Kenmore Washing Machine: stuck alternating between rinsing and draining
What is this symptom?
Is your Kenmore washing machine stuck alternating between rinsing and draining? This common issue may signal a blockage in the drain pathway or a faulty drain pump. If the cycle cannot complete due to water not draining properly, it’s essential to identify the cause for a quick resolution.
Important Tips for Kenmore Models
- Drain problems on Kenmore washers are frequently linked to clogged drain hoses or filters needing regular cleaning.
Possible Causes
Drain pathway blockage
How to Identify: Machine fails to fully drain, water remains in tub, hose or filter visibly clogged
Part: Drain hose / drain filter
Faulty drain pump
How to Identify: No water removal even after checking hose clear, unusual noises or failure to drain
Part: Drain pump assembly
Control board/timer malfunction
How to Identify: Cycle advancement irregular, electronics not switching correctly, diagnostics show no component faults
Part: Main control board / timer
DIY Solutions
Clean drain hose and filter
- Turn off and unplug washer
- Locate and detach drain hose and access filter
- Remove debris from hose and filter, rinse with water
- Reinstall parts and test drain cycle
Check and adjust drain hose routing
- Ensure drain hose isn’t kinked or looped too high or low
- Adjust to manufacturer‑recommended height/shape
- Run a drain test
Next step
Choose the next step for stuck alternating between rinsing and draining
Confirm the diagnosis before ordering. An error code can identify the system involved, but it does not prove that a specific part has failed.
Most relevant component to inspect
Drain Hose
Carries waste water from the drain pump to your home's standpipe or sink drain.
- Typical part-only price
- $15 - $30
- DIY difficulty
- Easy
- Estimated time
- 15-30 mins
Where can I find the model number?
Check the rating label around the door, lid, frame, rear panel, or inside the appliance cabinet. Use the complete model number, including suffixes.
Verify the complete model and part number on the retailer's compatibility page before ordering.
Other parts options
Check related components first; use model search as a fallback.
Drain Pump
Pumps waste water out of the appliance during the drain cycle.
Main Control Board
The central brain of the appliance that controls all components, cycles, and timings.
Model-compatible Washing Machine parts
Enter the complete model number to browse compatible replacement parts. This is a model-based parts search, not a diagnosis that a specific component failed.
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Optional routine care
Maintenance supplies
These products support cleaning or routine upkeep. They are separate from the possible repair components above and are not claimed to fix this error code or symptom.
Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets
Routine tub-cleaning supplies for residue and odor control. They do not repair a mechanical, drainage, or electronic fault.
Braided Washer Inlet Hoses
A maintenance replacement option for visibly worn external fill hoses. Verify thread size, length, and hot/cold connection requirements.
Washer Drain Hose Holder
Helps secure an external drain hose at the standpipe. It does not correct an internal pump or control fault.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Recommendations are based on routine-care relevance, not commission rate.
Professional Repairs
Replace drain pump
Control board diagnosis and replacement
When to Call a Professional
Preventive Maintenance
-
Clean drain filter/hose: Clogs leading to drain issues
Frequency: monthly -
Use proper detergent amount: Excess suds that can hinder draining
Frequency: each wash
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Kenmore Washing Machine stuck alternating between rinsing and draining?
How do I fix Kenmore Washing Machine stuck alternating between rinsing and draining myself?
How much does it cost to fix stuck alternating between rinsing and draining?
When should I call a technician for stuck alternating between rinsing and draining?
Community Analytical Insights
Guidance from available sources; statistical claims are shown only for samples of at least 10 discussions
Common Issues Reported by Users
- Clogged drain hose causing improper drainage
- Faulty water level sensor preventing proper cycle progression
- Malfunctioning control board causing erratic cycle behavior
User Suggested Solutions
-
Inspect and clear the drain hose. Ensure it is not kinked or clogged and is positioned correctly to avoid siphoning.
-
Test and replace the water level sensor if it is malfunctioning. This involves accessing the control panel and checking the sensor's resistance.
-
Inspect the control board for any visible damage or burnt components. If damaged, replace the control board.
Limited-source guidance; percentages and success-rate claims are not shown
View
Sources
Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:
Community Discussions
getting stuck alternating between rinsing and draining
Check the drain hose for proper placement to avoid water vacuum.
Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair
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