Kenmore Washer User Instructions

Washer Safety

Your safety and the safety of others are very important. We have provided many important safety messages in this manual and on your appliance. Always read and obey all safety messages.

⚠️ This is the safety alert symbol. This symbol alerts you to potential hazards that can kill or hurt you and others.

All safety messages will follow the safety alert symbol and either the word "DANGER" or "WARNING."

DANGER: You can be killed or seriously injured if you don't immediately follow instructions.

WARNING: You can be killed or seriously injured if you don't follow instructions.

All safety messages will tell you what the potential hazard is, tell you how to reduce the chance of injury, and tell you what can happen if the instructions are not followed.

Important Safety Instructions

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons when using the washer, follow basic precautions, including the following:

• Read all instructions before using the washer.
• Do not wash articles that have been previously cleaned in, washed in, soaked in, or spotted with gasoline, dry-cleaning solvents, other flammable, or explosive substances as they give off vapors that could ignite or explode.
• Do not add gasoline, dry-cleaning solvents, or other flammable, or explosive substances to the wash water. These substances give off vapors that could ignite or explode.
• Under certain conditions, hydrogen gas may be produced in a hot water system that has not been used for 2 weeks or more. HYDROGEN GAS IS EXPLOSIVE. If the hot water system has not been used for such a period, before using the washing machine, turn on all hot water faucets and let the water flow from each for several minutes. This will release any accumulated hydrogen gas. As the gas is flammable, do not smoke or use an open flame during this time.
• Do not allow children to play on or in the washer. Close supervision of children is necessary when the washer is used near children.
• Before the washer is removed from service or discarded, remove the door or lid.
• Do not reach into the washer if the drum, tub or agitator is moving.
• Do not install or store the washer where it will be exposed to the weather.
• Do not tamper with controls.
• Do not repair or replace any part of the washer or attempt any servicing unless specifically recommended in this manual or in published user-repair instructions that you understand and have the skills to carry out.
• See "Electrical Requirements" for grounding instructions.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Washer Use

Loading

For these suggested full-sized loads, set the LOAD SIZE selector to the highest load size setting.

Super Capacity and Super Capacity Plus Washers

Extra Large Capacity and Extra Large Capacity Plus Washers

Starting Your Washer

Fire Hazard

Never place items in the washer that are dampened with gasoline or other flammable fluids.

No washer can completely remove oil.

Do not dry anything that has ever had any type of oil on it (including cooking oils).

Doing so can result in death, explosion, or fire.

Electrical Shock Hazard

Plug into a grounded 3 prong outlet.

Do not remove ground prong.

Do not use an adapter.

Do not use an extension cord.

Failure to follow these instructions can result in death, fire, or electrical shock.

Operating Instructions

1. Measure detergent and pour it into the washer. If desired, add powdered or liquid color safe bleach. Drop a sorted load of clothes loosely into your washer.
   • Load evenly to maintain washer balance. Mix large and small items. Items should move easily through the wash water. Overloading can cause poor cleaning.
2. (OPTIONAL) Add Liquid Chlorine Bleach.

   NOTE: Follow the manufacturer's directions for safe use. Undiluted bleach will damage any fabric it touches. The damage appears as rips, holes, tears, or color loss and may not show up until several washings later. To avoid spilling, use a cup with a pouring spout. Do not let bleach splash, drip, or run down into the washer basket. Always measure liquid chlorine bleach. Do not guess. Never use more than the manufacturer's recommended amount for a full load. Use less with a smaller load size.

   • Style 1: With Chlorine Bleach Dispenser (on some models) Use only liquid chlorine bleach in this dispenser. Pour measured liquid chlorine bleach into the liquid chlorine bleach dispenser. Bleach is immediately fed into washer and is diluted automatically during the wash part of the cycle.
   • Style 2: Without Chlorine Bleach Dispenser (on some models)
     • Let the washer fill and begin agitating the load.
     • Add bleach 5 minutes into the wash cycle for best cleaning and so that bleach can be removed in the rinse cycle. Pour bleach around the agitator, not directly onto the load.
3. (OPTIONAL) Add Liquid Fabric Softener.

