User Manual Kenmore 20232 3.5 cu. ft. Top-Load Washer

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Table of contents

• WHAT’S NEW UNDER THE LID?
• CONTROL PANEL AND FEATURES
• USING YOUR WASHER
• WASHER MAINTENANCE
• TROUBLESHOOTING
• KENMORE APPLIANCE WARRANTY

User Manual Kenmore 20232 3.5 cu. ft. Top-Load Washer

WHAT’S NEW UNDER THE LID?

Your new washer will operate differently than your past agitator-style washer.

Cleaning with Less Water

The washer automatically adjusts the water level to the load size—no water level selector is needed.

For best performance, it is recommended to load items in loose heaps evenly around the washplate.

As the washer dampens and moves the load, the level of the items will settle in the basket. This is normal, and does not indicate that more items should be added.

IMPORTANT:

• You will not see a washer basket full of water as with your past agitator-style washer. It is normal for some of the load to be above the water line.
• The lid must be closed before the washer basket fills with water and for wash cycle to start. If lid is open and filling stops, close lid and press START button to complete cycle.

Automatic Load Size Sensing

Choosing the Right Detergent

Use only High Efficiency detergents. The package will be marked "HE” or “High Efficiency.” Low-water washing creates excessive sudsing with a non-HE detergent. Using non-HE detergent will likely result in longer cycle times and reduced rinsing performance. It may also result in component malfunction and, over time, buildup of mold or mildew. HE detergents should be low-sudsing and quick-dispersing to produce the right amount of suds for the best performance. They should hold soil in suspension so it is not redeposited onto clean clothes. Not all detergents labeled as High Efficiency are identical in formulation and their ability to reduce suds. For example, natural, organic, or homemade HE detergents may generate a high level of suds. Always follow the detergent manufacturer’s instructions to determine the amount of detergent to use.

Improved Cleaning

Low-water cleaning means concentrated cleaning. Rather than diluting detergent as done in an agitator-style washer, this washer delivers the detergent directly to the soils. This low water wash also allows the clothing to move in a more effective way to remove soils.

Normal Sounds You Can Expect

At different stages of the wash cycle, you may hear sounds and noises that are different from those of your previous washer. For example, you may hear a clicking and hum at the beginning of the cycle, as the lid lock goes through a self-test. There will be different kinds of humming sounds as the washplate moves the load and as the basket is slowing down to stop. And sometimes, you may hear nothing at all, as the washer determines the correct water level for your load or allows time for clothes to soak.

CONTROL PANEL AND FEATURES

1. WATER LEVEL

2. WASH TEMP

• On some models and cycles, warm and hot water may be cooler than your previous washer.
• Even in a cold and cool water wash, some warm water may be added to the washer to maintain a minimum temperature. All rinses are cold.

3. WASH CYCLE KNOB

Use the Wash Cycle knob to select cycles on your washer. See “Cycle Guide” for detailed descriptions of cycles.

5. CYCLE STATUS INDICATOR LIGHTS

The Cycle Status Lights show the progress of a cycle. At each stage of the process, you may notice sounds or pauses that are different from traditional washers.

USING YOUR WASHER

1. Sort and prepare your laundry

• Empty pockets. Loose change, buttons, or any small object can pass under the agitator and become trapped, causing unexpected sounds.
• Sort items by recommended cycle, water temperature, and colorfastness.
• Separate heavily soiled items from lightly soiled.
• Separate delicate items from sturdy fabrics.
• Do not dry garments if stains remain after washing, because heat can set stains into fabric.
• Treat stains promptly.
• Close zippers, fasten hooks, tie strings and sashes, and remove non-washable trim and ornaments.
• Mend rips and tears to avoid further damage to items during washing.

Helpful Tips:

• When washing waterproof or water-resistant items, load evenly.
• Use mesh garment bags to help avoid tangling when washing delicate or small items.
• Turn knits inside out to avoid pilling. Separate lint-takers from lint-givers. Synthetics, knits, and corduroy fabrics will pick up lint from towels, rugs, and chenille fabrics.

