Kenmore Washing Machine Will Not Drain

Introduction

Finding a Kenmore washing machine full of water after a wash cycle can be frustrating. When your washing machine won’t drain, your clothes remain soaking wet, and you can’t start another load. This is a common issue that, if left unattended, can lead to mold growth or even damage to your flooring. Fortunately, many drainage problems have simple solutions you can try at home before calling a repair technician.

Common Causes of Kenmore Washing Machine Will Not Drain

Here are some of the most common reasons why your Kenmore washing machine might not be draining properly:

Clogged Drain Hose: This is the most frequent culprit. Lint, small objects, and debris can accumulate inside the hose, blocking water flow.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: Many Kenmore washers have a filter near the drain pump to catch larger particles. This filter can become clogged with lint, buttons, or coins.
Kinked or Bent Drain Hose: If the drain hose is bent or kinked, it can restrict or completely block water flow.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing the water out of the washer. If it’s broken or malfunctioning, it won’t be able to drain the water.
Blocked Standpipe: The standpipe is the vertical pipe in the wall where the drain hose empties. If this pipe is clogged, water can’t drain out of the washer.
Lid Switch Problems: Some washing machines won’t drain if the lid switch is faulty. This switch tells the machine the lid is closed, allowing it to spin and drain.
Air Lock: Trapped air in the drain hose can sometimes prevent the pump from working correctly.
Control Board Malfunction: In rare cases, a problem with the washing machine’s control board can prevent the drain cycle from starting.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to help pinpoint the problem:

The washing machine tub is full of water after a wash cycle.
The washing machine makes a humming or buzzing noise but doesn’t drain.
The washing machine stops mid-cycle and displays an error code related to draining.
Water drains very slowly from the washing machine.
Water backs up into the washing machine from the drainpipe.

How to Fix Kenmore Washing Machine Will Not Drain Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix your Kenmore washing machine drainage issue:

Unplug the Washing Machine: For safety, disconnect the washing machine from the power outlet.
Locate the Drain Hose: This hose connects the washing machine to the drainpipe (standpipe).
Inspect the Drain Hose for Kinks: Straighten any kinks or bends in the hose. Make sure the hose isn’t crushed.
Detach the Drain Hose from the Standpipe: Carefully remove the hose from the standpipe. Have a bucket ready to catch any water that might spill.
Check the Standpipe for Clogs: Shine a flashlight into the standpipe to check for any visible blockages. You can try using a plumber’s snake or a straightened coat hanger to clear any clogs.
Clean the Drain Hose: Run water through the drain hose to flush out any debris. You can use a garden hose for this. If the clog is stubborn, you can try using a drain snake.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: This is usually located at the front bottom of the washing machine behind a small access panel. Consult your owners manual to pinpoint the location.
Drain Remaining Water from the Washer: Before removing the filter, have a shallow pan or towels ready to catch any water that might spill. Carefully remove the drain plug or access door to drain any water left in the tub.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Remove the filter and clean it thoroughly under running water. Remove any lint, coins, or other debris.
Reinstall the Drain Pump Filter: Make sure the filter is securely in place.
Reattach the Drain Hose to the Standpipe: Securely connect the drain hose to the standpipe. Make sure it is positioned correctly to prevent it from coming loose during operation.
Plug in the Washing Machine: Reconnect the washing machine to the power outlet.
Run a Test Cycle: Select a short wash cycle and observe if the washing machine drains properly.
Check for Error Codes: If the problem persists, check the washing machine display for any error codes. Consult your owner’s manual for troubleshooting information related to those codes.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Here are some things you can try that don’t involve purchasing replacement parts:

Reset the Washing Machine: Unplug the washer for 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board and clear minor glitches.
Check the Lid Switch: Ensure the lid is closing properly and activating the lid switch. Sometimes the lid can be slightly bent, preventing proper contact.
Run a Tub Clean Cycle: Many Kenmore washers have a self-cleaning cycle. Running this cycle can help remove build-up and debris that might be contributing to the drainage problem.
Avoid Overloading the Washer: Overloading the washer can put extra strain on the drain pump.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the washing machine still won’t drain, the drain pump might be faulty and require replacement. This could cost between $50 and $150 for the part, plus labor if you hire a technician. Other parts that could potentially cause drainage issues and might require replacement include the lid switch or the control board, though these are less common.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washing machine before performing any repairs or inspections.
Be careful when handling water, as wet floors can be slippery.
If you are not comfortable working with electrical appliances, consult a qualified technician.
Do not attempt to bypass any safety features, such as the lid switch.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket or pan
Towels
Flashlight
Plumber’s snake (optional)
Garden hose (optional)

FAQ

Q: My washing machine is making a humming noise but not draining. What does that mean?A: This often indicates a clogged drain pump or a faulty drain pump motor.
Q: How do I know if my drain pump is bad?A: A bad drain pump often makes unusual noises, fails to pump water, or causes the washing machine to display an error code.
Q: Can I use a drain cleaner in my washing machine?A: It is generally not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners in washing machines as they can damage the machine’s components.
Q: How often should I clean my washing machine’s drain pump filter?A: It is recommended to clean the drain pump filter every 1-3 months, depending on how often you use your washing machine.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Kenmore washing machine that won’t drain can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself and save money on repair costs. Start with the simple solutions first, like checking the drain hose and cleaning the drain pump filter. If you’re still having problems after trying these steps, then it might be time to consider calling a qualified appliance repair technician. Remember to always prioritize safety and unplug the appliance before starting any work.