   NOTE: Do not spill or drip any fabric softener onto the clothes. Undiluted fabric softener can stain fabrics. Always dilute fabric softener with warm water. Too much fabric softener can make some items (diapers and towels) nonabsorbent. If this happens, do not use it every load, or use less of it in each load.

   • Style 1: With Liquid Fabric Softener Dispenser (on some models) Use only liquid fabric softener in this dispenser. Pour measured liquid fabric softener into the dispenser. Softener is added automatically during the rinse portion of the cycle. Dilute liquid fabric softener by filling the dispenser with warm water until liquid reaches the crossbar in the dispenser opening.
   • Style 2: Without Liquid Fabric Softener Dispenser (on some models) In the final rinse ONLY, add fabric softener that has been diluted with ½ to 1 cup (125 to 250 mL) warm water.
4. Close the washer lid.
5. Turn the LOAD SIZE selector to the correct setting for your wash load and the type of fabric being washed. You may change the load size selection after the washer has started filling by turning the selector to a different setting.
6. Set the TEMPERATURE selector to the correct setting for the type of fabric and soils being washed. Use the warmest wash water safe for fabric. Follow garment label instructions.

   NOTE: In wash water temperatures colder than 70°F (21°C), detergents do not dissolve well. Soils can be difficult to remove. Some fabrics can retain wear wrinkles and have increased pilling (the formation of small lint-like balls on the surface of garments).

7. (OPTIONAL) EXTRA RINSE selector (on some models). For an additional rinse and spin at the end of a wash cycle, set the EXTRA RINSE selector to ON. On some models, the EXTRA RINSE feature is part of the cycle.
8. Push in the Cycle Control knob and turn it clockwise to the wash cycle you want. Reduce the wash time when using a small load size setting. Pull out the Cycle Control knob to start the washer.

To stop or restart your washer:

• To stop the washer at any time, push in the Cycle Control knob.
• To restart the washer, close the lid (if open) and pull out the Cycle Control knob.

Washer Care

Cleaning Your Washer

Use a soft, damp cloth or sponge to wipe up any spills such as detergent or bleach from the outside of your washer.

Clean your washer interior by mixing 1 cup (250 mL) of chlorine bleach and 2 cups (500 mL) of detergent. Pour this mixture into your washer and run it through a complete cycle using hot water. Repeat this process if necessary.

Remove any hard water deposits using only cleaners labeled as washer safe.

Cleaning the Liquid Fabric Softener Dispenser (on some models)

• Style 1: With blue lock ring
  1. Pull the blue lock ring up, then remove the dispenser from the agitator by pulling up. Flush the dispenser with warm water.
  2. To reinstall, be sure the blue lock ring is pulled up. Starting at an angle, push the bottom of the dispenser down on the agitator top. When the dispenser is seated on the agitator, push the blue lock ring down until it snaps into place. It must fit tightly.
• Style 2: Without blue lock ring
  1. Hold the top agitator section with one hand. Using the other hand, rotate the dispenser clockwise until it stops (approximately 1 in. [2.54 cm]). To remove, lift the dispenser straight up. Using a rocking motion, separate the top and base of the dispenser. Wash three parts (the base, the cone-shaped cup, and the top) with a mild detergent and warm water.
  2. Making sure the pointed end of the cone-shaped cup is pointed toward the base, assemble the three parts by pressing the top and bottom sections together. If the seal came off while removing the dispenser from the agitator, install the seal as shown below.

IMPORTANT: Some models are equipped with a liquid fabric softener dispenser. To avoid damage to the washer or clothing do not wash clothes with the liquid fabric softener dispenser removed or add detergent or bleach to this dispenser; it is for liquid fabric softener only.

