Kenmore Elite Dryer Service Manual

The Kenmore Elite Dryer is a high-performance electric or gas dryer featuring multiple drying cycles, temperature settings, moisture sensors, wrinkle guard, and advanced diagnostic systems. This service manual provides comprehensive information for installation, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair procedures for qualified technicians. Below are key sections covering safety, features, installation, operation, maintenance, and technical specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation Requirements 3. First-Time Setup & Operation 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Maintenance Procedures 7. Diagnostic Mode & Error Codes 8. Common Repairs 9. Safety Precautions 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Features at a Glance

Key components: Electronic control panel, moisture sensors, heating element (electric) or gas burner assembly, drum, motor, blower assembly, lint filter, and exhaust system.

Feature	Description
Electronic Control Panel	Touchpad with LED display for cycle selection and settings
Moisture Sensors	Automatically detects dryness level and adjusts cycle time
Multiple Drying Cycles	Includes Normal, Delicates, Heavy Duty, Timed Dry, Air Fluff
Wrinkle Guard Option	Tumbles periodically after cycle ends to reduce wrinkles
Temperature Settings	High, Medium, Low, No Heat (Air Fluff) options
End-of-Cycle Signal	Audible alert when drying cycle completes
Child Lock	Prevents accidental changes to settings during operation
Diagnostic Mode	Allows technicians to run tests and view error codes
Venting System	4-inch diameter exhaust for efficient moisture removal
Power Requirements	240V AC, 60Hz (Electric) or 120V/240V (Gas)

Installation Requirements

Unpack and inspect all components. Ensure installation location meets requirements.

Location: Well-ventilated area, level floor, away from water sources.
Electrical Connection (Electric Models): Dedicated 240V, 30-amp circuit with proper grounding.
Gas Connection (Gas Models): Use approved flexible gas line; check for leaks with soap solution.
Venting: Install 4-inch rigid metal ducting; maximum length 25 feet with minimal elbows.
Leveling: Adjust leveling feet to ensure drum rotates properly.

WARNING! Installation must comply with local codes. Gas connections must be performed by qualified technician. Ensure proper grounding to prevent electrical shock.

First-Time Setup & Operation

After installation, perform initial setup and test operation.

Remove shipping materials: Check drum for packing blocks or tape.
Connect power/gas: Ensure all connections are secure.
Test empty cycle: Run a 15-minute timed dry cycle to burn off manufacturing residues.
Set preferences: Configure end-of-cycle signal, default temperature, and other options.
Load laundry: Do not overload; follow manufacturer's capacity recommendations.
Select cycle: Choose appropriate cycle for fabric type.
Start dryer: Press START button; monitor initial operation.

CAUTION! Never operate without lint filter. Ensure exhaust vent is not obstructed.

Technical Specifications

Model Series: Kenmore Elite 700/800 Series Dryers
Type: Electric or Gas
Capacity: 7.0 - 7.4 cubic feet
Power Requirements (Electric): 240V AC, 60Hz, 30A
Power Requirements (Gas): 120V AC, 60Hz, 15A (controls); 240V AC (heater)
Gas Requirements: Natural gas or LP (conversion kit required)
Exhaust: 4-inch diameter, rear or bottom configuration
Dimensions (HxWxD): Approximately 44" x 29" x 31"
Weight: 125-145 lbs (depending on model)
Control System: Microprocessor-based electronic controls
Moisture Sensing: Automatic termination based on dryness level

Controls and Settings

Control Panel: Power button, cycle selection buttons, temperature settings, options (wrinkle guard, signal), START/PAUSE, and diagnostic access.

Cycle Options: Normal (Auto Dry), Heavy Duty, Delicates, Permanent Press, Timed Dry, Air Fluff, Quick Dry, Sanitize. Temperature Settings: High, Medium, Low, No Heat. Additional Features: Wrinkle Guard, End-of-Cycle Signal, Child Lock, Drum Light.

