How to Fix a Kenmore Washing Machine Not Draining

Kenmore is a trusted American brand known for making high-quality, durable appliances. However, even the most reliable brand can experience problems – particularly when it comes to drainage. 

Drainage problems are frustrating, but they’re often surprisingly simple to fix, even for a novice DIYer. If your Kenmore washing machine isn’t draining, read on to find out what’s causing it and how to fix it. 

This guide applies to the most popular models of Kenmore washing machines, including:

110.20702990

110.20722990

110.23812100

110.24642300

110.26912691

110.28803890

110.6304857

110.6515731

110.72692620

110.72992200

110.82283200

110.82870120

110.82873120

110.82980120

110.84090820

110.92273100

110.92274100

110.92281100

110.92282100

110.92573210

796.40272900

Clean the lint filter

Lint filters should be cleaned regularly to enable your washer to drain properly. If you’ve neglected this task and a large amount of lint and debris have built up, your washer may have severely impaired drainage, even to the point of not draining at all. Here’s what to do:

• First, locate where the filter is on your washing machine. In most models, this is on the front lower right corner of the appliance, but you can consult your Kenmore manual for specifics on your model. 
• Remove the panel covering the filter, then use the secondary drainage hose to drain any residual water into a pan or bucket. 
• Place an old towel on the floor in front of your washing machine to catch any remaining water, then remove the filter. Most will unscrew counterclockwise. 
• Manually remove any lint or hair plugs from the filter, then thoroughly rinse under running water until it’s completely clean. 
• Check inside the filter housing for any debris and ensure it is completely clean before you put the filter back in place. 
• Screw the filter clockwise into place and replace the plastic panel. 
• Run a test cycle to see if the drainage issue has been fixed. 

Adjust the drain hose position

If you’ve ruled out a filter issue, the next thing to look at is the drain hose. An improperly positioned drain hose can make it more difficult for dirty water to drain out of your washing machine. In some cases, improper placement can even cause dirty water to siphon back into the machine after it drains away, leading to improper drainage. To fix:

• Gain access to the drain hose. You may need to pull the washer away from the wall to properly reach it. 
• If your washing machine drains into a standpipe, make sure it is firmly seated into the drain pipe. The top of the standpipe should be a maximum of 96 inches and a minimum of 24 inches from the floor. Use a cable tie or similar to secure the drain hose in place so it can’t be bumped out of position. 
• If your washing machine drains into a laundry tub, ensure the drainage hose is pointing downwards towards the tub drain. Secure the hose in place with a cable tie to ensure it can’t move around. 
• Once you’ve adjusted the drain hose position, run a test cycle to see if the drainage issue has been resolved. 

Check drain hose for clogs

If your drainage hose appears outwardly to be in the right position, but your washer still isn’t draining, it’s time to check for clogs. A clog made of hair, lint, and other debris can form within the drainage hose, particularly if the lint filter is not cleaned frequently enough. This can partially or totally block your Kenmore washing machine’s drainage system, leading to pooling water and a malfunctioning appliance. To correct the issue:

• First, use the secondary drainage hose to remove all residual water from the drum. If you’re not sure of the location, consult your Kenmore manual. 
• Move your washer away from the wall to gain access to the hose connections. 
• With an old towel at the ready to catch any residual water, remove the drainage hose from either the standpipe or laundry tub and unclip the other end from the back of your washer. 
• Use a length of wire or a plumbing snake to clear any clogs. 
• Run water through the hose to ensure it is fully unblocked. 
• Once water flows freely through the hose, reconnect it to the back of your washer and replace the other end in the standpipe or tub, securing it into place with cable ties. 
• Put your washer back in position and run a test cycle to ensure that the washer is functioning properly again. 

Replace drain pump

If you’ve ruled out issues with the filter and the drainage hose, there might be a more serious problem with your washing machine – most likely with the drain pump. Replacing the drain pump is a more difficult fix than the others listed in this guide, so you may prefer to call in a professional if you’re not experienced with replacing appliance parts. Here’s how to do it:

• Disconnect your washing machine from the power source. 
• Gain access to the drain pump. This will differ depending on your model, so consult your manual. In many cases, you may need to lay the washer on its front and remove the bottom panel. 
• Check to see if there is anything lodged in the pump impeller (this looks like a small plastic fan). If there is, remove the foreign object. This may be enough to restore function to your drain pump. 
• If nothing is blocking the impeller, check the drain pump for any obvious damage. If it’s cracked or broken, it will need replacing.
• Source a replacement part that is compatible with your model of Kenmore washer. 
• Remove the faulty pump, taking note of all the connections. 
• Put the new pump in place and secure it. 
• Replace the lower panel and put the washer back in its place. 
• Restore power and run a test cycle to check if the washing machine is now draining as it should.