Kenmore Elite Washer Will Not Drain

Introduction

Finding your Kenmore Elite washer full of water after a wash cycle is frustrating. A washer that won’t drain can lead to smelly laundry, potential water damage to your floors, and a big interruption to your laundry routine. Luckily, many drainage issues are simple to fix yourself, often without needing to call a repair technician. This guide will walk you through the most common causes and how to troubleshoot them, so you can get your washer back up and running quickly.

Common Causes of Kenmore Elite Washer Will Not Drain

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

Clogged Drain Hose: The drain hose is responsible for carrying water away from the washer. A blockage in this hose is a frequent culprit.
Kinked Drain Hose: A kink in the hose can restrict water flow.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: Many washers have a filter to catch lint and small objects before they reach the pump. This filter can become clogged over time.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for actively pumping the water out. If the pump is broken, it won’t drain the water.
Blocked Drainpipe: The pipe where the drain hose empties may be clogged.
Air Lock in Drain Hose: Sometimes air gets trapped in the drain hose, preventing the water from flowing freely.
Lid Switch Malfunction: On some models, the lid switch needs to be engaged for the drain cycle to start. A faulty switch can prevent draining.
Control Board Issues: In rare cases, the electronic control board might be malfunctioning, preventing the drain cycle from activating.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to help identify the problem:

Washer is full of water after the wash cycle.
You hear a humming sound but no draining.
The washer displays an error code related to draining.
The drain hose is connected properly, but no water is flowing out.
The washer drains very slowly.

How to Fix Kenmore Elite Washer Will Not Drain Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot your Kenmore Elite washer:

Unplug the Washer: Before you start any troubleshooting, unplug the washer from the power outlet to avoid electric shock.
Check the Drain Hose for Kinks: Inspect the entire length of the drain hose. Straighten out any kinks or bends that might be restricting water flow.
Detach the Drain Hose: Carefully detach the drain hose from the drainpipe or standpipe behind the washer.
Check for Clogs in the Drain Hose: Hold the drain hose up and shine a flashlight through it. Look for any visible blockages. You can also try flushing the hose with water from a garden hose to dislodge any debris.
Check the Drainpipe for Clogs: Ensure the drainpipe (the pipe the hose empties into) isn’t clogged. You can use a plumbing snake or a stiff wire to clear any blockages.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: This filter is usually located at the bottom front of the washer, behind a small access panel. Consult your washer’s manual for the exact location.
Drain Remaining Water: Place a shallow pan or towels underneath the access panel to catch any water that may spill out.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully remove the drain pump filter (it usually unscrews). Clean it thoroughly under running water to remove any lint, hair, or small objects.
Reinstall the Drain Pump Filter: Securely reinstall the drain pump filter.
Check for Air Lock: Reconnect the drain hose. Then, try running a drain/spin cycle. If the washer still doesn’t drain, try gently lowering the drain hose onto the floor for a few seconds to release any trapped air. Then, quickly raise it back to its normal position in the drainpipe.
Check the Lid Switch (if applicable): Manually depress the lid switch (usually a small plastic piece near the lid hinge) to see if it’s functioning properly. If it seems loose or broken, it might need further inspection by a technician.
Run a Drain and Spin Cycle: After completing the above steps, plug the washer back in and run a drain and spin cycle to see if the issue is resolved.
Listen to the Drain Pump: During the drain cycle, listen closely to the drain pump. If you hear a humming sound but no water is being pumped out, the pump may be faulty.
Check Error Codes: Check the washer’s display panel for any error codes. Consult your washer’s manual to understand the meaning of the code and possible solutions.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacing 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 issues.
Thorough Cleaning: Clean the inside of the washer drum regularly with a washer cleaner to prevent buildup of detergent and mineral deposits.
Inspect for Obstructions: Regularly inspect the area around the drain pump filter for any signs of leaks or damage.
Proper Detergent Usage: Use the correct type and amount of detergent for your washer to prevent excessive suds and buildup.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If the drain pump is consistently failing, or if the control board is malfunctioning (diagnosed by a technician), replacement may be necessary. A drain pump replacement typically costs between $80 and $200 (USD), including the part and labor. A control board replacement can range from $200 to $500 (USD), depending on the model. The drain pump is the part that most commonly fails in these situations.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer from the power outlet before performing any maintenance or repairs.
Be careful when handling water, as it can create a slip hazard. Wipe up any spills immediately.
Do not attempt to repair the washer if you are not comfortable working with electrical appliances. Call a qualified technician.
Keep children and pets away from the washer while you are working on it.

Tools You May Need

Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket or shallow pan
Towels
Flashlight
Plumbing snake or stiff wire
Garden hose (optional)

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions:

Q: My washer is making a loud humming noise but not draining. What could it be?
A: This usually indicates a problem with the drain pump. It could be clogged or faulty.
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: Can I use vinegar to clean my washer?
A: Yes, vinegar can be used to clean the washer drum and remove mineral deposits. Run an empty cycle with a cup of white vinegar.
Q: The error code on my washer says “LE”. What does this mean?
A: The “LE” error code typically indicates a problem with the motor. However, it could be displayed for various issues related to motor function, including draining problems. Check your manual and consult a technician if needed.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Kenmore Elite washer that won’t drain can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often identify and fix the problem yourself. Remember to prioritize safety and take your time. If you’ve exhausted all the troubleshooting steps and your washer still won’t drain, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. However, attempting these DIY fixes first can save you time and money!