Kenmore HE 500 Series Washer Owners Manual

The Kenmore HE 500 Series is a high-efficiency top-loading washing machine designed for energy and water savings. It features multiple wash cycles, adjustable settings, a large capacity drum, and advanced cleaning technology. 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. Using the Washer 7. Care & Maintenance 8. Regulatory Information 9. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-efficiency motor, large capacity stainless steel drum, electronic control panel, detergent dispenser, and multiple wash options.

Feature	Description
High-Efficiency Motor	Energy-saving motor designed for quiet operation and reduced power consumption
Stainless Steel Drum	Durable, rust-resistant drum for gentle fabric care
Electronic Control Panel	LED display with touch controls for cycle selection and settings
Multiple Wash Cycles	Includes Normal, Heavy Duty, Delicates, Quick Wash, and more
Temperature Settings	Hot, Warm, Cold water options for customized washing
Spin Speed Options	Adjustable spin speeds for different fabric types
Detergent Dispenser	Automatic dispenser for liquid or powder detergent
Child Lock	Safety feature to prevent accidental changes during operation
Delay Start	Program wash cycles to begin at a later time
End of Cycle Signal	Audible alert when wash cycle is complete

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper location and connections.

Choose location: Place on level, solid floor near water supply and drain.
Connect water supply: Attach hot and cold water hoses to corresponding faucets.
Connect drain hose: Secure drain hose to standpipe or laundry sink.
Level the washer: Adjust leveling feet to ensure machine is stable.
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

Before first use, run an empty cycle to clean the drum.

Remove shipping materials: Take out all packing bolts and stabilizers.
Connect power and water: Ensure water supply valves are fully open.
Run cleaning cycle: Select "Clean Washer" cycle or run a hot water cycle with bleach.
Set preferences: Configure default settings like signal volume and child lock.
Load test laundry: Run a normal cycle with a small load to verify operation.

CAUTION! Do not operate without removing shipping bolts. Ensure washer is level to prevent vibration.

Specifications

Capacity: 4.5 cubic feet.
Dimensions: 27" W x 27" D x 42" H.
Water Connection: Hot and cold water inlet.
Electrical: 120V, 60Hz, 15A grounded outlet.
Wash Cycles: Normal, Heavy Duty, Delicates, Quick Wash, Bulky Items, Sanitize.
Spin Speeds: High, Medium, Low, No Spin.
Water Temperature: Hot (120°F+), Warm (90°F), Cold (tap).
Noise Level: Less than 65 dB during operation.
Warranty: 1-year limited parts and labor.

Controls and Settings

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

Cycle Selector: Turn knob to choose wash cycle. Options: NORMAL, HEAVY DUTY, DELICATES, QUICK WASH, BULKY, SANITIZE, RINSE/SPIN, DRAIN/SPIN.

Settings: TEMPERATURE (Hot/Warm/Cold), SPIN SPEED (High/Medium/Low/No Spin), SOIL LEVEL (Heavy/Normal/Light), OPTIONS (Pre-Wash, Extra Rinse, Delay Start). Display: Shows cycle time, settings, and error codes. Buttons: START/PAUSE, CHILD LOCK, SIGNAL.

Using the Washer

Follow these steps for optimal washing results.

Sort laundry: Separate by color, fabric type, and soil level.
Load washer: Do not overload; leave space for items to move freely.
Add detergent: Use HE detergent only; follow manufacturer's instructions.
Select cycle: Choose appropriate cycle for load type.
Adjust settings: Set temperature, spin speed, and options as needed.
Start cycle: Press START/PAUSE; washer will fill, wash, rinse, and spin.
Unload promptly: Remove laundry immediately after cycle to prevent wrinkles.

Tip: Use cold water for energy savings and color preservation. Clean lint filter regularly.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Clean drum monthly: Run empty hot cycle with washer cleaner or bleach.
Wipe exterior: Use damp cloth; avoid abrasive cleaners.
Clean detergent dispenser: Remove and rinse under warm water.
Check hoses: Inspect for cracks or leaks annually; replace every 5 years.
Clean lint filter: Remove and rinse filter every 1-2 months.
Leave door open: After use, allow drum to air dry to prevent odors.

CAUTION! Unplug before cleaning. Do not use harsh chemicals on surfaces.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards. Energy Star Certified: Meets energy efficiency guidelines. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. Copyright © Kenmore; trademarks of Sears Brands, LLC. For support, visit www.kenmore.com or contact 1-800-469-4668.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Washer won't start	Power/child lock	Ensure plugged in; outlet has power; child lock is off; door is closed.
No water filling	Water supply	Check water valves are open; hoses not kinked; inlet filters clean.
Excessive vibration	Leveling/load	Ensure washer is level; load is balanced; shipping bolts removed.
Water not draining	Drain hose	Check for kinks; drain pump filter for debris; standpipe not blocked.
Poor cleaning results	Detergent/settings	Use HE detergent; adjust cycle and soil level; do not overload.
Error codes on display	Various faults	Refer to manual error code list; unplug for 5 minutes then retry.

Reset: Unplug for 1 minute to reset control board.

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