NOTE: Always read and follow fabric care label instructions to avoid damage to your garments.

2. Add laundry products

3. Load laundry into washer

Load garments in loose heaps evenly around basket wall. For best results, do not pack the load tightly. Do not wrap large items such as sheets around the agitator; load them in loose piles around the sides of the basket. Try mixing different sized items to reduce tangling.

IMPORTANT: Do not tightly pack or force items into washer. Items need to move freely for best cleaning and to reduce wrinkling and tangling.

4. Add liquid chlorine bleach to dispenser

5. Add fabric softener to dispenser (on some models)

Pour a measured amount of liquid fabric softener into dispenser; always follow manufacturer’s directions for correct amount of fabric softener based on your load size.

Dilute liquid fabric softener by filling the dispenser with warm water until liquid reaches the underside of the rim. See Max Fill line arrows.

Adding Liquid Fabric Softener Manually to Wash Load

During the final rinse, wait until the washer has completed filling, press the START/PAUSE/Unlock Lid button to pause the washer. Lift the lid and add the measured recommended amount of liquid fabric softener. Do not allow liquid fabric softener to spill, splash, drip, or run into the basket or on load. Do not use more than the recommended amount. Close the lid and press the START/PAUSE/Unlock Lid button again to start the washer.

6. Select cycle

Turn cycle knob to choose your wash cycle. For more information, see “Cycle Guide.”

7. Select WATER LEVEL

Set the Water Level knob to the Auto Sensing setting and the washer will fill to a level that ensures the load engages the agitator. From this point, the electronic control will sense the load and determine if additional water is needed.

Set the Water Level knob to the Deep Fill setting and the washer will fill to the maximum water level. This option is not available on Normal wash cycles.

NOTE: Expect longer wash cycle times due to extended fill times when using the Deep Fill option.

8. Select WASH TEMP

• Whites and pastels
• Durable garments
• Heavy soils

• Bright colors
• Moderate to light soils

• Colors that bleed or fade
• Light soils

• Dark colors that bleed or fade
• Light soils

• Dark colors that bleed or fade
• Light soils

9. Press START/PAUSE/Unlock Lid to begin wash cycle

Press the START/PAUSE/Unlock Lid button to start the wash cycle. When the cycle has finished, the Cycle Complete status light will light. Promptly remove garments after cycle has completed to avoid odor, reduce wrinkling, and rusting of metal hooks, zippers, and snaps.

Unlocking the lid to add garments

If you need to open the lid to add 1 or 2 missed garments:

Press START/PAUSE/Unlock Lid; the lid will unlock once the washer movement has stopped. This may take several minutes if the load was spinning at high speed. Then close lid and press START/PAUSE/Unlock Lid again to restart the cycle.

NOTES:

• Washer will not fill with the lid open.
• If your washer does not have a soak option, then pause your washer to soak by pressing the Start/Pause button. Soaking should be done with the lid closed. When you are done soaking, press the Start/Pause button to bring washer out of Pause and resume the cycle.

IMPORTANT: If lid is left open for more than 10 minutes, the water will pump out automatically.

WASHER MAINTENANCE

WATER INLET HOSES

Replace inlet hoses after 5 years of use to reduce the risk of hose failure. Periodically inspect and replace inlet hoses if bulges, kinks, cuts, wear, or leaks are found. When replacing your inlet hoses, mark the date of replacement on the label with a permanent marker.

NOTE: This washer does not include inlet hoses. See the "Installation Instructions” for more information.

WASHER CARE

Recommendations to Help Keep Your Washer Clean and Performing at its Best

Cleaning Your Top-Loading Washer

Read these instructions completely before beginning the routine cleaning processes recommended below. This Washer Maintenance Procedure should be performed, at a minimum, once per month or every 30 wash cycles, whichever occurs sooner, to control the rate at which soils and detergent may otherwise accumulate in your washer.

