kenmore washer model 110 owners manual
Kenmore Washer Model 110 Owners Manual: A Comprehensive Guide (Updated 12/16/2025)
Welcome! This comprehensive guide, updated today – December 16th, 2025 – will expertly navigate you through all aspects of your Kenmore Washer Model 110, ensuring optimal performance.
Congratulations on selecting the Kenmore Washer Model 110! This appliance represents a commitment to quality and dependable performance, designed to simplify your laundry routine. This manual serves as your primary resource for understanding and maximizing the capabilities of your new washing machine. We understand that operating a new appliance can sometimes feel daunting, and that’s precisely why we’ve created this detailed guide.
Within these pages, you’ll find clear, step-by-step instructions covering everything from initial installation and everyday operation to troubleshooting common issues and performing essential maintenance. We’ve included detailed diagrams and explanations to ensure a smooth and successful experience. Remember to retain this manual for future reference, as it contains valuable information regarding your washer’s warranty and important safety guidelines. Let’s begin unlocking the full potential of your Kenmore Model 110!
Safety Precautions
Your safety is paramount. Before operating your Kenmore Washer Model 110, carefully review these crucial safety precautions. Disconnect the power supply before any maintenance or cleaning to prevent electrical shock. Never attempt to repair the washer yourself; contact a qualified technician for assistance. Ensure the washer is properly grounded to minimize risk.
Avoid washing flammable materials, as they could ignite. Do not overload the washer, as this can cause damage and potential injury. Keep children and pets away from the washer during operation. Always supervise children near the appliance. Never reach into a running washer. Read all warnings on detergent and fabric softener packaging before use. Following these guidelines will ensure a safe and enjoyable laundry experience with your Kenmore Model 110.
General Safety Warnings
Read carefully before use! This Kenmore Washer Model 110 presents potential hazards if not operated correctly. Always ensure a stable and level installation to prevent tipping. Never operate the washer with a damaged power cord or plug. Immediately discontinue use if you notice any unusual noises or vibrations.
Do not attempt to modify or alter the washer in any way. Keep the area around the washer clear of obstructions. Avoid contact with water during operation to prevent electric shock. This appliance is intended for household use only. Misuse may void the warranty and create unsafe conditions. Prioritize safety and responsible operation for a long-lasting and trouble-free experience with your Kenmore washer.
Electrical Safety Guidelines
Crucial for safe operation! The Kenmore Washer Model 110 requires a dedicated, properly grounded 120-volt electrical outlet. Never use extension cords or adapters. Ensure the outlet’s voltage matches the washer’s specifications. Avoid plugging other appliances into the same outlet to prevent overloading.
If the power cord is damaged, it must be replaced by a qualified technician. Do not attempt repairs yourself. Always disconnect the washer from the power supply before cleaning or performing maintenance. Protect the power cord from physical damage and exposure to water. Grounding is essential for preventing electric shock. Follow all local electrical codes and regulations for a safe and compliant installation. Prioritize electrical safety for reliable performance.
Child Safety Considerations
Protecting young ones is paramount! Never allow children to play with or around the Kenmore Washer Model 110. The washer drum can pose a serious entrapment hazard. Always keep the washer door closed when not in use, even during brief pauses. Store detergent and fabric softener out of children’s reach, as these substances can be harmful if ingested.
Supervise children closely when the washer is operating. Educate them about the dangers of appliances and the importance of staying away. Do not leave small objects inside the washer that children could access. Regularly inspect the area around the washer for any potential hazards. Prioritize child safety to prevent accidents and ensure a secure home environment.
Washer Overview & Parts Identification
Familiarize yourself with your Kenmore Washer Model 110! This section details the key components for effective operation and maintenance. The exterior features a durable cabinet, a control panel for cycle selection, and a hinged door providing access to the wash drum. Inspect these areas regularly for damage.
Internally, you’ll find the wash drum where clothes are cleaned, and either an agitator (for top-load models) or an impeller (for high-efficiency models) responsible for water movement. Understanding these parts is crucial for troubleshooting. The control panel houses buttons and dials for customizing wash settings. Refer to the following sections for detailed explanations of each component and its function.
Exterior Components
Let’s explore the outside of your Kenmore Washer Model 110! The cabinet provides a robust and protective shell for the internal workings. The control panel, prominently displayed, allows for easy selection of wash cycles, temperature settings, and optional features like spin speed. Carefully examine each button and dial to understand its function.
The washer door, typically hinged on the left or right, grants access to the wash drum. Ensure it seals tightly to prevent leaks during operation. Additionally, locate the water supply hose connections at the rear of the machine – hot and cold water inlets are clearly marked. Regularly inspect all exterior surfaces for any signs of damage or wear, addressing issues promptly to maintain optimal performance.
