designed for steady, gentle heat (not high output).
How to use simmer select (best results)
We recommend starting on a higher setting to get the pan and food up to temperature, then reducing to simmer select to hold a gentle simmer.
- Use a flat-bottom pan that fully contacts the element area
- Start on HI to bring liquids to a boil, then reduce to LO (MIN) for simmer
- Keep a lid on for more stable simmering and less heat loss
- Stir sauces occasionally to prevent scorching
- Avoid very thin cookware; it cycles heat more aggressively and can scorch
What you should see on the cooktop
Depending on your cooktop style, the element may cycle on and off at low settings. That cycling is normal and is how the range maintains a lower average temperature.
| Setting range | What it’s for | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| HI (MAX) | Boiling, searing, starting foods | Continuous high heat |
| 2-4 (med-low) | Poaching, stewing | Moderate cycling |
| LO (MIN) / simmer | Keep warm, melt, simmer | More frequent cycling, gentler heat |
Why it matters
Using simmer select prevents overcooking and scorching when you’re melting chocolate, holding gravy, or keeping soups at a gentle simmer. It also reduces boil-overs and helps protect cookware and the cooktop surface.
Related reference
For the exact surface-control guidance and the recommended heat-setting chart for this model, use the owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
How do I reset my Kenmore electric range?
To reset your Kenmore electric range model 79045062401, we recommend doing a full power reset: turn the range off at the circuit breaker (or unplug it if accessible), wait 1 minute, then restore power. This clears many control glitches and false error conditions.
Quick reset steps (power reset)
- Turn all surface element knobs to OFF.
- Switch the range circuit breaker OFF (or unplug the cord if you can reach it safely).
- Wait 60 seconds.
- Switch the breaker ON (or plug the range back in).
- Set the clock and test Bake and a surface element.
If the reset does not fix the problem
A reset helps when the electronic oven control is confused, but it will not correct a failed heating part or wiring issue. Check these common causes next:
- Oven not heating evenly or at all: a failed temperature sensor or bake element is common.
- One surface element not heating: the element, receptacle, or control switch can be the issue.
- Display shows an error code: use the code to narrow the failure.
Common parts related to “won’t heat” symptoms
| Symptom | What to check first | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Oven temperature is inaccurate | Oven temperature sensor | Range oven temperature sensor 316217002 |
| Oven will not bake | Bake element | Oven bake element 318255006 |
| Oven will not broil | Broiler element | Oven broiler element 318255605 |
Why it matters
A power reset is the safest first step because it restores the control to a known state without disassembling the range. If symptoms return immediately after the reset, that points to a component problem (sensor, element, switch, or wiring) rather than a one-time control glitch.
Safety notes before troubleshooting
- Turn power off at the breaker before removing panels or touching wiring.
- Do not repair or replace parts unless the procedure is specifically recommended.
- If you need disassembly steps and safety guidance, follow the owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026




