Kenmore Washer Elite Manuals

The Kenmore Washer Elite series represents a line of high-performance washing machines known for their durability, advanced cleaning technologies, and user-friendly features. These models typically include features such as multiple wash cycles, temperature controls, load size sensing, and energy-efficient operation. Below are key sections covering safety, model overview, installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting for your Kenmore Elite washer.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. Specifications 4. Controls and Settings 5. Operating Your Washer 6. Care & Maintenance 7. Error Codes 8. Regulatory Information 9. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Control Panel, Wash Drum, Dispensers (Detergent, Bleach, Fabric Softener), Water Inlet Valves, Drain Pump, and Leveling Feet.

Feature	Description
Multiple Wash Cycles	Normal, Heavy Duty, Delicates, Quick Wash, Sanitize, etc.
Temperature Controls	Hot, Warm, Cold water selection
Load Size Sensing	Automatically adjusts water usage based on load
Stain Treat Options	Pre-treat settings for common stains
Spin Speed Selection	Adjustable spin speeds for different fabrics
Delay Start	Set wash cycle to begin at a later time
Child Lock	Prevents accidental changes to cycle settings
End of Cycle Signal	Audible alert when cycle is complete
Energy Star Certified	Meets energy efficiency guidelines
Self-Clean Cycle	Cleans the washer drum and components

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure location is level, near water supply and drain.

Remove shipping materials: Take out transit bolts and packing from drum.
Level the washer: Adjust front leveling feet; use a level to ensure machine is stable.
Connect water supply: Attach hot and cold water hoses to corresponding faucets (red for hot, blue for cold).
Connect drain hose: Secure hose to standpipe or laundry sink; use hose clip provided.
Plug into grounded electrical outlet.
Run a test cycle: Select Quick Wash cycle without clothes to check for leaks and proper operation.

WARNING! Washer is heavy; use two people for moving. Ensure all connections are secure to prevent leaks.

Specifications

Capacity: Typically 4.0 - 5.0 cu. ft. (varies by model).
Dimensions: Standard width 27 inches, height 38-42 inches, depth 28-32 inches.
Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz.
Water Connections: Hot & Cold water inlet hoses (¾” standard).
Cycle Time: Varies by cycle (Quick Wash: 15-30 min, Normal: 45-60 min).
Max Spin Speed: Up to 1300 RPM (varies by model).
Control Type:Electronic with digital display or mechanical dial.
Warranty: 1-year limited parts and labor; 10-year limited warranty on tub.

Controls and Settings

Access settings via the control panel. Typical buttons/knobs: POWER, CYCLE SELECTOR, TEMPERATURE, SPIN SPEED, OPTIONS (e.g., Pre-Soak, Extra Rinse), START/PAUSE.

Cycle Guide: Normal (for cottons, linens), Heavy Duty (for heavily soiled items), Delicates (for gentle fabrics), Quick Wash (for small, lightly soiled loads), Sanitize (uses hot water to kill bacteria), Bedding (for blankets, comforters), Self Clean (maintenance cycle).

Settings: Temperature (Hot/Cold, Warm/Cold, Cold/Cold), Soil Level (Light, Normal, Heavy), Spin Speed (High, Medium, Low, No Spin), Options (Delay Start, Pre-Wash, Extra Rinse, Deep Fill).

Operating Your Washer

Follow these steps for optimal washing results.

Sort laundry: Separate by color, fabric type, and soil level.

Load washer: Do not overload; clothes should move freely.

Add detergent: Use HE (High-Efficiency) detergent; follow manufacturer's instructions.

Add bleach/fabric softener: Use appropriate dispensers.

Select cycle: Turn knob or press button for desired wash cycle.

Adjust settings: Select temperature, spin speed, and any additional options.

Start cycle: Press START/PAUSE. The washer will fill, agitate, rinse, and spin.

Unload promptly: Remove clothes after cycle ends to prevent wrinkles and mildew.

Tip: Leave the lid open between cycles to allow the drum to dry and prevent odors.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Clean dispensers: Monthly, remove detergent, bleach, and softener dispensers; rinse with warm water.