Interior Components (Drum, Agitator/Impeller)
Inside your Kenmore Washer Model 110, you’ll find key components responsible for cleaning your laundry. The wash drum, a stainless steel or porcelain-coated cylinder, holds your clothes and rotates during the wash and spin cycles. Depending on your model, it features either an agitator or an impeller.
An agitator, a central post with vanes, twists back and forth to create water movement and scrub clothes. An impeller, a low-profile disc at the bottom of the drum, generates currents to move laundry. Inspect both regularly for obstructions like small items or lint. The drum’s interior surface should be smooth and free of damage. Proper care of these components ensures effective cleaning and extends the washer’s lifespan.
Control Panel Explained
The Kenmore Washer Model 110’s control panel is designed for intuitive operation. Typically, you’ll find a cycle selector dial allowing you to choose pre-programmed wash cycles like Normal, Delicate, or Heavy Duty. Push buttons or a digital display manage options such as water temperature (Hot, Warm, Cold), spin speed (High, Medium, Low, No Spin), and soil level.
Additional features may include delay start, extra rinse, or a sanitize option. A power button initiates or pauses the wash cycle. The display often shows the remaining cycle time. Familiarize yourself with each button and setting to customize washes for different fabric types and laundry needs. Refer to the ‘Understanding Wash Cycles’ section for detailed cycle descriptions.
Getting Started: Installation
Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and longevity of your Kenmore Washer Model 110. Begin by Unpacking and Inspection – carefully remove all packaging materials and inspect the washer for any shipping damage. Report any damage immediately to the retailer. Next, Leveling the Washer is essential to minimize vibration and noise; use a level and adjust the feet accordingly.
Connecting Water Supply Hoses requires ensuring a tight, leak-proof connection to both the hot and cold water faucets. Use new hoses and avoid kinks or bends. Finally, verify the electrical connection meets the requirements outlined in the ‘Electrical Safety Guidelines’ section.
Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully unpack your new Kenmore Washer Model 110, taking care not to damage the appliance or your flooring. Retain the original packaging materials until you’ve confirmed the washer is functioning correctly. A thorough inspection is vital; check for any visible signs of shipping damage, such as dents, scratches, or broken parts.
Compare the contents against the included parts list to ensure everything is present. Document any discrepancies or damage with photographs and immediately contact the retailer or Kenmore customer support. Do not attempt to operate a damaged appliance. Proper documentation will streamline the claims process, guaranteeing a swift resolution to any issues encountered during unboxing.
Leveling the Washer
Proper leveling is crucial for quiet operation and preventing excessive vibration. Use a spirit level to check the washer’s stability on the floor, placing it on both the side-to-side and front-to-back axes. Adjust the leveling legs, located at the bottom corners of the washer, by rotating them clockwise or counterclockwise.
Continue adjustments until the bubble in the spirit level is centered. Tighten the lock nuts against the washer’s base to secure the legs in place, preventing unwanted movement. Re-check the leveling after tightening. An uneven washer can cause noise, instability, and potentially damage the appliance over time, so meticulous leveling is essential for longevity.
Connecting Water Supply Hoses
Carefully connect the hot and cold water supply hoses to the corresponding inlets on the back of the Kenmore Washer Model 110. Ensure a firm, hand-tight connection to prevent leaks. Do not use pipe wrenches, as they can overtighten and damage the fittings.
Verify the rubber washers are correctly seated inside the hose connections. Slowly turn on the water supply valves and check for leaks at both hose connections and the valve itself. If leaks are detected, immediately turn off the water and re-tighten the connections. Proper connection is vital for efficient operation and preventing water damage.
Operating Instructions
Begin by sorting your laundry according to fabric type, color, and soil level. Open the washer lid and load items loosely into the drum, avoiding overloading. Overloading reduces cleaning effectiveness. Add your preferred detergent and fabric softener to the designated dispensers, following the manufacturer’s instructions for appropriate amounts.
Close the lid securely and select the appropriate wash cycle using the control panel. Press the ‘Start’ button to initiate the wash cycle. The washer will automatically fill, wash, rinse, and spin. Once complete, the washer will signal the end of the cycle. Carefully remove your clean laundry and enjoy!
Loading the Washer Correctly
Proper loading is crucial for optimal cleaning performance. Distribute items evenly around the drum’s agitator or impeller – avoid wrapping clothes around it. Do not overload the washer; leave sufficient space for items to move freely during the wash cycle. A good rule of thumb is to fill the drum no more than three-quarters full.
