Kenmore Elite Washer Top Load Manual

The Kenmore Elite Top Load Washer is a high-efficiency washing machine featuring multiple wash cycles, temperature settings, load size options, and advanced cleaning technologies. It includes features like a stainless steel wash basket, electronic controls, delay start, child lock, and energy-saving modes. 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: Stainless steel wash basket, Electronic control panel, Water inlet valves, Drain pump, Leveling legs, Power cord.

FeatureDescription
Stainless steel basketDurable, rust-resistant interior for gentle fabric care
Electronic control panelLED display with touch controls for cycle selection
Multiple wash cyclesNormal, Heavy Duty, Delicates, Quick Wash, and more
Temperature settingsHot, Warm, Cold water options
Load size selectionSmall, Medium, Large, and Extra Large settings
Delay startProgram wash to begin later (up to 24 hours)
Child lockPrevents accidental changes to settings
Energy saving modeReduces power and water consumption
Signal tonesAudible alerts for cycle completion
Self-cleaning cycleCleans the washer interior automatically

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on level floor.

  1. Remove shipping materials: Take out transit bolts and packing materials.
  2. Level the washer: Adjust front leveling legs until machine is stable.
  3. Connect water supply: Attach hot and cold water hoses to corresponding faucets.
  4. Connect drain hose: Secure to standpipe or laundry tub.
  5. 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

Power on washer; run initial setup.

  1. Run test cycle: Select Quick Wash cycle without clothes to clean interior.
  2. Set preferences: Use control panel to set default temperature, spin speed.
  3. Enable child lock: Press and hold Child Lock button for 3 seconds if needed.
  4. Check for leaks: Monitor water connections during first few cycles.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access settings via control panel buttons. Power Button: Turns washer on/off.

Control Panel: POWER, CYCLE SELECTION, TEMPERATURE, SPIN SPEED, OPTIONS, START/PAUSE, CHILD LOCK.

Cycle Selection: Normal, Heavy Duty, Delicates, Quick Wash, Bulky Items, Sanitize, Steam Refresh, Rinse & Spin, Drain & Spin. Temperature: Hot (140°F), Warm (100°F), Cold (tap temp). Spin Speed: High, Medium, Low, No Spin. Options: Extra Rinse, Pre-Wash, Delay Start, Signal Tones. Settings: Default settings can be saved for frequent use.

Connecting Utilities

Water Supply: Hot and cold water hoses. Drain: Drain hose to standpipe. 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 dedicated 15-amp circuit.

Tip: Install a drip pan under washer if placed in sensitive areas.

Operating the Washer

Follow these steps for proper operation.

  1. Load clothes: Do not overload; leave space for movement.
  2. Add detergent: Use HE detergent; follow manufacturer's instructions.
  3. Select cycle: Choose appropriate cycle for fabric type.
  4. Set options: Adjust temperature, spin speed, and additional options.
  5. Start cycle: Press START/PAUSE; washer will fill, wash, rinse, and spin.
  6. Unload promptly: Remove clothes after cycle to prevent wrinkles and odors.
  7. Clean lint filter: Check and clean after every few cycles.

WARNING! Do not wash items soaked in flammable liquids. Keep lid closed during operation.

Special Features

Sanitize Cycle: Uses high temperature water to reduce bacteria. Steam Refresh: Reduces wrinkles and odors without full wash. Delay Start: Program wash to begin at later time. Child Lock: Disables control panel to prevent tampering.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Wipe exterior with damp cloth; clean interior with self-cleaning cycle monthly.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners or bleach on control panel. Clean lint filter regularly.

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/lidEnsure plugged in; close lid securely; check circuit breaker.
No water fillingWater supply/hosesCheck water valves are on; inspect hoses for kinks.
Excessive vibrationLeveling/loadRe-level washer; redistribute load evenly.
Water not drainingDrain hose/clogCheck hose for obstructions; clean pump filter.
Error codes displayedVarious faultsRefer 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

Kenmore Elite Washer Top Load Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025