Kenmore Washing Machine: leak

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a leak from your Kenmore washing machine? Water may escape from different areas during cycles like filling, draining, or spinning. Understanding the potential causes can help you address this common issue effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Many Kenmore washers recommend replacing both tub seal and bearings together due to the design; complex repair.

Possible Causes

Loose or damaged inlet hoses

How to Identify: Visible moisture or drips from hose connections at back of washer; water during fill cycle.

Part: Water inlet hoses

Loose or damaged drain hose or connection

How to Identify: Water pooling near back of machine; hose cracks, kinks, or loose clamps; leaking during drain/spin.

Part: Drain hose

Faulty or cracked drain pump

How to Identify: Leak from underneath mid-bottom of washer, especially during drain cycle; unusual noise from pump area.

Part: Drain pump

Worn or torn tub seal

How to Identify: Leak from center bottom; persistent leak despite hose and pump checks.

Part: Tub seal

Damaged dispenser drawer or suds overflow

How to Identify: Leak near top/front during or after fill; excess suds spilling out.

Part: Dispenser drawer / detergent system

Damaged door boot seal

How to Identify: Leak at front bottom on front‑load models; visible damage or deformation of rubber seal.

Part: Door boot seal

DIY Solutions

Inspect and tighten water inlet and drain hose connections

Easy 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: adjustable wrench, towels
  1. Turn off water supply and unplug the washer.
  2. Inspect inlet and drain hose connections for looseness or signs of wear.
  3. Tighten connection nuts by hand then snug with wrench; replace hoses if cracked.
  4. Turn on water and run a short cycle to check for leaks.
⚠️ Safety First: Turn off water supply and power before working on hoses.

Clean drain pump filter and inspect pump area

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, bucket, towels
  1. Disconnect power and place towels/bucket under front panel.
  2. Remove access panel to reach drain pump filter.
  3. Unscrew and remove filter cap, clean out debris.
  4. Inspect around pump for cracks or leaks; reassemble and test machine.
⚠️ Safety First: Expect water to spill when opening filter; unplug first.

Professional Repairs

Replace drain pump

Estimated Cost: $80 - $200

Replace tub seal and bearings

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

Replace water inlet valve

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

When to Call a Professional

Leak source cannot be identified visually
Water leaks from inside drum or bottom despite checking hoses and pump
Leaks involve internal seals or require disassembly
Electrical risks or water contacting electrical components

Preventive Maintenance

  • Inspect hoses: Leaks from hose cracks and loose connections
    Frequency: every 6 months
  • Clean drain pump filter: Clogs that can lead to leaks or pump strain
    Frequency: every 3-6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Washing Machine leaking?
Common causes include loose or damaged inlet/drain hoses, a faulty drain pump, or worn tub seals.
How do I fix a Kenmore Washing Machine leak myself?
Inspect and tighten hose connections or clean the drain pump filter to resolve leaks.
How much does it cost to fix a leak?
Professional repairs range from $50 for inlet valves to $400 for tub seal replacements.
When should I call a technician for a leak?
If DIY fixes don't resolve the issue or if the leak persists, it's time to call a professional.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Worn or damaged door seal/gasket
  • Cracked or damaged outer tub
  • Loose or damaged drain hose
  • Clogged or damaged pump
  • Overloading the washer

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect the door seal/gasket for tears or wear. If damaged, replace it by removing the old gasket and installing a new one. Ensure it fits snugly to prevent leaks.

  2. Check the outer tub for cracks. If found, you may need to replace the tub. This involves disconnecting the washer from power and water, removing the drum, and installing a new outer tub.

  3. Examine the drain hose for any loose connections or damage. Tighten or replace the hose as necessary. Ensure the hose is properly positioned and not kinked.

  4. Inspect the pump for clogs or damage. Clean out any debris and replace the pump if necessary. This may require disassembling parts of the washer.

  5. Reduce the load size to prevent overloading. Ensure that the washer is not filled beyond its capacity during each wash cycle.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Would it make sense to replace a 30-year-old Kenmore washing...

Community Discussions

drum has sprung a leak

Consider repairing the drum if it's the outer plastic tub; otherwise, look for a replacement.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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