Kenmore Washer Troubleshooting Not Draining: Expert Guide

If you own a Kenmore washer, you might encounter draining issues at some point. When this happens, it can be frustrating and inconvenient. However, troubleshooting and resolving the problem is not always as complicated as it might seem.

In this expert guide, we will provide step-by-step instructions to help you resolve the issue of a Kenmore washer not draining. We will explore the common causes behind this problem, such as clogged drain hoses, faulty drain pumps, or malfunctioning lid switches. Additionally, we will guide you through inspecting and testing each component, so you can understand the root of the problem.

By the end of this guide, you will have the necessary tools to fix your Kenmore washer and get it draining properly again.

Key Takeaways

• Kenmore washer not draining? Don’t panic! Troubleshooting and resolving the issue is possible with our expert guide.
• Understanding the common causes of the problem, like clogged drain hoses and malfunctioning lid switches, is crucial in finding a solution.
• Inspecting and testing each component, such as the drain pump motor and control board, is necessary to diagnose the root of the issue.
• Implementing preventive measures can help avoid future draining problems in your Kenmore washer.
• By the end of this guide, you will have the tools you need to fix your Kenmore washer and restore proper draining functionality.

Kenmore Washer Not Draining: Possible Causes

Dealing with a Kenmore washer not draining can be a frustrating experience. However, understanding the possible causes can help you troubleshoot and resolve the problem more efficiently. Here are some of the most common reasons why your Kenmore washer won’t drain:

1. Clogged Drain Hoses: Over time, it’s not uncommon for debris and lint to accumulate in your drain hoses and obstruct the flow of water. This can cause your Kenmore washer not to empty water properly.
2. Malfunctioning Drain Pumps: Drain pumps are responsible for removing water from your washer’s drum. When they malfunction, your Kenmore washing machine may not drain as expected.
3. Broken Water Pump Belt: The water pump belt in your Kenmore washer helps the pump spin and drain water from the drum. A worn-out or broken belt can cause your washer not to spin and drain.
4. Defective Lid Switch: Your washer’s lid switch prevents it from spinning, draining, or filling when the lid is open. A malfunctioning switch can cause draining problems.
5. Blocked Drain Filter: Similar to drain hoses, the drain filter can become clogged with dirt and other debris, leading to water drainage problems in your Kenmore washer.
6. Control Board Issues: Your washer’s control board is responsible for directing and regulating the machine’s individual functions. When it fails, your Kenmore washing machine may not drain water properly.

By identifying the possible causes of a Kenmore washer not draining, you can quickly troubleshoot and resolve the problem. Next, we will go over the necessary steps to help you fix the issue.

Checking the Drain Hose

If your Kenmore washer is not emptying water, a clogged drain hose might be the issue. Follow these steps to check and clean the drain hose:

1. Unplug the washer and turn off the water supply
2. Locate the drain hose at the back of the machine
3. Detach the drain hose from the wall or standpipe. Have a bucket or towels ready to catch any water left in the hose.
4. Inspect the hose for any obstructions, such as lint, debris, or small items. Use a flashlight to spot any blockages.
5. If there is a blockage, carefully remove it using pliers or a pipe cleaner. Make sure not to damage the hose.
6. If the hose is clear, reattach it securely to the wall or standpipe.
7. Run the washer on a drain cycle to check if it is properly draining. If the issue persists, move on to the next troubleshooting step.

Tip:

Make sure the drain hose is not kinked or bent, as this can also impede water flow.

Inspecting the Drain Pump

One of the most common reasons for a Kenmore washer not draining is a faulty drain pump. If you suspect this may be the issue, the first step is to inspect the drain pump for blockages or damage.

To begin, disconnect the washer from its power source and turn off the water supply. Next, locate the drain pump by referring to the user manual or searching online for a diagram of your specific model.

Once you’ve located the drain pump, remove any debris or obstructions that may be causing the problem. Check the impeller blades for damage or wear, and make sure they are not blocked by any foreign objects. If the impeller is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

If you have cleared the drain pump and impeller of any blockages and damage, but the washer still won’t pump water out, the drain pump motor may be malfunctioning. Continue troubleshooting by following the steps in the next section.

