Possibly returning Kenmore HE Washer/Dryer

15 years ago

Hi.

I bought a Sears Kenmore HE washer and HE2 dryer -- front loaders. I suppose I made my decision in haste, I'm afraid.

The washer doesn't really seem to clean effectively. For example, mildly soiled towels, from doing extensive housework and/or gardening then washing and drying hands, barely get clean after I run a pre-soak cycle with bleach, then a normal wash cycle. This takes a full hour to do. Sanitize takes 3 hours, the Whites Whites cycle takes 2 hours. How the heck are these machines considered energy efficient if they are running for 3 hours?

Yesterday, I threw three towels in the dryer on High for 40 minutes and they still weren't dry. Did another 30 minute cycle and the thickest of these still was slightly damp. Crazy...imo.

Anyway, I searched the forum for info on these machines and, if I remember right, read some mixed reviews a while back. Didn't turn up anything when I searched again tonight so I hope this doesn't repeat other posts. Apologies if it does.

Anyone have experience with these? Suggestions for good front loaders that don't take 2-3 hours to clean clothes? I am really, really amazed by the poor performance. Thinking of replacing with a Frigidaire mechanical front loader (don't know the model #).

Thanks!

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (3)

oregpsnow
15 years ago
I have had the Whirpool version of your washer with the heater for 1 1/2 years now. I am very happy. First, there is something wrong with your dryer. Check the full path out to the vent exhaust for lint clogs - if the dryer is even getting a little warm it should dry faster than that. My big thick towels are dry in 20 min on medium heat.

I wash lightly soiled clothes on the Quick Wash - about 35 min. I pre-treat any stains and everything comes clean. Dirtier items go on the Normal Cycle - about 60 min. I don't have much white stuff but I would not use bleach if I did. Very toxic. I only use it rarely for the Clean Washer cycle.

Are you overloading? Using the correct soap/amount of soap for your water conditions? Using warm water - not cold? It sounds like some experimentation is in order.
looser
15 years ago
First off, the cycle time of HE washers does NOT adversly affect the energy efficiency. Using just 110 volts, it takes a longer time for an internal heater to heat up the 5 gallons or so that the wash cycle uses. 220/240 Volts would make that process quicker and more efficient. Compared to a TL that uses 25 gallons of hot water a 110 V HE washer still saves a lot of energy. The tumbling of the drum does not require much energy at all.

Regarding the cleaning performance, have you tried different and different amounts of detergent? Believe it or not, overdosing a detergent can lead to decreased cleaning performance. Also, have you tried to run the pre-soak cycle with detergent or oxiclean instead of bleach? Chlorine bleach is toxic and it can in fact set some stains. My washer has a 2 hour soak cycle and I have gotten out some nasty old stains using oxiclean in that cycle (I added a little hot water to fully activate the oxiclean).

The drying time you mentioned does seem to be way too long. Is all the venting correctly installed and clean? Are you sure your washer reaches the full spin speed?

