Kenmore He Washer Not Draining

Introduction

A washing machine that refuses to drain is a common household headache. When your Kenmore HE (High Efficiency) washer isn’t draining, it can leave your clothes soaking wet and create a potential for mold and mildew growth. This problem needs to be addressed promptly to prevent further damage to your clothes and your washing machine. Let’s walk through the steps to diagnose and potentially fix the issue yourself.

Common Causes of kenmore he washer not draining

Here are some common reasons why your Kenmore HE washer might not be draining:

Clogged Drain Hose: The drain hose is the most common culprit. It can become blocked with lint, small items (like socks), or soap residue.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: HE washers have a filter to catch debris before it reaches the drain pump. This filter needs to be cleaned regularly.
Kinked or Blocked Drain Hose: A kink in the hose can restrict water flow. A blockage can have the same effect.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing the water out of the washer. If it’s broken, it won’t drain the water.
Air Lock in Drain Hose: Sometimes air can get trapped in the drain hose, preventing water from flowing freely.
Blocked Tub Drain: The drain at the bottom of the washer tub can become clogged with debris.
Lid Switch/Sensor Issues: Although rare on draining problems, some models will not drain if the lid switch/sensor is faulty.
Control Board Malfunction: In rare cases, the electronic control board might be sending incorrect signals to the drain pump.

Symptoms Checklist

Here’s how to tell if your Kenmore HE washer is having drainage problems:

Water remains in the drum after a wash cycle is complete.
The washer makes a humming or buzzing sound during the drain cycle but doesn’t drain.
You see an error code related to draining on the washer’s display panel.
The drain hose is visibly kinked, blocked, or leaking.
The cycle completes, but the clothes are soaking wet.

How to Fix kenmore he washer not draining Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot your Kenmore HE washer’s draining issue:

Unplug the Washer: For safety, always disconnect the washer from the power outlet before starting any repairs.
Locate the Drain Hose: The drain hose is usually located at the back of the washer.
Inspect the Drain Hose for Kinks: Straighten out any kinks in the hose. Make sure it’s not bent sharply.
Detach the Drain Hose: Carefully detach the drain hose from either the washer or the drainpipe (or standpipe). Have a bucket ready to catch any remaining water.
Check for Blockages: Inspect the hose for any visible obstructions. You can use a flexible wire or a straightened coat hanger to carefully push through the hose and dislodge any clogs.
Flush the Drain Hose: Connect the hose to a faucet and run water through it to flush out any remaining debris.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: The location varies depending on your model, but it’s usually at the front of the washer, behind a small access panel near the bottom. Check your owner’s manual.
Drain Remaining Water (Drain Pump Filter Area): Place a shallow pan under the access panel. Slowly open the filter cover to drain any remaining water into the pan.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Remove the filter and clean it thoroughly under running water. Remove any lint, hair, or other debris.
Inspect the Drain Pump: Shine a flashlight into the drain pump housing. Check for any obstructions or debris that might be blocking the pump impeller (the part that spins).
Reassemble the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully reinsert the filter and close the access panel securely.
Reconnect the Drain Hose: Reattach the drain hose to the washer and the drainpipe, making sure it’s securely connected.
Run a Test Cycle: Plug the washer back in and run a short drain and spin cycle to see if the problem is resolved.
Check for Error Codes: If the washer displays an error code, consult your owner’s manual for troubleshooting steps specific to that code.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacing any parts, try these free methods:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board and resolve minor glitches.
Run a Cleaning Cycle: Many Kenmore HE washers have a self-cleaning cycle. Run this cycle regularly to prevent buildup of soap residue and other debris. Use a washing machine cleaner according to the product instructions.
Check Drain Height: Ensure the top of the drainpipe (standpipe) is at the correct height, usually around 30-39 inches from the floor. If it’s too low, siphoning can occur. If too high, the washer may struggle to pump the water upwards.
Reduce Detergent Use: Using too much detergent can lead to excessive suds, which can interfere with the draining process.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the above steps and your Kenmore HE washer still won’t drain, the drain pump may be faulty and need replacement. A new drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150 USD, depending on the model. Another part that could fail is the water level sensor; however, diagnosing this is more complex. If problems persist, consider contacting a qualified appliance repair technician. They can properly diagnose and repair the issue.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer before performing any troubleshooting or repairs.
Be careful when handling water, especially near electrical outlets.
Wipe up any spills immediately to prevent slips and falls.
If you’re not comfortable working with electrical appliances, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket
Shallow pan
Flashlight
Flexible wire or coat hanger
Towels

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Kenmore HE washer draining issues:

Q: Why is my washer making a humming noise but not draining? A: This usually indicates that the drain pump is trying to work but is blocked by something. Check the drain pump filter for obstructions.
Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter? A: It’s recommended to clean the drain pump filter every 1-3 months, depending on how frequently you use your washer.
Q: What does an error code related to draining mean? A: Error codes vary depending on the model. Consult your owner’s manual to understand the specific meaning of the code and the recommended troubleshooting steps.
Q: Can I use a drain cleaner in my washing machine? A: It’s generally not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners in your washing machine, as they can damage the pump and other components.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Kenmore HE washer that won’t drain can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself. Remember to prioritize safety and take your time. If you’re unable to fix the problem, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance. Hopefully, this guide empowers you to tackle this common appliance issue head-on!