Kenmore Elite Washer Owner's Manual

The Kenmore Elite Washer is a high-efficiency top-loading washing machine featuring multiple wash cycles, temperature settings, soil levels, and spin speeds. It includes advanced features like a built-in water heater, steam refresh option, automatic detergent and fabric softener dispensers, quiet operation, and energy-saving modes. 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 Utilities 7. Operating the Washer 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Control Panel, Lid, Agitator, Tub, Detergent Dispenser, Water Inlet Valves, Drain Pump, Leveling Legs.

FeatureDescription
Control PanelDigital display with touch controls for cycle selection
Wash CyclesNormal, Heavy Duty, Delicates, Quick Wash, Bulky Items, Sanitize
Temperature SettingsHot, Warm, Cold, Tap Cold
Soil LevelLight, Normal, Heavy
Spin SpeedHigh, Medium, Low, No Spin
Steam Refresh OptionReduces wrinkles and odors without washing
Built-in Water HeaterBoosts water temperature for better cleaning
Automatic DispensersFor detergent, bleach, and fabric softener
Quiet OperationSound-dampening technology
Energy Saving ModeReduces power consumption during standby

Installation

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

  1. Remove shipping materials: Take off transit bolts and packing materials.
  2. Level the washer: Adjust the leveling legs to ensure the machine is stable.
  3. Connect water supply: Attach hot and cold water hoses to corresponding faucets.
  4. Connect drain hose: Secure the drain hose to a standpipe or laundry sink.
  5. Plug into electrical outlet: Use a grounded 120V 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: Use the "Clean Washer" cycle with affresh® tablet or bleach.
  2. Set preferences: Configure default settings like temperature, spin speed, and sound volume.
  3. Load detergent: Fill the automatic dispenser compartments.
  4. Test operation: Run a quick wash cycle to ensure proper function.

CAUTION! Ensure the washer is level to prevent excessive vibration during spin cycles.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access settings via the control panel touchscreen. Front Panel: POWER, START/PAUSE, CYCLE SELECTION, OPTIONS.

Control Panel: POWER, Cycle buttons (Normal, Heavy, Delicates, etc.), Temperature, Soil Level, Spin Speed, Options (Steam, Extra Rinse), START/PAUSE.

Cycle Settings: Adjust temperature (Hot, Warm, Cold), soil level (Light, Normal, Heavy), spin speed (High, Medium, Low). Options: Steam refresh, extra rinse, pre-soak, delay start (up to 24 hours). Preferences: Sound volume, default settings, child lock.

Connecting Utilities

Water Supply: Hot and cold water hoses. Drain: Drain hose to standpipe or sink. Electrical: Grounded outlet.

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

Tip: Check for leaks after connecting hoses by turning on water supply briefly.

Operating the Washer

Supports various fabric types and soil levels.

  1. Load laundry: Open lid, load clothes evenly around the agitator.
  2. Add supplies: Pour detergent, bleach, and fabric softener into designated dispensers.
  3. Select cycle: Choose appropriate cycle (e.g., Normal for cotton).
  4. Adjust settings: Set temperature, soil level, spin speed, and options as needed.
  5. Start cycle: Press START/PAUSE; lid will lock during operation.
  6. Pause/stop: Press START/PAUSE to pause; press and hold to cancel cycle.
  7. After cycle: Remove clothes promptly; leave lid open to dry interior.

WARNING! Do not overload the washer. Balance loads to prevent vibration. Keep fingers away from moving parts.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Monthly maintenance recommended.

  1. Clean dispensers: Remove and rinse detergent, bleach, and softener dispensers.
  2. Clean tub: Run "Clean Washer" cycle monthly with affresh® tablet or bleach.
  3. Wipe exterior: Use damp cloth; avoid abrasive cleaners.
  4. Check hoses: Inspect for cracks or leaks; replace every 5 years.
  5. Clean lint filter: Remove and rinse filter located near the agitator base.

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals; keep control panel dry.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with 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/lidEnsure plugged in; close lid securely; check circuit breaker.
No water fillingWater supply/hosesCheck water valves are on; inspect hoses for kinks; clean inlet screens.
Excessive vibrationLeveling/loadLevel the washer; redistribute load evenly; remove transit bolts.
Water not drainingDrain hose/clogCheck drain hose for kinks; clean pump filter; ensure standpipe is not blocked.
Error codes displayedSensor/mechanical issueRefer to manual for specific error code; unplug for 5 minutes then retry.
Detergent not dispensingDispenser clogRemove and clean dispenser drawer; use HE detergent only.

Reset: Unplug for 1 minute, then plug back in.

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

Kenmore Elite Washer Owner's Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025