Replacing the Drain Pump

If you have determined that the drain pump is faulty and needs to be replaced, it is recommended to seek the assistance of a professional technician. However, if you are comfortable with DIY repairs, follow the steps below:

1. Disconnect the washer from the power source and turn off the water supply.
2. Locate the drain pump and disconnect the hoses and wiring.
3. Remove any mounting screws or brackets holding the drain pump in place.
4. Install the new drain pump and reconnect the hoses and wiring. Make sure all connections are secure and tight.
5. Test the washer to ensure it is draining properly and there are no leaks.

Always make sure to refer to the user manual for specific instructions and safety guidelines before attempting any repairs on your Kenmore washer.

Verifying the Lid Switch

If your Kenmore washer is not spinning and draining, the lid switch may be the culprit. The lid switch acts as a safety feature that prevents the washer from functioning when the lid is open. If the switch is faulty or damaged, it can prevent your washer from draining properly.

To verify if the lid switch is the cause of the problem, you will need to perform the following steps:

1. Unplug the washer from the electrical outlet.
2. Locate the lid switch assembly, which is typically positioned beneath the top panel of the washer.
3. Inspect the switch for any signs of damage or wear and tear. If needed, replace the switch with a new one.
4. Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the switch. If there is no continuity, the switch is defective and needs to be replaced.
5. Reassemble the washer and test to see if the issue has been resolved.

If you’re unsure about the location of the lid switch or how to perform these steps, consult your washer’s user manual or seek the assistance of a professional.

Once you have verified that the lid switch is functioning correctly, you can move on to other potential causes of your Kenmore washer not draining.

Clearing Obstructions from the Drain Filter

If your Kenmore washer is not emptying water or won’t pump water out, a clogged drain filter may be the cause. Over time, small items such as coins, buttons, or lint can accumulate and block the filter, preventing water from draining properly.

To clear obstructions from the drain filter, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the power supply to the washer and unplug it.
2. Locate the drain filter, which is typically located at the bottom front of the appliance. Check your user manual for specific instructions, as the location may vary depending on the model.
3. Place a towel or a small bucket underneath the filter to catch any remaining water that may spill out.
4. Using pliers, twist the filter counterclockwise to loosen and remove it.
5. Clean the filter by removing any debris or foreign objects. You can use a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush to dislodge any stubborn dirt.
6. Reinsert the filter and tighten it by twisting it clockwise.
7. Plug in the washer and turn on the power supply to test if the issue is resolved.

If the problem persists, there might be other underlying issues causing your Kenmore washer not to drain. Check the other sections in this guide for additional troubleshooting steps.

Checking the Water Pump Belt

If your Kenmore washer is not draining and spinning, the cause could be a loose or broken water pump belt. Here are the steps to check and replace the belt:

1. Unplug the washer from the power source.
2. Locate the belt at the bottom of the washer. You may need to remove the front panel to access it.
3. Inspect the belt for any signs of wear or damage. If the belt is loose, tighten it by adjusting the motor mounting bolts. If the belt is broken, you will need to replace it.
4. Remove the old belt by loosening the bolts that hold the motor in place and sliding the belt off the pulley.
5. Install the new belt by sliding it over the motor pulley and stretching it around the water pump pulley. Tighten the motor mounting bolts to adjust the tension.
6. Reattach the front panel (if necessary) and plug the washer back in.

After replacing the water pump belt, run a cycle to test whether the draining and spinning issues have been resolved.

Troubleshooting the Drain Pump Motor

If you have already checked the drain hose and pump and still have a Kenmore washer not draining, the problem might be with the drain pump motor. This is a more complex issue, but you can troubleshoot it following these steps:

1. Unplug your Kenmore washer from the power source.
2. Remove the screws from the back panel of the washer and take it off.
3. Locate the drain pump motor and check for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or breaks. If you notice any, replace the motor.
4. Using a multimeter, test the motor’s continuity by touching the probes to its terminals. If there is no continuity, replace the motor.
5. If the motor has continuity, check the wire harness connections between the motor and the control board. Make sure they are securely plugged in and not damaged or corroded. If they are, replace the wire harness.
6. If the wire harness is fine, the issue might be with the control board. Inspect it for visible signs of damage, such as burns or corrosion. If you notice any, replace the control board.

