My Kenmore Washing Machine Won T Drain

Introduction

A washing machine that won’t drain can be a major headache! Suddenly, your laundry room is a potential flood zone, and you’re left with sopping wet clothes. This issue commonly occurs after a regular wash cycle and can be caused by a variety of factors, from simple clogs to more complex mechanical problems. Addressing this quickly is important to prevent water damage to your home and to get your laundry routine back on track. Don’t panic; often, you can troubleshoot and fix the problem yourself!

Common Causes of My Kenmore Washing Machine Won’t Drain

Here are some common reasons why your Kenmore washing machine might not be draining:

Clogged Drain Hose: The hose that carries water away from the washer can become blocked with lint, debris, or small objects.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: Many washing machines have a filter near the drain pump to catch larger items. This can easily become clogged.
Kinked or Twisted Drain Hose: A bend in the hose can restrict water flow.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump might be malfunctioning and unable to pump the water out.
Blocked Standpipe: The standpipe (the pipe that the drain hose empties into) can become clogged.
Air Lock: An air bubble can sometimes get trapped in the drain hose, preventing water from flowing.
Lid Switch Issues: Some machines won’t drain if the lid switch malfunctions, preventing the machine from knowing the lid is closed.
Control Panel/Timer Malfunction: If the control panel isn’t sending the correct signals, the drain cycle might not activate.

Symptoms Checklist

Look for these indicators to accurately identify the issue:

Water remains in the washing machine drum after a cycle.
The washing machine makes unusual noises during the drain cycle (or no noise at all).
The drain hose is visibly kinked or damaged.
You notice a foul odor coming from the washing machine.
The washing machine displays an error code related to draining.

How to Fix My Kenmore Washing Machine Won’t Drain Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot your draining issue:

Unplug the Washing Machine: Always disconnect the power before working on any appliance.
Check the Drain Hose for Kinks: Straighten any kinks or twists in the drain hose. Make sure the hose is not crushed or damaged.
Inspect the Drain Hose Connection: Ensure the drain hose is securely connected to both the washing machine and the standpipe.
Clean the Drain Hose: Disconnect the drain hose from both ends. Flush it with water to remove any debris. You can use a garden hose for this.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: Refer to your Kenmore washing machine’s manual to find the location of the drain pump filter. It’s usually located at the front bottom of the machine, behind a small access panel.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Place a shallow pan or towel under the access panel to catch any water. Carefully remove the filter (usually by unscrewing or twisting it). Clean it thoroughly, removing any lint, hair, or small objects.
Check the Standpipe: If the standpipe is clogged, use a plumbing snake or auger to clear the blockage.
Check the Air Gap (if applicable): Some plumbing systems have an air gap between the drain hose and the standpipe. Ensure this is clear.
Reset the Washing Machine: Some Kenmore washers can be reset by unplugging the machine for a few minutes and then plugging it back in. This can sometimes clear error codes.
Inspect the Lid Switch: Manually press the lid switch (usually located where the lid closes) to see if it activates. If it feels loose or broken, it might be the culprit.
Run a Rinse/Drain Cycle: After cleaning the filter and hose, run a rinse/drain cycle to see if the machine now drains properly.
Listen for the Pump: During the drain cycle, listen closely to hear if the drain pump is running. If you don’t hear anything, the pump might be faulty.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacement parts, try these free methods:

Reset the Washing Machine: As mentioned above, unplugging the machine can sometimes resolve the issue.
Run a Self-Clean Cycle: If your Kenmore model has a self-clean cycle, run it to help clear out any built-up debris.
Inspect the Drain Hose Regularly: Prevent future clogs by inspecting and cleaning the drain hose every few months.
Use Less Detergent: Excessive detergent can contribute to buildup and clogs.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your washing machine still won’t drain, the drain pump may be faulty and require replacement. A new drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150 USD, plus the cost of labor if you hire a technician. Other parts that could potentially fail include the lid switch (around $20-$50) and the control board (much more expensive, potentially $200-$400).

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washing machine before attempting any repairs.
Be careful when working with water to avoid electrical shock.
Wear gloves to protect your hands from dirt and debris.
Mop up any spills immediately to prevent slips and falls.

Tools You May Need

Here’s a list of tools that might be helpful:

Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket or shallow pan
Towels
Plumbing snake or auger
Gloves

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about washing machine draining issues:

Q: Why is my washing machine making a loud noise when it tries to drain? A: This could indicate that the drain pump is partially clogged or starting to fail. Clean the drain pump filter and inspect the pump for any obstructions.
Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter? A: Ideally, you should clean the drain pump filter every 2-3 months, or more frequently if you wash a lot of lint-producing items.
Q: Can I use a chemical drain cleaner in my washing machine? A: It’s generally not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners in washing machines, as they can damage the machine’s components.
Q: What if my washing machine is still under warranty? A: If your washing machine is under warranty, contact Kenmore or the retailer where you purchased it for assistance. Attempting repairs yourself may void the warranty.

Conclusion

Dealing with a washing machine that won’t drain can be frustrating, but with a little troubleshooting, you can often resolve the issue yourself. By following these steps, you can save yourself the cost of a service call and get your laundry routine back on track. If you’ve exhausted all options and the problem persists, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. Good luck!