Water Inlet Hoses

Replace inlet hoses after 5 years of use to reduce the risk of hose failure. Periodically inspect and replace inlet hoses if bulges, kinks, cuts, wear or leaks are found. When replacing your inlet hoses, mark the date of replacement on the label with a permanent marker.

Moving & Storage

Because some water may stay in the hoses, freezing can damage your washer. If storing or moving your washer during freezing weather, winterize it.

Winterizing your washer

1. Shut off both water faucets. Disconnect and drain water inlet hoses. Pour 1 qt (1 L) of R.V.-type antifreeze into the basket.
2. Run washer on a drain and spin setting for about 30 seconds to mix the antifreeze and water.
3. Unplug washer or disconnect power.

To use washer again

1. Flush water pipes and hoses. Reconnect water inlet hoses. Turn on both water faucets.
2. Plug in washer or reconnect power.
3. Run the washer through a complete cycle with 1 cup (250 mL) of detergent to clean out antifreeze.

Storage, non-use or vacation care

Operate your washer only when you are at home. If you will be on vacation or not using your washer for an extended period of time, you should:

1. Unplug washer or disconnect power.
2. Turn off the water supply to the washer. This helps avoid accidental flooding (due to a water pressure surge) while you are away.

Troubleshooting

First try the solutions suggested here and possibly avoid the cost of a service call...

Washer and Components

Noisy

• Is the load balanced and the washer level? The wash load should be balanced and not overloaded. The washer must be level. The front feet should be properly installed and the nuts tightened. Reset the rear leveling legs (if needed). See the Installation Instructions.
• Did you completely remove the yellow shipping strap with cotter pins? See the Installation Instructions.
• Are the gears engaging after the drain and before spin, or is the upper part of agitator clicking during wash? These are normal washer noises.

Leaking

• Check the following:
  • Are the fill hoses tight?
  • Are the fill hose washers properly seated?
  • Is the drain hose clamp properly installed? See the Installation Instructions.
• Is the sink or drain clogged? Sink and standpipe must be able to handle 17 gal. (64 L) of water per minute.
• Is water deflecting off the tub ring or the load? Center the tub before starting the washer. The wash load should be balanced and not overloaded. The fill or spray rinses can deflect off the load. The washer must be level. The front feet should be properly installed and the nuts tightened. Reset the rear leveling legs (if needed). See the Installation Instructions.
• Check household plumbing for leaks.

Basket crooked

• Was the washer basket pulled forward during loading? Push the basket to the center before starting wash.
• Is the load balanced and the washer level? The wash load should be balanced and not overloaded. The washer must be level. The front feet should be properly installed and the nuts tightened. Reset the rear leveling legs (if needed). See the Installation Instructions.
• The washer basket moves while washing. This is normal.

Agitator operation

• The top of the agitator is loose, or moves in only one direction. This is normal.

Dispensers clogged or bleach leaking

• Did you follow the manufacturer's directions when adding detergent and fabric softener to the dispensers (on some models)? Measure detergent and fabric softener. Carefully pour into the dispensers. Wipe up all spills. Dilute fabric softener in the fabric softener dispenser.
• Did you put powdered or liquid color-safe bleach in the liquid chlorine bleach dispenser (on some models)? Add powdered or liquid color-safe bleach directly to the basket. Do not use the chlorine bleach dispenser for color-safe bleach.

Washer Operation

Washer stops, won't fill, rinse or agitate

• Check the following:
  • Is the power cord plugged into a grounded 3 prong outlet?
  • Is the indicator on the Cycle Control knob properly lined up with a cycle? Turn the Cycle Control knob to the right slightly and pull to start.
  • Are the water inlet valve screens clogged?
  • Are both the hot and cold water faucets turned on?
  • Is the water inlet hose kinked?
• Does the water level seem too low, or does the washer appear to not fill completely? The top of the agitator is much higher than the highest water level. This is normal and necessary for clothes to move freely.
• Has a fuse blown or is the circuit breaker open? If problem continues, call an electrician.
• Are you using an extension cord? Do not use an extension cord.
• Is the washer in a normal pause in the cycle? The washer pauses for about 2 minutes during certain cycles. Allow the cycle to continue. Some cycles feature periods of agitation and soak.
• Is the washer overloaded? Wash smaller loads.
• Is the lid open? The lid must be closed during operation. Washer will not agitate or spin with the lid open.

