How to Troubleshoot a Sears Kenmore Portable Clothes Washer

The Kenmore portable clothes washer, manufactured for sale in Sears department stores, offers standard clothes washing features in a compact model that can be connected to any power source and water inlet supply. This may be useful for people who live in smaller spaces, by allowing them to store the washer when it's not in use and then connect it to the household plumbing and power supply when needed. If you experience issues with the portable washing machine, some troubleshooting methods may be useful.

Things You'll Need

• Wrench (if needed)
• Clean cloth(s)

Instructions

1. Ensure the Kenmore portable washer is firmly connected to a grounded three-prong power outlet and both a hot and cold water source if the washer is not working. Reset the circuit breaker if needed and remove other appliances from the outlet.

2. Close the washer lid if it's open and the washing machine does not fill, agitate or spin. The washer does not work with the washer lid open.

3. Set the "Wash Temp" on the machine to "Cold" and then adjust the water temperature with the hot and cold faucets on the sink if the temperature does not seem correct when using the washer in portable mode.

4. Avoid raising the drain hose more than 48 inches off the floor if the washer is not draining properly. Note that this is much lower than standard washing machines, which can allow for a distance of up to 96 inches between the floor and the drain hose. Check the drain hose for possible blockages and straighten the hose.

5. Balance the load size if the washer is extremely noisy during use. If the tub is over- or under-loaded, the washer may be very loud. Check the washer for loose items such as keys or coins and remove them. Ensure the washer is placed on a stable, level floor to reduce vibration during use.

6. Tighten the faucet connection with a pair of pliers if the washer is leaking at the faucet connection. Clear the sink drain and run the garbage disposal, if applicable. Look inside the wash basket and move items around if water is bouncing off the top of pieces inside the washer, creating a leak.

7. Push the wash basket to the center of the washing machine if it seems off-balance during or before use. Note that the basket moves during operation and this is normal.

References

• Manage My Life: Kenmore Portable Washer User Manual