Kenmore 70 Series Washer Won T Drain

Introduction

Is your Kenmore 70 Series washer stubbornly refusing to drain? This is a common problem that many homeowners face, and it can be quite a headache! A washer full of water prevents you from doing laundry, potentially leading to a pile-up of dirty clothes. Addressing this issue promptly prevents potential water damage to your laundry room and eliminates the inconvenience of a non-functional appliance. Don’t worry, often you can fix it yourself!

Common Causes of Kenmore 70 Series Washer Won’t Drain

Several factors can cause your Kenmore 70 series washer to not drain properly. Here are some of the most common:

Clogged Drain Hose: The drain hose is the tube that carries water from the washer to your drainpipe. It can become clogged with lint, debris, or small items.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: Many washers have a filter to catch lint and debris before they reach the pump. A clogged filter restricts water flow.
Obstructed Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing water out of the washer. Small objects like socks or buttons can get lodged in the pump, preventing it from working.
Kinked or Blocked Drain Hose: A kink in the drain hose or an obstruction in the drainpipe can stop the water from flowing.
Faulty Lid Switch: The lid switch prevents the washer from spinning and draining if the lid is open. If the switch is faulty, it may not allow the washer to drain even when the lid is closed.
Defective Drain Pump: The drain pump itself might be broken or worn out.
Air Lock in the Drain Hose: An air bubble trapped in the drain hose can prevent proper drainage.
Control Panel Malfunction: In rare cases, a malfunctioning control panel might not be sending the signal to activate the drain pump.

Symptoms Checklist

Here are some indicators that can help pinpoint why your kenmore 70 series washer won t drain:

Washer cycle completes, but water remains in the drum.
You hear a humming or buzzing sound from the washer, but no water is being pumped out.
The washer stops mid-cycle and displays an error code related to draining.
The drain hose is visibly kinked or damaged.
Water drains very slowly.

How to Fix Kenmore 70 Series Washer Won’t Drain Step-by-Step Guide

Unplug the Washer: Always disconnect the power before starting any repairs. This is extremely important for your safety.
Inspect the Drain Hose: Check the drain hose for kinks, bends, or any visible damage. Straighten out any kinks and make sure the hose isn’t crushed.
Check the Drainpipe: Make sure the drainpipe where the hose connects isn’t clogged. You can try running water down the pipe to see if it drains freely.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: Refer to your owner’s manual to find the location of the drain pump filter. It’s usually located at the front or back of the washer, near the bottom.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully remove the drain pump filter. Be prepared for some water to spill out. Clean the filter thoroughly, removing any lint, hair, or debris.
Inspect the Drain Pump: After removing the filter, check the drain pump impeller (the small fan-like part inside the pump). Make sure nothing is blocking it. You can try turning it manually to see if it spins freely.
Check for Obstructions: If you suspect something is stuck in the drain pump, you may need to carefully remove the pump to inspect it more closely. Look for small objects like socks, buttons, or coins.
Check the Lid Switch: The lid switch is usually located near the lid hinge. Press the switch manually to see if you hear a click. If the switch is faulty, it may not be engaging properly.
Run a Test Cycle: After cleaning the filter and inspecting the pump, plug the washer back in and run a short test cycle to see if it drains properly.
Check for Air Lock: If the washer still isn’t draining, try creating a siphon in the drain hose. Disconnect the hose from the drainpipe, lower it to the floor, and let the water start flowing. Then quickly reconnect it to the drainpipe. This can help remove any air locks.
Reset the Washer: Some washers can be reset by unplugging them for a few minutes and then plugging them back in. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific reset instructions.
Check Water Level Control: If the water level control is faulty, it might be preventing the drain cycle from starting. Locate and inspect it according to your user manual.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before resorting to replacing parts, try these free methods:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 5-10 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes clear minor errors.
Deep Clean the Washer: Run a cleaning cycle with vinegar or a washer cleaner to remove buildup that could be contributing to the problem.
Inspect Hoses: Regularly check the drain and inlet hoses for kinks, cracks, or blockages.
Maintain the Filter: Clean the drain pump filter every few months to prevent clogs.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your Kenmore 70 series washer still won’t drain, a replacement part might be necessary. The most common part to fail is the drain pump. Replacing the drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150, including the part and labor if you hire a technician. The lid switch can also fail, and these are usually cheaper, with costs ranging from $20 to $50 including labor.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer from the power outlet before performing any repairs.
Be careful when handling water, as it can create a slip hazard. Clean up any spills immediately.
If you are not comfortable working with electrical appliances, it’s best to call a qualified technician.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket
Towels
Flashlight
Gloves

FAQ

Q: Why is my washer making a humming noise but not draining?

A: The humming noise 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 3-6 months, depending on how frequently you use your washer.

Q: Can I use a wire hanger to unclog the drain hose?

A: While a wire hanger can be used, be very careful not to damage the hose. A better option is to use a flexible drain snake or a wet/dry vacuum.

Q: What does it mean when my washer displays an error code related to draining?

A: Error codes vary depending on the model. Consult your owner’s manual to determine the meaning of the specific error code and the recommended troubleshooting steps.

Conclusion

Dealing with a Kenmore 70 series washer that won’t drain can be frustrating, but hopefully, this guide has provided you with the information you need to troubleshoot and fix the problem yourself. By following these steps, you can often resolve the issue without having to call a technician. However, if you’re uncomfortable performing these repairs or if the problem persists, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified appliance repair professional. Good luck!