Kenmore is a dependable brand that produces washers both residential and commercial construction sectors rely on for daily washing needs, so durability has never been an issue. You might even find yourself loading and unloading these washers mindlessly. However, what do you do if the Kenmore washer keeps restarting, stops mid-wash, or just won’t turn on?
A Kenmore washer that starts then stops may be experiencing an imbalance in the load. This can occur if the clothes are unevenly distributed inside the drum. To fix this, pause the cycle, open the washer, and manually redistribute the clothes evenly around the drum. Restart the washer, and it should complete the cycle without stopping.
Another common issue is a malfunctioning lid switch. If the lid switch does not properly indicate that the lid is closed, the washer will start but then stop as a safety precaution. To resolve this, inspect the lid switch for any signs of damage or obstructions. If necessary, clean or adjust the switch, or replace it if it’s broken.
Are you having trouble with your Kenmore washer? Before calling the repairmen, take a look at your unit first. I’ll explain in this article the most common reasons why your Kenmore washer might be malfunctioning, how to address the issue, and what tools you’ll need.
Kenmore Washer Won’t Turn On/Kenmore Washer Turns On but Won’t Start
Are you having trouble getting your Kenmore washer to start? Some of the most common defects that prevent washers from properly running include the following:
Skipping Timer
The thing with malfunctioning timers is the effects come gradually. Chances are, your washer won’t suddenly stop working just because the timer starts having issues with its electrical board.
One sign that your timer might be nearing the end of its lifespan is if your washer skips or even completely misses washing cycles. This issue is often the result of long-term carbon buildup. The grease, soot, and grime accumulate in the system, thus, preventing the timer from properly connecting with the camshaft. Carbon buildup would look like the black soot on a chimney.
There are generally two ways to address the issue. First, you can try cleaning the timer so the wirings can efficiently send electric signals once again. This option is a bit hard to do, but it’s much more affordable. Just make sure to test the timer for continuity using a multimeter to see if it’s working properly again.
Copyright protected content owner: ReadyToDIY.com and was initially posted on March 13, 2021.
Second, you can opt to replace the entire timer. I would suggest getting a part replacement because cleaning timers is too time-consuming. Yes, you’d save a few bucks. However, timers that have been damaged once by soot and carbon buildup are at risk of breaking down again. That means cleaning the timer will soon become a routine maintenance task.
A good aftermarket replacement part would be the ReplacementPartsUSA Replacement Washer Timer. It’s a genuine replacement part compatible with major washing machine brands like Kenmore. Unlike other aftermarket parts, the replacement timer is not an OEM, so long-term quality won’t be an issue.
Pro Tip: Too many homeowners make the mistake of misdiagnosing their washer timer. Timer’s aren’t cheap, so before pushing through with your decision to get a replacement, make sure to check for other possible issues and defects as well. If you can troubleshoot other underlying problems, you might be able to stop further soot buildup without getting a part replacement.
Kenmore Washer Start Button Blinking/Kenmore Washer Won’t Start Just Beeps/Kenmore Washer Start Button Not Working
Kenmore washers, especially the larger models, need plenty of power to function normally. Over time, the load will take a toll on the system and reduce its overall capacity to regulate energy. This power surge would overpower the electrical system and blow the line fuse.
The good news is that having the fuse blow out on you means the other parts of your washing machine are safe. However, the bad news is that you won’t be able to use your washing machine. For safety reasons, manufacturers have set electrical appliances to stop working once their respective fuse blows.
Here’s what you can do:
- The first thing you need to do is locate the fuse. You’ll see the first fuse near the power cord and the second fuse under the lid switch.
- Then, check the fuses for continuity using a multimeter. If they show physical signs of burning, the multimeter will likely detect that they’re no longer able to send electricity.
- Next, pinpoint the cause of the power surge. You can replace the washer’s fuse all you want, but unless you determine what caused the surge in the first place, the fuses will just keep blowing up. Inspect the drain pump, motor, and electrical system.
- Finally, address the underlying issue, then replace the fuse.
- Again, use a multimeter to see if the fuse can properly send electrical signals.
If all checks out, your washer should turn on and run normally.
Pro Tip: Check the BTNTVEN Line Fuse Replacement Kit. It has all the basic tools and replacement parts you need to get your line fuse up and running again.
Kenmore Washer Keeps Turning Off/Kenmore Washer Keeps Restarting/Kenmore Washer Keeps Turning On
Here are common reasons why your Kenmore washer might be malfunctioning as well as how to address the issue properly.
Unbalanced Load
As I mentioned, common issues that might cause a Kenmore washer to stop mid-wash range from defective water inlet valves to busted timer switches. However, before you inspect the unit for these issues, check the washer load first.
Copyright article owner is ReadyToDiy.com for this article. This post was first published on March 13, 2021.
A common mistake many people commit is forcing their washer to take on an unbalanced load of laundry. Washers cannot spread out loads that are too small. If you put in less than a pound or kilogram of laundry, the drum will automatically readjust its positioning in an attempt to redistribute the uneven load. After a few minutes, the machine will stop working.
This issue is pretty common, but fortunately, easy to resolve. To prevent the drum from readjusting in the middle of a spin cycle, make sure you always load the washer with sufficient laundry that the unit can evenly distribute.
Loose Lid Switch
You fill your tub with water, close the lid, and switch the washer to rest. However, you find that the washer won’t resume running after the two-minute rest cycle.
You keep pressing the start button, but all you get is a beeping noise—or maybe the button won’t even produce any sound. In a last-minute attempt to get the washer to work, you slam the lid shut. Maybe it works, and maybe it doesn’t.
Does this sound like something that has recently happened to you? If so, you might be dealing with a loose lid switch. I know this issue is annoying, but it’s relatively easy to resolve, so don’t resort to slamming the lid just to get the washer running. Besides, even if the trick works, manhandling your washer will lead to serious long-term issues.
Instead, opt to address the root of the issue. Unscrew the control panel’s back panel, lift the flap, tighten the lid switch, test the washer, and then screw the control panel back.
If tightening the lid switch doesn’t produce results, consider replacing the switch itself. A good aftermarket replacement that matches most Kenmore washers is the MAYITOP Washer Lid Switch. It’s durable, affordable, and easy to install.
Blocked Water Inlet Valve
If your washer shuts down with an empty tub, you might have a malfunctioning water inlet valve. This valve is the tube that connects your washer’s tub to the water source. If this valve malfunctions, the pathway becomes blocked, thus, preventing water from entering the tub.
Meanwhile, the washer won’t start running until water fills the tub. The system will likely shut down after a few minutes of waiting.
To see if the issue lies with your water inlet valve, you can check its continuity using a multimeter. If the multimeter reads that the circuit board isn’t properly sending out electricity, consider replacing the entire valve itself.
On the market for a durable, genuine Kenmore water inlet valve replacement for your washer? Try Blutoget Water Inlet Valve. It’s a durable, cost-efficient aftermarket replacement part compatible with most Kenmore washers.
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ReadyToDIY is the owner of this article. This post was published on March 13, 2021.