Run Self-Clean cycle: Monthly, use affresh® washer cleaner or a washing machine cleaner.

Wipe door seal: After cycles, wipe the rubber gasket to remove moisture and debris.

Inspect hoses: Annually, check water inlet and drain hoses for cracks or leaks; replace every 5 years.

Clean lint filter: If equipped, clean filter located near the agitator or pump.

Level check: Periodically ensure washer is level to prevent vibration.

CAUTION! Unplug washer before any maintenance. Do not use abrasive cleaners.

Error Codes

If an error occurs, the display may show a code. Common codes:

Code Meaning Action

F1/E1 Water inlet issue Check water supply, hoses, and inlet valves.

F2/E2 Drain issue Check drain hose for kinks/clogs; ensure pump is clear.

F5/E5 Door/lid lock error Ensure door is fully closed; check lock mechanism.

F7/E7 Motor control fault Unplug washer for 5 minutes; restart. If persists, call service.

F8/E8 Overflow detected Check water level sensor; ensure proper drainage.

SUd/Sud Excess suds Use less detergent; run rinse cycle to clear suds.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed; complies with U.S. safety standards. Energy Star® certified where applicable. Copyright © Kenmore; trademarks of Sears Brands, LLC. For support, visit www.kenmore.com or contact 1-800-469-4668. Model and serial numbers are located on the door frame or back panel.

Troubleshooting

Symptom Possible Cause Corrective Action

Washer won't start Power, door, cycle selection Ensure plugged in, door closed, cycle selected, then press START.

No water filling Water supply, hoses, valves Check water taps are on; inspect hoses for kinks; clean inlet screens.

Washer won't drain/spin Drain hose, pump, load balance Check hose for clogs; ensure pump is clear; redistribute load evenly.

Excessive vibration/noise Leveling, shipping bolts, load Ensure washer is level; remove all shipping materials; balance load.

Clothes still wet Spin speed, drain issue Select higher spin speed; check drain hose for restrictions.

Leaking water Hoses, door seal, over-sudsing Tighten hose connections; check door seal for debris; use less detergent.

Odor in washer Moisture buildup, detergent Run Self-Clean cycle; leave door open between uses; use HE detergent.

Stains on clothes Detergent residue, drum Use correct amount of HE detergent; run cleaning cycle; wipe drum.

Reset: Unplug washer for 5 minutes, then restart. Consult manual for model-specific reset procedure.

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

Kenmore Washer Elite Manuals © - All Rights Reserved 2025

Code	Meaning	Action
F1/E1	Water inlet issue	Check water supply, hoses, and inlet valves.
F2/E2	Drain issue	Check drain hose for kinks/clogs; ensure pump is clear.
F5/E5	Door/lid lock error	Ensure door is fully closed; check lock mechanism.
F7/E7	Motor control fault	Unplug washer for 5 minutes; restart. If persists, call service.
F8/E8	Overflow detected	Check water level sensor; ensure proper drainage.
SUd/Sud	Excess suds	Use less detergent; run rinse cycle to clear suds.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Washer won't start	Power, door, cycle selection	Ensure plugged in, door closed, cycle selected, then press START.
No water filling	Water supply, hoses, valves	Check water taps are on; inspect hoses for kinks; clean inlet screens.
Washer won't drain/spin	Drain hose, pump, load balance	Check hose for clogs; ensure pump is clear; redistribute load evenly.
Excessive vibration/noise	Leveling, shipping bolts, load	Ensure washer is level; remove all shipping materials; balance load.
Clothes still wet	Spin speed, drain issue	Select higher spin speed; check drain hose for restrictions.
Leaking water	Hoses, door seal, over-sudsing	Tighten hose connections; check door seal for debris; use less detergent.
Odor in washer	Moisture buildup, detergent	Run Self-Clean cycle; leave door open between uses; use HE detergent.
Stains on clothes	Detergent residue, drum	Use correct amount of HE detergent; run cleaning cycle; wipe drum.