Separate heavy items like towels and jeans from lighter garments. Loose items allow for better water circulation and detergent penetration. Always check pockets for objects that could damage the washer or other clothes. Following these guidelines ensures efficient and effective washing results with your Kenmore Model 110.
Adding Detergent and Fabric Softener
Locate the detergent dispenser, typically divided into compartments for detergent, fabric softener, and sometimes bleach. Use only HE (High Efficiency) detergent specifically formulated for your Kenmore Model 110 to prevent excessive suds. Follow the detergent manufacturer’s recommended dosage based on load size and soil level – avoid overusing detergent.
Pour detergent into the designated compartment before starting the wash cycle. Add fabric softener to its respective compartment; it will be dispensed during the rinse cycle. Never pour detergent directly onto clothes. Proper dispensing ensures optimal cleaning and prevents residue buildup within your washing machine.
Selecting Wash Cycles
The Kenmore Model 110 offers a variety of wash cycles designed to accommodate different fabric types and soil levels. Turn the cycle selector dial to choose the appropriate cycle for your laundry load. Consider the fabric type: delicate items require a gentle cycle, while heavily soiled items benefit from a heavy-duty cycle;
Additional options may include water temperature settings (hot, warm, cold) and spin speed adjustments. Refer to the ‘Understanding Wash Cycles’ section for detailed descriptions of each cycle’s function. Always check garment care labels before selecting a cycle to prevent damage. Selecting the correct cycle ensures effective cleaning and prolongs the life of your clothes.
Understanding Wash Cycles
Your Kenmore Model 110 features several pre-programmed wash cycles to simplify laundry day. The Normal/Regular cycle is ideal for everyday cotton and linen items with moderate soil levels. The Delicate/Gentle cycle uses a slower wash and spin speed, perfect for lingerie, silk, and other fragile fabrics. For heavily soiled items like work clothes or towels, select the Heavy Duty cycle for a more vigorous wash action.
Other cycles may include a Quick Wash for lightly soiled items, a Bulky Items cycle for bedding, and a Rinse & Spin cycle for rinsing items washed by hand. Always consult garment care labels and choose the cycle that best suits your laundry needs for optimal cleaning and fabric care.
Normal/Regular Cycle
The Normal/Regular cycle on your Kenmore Model 110 is designed for everyday laundry loads consisting of cotton, linen, and blended fabrics with typical soil levels. This cycle utilizes a combination of wash actions and water temperatures to effectively remove dirt and stains while maintaining fabric integrity. Water temperature is typically set to warm, but can be adjusted based on your preference and garment care labels.
The wash time is approximately 40-50 minutes, followed by a rinse and spin cycle. This cycle is suitable for items like t-shirts, jeans, underwear, and bed sheets. Avoid using this cycle for delicate fabrics or heavily soiled items, as it may cause damage or insufficient cleaning. Always check pockets before loading!
Delicate/Gentle Cycle
The Delicate/Gentle cycle on your Kenmore Model 110 is specifically engineered for washing fragile items that require extra care. This cycle employs a slower wash action and cooler water temperatures to minimize stretching, shrinking, and damage to delicate fabrics. Water temperature is automatically set to cold, which is ideal for preserving colors and preventing fabric distortion.
This cycle typically lasts around 30-40 minutes, including rinsing and a gentle spin. It’s perfect for lingerie, silk, lace, sheer curtains, and items labeled “hand wash”; Always place delicate items inside a mesh laundry bag for added protection. Avoid overloading the washer, as this can reduce cleaning effectiveness and increase the risk of damage.
Heavy Duty Cycle
The Heavy Duty cycle on your Kenmore Model 110 is designed for tackling heavily soiled items and durable fabrics requiring a powerful wash; This cycle utilizes a vigorous wash action, hotter water temperatures, and a longer wash time to effectively remove stubborn stains and dirt. Water temperature is automatically set to hot, maximizing cleaning power for items like work clothes, towels, and bedding.
Expect this cycle to run for approximately 50-60 minutes, including rinsing and a robust spin. It’s ideal for items like jeans, canvas, and heavily soiled play clothes. Avoid using this cycle for delicate fabrics, as the aggressive action could cause damage. For best results, pre-treat heavily stained areas before loading the washer. Do not overload, ensuring items have room to move freely.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Encountering problems with your Kenmore Model 110? This section addresses frequent issues and provides simple solutions. If your washer won’t start, first verify the power cord is securely plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. For draining issues, check the drain hose for kinks or obstructions and ensure it’s properly positioned. Excessive noise often stems from unbalanced loads; redistribute items evenly within the drum.