Cleaning the Inside of the Washer

To keep your washer odor-free, follow the usage instructions provided above, and use this recommended monthly cleaning procedure:

Recommended Cycle for Cleaning the Washer

Refer to the “Cycle Guide” for the optimal cycle for cleaning the inside of the washer. Use this cycle with liquid chlorine bleach as described below.

Begin procedure

1. Chlorine Bleach Procedure:

NOTE: For best results, do not interrupt cycle. If cycle must be interrupted, press START/PAUSE/Unlock Lid once. After the cycle has stopped, run a RINSE/SPIN cycle to rinse cleaner from washer.

Cleaning the Dispensers

After a period of using your washer, you may find some residue buildup in the washer’s dispensers. To remove residue from the dispensers, wipe them with a damp cloth and towel dry. Do not attempt to remove the dispensers or trim for cleaning. The dispensers and trim are not removable. If your model has a dispenser drawer, however, remove the drawer and clean it before or after you run the Clean Washer cycle. Use an all-purpose surface cleaner, if needed.

Cleaning the Outside of the Washer

Use a soft, damp cloth or sponge to wipe away any spills. Use only mild soaps or cleaners when cleaning external washer surfaces.

IMPORTANT: To avoid damaging the washer’s finish, do not use abrasive products.

NON-USE AND VACATION CARE

Operate your washer only when you are home. If moving, or not using your washer for a period of time, follow these steps:

WINTER STORAGE CARE

IMPORTANT: To avoid damage, install and store washer where it will not freeze. Because some water may stay in hoses, freezing can damage washer. If storing or moving during freezing weather, winterize your washer.

To winterize washer:

TRANSPORTING YOUR WASHER

REINSTALLING/USING WASHER AGAIN

To reinstall washer after non-use, vacation, winter storage, or moving:

To use washer again:

TROUBLESHOOTING

Vibration or Off-Balance

Check the following for proper installation or see “Using Your Washer” section.

1. Feet may not be in contact with the floor and locked.

• Front and rear feet must be in firm contact with floor, and washer must be level to operate properly.

2. Washer may not be level.

• Check floor for flexing or sagging. If flooring is uneven, a 3/4" mm) piece of plywood under your washer will reduce sound.
• See “Level the Washer” in Installation Instructions.

3. Load could be unbalanced.

• Load dry items in loose heaps evenly around basket wall. Adding wet items to washer or adding more water to basket could unbalance washer.
• Wash smaller loads to reduce imbalance.
• Do not tightly pack. Avoid washing single items.
• Use Deep Wash cycle for oversized, non-absorbent items such as comforters or poly-filled jackets.
• See “Cycle Guide” and “Using Your Washer” in this Use and Care Guide.

Noises

Clicking or metallic noises

1. Objects caught in washer drain system.

• Empty pockets before washing. Loose items such as coins could fall between basket and tub or may block pump. It may be necessary to call for service to remove items.
• It is normal to hear metal items on clothing such as metal snaps, buckles, or zippers touch against the basket.

Gurgling or humming

1. Washer may be draining water.

• It is normal to hear the pump making a continuous humming sound with periodic gurgling or surging as final amounts of water are removed during the Drain/Spin cycles.

Humming

1. Load sensing may be occurring.

• You may hear the hum of the sensing spins after you have started the washer. This is normal.

Water Leaks

Check the following for proper installation:

1. Washer not level.

• Water may splash off basket if washer is not level.

2. Fill hoses not attached tightly.

• Tighten fill-hose connection.

3. Fill hose washers.

• Make sure all four fill hose flat washers are properly seated.

4. Drain hose connection.

• Pull drain hose from washer cabinet and properly secure it to drainpipe or laundry tub.

5. Check household plumbing for leaks or clogged sink or drain.

• Water can back up out of a clogged sink or drainpipe. Check all household plumbing for leaks (laundry tubs, drain pipe, water pipes, and faucets.)

