Kenmore 700 Series Washer Spin Problems

Introduction

Is your Kenmore 700 series washer leaving your clothes soaking wet after a cycle? This is a common problem related to the spin cycle not working correctly. It can be frustrating and time-consuming to deal with. Not spinning clothes effectively means longer drying times, potential mildew growth in your clothes, and wasted energy. Addressing this issue promptly is essential to prevent further damage to your washer and ensure your laundry is clean and dry. This guide will help you troubleshoot and, hopefully, fix the spin problem yourself!

Common Causes of Kenmore 700 Series Washer Spin Problems

Here are some of the most common reasons why your Kenmore 700 series washer might not be spinning properly:

Overloading the Washer: Too many clothes can prevent the drum from spinning freely.
Unbalanced Load: Clothes bunched on one side can throw the washer off balance, stopping the spin cycle.
Lid Switch Malfunction: The lid switch ensures the washer stops spinning when the lid is opened. If faulty, it might prevent spinning altogether.
Faulty Drive Belt: A worn or broken drive belt connects the motor to the drum. If it’s damaged, the drum won’t spin.
Drainage Issues: If the washer can’t drain water properly, it won’t spin.
Motor Problems: The motor powers the spin cycle. If it’s failing, the drum might not spin.
Clogged Drain Pump: A blocked drain pump can prevent water from being pumped out, hindering the spin cycle.
Worn Clutch: The clutch helps engage the spin cycle. Wear and tear can cause it to fail.
Control Board Issues: Although rare, a malfunctioning control board can prevent the spin cycle from initiating.
Pressure Switch Problems: The pressure switch determines the water level. If faulty, it might not signal the washer to spin.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to help pinpoint the problem:

Clothes are soaking wet after the wash cycle.
The washer makes unusual noises during the spin cycle or doesn’t make any noise at all.
The drum doesn’t spin at all, or spins very slowly.
The washer stops mid-cycle.
You see an error code on the washer’s display.
The washer vibrates excessively during the spin cycle.
Water remains in the drum after the cycle is complete.

How to Fix Kenmore 700 Series Washer Spin Problems Step-by-Step Guide

Check for Overloading: Remove some clothes to reduce the load size.
Redistribute the Load: Manually rearrange the clothes in the drum to balance the weight.
Inspect the Lid Switch: Open and close the lid to ensure the switch clicks. If it doesn’t, try cleaning around the switch. If it still doesn’t work, it might need replacing.
Check the Drain Hose: Make sure the drain hose isn’t kinked or clogged. Remove any obstructions.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Locate the drain pump (usually at the bottom front of the washer behind a small access panel). Remove the filter and clean out any lint, debris, or small objects.
Listen for Motor Sounds: During the spin cycle, listen for the motor running. If you hear nothing, the motor might be faulty or there may be an electrical issue.
Check the Drive Belt: Unplug the washer. Access the drive belt (usually located at the back of the washer, you might need to remove a panel). Check for cracks, wear, or breaks.
Inspect the Clutch (if accessible): The clutch is located near the motor. Check for signs of wear or damage.
Check for Error Codes: Consult your Kenmore 700 series washer’s manual to identify the meaning of any displayed error codes. This can provide valuable clues about the problem.
Test the Water Level Switch: If possible, locate the water level switch and check its connections. A faulty switch might not be signaling the washer to spin.
Run a Calibration Cycle: Some Kenmore washers have a calibration cycle. Consult your manual to see how to run it. This can sometimes resolve electronic glitches.
Check the Suspension Rods: These rods help keep the washer stable. If they’re damaged, it can cause excessive vibration and prevent the spin cycle from functioning correctly.
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.
Look for Obstructions in the Drum: Make sure there are no foreign objects (coins, socks, etc.) lodged between the inner and outer drums. These can interfere with the spin cycle.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering part replacements, try these free methods:

Reset the Washer: Unplug it for a few minutes, then plug it back in.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Remove and clean any debris.
Run a Calibration Cycle: If your model has one, follow the instructions in your manual.
Inspect for Obstructions: Check the drain hose and the area around the drum for anything that might be blocking the spin cycle.
Regular Maintenance: Clean the washer regularly to prevent build-up of soap and debris. Use a washer cleaner product periodically.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If the troubleshooting steps above don’t resolve the issue, you might need to replace a part. Here are some commonly failing parts and their estimated replacement costs (USD):

Lid Switch: $20 – $50
Drive Belt: $15 – $30
Drain Pump: $40 – $80
Motor: $100 – $300
Clutch: $50 – $150
Control Board: $150 – $400 (This is usually a last resort due to cost).

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer from the power outlet before performing any repairs.
Be careful when handling water. Mop up any spills immediately to prevent slips and falls.
If you’re uncomfortable working with electrical components, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.
Do not operate the washer if it is making strange noises or vibrating excessively.
Wear gloves when handling potentially dirty or contaminated parts.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Socket set
Multimeter (for testing electrical components)
Gloves
Shop towel
Flashlight

FAQ

Q: Why is my washer making a loud noise during the spin cycle?
A: This could be due to an unbalanced load, a worn drive belt, or a problem with the motor. Try redistributing the load first.
Q: How do I know if the lid switch is bad?
A: If the washer doesn’t spin even when the lid is closed, and the lid switch doesn’t “click” when engaged, it might be faulty. You can test it with a multimeter if you’re comfortable with electrical testing.
Q: My washer won’t drain at all. Could this be causing the spin problem?
A: Yes, if the washer can’t drain the water, it won’t spin. Check the drain hose and drain pump for clogs.
Q: I cleaned the drain pump filter, but the washer still won’t spin. What else could it be?
A: Try checking the drive belt for wear and tear, and make sure the load isn’t overloaded or unbalanced. If those all check out, the issue might be related to a faulty lid switch, motor, or control board.
Q: What does it mean if the error code is flashing after wash cycle?
A: Each Kenmore 700 series model has its own error codes, it’s important to find your user manual, locate the error code, and see what the error means.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Kenmore 700 series washer spin problem can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often identify and fix the issue yourself. Remember to start with the simple solutions and work your way up to more complex repairs. If you’re uncomfortable with any of these steps, don’t hesitate to call a qualified appliance repair technician. Good luck, and happy laundering!