Kenmore Elite HE4t Washer Manual

The Kenmore Elite HE4t is a high-efficiency top-loading washing machine featuring a large capacity stainless steel wash basket, multiple wash cycles, adaptive wash technology, quiet operation, energy and water efficiency, and advanced fabric care options. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Large capacity stainless steel wash basket, Adaptive Wash Technology, LED display, multiple wash cycles, and energy-efficient motor.

FeatureDescription
Adaptive Wash TechnologyAutomatically adjusts water levels and wash actions to load size and soil level
Stainless Steel Wash BasketDurable, rust-resistant, and gentle on fabrics
Multiple Wash CyclesIncludes Normal, Heavy Duty, Delicates, Quick Wash, and more
LED DisplayShows cycle status, time remaining, and settings
Quiet OperationAdvanced motor and suspension system for reduced noise
Energy Star CertifiedMeets energy efficiency guidelines
Water Level SelectionManual override for water level settings
Delay StartSet wash cycle to begin at a later time
Child LockPrevents accidental changes to settings during operation
End of Cycle SignalAudible alert when cycle is complete

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on a level, solid floor.

  1. Remove shipping materials: Take out transit bolts and packing materials from the back and inside the drum.
  2. Connect water supply: Attach hot and cold water hoses to corresponding faucets and washer inlet valves.
  3. Connect drain hose: Secure drain hose to standpipe or laundry tub.
  4. Level the washer: Adjust leveling feet to ensure the washer is stable and does not rock.
  5. Plug into a 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 the washer; follow initial setup prompts.

  1. Run a cleaning cycle: Before first use, run a Clean Washer cycle with a washer cleaner or bleach.
  2. Select language: Use the control panel to set display language (default ENGLISH).
  3. Set default preferences: Configure default water temperature, spin speed, and cycle options.
  4. Test operation: Run a short cycle without clothes to ensure proper function.

CAUTION! Ensure washer is level and all shipping materials are removed before operation.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access settings via the control panel. Main Controls: POWER, CYCLE SELECTION, START/PAUSE, OPTIONS.

Cycle Selection: Normal, Heavy Duty, Delicates, Quick Wash, Bulky Items, Sanitize, Rinse & Spin, Drain & Spin.

Options: Water Temperature (Cold, Warm, Hot), Spin Speed (Low, Medium, High, No Spin), Soil Level (Light, Normal, Heavy), Extra Rinse, Pre-Wash, Delay Start. Settings: Child Lock, End of Cycle Signal, Default Settings.

Connecting Water & Drain

Water Supply: Hot and cold water hoses. Drain: Standpipe or laundry tub.

  1. Turn off water faucets before connecting hoses.
  2. Connect hot and cold hoses to correct inlet valves (marked H and C).
  3. Secure drain hose to standpipe (minimum height 39 inches) or laundry tub.
  4. Check for leaks by turning on water supply briefly before starting a cycle.

Tip: Use only new hoses; do not reuse old hoses. Ensure drain hose is not kinked.

Operating the Washer

Supports various fabric types and soil levels.

  1. Load clothes: Do not overload; leave space for movement.
  2. Add detergent: Use HE detergent only; follow manufacturer's instructions.
  3. Select cycle: Choose appropriate cycle for fabric type and soil level.
  4. Set options: Adjust temperature, spin speed, and additional options as needed.
  5. Start cycle: Press START/PAUSE; washer will fill, agitate, rinse, and spin.
  6. Pause/Stop: Press START/PAUSE to pause; press again to resume. To cancel, hold for 3 seconds.
  7. After cycle: Remove clothes promptly to prevent wrinkles and mildew.

WARNING! Do not overload washer. Use only HE detergent to prevent oversudsing.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Wipe exterior with damp cloth; clean interior with washer cleaner monthly.

  1. Clean detergent dispenser: Remove and rinse under warm water.
  2. Clean door seal: Wipe with damp cloth to remove lint and residue.
  3. Run Clean Washer cycle: Monthly, use washer cleaner or bleach to prevent odors.
  4. Check hoses: Inspect for cracks or leaks annually; replace every 5 years.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners. Keep area around washer dry and ventilated.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed; complies with U.S. safety standards. Energy Star certified for energy efficiency. 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 startPower/child lockEnsure plugged in; check circuit breaker; disable child lock.
No water fillingWater supply/hosesCheck water faucets are on; inspect hoses for kinks; clean inlet screens.
Excessive vibration/noiseLeveling/loadEnsure washer is level; redistribute load; remove shipping materials.
Water not drainingDrain hose/clogCheck drain hose for kinks; clean lint filter; ensure standpipe is not clogged.
Error codes on displayVarious faultsRefer to error code chart in manual; unplug for 5 minutes and retry.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes, then plug back in.

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

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