Washer won't drain or spin

• Is the drain hose clogged, or the end of the drain hose more than 96 in. (244 cm) above the floor? See the Installation Instructions for proper installation of drain hose.
• Is the lid open? The lid must be closed during operation. Washer will not agitate or spin with the lid open.
• Is there excessive sudsing? Always measure detergent. Follow manufacturer's directions. If you have very soft water, you might need to use less detergent.

Washer continues to fill or drain, cycle seems stuck

• Is the top of drain hose lower than the water level in washer? The top of the hose must be higher than the water level in the washer for proper operation. See the Installation Instructions.
• Does the drain hose fit too tightly in the standpipe, or is it taped to the standpipe? The drain hose should be loose yet fit securely. Do not seal the drain hose with tape. The hose needs an air gap. See the Installation Instructions.

Wash/Rinse temperature not what I selected

• Are the hot and cold water inlet hoses reversed? See the Installation Instructions for more information. As your frequency of loads washed increases, the water temperature may decrease for hot and warm temperatures. This is normal.
• Did you select a Warm/Warm temperature setting? On models without AUTO TEMPERATURE CONTROL (ATC) that do have a Warm/Warm temperature selection, the warm wash will be followed by an energy saving cold rinse followed by warm spray rinses. This saves energy while providing the same rinse performance.

Washer Results

Load too wet

• Did you use the right cycle for the load being washed? Select a cycle with a higher spin speed (if available).
• Did you use a cold rinse? Cold rinses leave loads wetter than warm rinses. This is normal.

Residue or lint on load

• Did you sort properly? Sort lint givers (towels, chenille) from lint takers (corduroy, synthetics). Also sort by color.
• Did you overload the washer? The wash load must be balanced and not overloaded. Clothes should move freely. Lint can be trapped in the load if overloaded. Wash smaller loads.
• Did you select the correct water level? The water level should be correct for the load size. Clothes should move freely in the water.
• Did you use enough detergent? Follow manufacturer's directions. Use enough detergent to hold the lint in the water.
• Did you line dry your clothing? If so, you can expect some lint on the clothing.
• Check the following:
  • Was paper or tissue left in the pockets?
  • Is your water colder than 70°F (21°C)? Wash water colder than 70°F (21°C) may not completely dissolve the detergent.
  • Did you use the proper cycle time for the load? Reducing wash time (duration) is another way to reduce lint.

Stains on load

• Did you follow the manufacturer's directions when adding detergent and fabric softener? Measure detergent and fabric softener. Use enough detergent to remove soil and hold it in suspension. Dilute fabric softener and add to the rinse portion of a cycle only. Do not drip fabric softener on clothes.
• Is there above average iron (rust) in water? You may need to install an iron filter.
• Did you properly sort the load? Sort dark clothes from whites and lights.
• Did you unload the washer promptly? To avoid dye transfer, unload the washer as soon as it stops.

Load is wrinkled

• Did you unload the washer promptly? Unload the washer as soon as it stops.
• Did you use the right cycle for the load being washed? Use the cycle for Casual or Permanent Press clothes or another cycle with low spin speeds (if available) to reduce wrinkling.
• Did you overload the washer? The wash load must be balanced and not overloaded. Loads should move freely during washing. To reduce wrinkling of permanent press clothes and some synthetic knits, use a large load size to provide more space.
• Was the wash water warm enough to relax wrinkles, or are you using warm rinses? If safe for the load, use warm or hot wash water. Use cold rinse water.
• Are the hot and cold water hoses reversed? Check to be sure the hot and cold water hoses are connected to the right faucets. See the Installation Instructions.

