My Kenmore Washer Will Not Drain

Introduction

A washing machine that won’t drain is a frustrating problem. Nobody wants a tub full of soapy water and soaking wet clothes. If your Kenmore washer is refusing to drain, it could be due to a simple clog, a kinked hose, or a more complex issue. Addressing this promptly is important to prevent potential water damage to your home and to get your laundry routine back on track.

Common Causes of My Kenmore Washer Will Not Drain

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

Clogged Drain Hose: The drain hose can become blocked with lint, socks, or other small items.
Kinked Drain Hose: A kink or bend in the drain hose restricts water flow.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: Many Kenmore washers have a filter that catches debris before it reaches the drain pump.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing water out of the washer. If it’s broken, it won’t drain.
Clogged House Drain: The problem might not be the washer itself but a clog in your home’s drain system.
Air Lock in Drain Hose: Sometimes, air can get trapped in the drain hose, preventing proper drainage.
Lid Switch Issue: Some washers won’t drain if the lid switch isn’t properly engaged (indicating the lid is closed).
Control Board Malfunction: In rare cases, the washer’s control board might be malfunctioning, preventing the drain cycle from starting.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to help pinpoint the issue:

Washer completes the wash cycle, but the tub is full of water.
Washer makes a humming noise during the drain cycle, but no water drains.
Washer displays an error code related to draining.
Washer drains very slowly.
Water is leaking from the drain hose or pump area.
Washer doesn’t start the drain cycle at all.

How to Fix My Kenmore Washer Will Not Drain Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix your Kenmore washer:

Unplug the Washer: Safety first! Always unplug the washer from the electrical outlet before starting any repairs.
Check the Drain Hose for Kinks: Inspect the drain hose from the washer to the drainpipe. Straighten out any kinks or bends.
Check the Drain Hose Connection: Make sure the drain hose is securely connected to both the washer and the drainpipe.
Inspect the Drain Hose for Clogs: Disconnect the drain hose from the drainpipe and the washer. Check for any visible obstructions. You can try flushing it with water from a garden hose.
Check the House Drain: Make sure the drainpipe where the washer drains is not clogged. You can use a plumbing snake to clear any blockages.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: Consult your Kenmore washer’s manual to find the location of the drain pump filter. It’s usually located at the front of the washer, behind a small access panel.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully remove the drain pump filter and clean it thoroughly. Remove any lint, hair, or debris.
Check the Drain Pump (Visual Inspection): With the filter removed, look into the drain pump housing. See if anything is obstructing the pump impeller (the part that spins).
Test the Lid Switch: If your washer has a lid switch, try manually pushing it down to see if it triggers the drain cycle. If it doesn’t, the switch might be faulty.
Reset the Washer: Some Kenmore washers can be reset by unplugging them for a few minutes and then plugging them back in. This can sometimes clear minor errors.
Listen for the Drain Pump: When the washer is supposed to be draining, listen closely for the sound of the drain pump running. If you don’t hear anything, the pump might be faulty.
Check Error Codes: If your washer has a display panel, check for any error codes. Consult your washer’s manual to interpret the code and find possible solutions.
Run a Drain/Spin Cycle: After making any adjustments or cleaning, run a drain/spin cycle to see if the washer drains properly.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Often, you can resolve a drainage problem without replacing any parts:

Reset the Washer: As mentioned, unplugging the washer for a few minutes can sometimes clear minor errors.
Thorough Cleaning: Regular cleaning of the drain pump filter can prevent future clogs.
Hose Inspection: Regularly check the drain hose for kinks and ensure it’s properly connected.
Reduce Detergent Use: Excessive detergent can contribute to lint buildup, so use the recommended amount.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your Kenmore washer still won’t drain, the drain pump might be faulty and need replacement. A new drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150 USD, depending on the model. Other parts that can fail include the lid switch and the control board, but these are less common. It’s best to research the cost of the part and the labor involved before deciding whether to repair or replace the washer.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer from the electrical outlet before performing any repairs.
Be careful when handling water and electrical components. Avoid working on the washer with wet hands.
If water has spilled onto the floor, clean it up immediately to prevent slips and falls.
If you’re uncomfortable performing any of these repairs yourself, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket or towels
Plumbing snake (optional)
Garden hose (optional)
Gloves

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Kenmore washer drainage problems:

Q: Why is my washer making a humming noise but not draining?
A: This usually indicates that the drain pump is trying to work but is blocked by an obstruction. Check the drain pump filter for clogs.
Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter?
A: It’s a good idea to clean the drain pump filter every 3-6 months, or more frequently if you notice your washer draining slowly.
Q: Can I use a chemical drain cleaner in my washing machine?
A: No, it’s generally not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners in washing machines as they can damage the components.
Q: What does an error code related to draining mean?
A: Consult your Kenmore washer’s manual to understand the specific meaning of the error code and its possible causes.
Q: Why won’t my brand new washer drain?
A: Check the drain hose to be sure the knockout plug in the connection to the house drain line was removed.

Conclusion

A Kenmore washer that won’t drain can be a real inconvenience, but often the problem can be resolved with a little troubleshooting. By following these steps, you can often fix the issue yourself without having to call a technician. If you’re not comfortable performing these repairs, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified appliance repair professional.