I don't know what you mean by "mechanical FL". All newer washers have electronic control boards, some are just a bit fancier than others. I think the HE2t is a good washer and you should do a little more experimenting before giving up on it.
Related Discussions
kenmore he4t washer error code (fh)
Q
Comments (28)
Thanks for those who posted the possible fixes. My Kenmore HE3 had the FH error after about 8 mins of cycle start. The washer would fill up with water and then stop. After that it was at least possible to drain the water by stopping the cycle and running the drain cycle. As per suggested solutions: 1. First I removed the flowmeter from the rubber hoses that held it and blew air threw it. Also checked the resistance using an OHMmeter and found 0 ohms when nothing blew threw it and showed resistance when the wheel spun. Replaced it back, but the problem persisted. 2. Next, I found the black soft rubber hose/tube connected to the pressure sensor which is a red disc plastic part on the right upper side towards the back of the washer. I ran my fingers along the tube that went down and towards the back of the washer and found it connected to the main drum. When I felt the tube down there I felt it weak and flimsy at one spot. It was where it was touching the drum and perhaps the rotating wheel of the motor. I pulled it off and disconnected the tube (about 2 feet long). Just as someone said, it was worn out (as if someone scraped it with a fine sandpaper on a 2 inch section) and there was a really tiny pinhole at the center of it. Went to a local hardware store and got a clear vinyl tube (like the ones used for aquariums) - 3/16th inch inside diameter and replaced the soft rubber tube. Store did not have a rubber tube. Hopefully the vinyl tube will be more durable than the soft rubber, though I see why the rubber is useful to allow drum movement, but vinyl I think is soft enough for that too. Routed it from behind the drain pipe to keep it away from the drum as far as possible. Started the washer and works perfectly. Hope this helps!
...See More
Kenmore HE3t Front loading washer & dryer - advice please
Q
Comments (5)
Blackbelt consumer: Sorry to hear of your bad encounter with Sears. You know, when I first got those machines home and tried them on, I already felt that something wasn't "kosher." I guess we bought in to the sales talk too quickly. We never learned our lesson dealing with Sears. We got a Kenmore dishwasher. It was a smaller capacity one, but cost more. We got it because of space limitation. Before the year was up, it already had problem--the water spinner broke--it melted away! And of course the warranty period was over too. So, I was thinking to myself how could Sears sell such a shoddy product! Anyway, Sears will be history for me too. spark823: Thanks for the heads up on LG. Interesting thing is that a few people in this forum seem to have positive things to say of it, but of course until the problem becomes a problem, it's always ok. In all fairness, all things will have problems some day, but if the problems become evident too soon, then the product is no better than the top loaders. They seem to last for years. Only difference is its energy saving feature, but I wonder how much savings is worth looking into, considering all inconveniences one has to go through. By the way, I do use the new detergent that is made for front loaders. laudrytech: The only thing with our set is that we have installed a new vent, so there's no kink or clog as far as we can tell. Also, the machine being so new, there isn't any residue around the door. That said, I will look out for the helpful things you suggested for future trouble shooting though. Guys, I have learned something here and want to thank each one of you for taking the time to respond. Meanwhile, I've been thinking of reverting back to good old days--with the top loaders. Any models to recommend? Stackable ones are preferred. Thanks so much once again and have a good evening.
...See More
Help...Should I cancell Kenmore washer and dryer order?
Q
Comments (41)
OK. My washer is coming tomorrow. No bells and whistles--just a standard ole Top Loader. SPEED QUEEN #AWS44NW--3.3 cu.ft. stainless steel tub--8 cycles--3 water temp. ect. washerman8--I wanted the model you have but it took too long for them to get it. If I need a 2nd rinse I'll just wash with no soap. Here is info on this model. Maybe by the time this machine dies the FLers will be more worry free. Appearance Color: White Rear Controls Flexvane Agitator Galvanized Metal Washer Cabinet 3.3 cu.ft. Stainless Steel Washtub Triple Coat Commercial-Grade Cabinet Finish Performance/Features 210Â° Agitation Stroke 3 Water Temperature Selections 8 Cycle Selections 2 Speed Automatic Balancing System Rear Self-Leveling Legs Porcelain Coated, Steel Outer Draintub Tuff Guard Protected Top Bleach Dispenser Fabric Softener Dispenser Commercial Strength Suspension Sys Hush Pak Appearance 3 Water Temperature Selections 8 Cycle Selections 2 Speed Automatic Balancing System Rear Self-Leveling Legs Porcelain Coated, Steel Outer Draintub Tuff Guard Protected Top Bleach Dispenser Fabric Softener Dispenser Commercial Strength Suspension System Hush Pak Cycles Regular: Heavy Normal Light Permanent Press: Normal Light HandWash/Delicate: Normal Light Soak/Prewash Technical Information Tub Volume: 3.3 cu. ft. Average Water Consumption 39.1 Overall Dimensions: 43"H x 25 5/8"W x 28"D Cabinet Height: 36" Motor Horsepower: 1/2 Spin Speeds (RPM): 474 710 Warranty Speed Queen brings to you the industry's best warranty on all of our washers and dryers. 3-year warranty on parts and labor 5 year limited warranty on the motor 5 year limited warranty on the cabinet 10 year limited warranty on transmission Lifetime warranty on all stainless steel washtubs and outer draintubs
...See More
Kenmore HE4 Washer/Dryer...holes, mold, and other nightmares...
Q
Comments (8)
I just returned a new basic, TL washer from Sears that I bought 2 months ago to replace my awful Calypso which finally bit the dust completely. My thought was that if I bought a basic washer, I would have less problems. I went to Sears again...my mistake...don't you hate their high priced service agreements, $339 for 5 years or something like that. They almost won't let you buy the washer without it. I bought it and then called to cancel it. Anyway, my basic washer never spun the clothes well enough on second rinse, and after one failed service visit, I decided to return it within the 90 day return window. I must say that Sears service people were courteous along the way -- but it is awful to have to take days off work to deal with the deliveries, service calls, and then pick-up of the defective item. Although, can you believe this, I called last Sat to have Sears come pick up the washer, and they came at 7:15 Sunday morning! I went to Bray & Scarff and bought a GE Harmony last Sat, delivered Wednesday. But, it's leaking out of the bottom and here I sit waiting for the technician to arrive to see what's up with the machine. Otherwise, I've done three loads and it washes really well. B & S repair or replace plan (lemon plan)is $139 for 5 years with money back if you don't use it...I was able to get a next day appointment with them, but couldn't work at home yesterday so they are coming today. I am not buying appliances from Sears again...bad products and expensive maintenance plans...good luck with your situation.
...See More
ebear1271
15 years ago
I have limited experience with the HE2. I spent a couple of weeks using my sister's after my dryer broke. It was easier to wash and dry there, rather than take wet clothes to be dried. Anyway, after a week of using her machine I canceled the one I had on order. Between the wash times and the wrinkling it just wasn't worth the money. I ended up with the GE Harmony and couldn't be happier. I can wash the same amount of clothes as a FL in a lot less time, using minimal water.
Sister lee, is there a reason you are looking at FL's only? The Harmony is a TL but it's a great machine. Almost the same features as a FL but less grief.

Possibly returning Kenmore HE Washer/Dryer

Comments (3)

oregpsnow

looser

Related Discussions

ebear1271

COMPANY

BUSINESS SERVICES

GET HELP

CONNECT WITH US