Kenmore Connect Washer Not Draining

Introduction

Is your Kenmore Connect washer leaving your clothes soaking wet at the end of a cycle? A washer that won’t drain is a common but frustrating problem. Not only does it prevent you from finishing your laundry, but it can also lead to mold growth and even water damage if left unattended. It’s important to address this issue quickly to get your laundry routine back on track and protect your home. This guide will walk you through simple steps to diagnose and fix the problem yourself.

Common Causes of Kenmore Connect Washer Not Draining

Several issues can cause your Kenmore Connect washer to not drain properly:

Clogged Drain Hose: The most common culprit. Lint, small items of clothing, or soap buildup can obstruct the hose.
Blocked Drain Pump Filter: This filter catches debris before it reaches the pump, and it can become clogged.
Drain Pump Malfunction: The pump might be worn out or damaged, unable to effectively remove water.
Clogged Drainpipe: The pipe where your washer’s drain hose connects could be blocked.
Lid Switch Problem: The lid switch tells the washer when the lid is closed. If it’s faulty, the washer might not enter the drain cycle.
Faulty Water Level Sensor: This sensor detects the water level in the drum. A malfunctioning sensor might prevent the drain cycle from starting.
Kinked or Twisted Drain Hose: A kinked hose restricts water flow.
Software Glitch: Although less common, a software glitch can sometimes interrupt the draining process.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to confirm that you’re dealing with a draining issue:

Clothes are soaking wet after the wash cycle.
Water remains in the washer drum.
You hear a humming sound but the washer doesn’t drain.
The washer displays an error code related to draining (check your manual).
The drain hose is not expelling water during the drain cycle.

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

Follow these steps to troubleshoot your Kenmore Connect washer:

Unplug the Washer: Always disconnect the washer from the power outlet before working on it.
Inspect the Drain Hose: Look for kinks, twists, or visible obstructions in the hose. Straighten any kinks.
Detach the Drain Hose: Carefully detach the drain hose from both the washer and the drainpipe. Have a bucket ready to catch any remaining water.
Flush the Drain Hose: Run water through the drain hose to dislodge any clogs. You can use a garden hose or a faucet adapter.
Check the Drainpipe: Ensure the drainpipe is not clogged. You can use a plumbing snake to clear any obstructions.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: Refer to your washer’s manual to find the location of the drain pump filter. It’s usually located at the bottom front of the washer, behind a small access panel.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Open the access panel, remove the filter (have a towel ready to catch water), and clean it thoroughly. Remove any lint, hair, or debris.
Reinstall the Drain Pump Filter: Securely reinstall the drain pump filter and close the access panel.
Inspect the Drain Pump (If Accessible): If you can access the drain pump (consult your manual), check for any obstructions. Be careful not to damage the pump.
Check the Lid Switch: Manually depress the lid switch (with the washer unplugged) to see if it moves freely. If it seems stuck or broken, it may need further inspection.
Reattach the Drain Hose: Reconnect the drain hose to both the washer and the drainpipe, ensuring it’s securely fastened.
Plug in the Washer: Plug the washer back into the power outlet.
Run a Test Cycle: Select a short wash cycle and observe if the washer drains properly.
Check for Error Codes: If the washer still doesn’t drain, check the display panel for any error codes and consult your manual for troubleshooting steps.
Try a Reset: Some Kenmore Connect washers can be reset by unplugging them for 1-2 minutes, then plugging them back in. This can sometimes clear software glitches.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacement parts, try these methods:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for a few minutes to reset the electronics.
Thorough Cleaning: Clean the drain hose, drain pump filter, and drainpipe regularly to prevent clogs.
Inspect for Kinks: Ensure the drain hose is not kinked or twisted.
Avoid Overloading: Overloading the washer can strain the drain pump.
Use the Right Amount of Detergent: Excessive detergent can contribute to soap buildup.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If none of the above steps work, the drain pump might be faulty and need replacement. A replacement drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150 USD, depending on the model. Other parts that might fail and lead to draining issues include the water level sensor or the lid switch. Replacing these parts might cost a similar amount. Consider consulting a qualified appliance repair technician for diagnosis and repair if you’re not comfortable with electrical work. If the cost of repairs exceeds half the price of a new washer, consider purchasing a new appliance.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer before performing any maintenance or repairs.
Be careful when handling water to avoid electrical shock.
Wear gloves to protect your hands from dirt and debris.
If you’re not comfortable working with electrical appliances, consult a qualified technician.
Avoid working on the washer if the floor is wet to prevent slips and electrical hazards.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket
Towels
Plumbing snake (optional)
Work gloves

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions:

Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter? A: Ideally, clean the drain pump filter every 2-3 months, or more frequently if you notice draining problems.
Q: Can I use bleach to clean the drain hose? A: While diluted bleach can help, it’s best to use a dedicated washing machine cleaner to avoid damaging the hose.
Q: What do I do if the washer is still under warranty? A: Contact Kenmore or the retailer where you purchased the washer for warranty service.
Q: How do I know if the drain pump is bad? A: If the drain pump is making loud noises or not pumping water at all, it may be faulty. A qualified technician can test it with a multimeter.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Kenmore Connect washer that’s not draining can seem daunting, but with these steps, you have a great chance of resolving the issue yourself. Remember to prioritize safety and consult your washer’s manual for specific instructions. By systematically checking for clogs and other common problems, you can often avoid the expense of calling a repair technician. If you’ve tried these steps and the washer still won’t drain, it might be time to consult a professional.