Persistent problems may indicate a more serious issue. Always disconnect the power before attempting any internal repairs. If you’re uncomfortable performing troubleshooting steps, consult a qualified appliance repair technician. Refer to the full error code list in the appendix for specific diagnostic information. Ignoring issues can lead to further damage, so address concerns promptly.
Washer Won’t Start
Is your Kenmore Model 110 failing to power on? Begin with the simplest checks. First, confirm the power cord is firmly plugged into a functioning electrical outlet. Next, inspect your home’s circuit breaker or fuse box to ensure the breaker hasn’t tripped or the fuse hasn’t blown. Reset if necessary. Verify the washer’s lid switch is engaging properly; the washer won’t start if it doesn’t detect a closed lid.
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, there might be a problem with the motor, control board, or wiring. Do not attempt to diagnose or repair these components yourself unless you are a qualified technician. Disconnect the power immediately and contact a professional for assistance. Ignoring electrical issues can be dangerous.
Washer Won’t Drain
Encountering a Kenmore Model 110 that refuses to drain? Start by checking the drain hose. Ensure it isn’t kinked, twisted, or clogged, as this restricts water flow. Verify the hose is positioned correctly – it shouldn’t be inserted too far into the drainpipe, nor should it be higher than the washer’s water level. Inspect the drain pump filter (if your model has one) for obstructions like lint, coins, or small articles of clothing.
If the issue persists, the drain pump itself may be faulty. A failing pump requires professional attention. Do not attempt to disassemble or repair it yourself. Disconnect power before investigating further and consult a qualified appliance technician for diagnosis and repair.
Washer is Noisy
Is your Kenmore Model 110 making unusual noises during operation? First, confirm the washer is level. An uneven machine can vibrate excessively. Check for obstructions – items like coins or buttons trapped between the drum and the tub can cause rattling. Ensure the shipping bolts have been removed during installation; these are designed for transport, not operation.
If the noise is a grinding or squealing sound, the motor coupling or drive belt might be worn. These components require professional replacement. Avoid attempting repairs yourself. Disconnect power before any inspection. Contact a qualified appliance technician to diagnose and resolve the issue safely and effectively, preventing further damage.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular maintenance extends the life of your Kenmore Model 110 washer. To maintain peak performance, clean the washer drum monthly using a washing machine cleaner or a solution of hot water and vinegar. This removes residue buildup and odors. Periodically inspect and clean the detergent dispenser to prevent clogs, ensuring proper detergent distribution.
If your model has a lint filter, clean it after each load to maintain efficient draining and prevent reduced washing performance. Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth. Leave the door ajar after use to allow the interior to air dry, preventing mildew growth. Following these simple steps will keep your washer functioning optimally for years to come.
Cleaning the Washer Drum
Maintaining a clean washer drum is crucial for optimal performance and hygiene. Monthly cleaning prevents residue buildup, eliminating odors and ensuring effective washing. You can use a commercially available washing machine cleaner, following the product’s instructions carefully. Alternatively, a natural solution of two cups of white vinegar added to the detergent dispenser during a hot water cycle works effectively.
Run a complete wash cycle with the chosen cleaning agent. After the cycle, wipe down the drum’s interior with a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining residue. For stubborn buildup, repeat the process. A clean drum contributes to cleaner clothes and a longer lifespan for your Kenmore Model 110.
Cleaning the Detergent Dispenser
Regularly cleaning the detergent dispenser prevents clogs and ensures accurate dispensing of laundry products. Over time, detergent and fabric softener can accumulate, leading to reduced effectiveness and potential buildup. To clean, remove the dispenser drawer – typically by pressing a release button or latch.
Rinse the drawer thoroughly under warm running water, using a soft brush to dislodge any hardened residue. For stubborn buildup, soak the drawer in a solution of warm water and white vinegar for approximately 30 minutes before rinsing. Wipe down the dispenser housing inside the washer with a damp cloth. Reinsert the clean drawer, ensuring it clicks securely into place.
Cleaning the Lint Filter (if applicable)
Maintaining a clean lint filter is crucial for optimal washer performance and preventing drainage issues. While some Kenmore Model 110 washers may not have a traditional lint filter, those that do require regular cleaning. Locate the lint filter – it’s often found inside the drum or near the water inlet.
Remove the filter carefully, as it may contain water. Clean the filter thoroughly by hand, removing all accumulated lint, hair, and debris. A soft brush can be helpful for stubborn particles. Rinse the filter under running water to ensure it’s completely clean. Reinstall the filter securely, ensuring it’s properly seated to prevent lint from bypassing it during the wash cycle.