Kenmore Elite HE5 Dryer Repair Manual

The Kenmore Elite HE5 is a high-efficiency electric dryer with advanced moisture sensing, multiple heat settings, and durable stainless steel drum. This manual provides essential information for troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair procedures to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Below are key sections covering safety, components, diagnostics, common repairs, and preventive care.

1. Safety Precautions 2. Model Overview & Features 3. Tools & Parts Required 4. Diagnostic Codes & Troubleshooting 5. Accessing Internal Components 6. Common Repair Procedures 7. Electrical System Testing 8. Reassembly & Testing 9. Preventive Maintenance 10. Warranty & Support

Safety Precautions

Before attempting any repair, ensure the dryer is unplugged or the circuit breaker is turned off. Wear appropriate safety gear and work in a well-ventilated area.

Hazard	Precaution
Electrical Shock	Disconnect power before servicing. Verify with multimeter.
Sharp Edges	Wear cut-resistant gloves when handling internal components.
Hot Surfaces	Allow dryer to cool completely before disassembly.
Gas Models (if applicable)	Shut off gas supply and check for leaks with soap solution.
Heavy Parts	Use assistance when lifting drum or motor assembly.

Model Overview & Features

Key components: Electronic control board, moisture sensors, heating element, blower fan, drive motor, belt, idler pulley, thermal fuse, and door switch.

Control Panel: Touchpad with cycle selections, start/pause, and diagnostic mode access.
Moisture Sensing: Automatically adjusts drying time based on load dampness.
Heat Settings: High, Medium, Low, Air Fluff (no heat).
Drum: Stainless steel, reversible for even wear.
Lint Filter: Front-loading, clean after every cycle.

WARNING! Always verify model number (e.g., 110.XXXXXX) before ordering parts.

Tools & Parts Required

Basic toolkit for most repairs:

Tools: Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, nut drivers (1/4" and 5/16"), multimeter, putty knife, needle-nose pliers, socket set.
Common Replacement Parts: Heating element, thermal fuse, thermostat, drive belt, idler pulley, door switch, moisture sensors, control board.
Consumables: Dielectric grease, wire connectors, duct tape (aluminum).

Tip: Use OEM or certified compatible parts for reliable performance.

Diagnostic Codes & Troubleshooting

Enter diagnostic mode by pressing certain button combinations (refer to model-specific guide). Common error codes:

Code	Description	Likely Cause
F01	Thermal fuse open	Overheating, restricted vent
F02	Heating element failure	Open coil, faulty relay
F05	Motor circuit fault	Bad motor, wiring, or control board
F07	Moisture sensor error	Dirty sensors, wiring issue
F11	Door switch problem	Faulty switch, misalignment

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes to clear non-persistent codes.

Accessing Internal Components

Step-by-step disassembly guide:

Unplug dryer and move away from wall.
Remove top panel: Insert putty knife under front edge, release clips, lift panel.
Remove front panel: Take out screws at bottom, tilt panel forward, disconnect door switch wires.
Access drum: Remove belt, lift drum out carefully.
Access rear panel: Remove screws to reach motor and heating assembly.

CAUTION! Label wires and take photos during disassembly for easier reassembly.

Common Repair Procedures

Detailed fixes for frequent issues:

Belt Replacement: Remove front panel, slip old belt off motor pulley and idler, install new belt on drum groove, route around idler and motor.
Heating Element Replacement: Access rear panel, disconnect wires, remove mounting screws, install new element, ensure coils are not touching casing.
Thermal Fuse Test/Replace: Located on blower housing or heating assembly. Test for continuity with multimeter; replace if open.
Door Switch Replacement: Remove front panel, disconnect wires, unscrew old switch, install new switch ensuring proper alignment.
Idler Pulley Replacement: Remove belt, unclip or unbolt worn pulley, install new one, lubricate sparingly if required.

Electrical System Testing

Use multimeter to test components (set to ohms for continuity, volts for live circuits):

Heating Element: Should read 10-50 ohms; infinite resistance indicates break.
Thermal Fuse/Thermostats: Should show continuity (0 ohms).
Motor Windings: Check terminals for specified resistance (consult schematic).
Door Switch: Continuity when pressed, open when released.
Moisture Sensors: Clean with alcohol; test for variable resistance when wet vs. dry.

WARNING! Never test live circuits unless specified. Double-check power is disconnected.

Reassembly & Testing

After repair, reassemble in reverse order. Key checks:

Ensure all wires are connected and routed away from moving parts.
Verify belt is properly seated and tensioned.
Confirm drum rotates freely without rubbing.
Reattach panels securely; no gaps or loose screws.
Plug in dryer, run a no-heat (Air Fluff) cycle to test motor and rotation.
Run a heat cycle with a damp towel to verify heating and moisture sensing.

Tip: Listen for unusual noises and monitor for error codes during test cycles.

Preventive Maintenance

Regular care to avoid repairs:

Clean lint filter after every load.
Inspect and clean vent duct annually to prevent fire hazard.
Check drum seals and glides for wear every 2-3 years.
Vacuum inside cabinet and around motor periodically.
Ensure dryer is level to reduce vibration and wear.

CAUTION! Never operate dryer without lint filter. Do not use plastic or foil vent ducts.

Warranty & Support

Standard limited warranty covers parts and labor for 1 year from purchase date. Proof of purchase required.

Contact: For technical support or parts, call Kenmore at 1-800-469-4668 or visit www.kenmore.com. Provide model and serial numbers (located on door frame or rear panel).

Disclaimer: Repairs performed by unauthorized personnel may void warranty. This manual is for informational purposes; always follow local codes and regulations.