6. Washer not loaded as recommended.

• Unbalanced loading can cause basket to be out of alignment and cause water to splash off tub. See “Using Your Washer” for loading instructions.

Washer not performing as expected

Not enough water in washer

1. Load not completely covered in water.

• This is normal operation for an HE low-water washer. The load will not be completely under water. The washer senses load sizes and adds correct amount of water for optimal cleaning. IMPORTANT: Do not add more water to washer. Adding water lifts the items off the washplate, resulting in less effective cleaning.
• Use Heavy Duty or Deep Wash cycle for higher water fill. See "What’s New under the Lid” and “Cycle Guide” to match your load with the best cycle.
• Run Clean Washer cycle to optimize the water level and wash performance due to soil build-up in washer basket.

Washer won’t run or fill, washer stops working or wash light remains on (indicating that the washer was unable to fill appropriately)

1. Check for proper water supply.

• Both hoses must be attached and have water flowing to inlet valve.
• Both hot and cold water faucets must be turned on.
• Check that inlet valve screens have not become clogged.
• Check for any kinks in inlet hoses, which can restrict water flow.

2. Check proper electrical supply.

• Plug power cord into a grounded 3 prong outlet.
• Do not use an extension cord.
• Ensure there is power to outlet.
• Reset a tripped circuit breaker. Replace any blown fuses. NOTE: If problems continue, contact an electrician.

3. Normal washer operation. Lid must be closed for washer to run.

• Washer will pause during certain phases of cycle. Do not interrupt cycle.

4. Washer may be tightly packed.

• Remove several items, rearrange load evenly in basket. Close lid and press START/PAUSE/Unlock Lid.
• Do not add more than 1 or 2 additional items after cycle has started to avoid tightly packing or unbalancing.
• Do not add more water to the washer.

Washer not draining/ spinning, loads are still wet or spin light remains on (indicating that the washer was unable to pump out water within 10 minutes)

1. Small items may have been caught in pump or between basket and tub, which can slow draining.

• Empty pockets and use garment bags for small items.

2. Use a cycle with a low spin speed.

• Cycles with lower spin speeds remove less water than cycles with high spin speeds. Use the recommended cycle/speed spin for your garment. To remove extra water in the load, select Drain/Spin. Load may need to be rearranged to allow even distribution of the load in the basket.

3. The washer may be tightly packed or unbalanced.

• Tightly packed or unbalanced loads may not allow the washer to spin correctly, leaving the load wetter than normal. Evenly arrange the wet load for balanced spinning. Select the Drain/ Spin cycle to remove excess water. See “Using Your Washer” for loading recommendations.

4. Check plumbing for correct drain hose installation. Drain hose extends into standpipe farther than 4.5" (114 mm).

• Check drain hose for proper installation. Use drain hose form and securely attach to drainpipe or tub. Do not tape over drain opening. Lower drain hose if the end is higher than 96" (2.4 m) above the floor. Remove any clogs from drain hose.

2. Too much detergent causing suds to slow or stop draining and spinning.

• Always measure and follow detergent directions for your load. To remove extra suds, select Rinse/Spin. Do not add detergent.

Dry spots on load after cycle

1. High speed spins extract more moisture than your previous washer.

• The high spin speeds combined with air flow during the final spin can cause items near the top of the load to develop dry spots during the final spin. This is normal.

2. Washer may be tightly packed.

• Use Heavy Duty or Deep Wash cycle for higher water fill. See "Cycle Guide” to match your load with the best cycle.

3. Added extra garments to the load after the sensing/fill phase.

• Add only 1 or 2 additional garments after washer has started.

Incorrect or wrong wash or rinse temperatures

1. Check for proper water supply.

• Make sure hot and cold inlet hoses are not reversed.
• Both hoses must be attached to both washer and faucet, and have both hot and cold water flowing to inlet valve.
• Check that inlet valve screens are not clogged.
• Remove any kinks in hoses.

