Kenmore Series 500 Washer Manual

The Kenmore Series 500 Washer is a high-efficiency top-loading washing machine featuring multiple wash cycles, adjustable settings for load size and soil level, a durable stainless steel wash basket, and energy-saving technologies. It includes features like a deep water wash option, a precision dispenser for detergent and fabric softener, and a delay start function. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Control Panel, Stainless Steel Wash Basket, Agitator, Lid, Water Inlet Valves, Drain Pump, and Precision Dispenser.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on a level, solid floor near water supply and drain.

1. Remove shipping materials: Take off transit bolts and packing from inside the drum.
2. Connect water supply: Attach hot and cold water hoses to corresponding faucets (red for hot, blue for cold).
3. Connect drain hose: Secure drain hose to standpipe or laundry sink (minimum height 39 inches).
4. Level the washer: Adjust leveling feet to prevent vibration and movement.
5. Plug into grounded electrical outlet.

WARNING! Washer is heavy; use two people for moving. Ensure all connections are secure and leak-free before use.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, run a cleaning cycle.

1. Power on washer: Plug in and ensure power is available.
2. Run initial cycle: Select "Clean Washer" cycle or run a normal cycle with hot water and no clothes to flush out any residue.
3. Set preferences: Use control panel to set default options like signal volume, end-of-cycle options.
4. Load laundry: Sort clothes by color and fabric type.
5. Add detergent: Use HE (High-Efficiency) detergent only. Place in dispenser or directly in drum as directed.

CAUTION! Do not use regular detergent; it can cause oversudsing. Use only HE detergent.

Specifications

• Capacity: 4.5 cu. ft.
• Type: Top-Loading High-Efficiency Agitator Washer
• Color: White
• Control: Electronic with LED Display
• Wash Cycles: 10+ cycles including Normal, Heavy Duty, Delicates, Quick Wash, Bulky Items, and Sanitize
• Options: Deep Water, Extra Rinse, Delay Start, Pre-Soak
• Water Connections: Hot & Cold water inlet hoses (included)
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz, 15 Amp grounded outlet
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 43" x 27" x 28"
• Warranty: 1-year limited parts and labor

Controls and Settings

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

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

Settings: Soil Level (Light, Normal, Heavy), Load Size (Small, Medium, Large, X-Large), Water Temperature (Cold, Warm, Hot), Spin Speed (Low, Medium, High). Options: Deep Water Wash, Extra Rinse, Delay Start (1-24 hours), Pre-Soak. Display: Shows cycle time, settings, and status messages.

Connecting Water & Drain

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

1. Turn off water supply before connecting hoses.
2. Connect hoses: Hand-tighten hoses to washer and faucets; do not overtighten.
3. Drain hose: Insert into standpipe (minimum 39" height) or secure over laundry sink edge.
4. Check for leaks: Turn on water supply and inspect connections.

Tip: Use thread seal tape on hose connections for better seal. Ensure drain hose is not kinked.

Operating the Washer

Supports various fabric types and soil levels.

1. Load laundry: Do not overload; clothes should move freely.
2. Add detergent: Use HE detergent only. Follow manufacturer's instructions for amount.
3. Select cycle: Turn knob to desired cycle.
4. Adjust settings: Select soil level, load size, water temperature, and spin speed.
5. Add options: Select Deep Water, Extra Rinse, or Delay Start if needed.
6. Start cycle: Press START/PAUSE. Washer will fill, agitate, rinse, and spin.
7. Pause/Stop: Press START/PAUSE to pause; turn knob to OFF to cancel.
8. Unload: Remove clothes promptly after cycle ends to prevent wrinkles.

WARNING! Do not open lid during spin cycle. Wait until basket stops completely.

Special Features

Deep Water Wash: Provides extra water for heavily soiled loads. Delay Start: Program washer to start later (1-24 hours). Sanitize Cycle: Uses hot water and extended wash time to reduce bacteria. Bulky Items Cycle: For bedding, comforters, and large items. Quick Wash: For lightly soiled loads (approx. 30 minutes).

Care & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Wipe exterior with damp cloth; clean interior with washer cleaner monthly.

1. Clean drum: Run "Clean Washer" cycle or hot water cycle with washer cleaner (no clothes).
2. Clean dispenser: Remove and rinse detergent dispenser drawer under running water.
3. Clean lid and seal: Wipe lid and door seal with damp cloth to remove residue.
4. Check drain pump filter: Periodically clean filter to remove lint and debris.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners or bleach on control panel or exterior. Keep area around washer dry.

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

Reset: Unplug washer for 5 minutes, then plug back in to reset control board.

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