Kenmore Washing Machine: hoses bursting

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing hose bursts in your Kenmore washing machine? This critical issue can lead to severe flooding in your laundry area, often caused by deteriorated hoses, high water pressure, or improper installation. Quick action is essential to prevent water damage and restore your machine's functionality.

Urgency: Critical

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Kenmore official support notes that various internal hoses, including fill, drain, and tub-to-pump hoses, can be sources of leaks and should be inspected and replaced if damaged.

Possible Causes

Age-related hose deterioration and material fatigue

How to Identify: Visible cracks, bulges, soft spots, discoloration, or brittle sections along flexible rubber hoses; hoses older than recommended life are at high risk.

Part: Water supply hose

High water pressure and water hammer (hydraulic shock)

How to Identify: Sudden loud banging noises from plumbing, vibration, and burst occurring near connection points after cycles stop; evidence of high static pressure >80 psi increases stress. (Legacy Plumbing

Part: Supply hose and home plumbing lines

Faulty installation or improper hose connection

How to Identify: Twisted, kinked, or incorrectly fitted hoses; loose connectors with water leakage signs before bursting.

Part: Hose fittings and connectors

Corrosion or damage to fittings and internal metal inserts

How to Identify: Corroded, rusted, or sharp metal edges at hose ends can cut into the hose inner wall; metal insert erosion visible on inspection.

Part: Hose coupling ends and metal inserts

DIY Solutions

Regular inspection and replacement of supply hoses

Easy 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: flashlight
  1. Turn off water supply to the washing machine.
  2. Visually inspect hoses for cracks, bulges, soft spots, or discolouration.
  3. If hoses show any deterioration signs, replace them with new braided stainless steel supply hoses.
  4. Reconnect and tighten hoses by hand and check for leaks before restoring water pressure.
⚠️ Safety First: Always turn off the water supply before handling hoses.

Install a water hammer arrestor to reduce pressure surges

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: adjustable wrench, pipe tape, water hammer arrestor device
  1. Turn off the water supply and drain lines.
  2. Disconnect one of the supply lines where you’ll install the water hammer arrestor.
  3. Apply pipe tape to threads and install the arrestor according to manufacturer instructions.
  4. Reconnect supply lines and slowly restore water to test for leaks.
⚠️ Safety First: Make sure connections are tight and sealed.

Professional Repairs

Professional hose replacement with pressure regulation

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300 (hoses and labor)

Plumbing assessment for water hammer and pressure issues

Estimated Cost: $150 - $500

When to Call a Professional

If a hose has already burst and is causing flooding
If you detect signs of household high water pressure or severe water hammer
If you are unsure about proper hose selection and installation

Preventive Maintenance

  • Inspect all supply hoses visually: Catastrophic hose bursts and leaks
    Frequency: every 3-6 months
  • Replace supply hoses: Material fatigue leading to hose failure and flooding
    Frequency: every 3-5 years

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Washing Machine hoses bursting?
Common causes include age-related deterioration, high water pressure, and improper installation.
How do I fix Kenmore Washing Machine hoses bursting myself?
Inspect hoses for damage and replace them with new braided stainless steel hoses. Consider installing a water hammer arrestor.
How much does it cost to fix hoses bursting?
Professional hose replacement costs between $100 - $300, while plumbing assessments can range from $150 - $500.
When should I call a technician for hoses bursting?
If you face frequent hose bursts or have high water pressure issues, it's best to consult a professional immediately.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • High water pressure in the supply lines
  • Calcium buildup or mineral deposits in hoses
  • Aging or damaged hoses due to wear and tear

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and adjust water pressure. Use a pressure gauge to measure the pressure in the supply lines. Ideally, it should be between 40-60 psi. If it's too high, install a pressure regulator.

  2. Inspect hoses for any signs of calcium buildup. If present, clean the hoses with a vinegar solution or replace them if they are damaged.

  3. Replace old or damaged hoses with new steel mesh hoses. Ensure they are properly secured to avoid leaks.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Why do the Steel mesh water lines to washing machine keep bu...

Community Discussions

Steel mesh water lines keep bursting

Check for high water pressure or calcium buildup in the detergent dispenser.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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