
Dealing with a washing machine that won't stop filling with water can be a frustrating experience.
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KitchenAid washers are known for their durability and advanced features, but like any appliance, they can develop issues over time.
As experienced appliance technicians, we've diagnosed and repaired thousands of KitchenAid washers and compiled this guide to help you identify and potentially resolve common problems.
If your KitchenAid washer won't turn on, check these potential causes:
Ensure the washer is properly plugged into a functioning outlet
Test the outlet with another appliance
Check your home's circuit breaker panel for tripped breakers
Inspect the power cord for damage or loose connections
Verify the outlet has the correct voltage (typically 120V)
Many KitchenAid washers include a control lock feature that prevents operation.
How to deactivate:
Look for the Control Lock button (often marked with a lock icon)
Press and hold for 3 seconds until the lock indicator light turns off
On some models, press and hold the "End of Cycle Signal" button
Refer to your model's user manual for specific instructions to deactivate the Control Lock feature on your KitchenAid washer.
KitchenAid washers have safety features preventing operation when the door isn't secure.
Troubleshooting steps:
Ensure the door or lid is completely closed
Check the door latch for obstructions or damage
Listen for the click of the door switch engaging
Clean the door seal and latch area of debris
For front-load models, make sure the door handle is in the fully closed position
Drainage issues are a common complaint with KitchenAid washers.
Many KitchenAid washers have an accessible pump filter that can become clogged.
Cleaning procedure:
Locate the access panel (typically at the bottom front of the machine)
Place towels and a shallow pan to catch water
Turn the filter knob counterclockwise to remove
Clean out lint, coins, buttons, and other debris
Reinstall by turning clockwise until snug
The drain hose can develop blockages or become pinched behind the washer.
How to check and fix:
Pull the washer away from the wall to inspect the drain hose
Check for visible kinks, bends, or damage
Ensure the drain hose isn't inserted too far into the standpipe (no more than 4.5 inches)
Remove and flush the hose with high pressure water to clear blockages
Replace the hose if it shows cracks or damage
The drain pump forces water out of the washer during drain cycles.
Signs of pump problems:
Humming noise but no water movement during drain cycle
Grinding or unusual sounds from the pump area
Water remains in the drum after cycle completion
Error codes indicating drain issues (typically F9E1 or similar)
Diagnostic steps:
Listen for the pump motor running during a drain cycle
Check for foreign objects blocking the pump impeller
Test the drain pump for continuity if you have a multimeter
Pump replacement typically requires professional service
KitchenAid washers should operate with minimal vibration, particularly during spin cycles.
Uneven distribution of clothes is the most common cause of excessive vibration.
Solutions:
Redistribute the load manually before the spin cycle
Avoid washing single heavy items (like a comforter) alone
Mix large and small items for better balance
Reduce load size for bulky items
An improperly leveled washer can cause significant vibration and walking.
How to level your KitchenAid washer:
Place a carpenter's level on top of the washer
Adjust the leveling feet at each corner by turning clockwise to raise or counterclockwise to lower
Ensure all four feet make firm contact with the floor
Tighten the locking nuts against the washer base after leveling
New washers contain bolts and spacers to prevent damage during shipping.
Verification process:
Check the back of the washer for shipping bolts (typically 3-4 bolts)
Remove any plastic spacers from the base
Consult your installation guide for the location of all shipping materials
Save shipping materials for future transport if needed
Water leaks can cause property damage and indicate various problems with your KitchenAid washer.
Front-loading KitchenAid washers rely on a rubber gasket to prevent leaks.
Maintenance tips:
Inspect the door gasket for tears, cracks, or deformation
Clean the seal regularly with a damp cloth to remove detergent residue and debris
Check for objects caught in the seal that might prevent proper closure
Leave the door ajar between uses to prevent mold and odors
Using the wrong type or amount of detergent can cause excessive suds and leaking.
Best practices:
Use only HE (High Efficiency) detergent in KitchenAid washers
Follow dosing guidelines based on load size and soil level
Reduce detergent amount in areas with soft water
Avoid regular detergent in HE machines as it creates excessive suds
Water supply and drain hoses can develop leaks at connection points.
Inspection and repair:
Check connections at the water supply valves, washer inlet ports, and drain standpipe
Tighten any loose fittings with pliers (avoid over-tightening)
Replace cracked or damaged hoses and washers
Consider stainless steel braided hoses for increased durability
Abnormal sounds during washer operation often indicate specific problems.
These typically indicate bearing wear or foreign objects in the pump.
Diagnostic approach:
Check for coins, underwires, or other items caught between drum and tub
Run an empty cycle to determine if the noise is load-related
Bearing noise typically increases during spin cycles
Drum bearing replacement usually requires professional service
Often caused by load distribution issues or drive components.
Potential causes and fixes:
Redistribute heavy or single items in the load
Check for worn drive belt or pulley issues
Ensure the washer is level on all four feet
Verify shock absorbers are functioning properly
Usually related to motor or pulley problems.
Troubleshooting:
Check drive belt for wear or damage
Inspect motor coupler for cracks or broken components
Listen to determine if noise occurs during specific cycle phases
Motor or transmission issues typically require professional repair
Modern KitchenAid washers display specific error codes to help diagnose problems.
F1E1 or F1E2 - Main Control Board Error
Disconnect power for 5 minutes to reset
Check for signs of water damage on control board
Board replacement typically requires a technician
F5E2 or F5E3 - Door Lock Failure
Ensure nothing is preventing the door from closing completely
Check door lock mechanism for damage
Verify door lock electrical connections
May require lock assembly replacement
F8E1 or LF - Water Inlet Problem
Check that water supply valves are fully open
Inspect inlet hoses for kinks or blockages
Clean inlet screens at the back of the washer
Verify adequate water pressure (20-120 psi required)
F9E1 or F21 - Drain System Error
Check drain hose for clogs or kinks
Clean the drain pump filter
Ensure drain height is correct (maximum 96 inches)
May indicate drain pump failure
Regular maintenance helps prevent common problems and extends the life of your washer.
Clean the door gasket with a damp cloth and mild detergent
Leave the door ajar between uses to prevent odors
Run the Clean Washer cycle with Affresh® tablets or equivalent
Check and clean the drain pump filter
Inspect hoses for cracks or leaks
Clean the detergent dispenser drawer and removable inserts
Check inlet hose screens for sediment buildup
Verify the washer is level on all four feet
Inspect the power cord for damage
Check behind and under the washer for leaks
Replace inlet hoses if over 5 years old
Clean behind and underneath the washer
Check all accessible connections for leaks or corrosion
Inspect shock absorbers and suspension components
Schedule annual professional washer appliance maintenance and inspection to keep your washer in top shape and lasting longer
While many issues can be resolved through troubleshooting, some situations require expert assistance:
Persistent error codes that don't resolve with basic troubleshooting
Electrical problems, particularly those involving internal wiring
Bearing or transmission failures
Major water leaks from within the washer cabinet
Control board malfunctions
Our Sears Home Services technicians are specifically trained to diagnose and repair KitchenAid washers. With access to factory-authorized parts and detailed technical information, we can resolve complex issues efficiently and effectively.
Contact our service team for professional KitchenAid Washer Repair assistance when DIY solutions aren't enough.
Book online in less than a minute.
Apply your diagnostic fee to the costs of repair.
Save up to $150 on your repair if you enroll in a home warranty.
Dealing with a washing machine that won't stop filling with water can be a frustrating experience.
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