Kenmore Elite HE3 Dryer Manual

The Kenmore Elite HE3 is a high-efficiency electric dryer featuring advanced moisture sensing, multiple dry cycles (including delicate, permanent press, and heavy duty), wrinkle guard option, end-of-cycle signal, large capacity drum, lint filter alert, and energy-saving features. Designed for residential use with 240V electrical connection. 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 to Power 7. Operating the Dryer 8. Special Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Control panel with digital display, moisture sensors, large capacity drum, lint filter, exhaust vent, and adjustable feet.

FeatureDescription
Moisture SensingAutomatically detects dryness level and adjusts drying time
Multiple Dry CyclesIncludes Normal, Delicates, Permanent Press, Heavy Duty, Air Fluff
Wrinkle Guard OptionTumbles clothes periodically after cycle ends to reduce wrinkles
End-of-Cycle SignalAudible alert when drying is complete
Large Capacity Drum7.0 cubic feet for bulky items and large loads
Lint Filter AlertReminder to clean lint filter after each use
Adjustable TemperatureHigh, Medium, Low, and Air Only settings
Control LockPrevents accidental changes to settings
Energy EfficientMeets ENERGY STAR® requirements for energy savings
Reversible DoorDoor can be hinged on left or right side

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on level floor near electrical outlet and venting location.

  1. Remove shipping materials: Remove tape, bolts, and foam from drum interior.
  2. Level the dryer: Adjust front feet to ensure dryer is level side-to-side and front-to-back.
  3. Connect exhaust vent: Use 4-inch diameter rigid metal duct; avoid plastic or flexible foil.
  4. Electrical connection: Connect to dedicated 240V, 30-amp circuit with proper grounding.
  5. Final check: Ensure drum rotates freely and door opens/closes properly.

WARNING! Dryer is heavy; use two people for moving. Ensure proper ventilation to prevent fire hazard.

First-Time Setup

After installation, perform initial setup before first use.

  1. Clean lint filter: Remove and clean filter with warm water; dry completely before replacing.
  2. Run empty cycle: Select Air Fluff cycle and run for 20 minutes to remove manufacturing residues.
  3. Set preferences: Configure end-of-cycle signal volume, temperature defaults, and wrinkle guard.
  4. Test moisture sensors: Run a small load to verify automatic drying function works correctly.

CAUTION! Do not operate without lint filter installed. Ensure exhaust vent is not blocked.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Control Panel: POWER, START/PAUSE, CYCLE SELECTOR, TEMPERATURE, OPTIONS, CONTROL LOCK.

Cycle Selection: Normal, Delicates, Permanent Press, Heavy Duty, Air Fluff, Quick Dry, Sanitize. Temperature Settings: High, Medium, Low, Air Only (no heat). Options: Wrinkle Guard, End Signal, Control Lock, Delay Start. Display: Shows remaining time, cycle status, and error codes.

Advanced Features: Moisture sensing automatically adjusts drying time; Eco mode reduces energy consumption; Child lock prevents accidental operation.

Connecting to Power

Electrical requirements: Dedicated 240V, 30-amp circuit with proper grounding.

  1. Turn off power at circuit breaker before installation.
  2. Use 4-wire power cord (not included) rated for 30 amps.
  3. Connect wires to terminal block: Black & Red to L1 & L2, White to Neutral, Green to Ground.
  4. Secure strain relief and ensure no bare wire is exposed.
  5. Restore power and test operation.

Tip: Have installation performed by qualified electrician if unfamiliar with electrical work.

Operating the Dryer

Supports various fabric types and load sizes.

  1. Load clothes: Do not overload; leave space for tumbling action.
  2. Select cycle: Choose appropriate cycle for fabric type.
  3. Set temperature: Select heat level based on fabric care labels.
  4. Add options: Enable wrinkle guard or delay start if desired.
  5. Start: Press START; dryer will begin after door is closed securely.
  6. Monitor: Display shows remaining time; moisture sensing may adjust time automatically.
  7. Complete: Remove clothes promptly when cycle ends to minimize wrinkles.
  8. Clean lint filter: Remove and clean filter after every load.

WARNING! Do not dry items containing foam, rubber, or plastic. Clean lint filter after every use to prevent fire.

Special Features

Moisture Sensing: Automatically stops when desired dryness is achieved. Wrinkle Guard: Tumbles clothes intermittently for up to 150 minutes after cycle ends. Control Lock: Prevents children from changing settings. Delay Start: Programs dryer to start up to 12 hours later. Sanitize Cycle: Uses high temperature to eliminate bacteria.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Clean lint filter after every load. Monthly: Clean exhaust vent and duct. Quarterly: Wipe drum interior with damp cloth; clean moisture sensors with rubbing alcohol. Annually: Have venting system professionally inspected.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners on surfaces. Ensure dryer is completely dry before use.

Regulatory Information

UL listed; meets OSHA standards. Energy Guide label provides estimated yearly energy cost. Copyright © Kenmore; trademarks of Sears Brands, LLC. For support, visit www.kenmore.com or contact 1-800-469-4668. Manufactured for residential use in accordance with U.S. safety standards.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Dryer won't startDoor not closed/powerEnsure door is fully closed; check circuit breaker; verify power cord connection.
No heatThermal fuse/heating elementCheck thermal fuse; verify heating element continuity; ensure proper voltage.
Clothes too wetOverloading/moisture sensorsReduce load size; clean moisture sensors; select appropriate cycle.
Excessive drying timeLint buildup/vent restrictionClean lint filter; inspect and clean exhaust vent; ensure proper airflow.
Unusual noiseForeign objects/worn partsCheck for coins or objects in drum; inspect rollers and belt; tighten loose parts.
Error codes on displaySensor faults/system errorsRefer to error code chart in manual; reset by unplugging for 5 minutes.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes to reset electronic controls.

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

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