If you are unsure about performing any of these steps, consult with a professional technician. It is important to note that working with electrical components can be dangerous, so always ensure that your Kenmore washer is unplugged before attempting any repairs.

Inspecting the Control Board

If your Kenmore washer is not emptying water or won’t pump water out, the control board might be the culprit. The control board, also known as the PCB (printed circuit board), is the electronic brain of your washer, controlling various functions like water levels, temperature, and spin cycles.

To inspect the control board, follow these steps:

1. Ensure the washer is unplugged from the power supply.
2. Locate the control board. Depending on the model, it can be found in different places, such as behind the control panel or at the bottom of the washer.
3. Visually inspect the control board for any visible damage, such as burns, cracks, or bulging capacitors.
4. Use a multimeter to test the voltage of the control board and make sure it is receiving power correctly. Refer to the owner’s manual for the specific voltage requirements of your model.
5. If the control board is damaged or not receiving power correctly, it needs to be replaced. Refer to the owner’s manual for instructions on how to order and install a new control board.

Inspecting the control board requires some technical knowledge and expertise. If you are not comfortable with electrical work, we recommend consulting a professional technician to perform this step.

Resolving Other Possible Issues

If none of the previous troubleshooting steps have resolved the issue of your Kenmore washer not draining, there might be other underlying problems. Here are some additional issues to consider:

• The drain hose might not be installed correctly, causing blockages or kinks in the hose.
• The water level switch, which controls the water level in the washer, might malfunction and prevent proper draining.
• The timer, which controls the duration of the washer’s cycles, might be defective and prevent the draining cycle from starting.
• The pressure switch, which detects the water level in the washer, might not be functioning properly.
• If your Kenmore washer is installed on an uneven surface, it might not be level, causing draining issues.

If none of these issues seem to be the cause of the draining problem in your Kenmore washer, it might be time to contact a professional for further assistance.

Remember, performing regular maintenance on your washer can help prevent draining problems in the future. Clean the interior of the washer regularly, inspect the hoses for any kinks or damages, and make sure the washer is level on the floor.

Stay tuned for our final section, where we will provide tips to prevent future draining issues in your Kenmore washer.

Preventing Future Draining Issues

Dealing with a Kenmore washer not draining can be a hassle, but there are measures you can take to avoid encountering similar issues in the future. Here are some preventive tips:

• Regularly check and clean the drain hose, filter, and pump to prevent clogging.
• Avoid overloading the washer to prevent strains on the drain pump motor.
• Ensure the washer is level to prevent the water from siphoning back into the machine.
• Use detergent and fabric softeners as specified in the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent excess buildup and residue.
• Consider using a washing machine cleaner to maintain optimal performance and prevent odors.

By following these tips and keeping your Kenmore washer well-maintained, you can minimize the risk of draining issues and ensure your machine functions correctly.

Conclusion

Resolving a Kenmore washer not draining issue can be a daunting task, but with our expert guide, you can troubleshoot and fix the problem efficiently. By understanding the potential causes, such as clogged drain hoses, malfunctioning drain pumps or lid switches, you can diagnose the issue accurately and take the necessary steps to solve it.

If you have followed our step-by-step instructions and still have not resolved the problem, there might be other underlying issues at play. It is important to check the water pump belt, drain filter, control board and drain pump motor, as these can also be culprits of a Kenmore washer not draining.

Remember, preventive measures can also go a long way in avoiding future draining problems. Regularly cleaning the drain filter, not overloading the washer, and avoiding tangled clothes are a few effective preventive measures that can ensure optimal performance.

Thank You for Trusting Our Expert Guide

We hope that our guide has helped you troubleshoot and resolve the issue of a Kenmore washer not draining. Our expert team is always ready to assist you with any further questions or concerns you may have. Remember to always prioritize your safety when performing any repairs or maintenance on your washing machine, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed. Thank you for choosing us as your trusted partner in fixing your Kenmore washer.