2. Energy saving controlled wash temperatures.

• ENERGY STAR® qualified washers use cooler wash and rinse water temperatures than traditional top-load washers. This includes cooler hot and warm washes.

3. Load not rinsed Check for proper water supply.

• Make sure hot and cold inlet hoses are not reversed.
• Both hoses must be attached and have water flowing to the inlet valve.
• Both hot and cold water faucets must be on.
• Inlet valve screens on washer may be clogged.
• Remove any kinks in the inlet hose.

4. Not using HE detergent or using too much HE detergent.

• The suds from too much detergent can keep washer from operating correctly. Always measure detergent and follow detergent directions based on load size and soil level.

5. Washer not loaded as recommended.

• The washer is less efficient at rinsing when load is tightly packed.
• Load garments in loose heaps evenly around the basket wall. Load with dry items only.
• Use cycle designed for the fabrics being washed.
• Add only 1 or 2 additional garments after washer has started.
• Use Heavy Duty or Deep Wash cycle for higher water fill. See "Cycle Guide” to match your load with the best cycle.

Sand, pet hair, lint, etc. on load after washing

1. Heavy sand, pet hair, lint, and detergent or bleach residues may require additional rinsing.

• Increase Soil Level setting.

Load is tangling

1. Washer not loaded as recommended.

• See “Using Your Washer” section.
• Select a cycle with a slower wash action and spin speed; however, items will be wetter than those using a higher speed spin. Use Heavy Duty or Deep Wash cycle for higher water fill. See the "Cycle Guide” to match your load with the best cycle.
• Load garments in loose heaps evenly around the basket wall.
• Reduce tangling by mixing types of load items. Use the recommended cycle for the type of garments being washed.

Not cleaning or removing stains

1. Added more water to washer.

• Washer senses load size and adds correct amount of water. This is normal and necessary for clothes to move. It is normal for the wash load to be not completely covered in water. Added water lifts the laundry off the washplate, resulting in less effective cleaning.

2. Washer not loaded as recommended.

• Washer is less efficient at cleaning when load is tightly packed.
• Load garments in loose heaps evenly around the basket wall. Load with dry items only.
• Add only 1 or 2 additional garments after washer has started.

3. Adding detergent on top of load.

• Add detergent, Oxi products, and color-safe bleach to the bottom of the basket before adding the load items.

4. Not using HE detergent or using too much HE detergent.

• The suds from regular detergent can keep washer from operating correctly.
• Use only HE detergent. Be sure to measure correctly.
• Always measure detergent and follow manufacturer’s directions based on load size and soil level.

5. Not using correct cycle for fabric type.

• Use a higher soil level cycle option and warmer wash temp to improve cleaning.
• Use Heavy Duty cycle for tough cleaning. See the “Cycle Guide” to match your load with the best cycle.

6. Not using dispensers.

• Use dispensers to avoid chlorine bleach and fabric softener staining.
• Load dispensers before starting a cycle.
• Avoid overfilling.
• Do not add products directly onto load.

7. Not washing like colors together.

• Wash like colors together and remove promptly after the cycle is complete to avoid dye transfer.

Incorrect dispenser operation

1. Clogged dispenser.

• Load dispensers before starting a cycle.
• Use only liquid chlorine bleach in the bleach dispenser. Use only fabric softener in the fabric softener dispenser.

Fabric damage

1. Sharp items were in pockets during wash cycle.

• Empty pockets, zip zippers, and snap or hook fasteners before washing to avoid snags and tears.

2. Strings and straps could have tangled.

• Tie all strings and straps before starting wash load.

3. Items may have been damaged before washing.

• Mend rips and broken threads in seams before washing.

4. Fabric damage can occur if load is tightly packed.

• Load garments in loose heaps evenly around the basket wall. Load with dry items only.
• Use cycle designed for the fabrics being washed.
• Use Heavy Duty or Deep Wash cycle for higher water fill. See
• What’s New under the Lid” and “Cycle Guide” to match your load with the best cycle.
• Add only 1 or 2 additional garments after washer has started.