Load is tangled or twisted

• Did you overload the washer? The wash load must be balanced and not overloaded. Loads should move freely during washing.
• Did you wrap items around the agitator? Drop items loosely into the washer. Do not wrap items around the agitator.

Gray whites, dingy colors

• Did you properly sort the load? Dye transfer can occur when mixing whites and colors in a load. Sort dark clothes from whites and lights.
• Was the wash temperature too low? Use hot or warm washes if safe for the load. Make sure your hot water system is adequate to provide a hot water wash.
• Did you use enough detergent, or do you have hard water? Use more detergent for washing heavy soils in cold or hard water.
• Are the hot and cold water hoses reversed? Check to be sure the hot and cold water hoses are connected to the right faucets. See the Installation Instructions.

Garments damaged

• Check the following:
  • Were sharp items removed from pockets before washing? Empty pockets, zip zippers, snap or hook fasteners before washing.
  • Were strings and sashes tied to prevent tangling?
  • Were items damaged before washing? Mend rips and broken threads in seams before washing.
• Did you overload the washer? The wash load must be balanced and not overloaded. Loads should move freely during washing.
• Did you add chlorine bleach properly? Do not pour chlorine bleach directly onto load. Wipe up bleach spills. Undiluted bleach will damage fabrics. Do not place load items on top of the bleach dispenser when loading and unloading the washer (on some models).
• Did you follow the manufacturer's care label instructions?

Protection Agreements

In the U.S.A.

Master Protection Agreements

Congratulations on making a smart purchase. Your new Kenmore® appliance is designed and manufactured for years of dependable operation. But like all products, it may require preventive maintenance or repair from time to time. That's when having a Master Protection Agreement can save you money and aggravation.

Purchase a Master Protection Agreement now and protect yourself from unexpected hassle and expense.

The Master Protection Agreement also helps extend the life of your new appliance. Here's what's included in the Agreement:

• ✓ Expert service by our 12,000 professional repair specialists
• ✓ Unlimited service and no charge for parts and labor on all covered repairs
• ✓ "No-lemon" guarantee - replacement of your covered product if four or more product failures occur within twelve months
• ✓ Product replacement if your covered product can't be fixed
• ✓ Annual Preventive Maintenance Check at your request - no extra charge
• ✓ Fast help by phone - phone support from a Sears technician on products requiring in-home repair, plus convenient repair scheduling
• ✓ Power surge protection against electrical damage due to power fluctuations
• ✓ Rental reimbursement if repair of your covered product takes longer than promised

Once you purchase the Agreement, a simple phone call is all that it takes for you to schedule service. You can call anytime day or night, or schedule a service appointment online.

Sears has over 12,000 professional repair specialists, who have access to over 4.5 million quality parts and accessories. That's the kind of professionalism you can count on to help prolong the life of your new purchase for years to come. Purchase your Master Protection Agreement today!

Some limitations and exclusions apply. For prices and information, call 1-800-827-6655.

Sears Installation Service

For Sears professional installation of home appliances, garage door openers, water heaters, and other major home items, in the U.S.A. call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.

In Canada

Maintenance Agreements

Your purchase has added value because you can depend on Sears HomeCentral® for service. With over 2,400 Service Technicians and access to over 900,000 parts and accessories, we have the tools, parts, knowledge and skills to back our pledge: We Service What We Sell.

Your Kenmore® appliance is designed, manufactured and tested to provide years of dependable operation. Yet any major appliance may require service from time to time. The Sears Maintenance Agreement offers you an outstanding service program, affordably priced.

