Kenmore Washing Machine: not draining properly

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Kenmore washing machine not draining properly? If water remains in the drum after a cycle, you're likely facing issues like a clogged drain hose, a blocked pump filter, or a faulty drain pump. These problems can cause slow drainage and unusual humming sounds. Addressing these issues promptly can save you time and money.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

Some Kenmore models have unique coin traps or front access pump filters; consult model manual for exact location
Elite models may include diagnostic modes to help identify drain issues; refer to manual for diagnostics

Possible Causes

Clogged drain hose

How to Identify: Water remains after cycle; hose visibly kinked or debris seen when removed; slow or no water flow even when pump runs

Part: Drain hose

Blocked drain pump filter/coin trap

How to Identify: Small debris like coins/lint visible in pump area; water fails to drain even after hose cleared

Part: Pump filter/coin trap

Faulty drain pump or pump motor

How to Identify: Washer makes humming or unusual noises but no water exits; pump impeller damaged or no electrical continuity

Part: Drain pump / pump motor

Malfunctioning lid/door switch

How to Identify: Top-load model wonâ€™t initiate drain cycle even when power applied; continuity test fails

Part: Lid switch assembly

Drive belt worn or broken

How to Identify: Belt shows wear/cracks; pump doesnâ€™t spin though motor runs

Part: Drive belt

Control board/timer not sending signal

How to Identify: No pump activation despite correct hose and pump condition; error codes related to electrical faults

Part: Control board/washer timer

DIY Solutions

Clear a clogged drain hose

Moderate 15-30 minutes

Tools Needed: flashlight, bucket, hoses brush

Unplug the washer and pull it away from the wall.
Disconnect the drain hose from the washer and drain line into a bucket.
Inspect hose for visible blockages or kinks with a flashlight.
Use a long brush or flexible tool to clear debris; flush with water if needed.
Reattach hose ensuring no kinks and proper height/secure fit.
Run a drain cycle to verify water flows out correctly.

⚠️ Safety First: Always unplug before working on appliance

Clean the drain pump filter/coin trap

Moderate 15-30 minutes

Tools Needed: screwdriver, towels

Unplug washer and locate the pump filter (front/bottom access panel).
Remove panel and place towels to catch water.
Unscrew and remove pump filter; clear lint/objects by hand.
Rinse filter under water and reinsert securely.
Replace access panel and run a test drain cycle.

⚠️ Safety First: Power off the washer first

Test and replace a faulty lid/door switch

Advanced 30-60 minutes

Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdrivers

Unplug washer and locate lid/door switch per model manual.
Remove switch and test for continuity with a multimeter.
If no continuity when actuated, replace with equivalent part.
Reinstall switch and secure panels.
Restore power and test drain cycle.

⚠️ Safety First: Verify correct switch part number

Professional Repairs

Replace drain pump or pump motor

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

Replace control board or timer

Estimated Cost: $150 - $450

When to Call a Professional

Pump makes grinding noises or is electrically failed

Control board or wiring issues suspected

Uncertain diagnosis after basic checks

Preventive Maintenance

Clean drain pump filter: Blockages leading to draining issues
Frequency: monthly
Inspect and clear drain hose: Clogs and kinks that impede water flow
Frequency: every 3 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Washing Machine not draining properly?

Common causes include a clogged drain hose, blocked pump filter, or a faulty drain pump.

How do I fix Kenmore Washing Machine not draining properly myself?

You can clear a clogged drain hose or clean the pump filter by following DIY instructions.

How much does it cost to fix not draining properly?

Professional repair costs range from $100 to $450 depending on the issue.

When should I call a technician for not draining properly?

Call a technician if DIY solutions don't work or if the problem involves complex repairs.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Common Issues Reported by Users

Too many suds leading to continuous draining (1 mentions)
Shifter malfunction causing water retention (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

Replace shifter as recommended by technician

Success rate: 50.0%
Address excessive suds by using less detergent

Success rate: 0.0%

Analysis based on 2 community discussions
View Sources

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

Community Discussions

water remains in the bottom of the washer between use, clothes soggy, lid light flashing

The appliance repair technician suggested a shifter is needed, and the water remaining in the bottom is considered normal.