Kenmore Elite Washer Model 796 Manual

The Kenmore Elite Washer Model 796 is a high-efficiency top-loading washing machine featuring multiple wash cycles, adjustable settings for load size and soil level, a stainless steel wash basket, and advanced cleaning technology. It is designed for residential use with a capacity suitable for large families. 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: Control Panel, Stainless Steel Wash Basket, Agitator, Lid Lock, Water Inlet Valves, Drain Pump, and Leveling Legs.

Feature	Description
Control Panel	Digital display with cycle selection buttons
Stainless Steel Basket	Durable and rust-resistant interior
Multiple Wash Cycles	Includes Normal, Heavy Duty, Delicates, Quick Wash, and more
Soil Level Selection	Adjustable settings for Light, Normal, and Heavy soil
Load Size Selection	Options for Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large loads
Lid Lock System	Safety feature that locks lid during operation
Water Temperature Control	Hot, Warm, Cold, and Tap Cold settings
Spin Speed Control	Adjustable spin speeds for different fabric types
Delay Start	Timer to delay cycle start up to 24 hours
Signal Options	Adjustable end-of-cycle signal volume

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on a level, sturdy floor near water and drain connections.

Remove shipping materials: Take off transit bolts and packaging from drum and hoses.
Connect water supply: Attach hot and cold water hoses to corresponding faucets (red for hot, blue for cold).
Connect drain hose: Secure drain hose to standpipe or laundry sink using hose guide.
Level the washer: Adjust front leveling legs to ensure machine is stable and does not rock.
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

After installation, run an initial cleaning cycle.

Power on washer: Press POWER button.
Select cleaning cycle: Choose "Clean Washer" cycle or run a hot water cycle with bleach (if no laundry).
Set preferences: Use CONTROL LOCK to prevent accidental changes; adjust signal volume if desired.
Test operation: Run a small load to ensure proper functioning.

CAUTION! Do not use washer without removing shipping bolts. Ensure water supply valves are fully open.

Specifications

Model: Kenmore Elite 796.
Type: High-Efficiency Top-Load Washer.
Capacity: 4.5 cubic feet.
Motor: Direct Drive motor with 10-year warranty.
Water Connections: Hot and Cold water inlet hoses required.
Electrical: 120V, 60Hz, 15-amp dedicated circuit.
Dimensions (HxWxD): 43" x 27" x 28".
Weight: Approximately 180 lbs.
Cycle Options: 11 wash cycles, 5 soil levels, 4 spin speeds.
Warranty: 1-year full warranty, 10-year limited warranty on motor.

Controls and Settings

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

Cycle Knob: Turn to select desired wash cycle (Normal, Heavy Duty, Delicates, Bedding, etc.).

Options: SOIL LEVEL (Light, Normal, Heavy), LOAD SIZE (Small-XLarge), WATER TEMP (Hot, Warm, Cold, Tap Cold), SPIN SPEED (High, Medium, Low, No Spin), DELAY START (1-24 hours), SIGNAL (Off, Low, High). Special Features: CONTROL LOCK, STAIN REMOVAL OPTION, EXTRA RINSE.

Connecting Utilities

Water Supply: Hot and cold water faucets. Drain: Standpipe or laundry sink. Electrical: Grounded outlet.

Turn off water supply before connecting hoses.
Use only new hoses; do not reuse old hoses.
Ensure drain hose is secured at proper height (minimum 39", maximum 96" from floor).
Plug into dedicated 120V outlet; avoid using extension cords.

Tip: Check for leaks at connections after first use.

Operating the Washer

Follow these steps for normal operation.

Load laundry: Open lid, add sorted clothes. Do not overload.
Add detergent: Use HE (High-Efficiency) detergent only. Pour into detergent dispenser.
Select cycle: Turn knob to desired cycle. Settings will illuminate.
Adjust options: Press buttons for Soil Level, Load Size, Water Temp, etc.
Start cycle: Close lid, press START/PAUSE. Lid will lock.
Monitor: Display shows time remaining. Cycle can be paused by pressing START/PAUSE (lid unlocks after spinning stops).
Complete: Washer signals end of cycle. Remove laundry promptly.

WARNING! Do not open lid during spin cycle. Always use HE detergent to prevent oversudsing.

Special Features

Stain Removal Option: Adds extra agitation time for tough stains. Extra Rinse: Adds an additional rinse cycle. Control Lock: Press and hold OPTIONS for 3 seconds to lock controls. Delay Start: Set wash to begin at a later time.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Wipe exterior with damp cloth. Clean detergent dispenser monthly. Run "Clean Washer" cycle monthly using washer cleaner or bleach.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners. Keep control panel dry.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Washer won't start	Power/Lid	Ensure plugged in; outlet has power; close lid securely.
No water filling	Water supply/hoses	Check water valves are on; inspect hoses for kinks; clean inlet screens.
Excessive vibration/noise	Leveling/load	Ensure washer is level; redistribute load evenly; remove shipping bolts.
Water doesn't drain	Drain hose/clog	Check drain hose for kinks or clogs; ensure proper installation height.
Leaking water	Hoses/connections	Tighten hose connections; check for damaged hoses or tub seal.
Error codes on display	System fault	Refer to error code chart in manual; unplug for 5 minutes, then retry.

Reset: Unplug washer for 1 minute to reset control board.

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