The Sears Maintenance Agreement

• Guarantees tomorrow's service at today's price.
• Eliminates repair bills resulting from normal wear and tear.
• Covers nontechnical and instructional service calls.
• Provides an annual Preventive Maintenance Check, at your request, to ensure that your appliance is in proper running condition.

Some limitations apply. For information concerning Sears HomeCentral® Maintenance Agreements, call 1-800-361-6665.

Kenmore Washer Warranty

Limited Lifetime Warranty on White Porcelain Basket

For the lifetime of the washer from the date of purchase, Sears will replace the white porcelain wash basket if it chips or rusts due to defective material or workmanship. After the first year, you will be charged for labor.

Limited 10-Year Warranty on Plastic Tub*

For the second through tenth year from the date of purchase, Sears will replace the plastic tub if it is defective in material or workmanship. After the first year, you will be charged for labor.

Limited 5-Year Warranty on Gearcase Parts*

For the second through fifth year from the date of purchase, Sears will replace any gearcase parts that are defective in material or workmanship. After the first year, you will be charged for labor.

Full 1-Year Warranty on "Spreckle" Porcelain Basket

For one year from the date of purchase, when this washer is installed and operated according to the instructions that come with it, Sears will replace the "spreckle" (speckled surface) porcelain wash basket if it chips or rusts due to defective material or workmanship.

Full 1-Year Warranty on Mechanical and Electrical Parts

For one year from the date of purchase, when this washer is installed and operated according to the instructions that come with it, Sears will repair or replace any of its mechanical or electrical parts if they are defective in material or workmanship.

Service must be provided by a Sears Service Department in the United States or Canada or an authorized agent.

Warranty Restriction

If this washer is operated for any purpose other than private family use, all warranty coverage is restricted to 90 days from the date of purchase.

Warranty Service

Warranty service is available by contacting Sears at 1-800-4-MY-HOME®. This warranty applies only while the product is in use in the United States or Canada.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state or province to province.

For Sears warranty information or to contact a Sears Service Center, please reference the service numbers located on the back page of this manual.

Sears, Roebuck and Co.
D/817WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

Sears Canada Inc.
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5B 2B8

*In Canada a different warranty may apply.

Contact Information

Your Home Service

For repair-in your home-of all major brand appliances, lawn and garden equipment, or heating and cooling systems, no matter who made it, no matter who sold it!

For the replacement parts, accessories and owner's manuals that you need to do-it-yourself.

For Sears professional installation of home appliances and items like garage door openers and water heaters.

1-800-4-MY-HOME® (1-800-469-4663)

Call anytime, day or night (U.S.A. and Canada)

www.sears.com | www.sears.ca

Our Home Service

For repair of carry-in items like vacuums, lawn equipment, and electronics, call or go on-line for the location of your nearest Sears Parts & Repair Center.

1-800-488-1222

Call anytime, day or night (U.S.A. only)

www.sears.com

Protection & Maintenance Agreements

To purchase a protection agreement (U.S.A.) or maintenance agreement (Canada) on a product serviced by Sears:

1-800-827-6655 (U.S.A.) | 1-800-361-6665 (Canada)

Service for Parts & Repair (U.S.A.)

Para pedir servicio de reparación a domicilio, y para ordenar piezas:

1-888-SU-HOGAR^SM (1-888-784-6427)

Service en Français (Canada)

Au Canada pour service en français:

1-800-LE-FOYER^MC (1-800-533-6937)

www.sears.ca

SEARS

® Registered Trademark / ™ Trademark / SM Service Mark of Sears, Roebuck and Co., used under licensee by Sears Canada.
® Marca Registrada / ™ Marca de Fábrica / SM Marca de Servicio de Sears, Roebuck and Co., usada bajo licencia de Sears Canada.
® Marque de commerce déposée / ™ Marque de commerce / SM Marque de service de Sears, Roebuck and Co., en vertu d'un porteur de licence par Sears Canada.

12/03 Printed in U.S.A. Impreso en EE. UU. Imprimé aux É.-U.