Settings Adjustment: Press and hold appropriate buttons to enter settings mode for signal volume, default temperature, and display options.

Maintenance Procedures

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Lint Filter: Clean before every load; wash monthly with warm water.
Exhaust System: Inspect and clean venting annually; check for obstructions.
Drum: Wipe with damp cloth; avoid abrasive cleaners.
Exterior: Clean with mild detergent and soft cloth.
Moisture Sensors: Clean with rubbing alcohol on cotton swab monthly.
Gas Models: Inspect burner assembly annually for proper ignition and flame.

Tip: Keep area around dryer clean and free of lint accumulation to prevent fire hazard.

Diagnostic Mode & Error Codes

Access diagnostic mode by pressing specific button sequences.

Enter Diagnostic Mode: Unplug dryer, press and hold two specified buttons, plug in while holding.
Test Sequences: Run tests for motor, heating element, sensors, and controls.
Error Codes: Display shows codes indicating specific issues.

Error Code	Description	Possible Cause
F01	Thermal fuse open	Overheating, restricted vent
F02	High limit thermostat open	Overheating, cycling thermostat failure
F03	Motor circuit fault	Motor, belt, or control board issue
F04	Moisture sensor fault	Sensor connection or control board
F05	Control panel communication	Wiring harness or main control
F06	Heating element fault	Element, thermostat, or relay

WARNING! Diagnostic mode should only be used by qualified technicians. Disconnect power before accessing internal components.

Common Repairs

Common service procedures with estimated times.

Heating Element Replacement: Remove back panel, disconnect wires, install new element.
Thermal Fuse Replacement: Located on blower housing or heating assembly.
Belt Replacement: Remove front panel, release tension, route new belt.
Motor Replacement: Disconnect wiring, remove mounting bolts, install new motor.
Control Board Replacement: Document wire locations, transfer connectors to new board.
Moisture Sensor Cleaning/Replacement: Access through lint filter opening or rear panel.
Idler Pulley Replacement: Common source of squeaking noises.

CAUTION! Always disconnect power before servicing. Use proper tools and follow safety procedures.

Safety Precautions

Critical safety information for users and technicians.

Never operate with damaged power cord or plug.
Do not dry items exposed to flammable substances.
Clean lint filter before every load.
Ensure proper ventilation and clear exhaust system.
Keep children away from operating dryer.
Gas models: Install carbon monoxide detector nearby.
Disconnect power before any maintenance or repair.
Use only identical replacement parts.

DANGER! Risk of fire, explosion, electric shock, or carbon monoxide poisoning if not properly installed and maintained.

Warranty Information

Kenmore Elite dryers typically include: 1-year full warranty on parts and labor, 5-year limited warranty on motor, lifetime warranty on drum. Warranty valid only when installed by qualified technician according to instructions. Keep original receipt and complete warranty registration. For warranty service, contact authorized service center with model and serial numbers.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Dryer won't start	Power issue, door switch, thermal fuse	Check power supply, test door switch, verify thermal fuse continuity
No heat	Heating element, thermal fuse, thermostat	Test heating element continuity, check thermal fuse and cycling thermostats
Drum not turning	Belt broken, motor issue, idler pulley	Inspect belt, test motor, check idler pulley and tension
Overheating	Restricted vent, cycling thermostat	Clean exhaust system, test cycling thermostat operation
Clothes still damp	Moisture sensors, heating element, venting	Clean moisture sensors, verify heat output, check vent restriction
Unusual noises	Idler pulley, rollers, blower wheel	Inspect idler pulley and rollers, check for foreign objects in blower
Error codes displayed	Various component failures	Refer to diagnostic section for specific code troubleshooting
Gas model won't ignite	Gas supply, igniter, flame sensor	Check gas valve, test igniter, clean flame sensor

Reset Procedure: Unplug dryer for 5 minutes to reset electronic controls.

Service Contact: 1-800-469-4668; www.kenmore.com