Kenmore Washing Machine: not heating

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Kenmore washing machine not heating water during wash cycles? When selecting hot wash settings, the water remains cold, indicating a potential issue with the heating element or temperature sensor. This problem can affect the washing performance and requires timely attention to ensure clean laundry.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

Kenmore washers use specific tub heating elements (e.g., part number 5301FR2076G) â€” ensure correct part compatibility

Possible Causes

Faulty heating element

How to Identify: Water stays cold during cycles that should heat, continuity test of element shows open or out-of-spec resistance

Part: Heating element (tub heating element)

DIY Solutions

Test heating element continuity

Moderate 30â€“60 minutes

Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdrivers

Unplug machine and access heating element according to modelâ€™s service manual
Disconnect element and test resistance with multimeter; compare to expected value

⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before working

Check and test temperature sensor/thermostat

Moderate 30â€“60 minutes

Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdrivers

Locate temperature sensor or thermostat per service guide
Test for continuity and compare to expected values

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is off before maintenance

Professional Repairs

Replace failed heating element

Estimated Cost: $50â€“$150 for part

Control board or wiring repair

Estimated Cost: $150â€“$300+

When to Call a Professional

You cannot safely access internal components

Multimeter tests are inconclusive or show control board issues

Model-specific service manual instructions exceed your skills

Preventive Maintenance

Run occasional cleaning cycles: Mineral buildup on heating element
Frequency: monthly
Inspect wiring harness for wear: Intermittent heating faults related to loose connections
Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Washing Machine not heating?

The most common cause is a faulty heating element, which prevents the water from reaching the desired temperature.

How do I fix Kenmore Washing Machine not heating myself?

Test the heating element continuity and check the temperature sensor for issues by following your model's service manual.

How much does it cost to fix not heating?

Professional repairs for a failed heating element range from $50 to $150, while control board repairs can cost $150 to $300+.

When should I call a technician for not heating?

If DIY solutions are unsuccessful or if you're uncomfortable with electrical repairs, it's best to consult a professional.

References & Sources

Washing Machine Doesnâ€™t Heat Water: Faulty Heating Element or Temperature Sensor Community

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

Faulty heating element
Defective thermostat
Wiring issues or loose connections

User Suggested Solutions

Test and replace the heating element. Unplug the washer, access the heating element, use a multimeter to check for continuity, and replace if faulty.
Check and replace the thermostat. Locate the thermostat, test it with a multimeter for proper function, and replace if necessary.
Inspect wiring and connections. Unplug the washer, visually inspect all wiring for damage, and ensure all connections are secure.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

Washing machine with internal heating element?

Community Discussions

does not maintain hot water temperature during wash cycle

Consider a Miele or other European front loader with a built-in heater for higher temperature washes.