5. Liquid chlorine bleach may have been added incorrectly.

• Do not pour liquid chlorine bleach directly onto load. Wipe up bleach spills.
• Undiluted bleach will damage fabrics. Do not use more than recommended by manufacturer.
• Do not place load items on top of bleach dispenser when loading and unloading washer.

6. Garment care instructions may not have been followed.

• Always read and follow garment manufacturer’s care label instructions. See the “Cycle Guide” to match your load with the best cycle.

Odors

1. Monthly maintenance not done as recommended.

• See “Washer Care” in Washer Maintenance.
• Unload washer as soon as cycle is complete.

2. Using too much detergent.

• Be sure to measure correctly. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions.
• See “Washer Care” section.

Lid locked light is flashing

1. The lid is not closed.

• Close the lid. The washer will not start or fill with the lid open.

2. A cycle was stopped or paused using the START/PAUSE/Unlock Lid button.

• The washer may still be spinning. The lid will not unlock until the basket has stopped spinning. This may take several minutes if washing large loads or heavy fabrics.

Single-dose laundry packet not dissolving

1. Adding laundry packet incorrectly.

• Be sure laundry packet is added to washer basket before adding clothes. Do not add packet to dispenser. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damage to your garments.

Washer pumps out water before finishing cycle

1. Lid is left open for more than minutes.

• Make sure lid is closed before starting a cycle and/or during prewash (soak).

KENMORE APPLIANCE WARRANTY

KENMORE LIMITED WARRANTY

FOR ONE YEAR from the date of sale this appliance is warranted against defects in material or workmanship when it is correctly installed, operated, and maintained according to all supplied instructions.

WITH PROOF OF SALE, a defective appliance will receive free repair or replacement at option of seller.

For warranty coverage details to obtain free repair or replacement, visit the web page: www.kenmore.com/warranty.

This warranty applies for only 90 DAYS from the sale date in the United States, and is void in Canada, if this appliance is ever used for other than private household purposes.

This warranty covers ONLY defects in material and workmanship, and will NOT pay for:

1. Expendable items that can wear out from normal use, including but not limited to filters, belts, bags, or screw-in base light bulbs.

2. A service technician to clean or maintain this appliance, or to instruct the user in correct appliance installation, operation, and maintenance.

3. Service calls to correct appliance installation not performed by Sears authorized service agents, or to repair problems with house fuses, circuit breakers, house wiring, and plumbing or gas supply systems resulting from such installation.

4. Damage to or failure of this appliance resulting from installation not performed by Sears authorized service agents, including installation that was not in accord with electrical, gas, or plumbing codes.

5. Damage to or failure of this appliance, including discoloration or surface rust, if it is not correctly operated and maintained according to all supplied instructions.

6. Damage to or failure of this appliance, including discoloration or surface rust, resulting from accident, alteration, abuse, misuse or use for other than its intended purpose.

7. Damage to or failure of this appliance, including discoloration or surface rust, caused by the use of detergents, cleaners, chemicals, or utensils other than those recommended in all instructions supplied with the product.

8. Damage to or failure of parts or systems resulting from unauthorized modifications made to this appliance.

9. Service to an appliance if the model and serial plate is missing, altered, or cannot easily be determined to have the appropriate certification logo.

DISCLAIMER OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES; LIMITATION OF REMEDIES

Customer’s sole and exclusive remedy under this limited warranty shall be product repair or replacement as provided herein. Implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to one year or the shortest period allowed by law. Seller shall not be liable for incidental or consequential damages. Some states and provinces do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, or limitation on the duration of implied warranties of merchantability or fitness, so these exclusions or limitations may not apply to you.

This warranty applies only while this appliance is used in the United States or Canada*.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

* In-home repair service is not available in all Canadian geographical areas, nor will this warranty cover user or servicer travel and transportation expenses if this product is located in a remote area (as defined by Sears Canada Inc.) where an authorized servicer is not available.