Kenmore Elite Front Load Washer Manual HE3

The Kenmore Elite HE3 front load washer is a high-efficiency washing machine featuring multiple wash cycles, temperature settings, spin speeds, and advanced options for optimal fabric care. It includes features like Steam Refresh, Sanitize cycle, Delay Start, and SmartDispense technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Utilities 7. Operating the Washer 8. Special Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Front-load drum, Control Panel, Dispenser drawer, Door lock, Drain pump filter, and Leveling feet.

FeatureDescription
Steam RefreshReduces wrinkles and odors without washing
Sanitize CycleEliminates 99.9% of common household bacteria
SmartDispenseAutomatically dispenses detergent for up to 20 loads
Delay StartDelays cycle start up to 24 hours
Multiple CyclesIncludes Normal, Heavy Duty, Delicates, Bulky Items, etc.
Temperature ControlHot, Warm, Cold, and Tap Cold options
Spin Speed ControlAdjustable spin speeds for fabric type
End of Cycle SignalAudible alert when cycle completes
ENERGY STAR® CertifiedEnergy and water efficient
Door LockAutomatic lock during operation for safety

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on level floor.

  1. Remove shipping materials: Take out transit bolts and brackets from rear.
  2. Level the washer: Adjust front leveling feet until machine is stable.
  3. Connect water supply: Attach hot and cold hoses to corresponding faucets.
  4. Connect drain hose: Secure to standpipe or laundry tub.
  5. Plug into grounded electrical outlet.

WARNING! Washer is heavy; use two people for moving. Ensure all connections are secure to prevent leaks.

First-Time Setup

Power on washer; run initial setup cycle.

  1. Run cleaning cycle: Use Tub Clean cycle with affresh® washer cleaner.
  2. Set preferences: Use CONTROL LOCK to prevent accidental changes.
  3. Load SmartDispense: Fill detergent, bleach, and fabric softener compartments.
  4. Test operation: Run a small load to ensure proper function.

CAUTION! Do not use regular detergent in HE washers; use only HE detergent.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access settings via control knob and buttons. Control Panel: POWER, CYCLE KNOB, TEMPERATURE, SPIN SPEED, OPTIONS, START/PAUSE.

Display: Shows cycle time, settings, and status messages.

Cycle Selection: Turn knob to desired cycle. Temperature: Hot, Warm, Cold, Tap Cold. Spin Speed: High, Medium, Low, No Spin. Options: Steam, Extra Rinse, Pre-Wash, Delay Start, Control Lock. Settings: End of Cycle Signal volume, default cycle settings.

Connecting Utilities

Water: Hot and cold hoses. Drain: Hose to standpipe. Electrical: Grounded outlet.

  1. Turn off water supply before connecting hoses.
  2. Use only new hoses; do not reuse old hoses.
  3. Ensure drain hose is secured to prevent slipping.
  4. Plug into dedicated 120V outlet; avoid extension cords.

Tip: Check for leaks after first connection by running a test cycle.

Operating the Washer

Supports various fabric types and soil levels.

  1. Load laundry: Open door, load items loosely, close door securely.
  2. Add supplies: Pour detergent into dispenser or use SmartDispense.
  3. Select cycle: Turn knob to desired cycle.
  4. Adjust settings: Set temperature, spin speed, and options.
  5. Start: Press START/PAUSE; door will lock.
  6. Pause: Press START/PAUSE to add items; door unlocks after drum stops.
  7. Complete: Signal sounds; door unlocks after a brief period.
  8. Unload: Remove items promptly to prevent wrinkles/mildew.

WARNING! Do not overload washer; follow load size guidelines. Keep door open between uses to dry seal.

Special Features

Steam Refresh: Reduces wrinkles on lightly worn clothes. Sanitize Cycle: Uses high temperature to sanitize. SmartDispense: Holds detergent for multiple loads; refill when low. Delay Start: Set wash to finish at desired time.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Wipe exterior with damp cloth. Clean dispenser monthly. Run Tub Clean cycle monthly with affresh® cleaner.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners; keep control panel dry.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed; complies with U.S. safety standards. ENERGY STAR® partner. Copyright © Kenmore; trademarks of Sears Brands, LLC. For support, visit www.kenmore.com or contact 1-800-469-4668.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Washer won't startDoor not closed/powerClose door securely; check power cord; ensure outlet works.
No water fillingWater supply/hosesCheck water valves are on; inspect hoses for kinks.
Excessive vibrationUnlevel/overloadLevel washer; redistribute load; remove shipping bolts.
Leaking waterLoose connectionsTighten hoses; check drain hose installation.
Door won't openCycle running/lockWait for cycle to end/unlock; unplug for 1 minute to reset.
Error codes displayedVarious faultsRefer to manual error code chart; reset by unplugging.

Reset: Unplug for 1 minute, then restart.

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

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