Is your kenmore washer stuck on sensing and you’ve probably been trying to figure out ways to solve this but don’t know how?
I’m glad that you are here to find an extensive answer to your problem.
The main causes of this problem is due to a clogged drain pump, damaged control panel, excess loads in the washer, faulty shift actuator and a malfunctioning sensor switch.
In this article, we’ll be highlighting how to address this problem within reaching out to a repairman.
Why Is My Kenmore Washer Stuck On Sensing? How To Fix
Now onto the main point, let’s proceed into some other reasons why your washer could be getting stuck on sensing and the ways to troubleshoot the issue.
- Faulty water inlet valve.
- The drain pump is clogged.
- Not resetting the washer.
- Faulty washer shift actuator.
- Not closing the kenmore washer lid.
- Damaged control panel or board
- Too much loads in the washer.
- A malfunctioning sensing button or switch.
Problem With The Inlet Valve
So the washer is probably stuck because of a faulty water inlet valve.
The water inlet valve really carries out some important duties associated with the proper functioning of a washing machine, which is why a slight fault can really affect the appliance and issues like this are likely to come up.
This inlet valve controls the flow of both hot and cold water as it connects the washer with two water hoses.
If this component is bad or blocked, you have to replace or clean it in order to restore full water flow.
But how do you know the root of your problem is the inlet valve? You can only do this by detaching the panel of the washer.
- It is a very simple procedure to remove the head of the washer, all that is required is a tool you can use to screw (You have to undo the top screws at the back of the appliance).
- After you must have removed this part of the washer and had access to the water valves. Use a multimeter to test the continuity of each of the hot water and cold water valves (inlet valve solenoids) to detect if they’re burned out or not.
- You should see a reading on the continuity and if you don’t see any, that means the water valves need a replacement.
- You can get a new water inlet valve at Ebay, it’s so easy for me to do. You should be able to do it also.
- Make sure that you inspect the valve for blockages also before replacing. Pull it out with a needle nose pliers and clean it, sometimes you might not need to replace the valve if the issue stops after you’ve cleaned the valve.
Related: Maytag Centennial Washer Stuck On Sensing
The Drain Pump Is Clogged
One of the main causes why your kenmore washer gets stuck on sensing is due to a clogged drain pump. It usually happens when there is presence of dirt in the drain pump.
All you need to do is check if the drain pump is clogged by removing it from the back of your washer.
Remove any clogs you find in the pump, make sure it is clean and attach it back to the back of the washer.
Not Resetting Your Washer
Another reason why your kenmore washer could get stuck on sensing is probably because of an error that occurred during a cycle.
There is a way for you to clear this miscalculation and start all over again from the beginning. I can remember that I actually tried this method on my washer when the sensing problem began.
- The procedure that needs to be carried out is resetting your washer.
- All you have to do is turn off your washer by unplugging it from the wall outlet. You might have to wait for a few seconds before plugging it back in.
- After plugging the washer back into the wall outlet, fully open and close the lid of the appliance for a minimum of 6 times.
- Following this process, start another cycle and check if the washer is still not moving past sensing.
The Top Of The Washer Or Lid Is Not Closed
You probably have been trying to figure out why the lid of my washer could affect the functioning of the application. The answer to this is YES!, most cycles won’t be properly authorized if the lid is not closed.
It is recommended that you always close to the top of your washer in order to avoid any washing issues. You can proceed to inspect your washer by checking if the lid was slightly opened during a cycle.
Ensure that it is closed properly and start all over again. Your kenmore washer should go past sensing after doing this.
The Control Panel Or Board Is Faulty
Another clear reason why you might be havilland issues with your washer regarding the sensing is probably due to a faulty control panel.
All main commands and authorizations are carried out on the main control board. If a slight underperformance is detected, it could affect some main parts of the component which includes the sensing.
Therefore, you should get another control panel or board if this is the root of the issue. However, I didn’t have to replace my ge’s control panel.
That obviously wasn’t the cause of my sensing problem.
I only had issues with the inlet valves when my washer was stuck on sensing. However, if your control panel is damaged, you have no other choice but to get it replaced.
Inspect The Kenmore Washer Shift Actuator
The shift actuator is a very important part of a centennial washer as it is responsible for shifting the function of a washing machine to another.
Note that if this shift actuator is faulty, your washer might be stuck on sensing mode without proceeding to the next phase.
- It might not be easy, but you need to replace the shift actuator if it is damaged.
- Ensure that you purchase the correct actuator for your specific model, you can get one on Amazon.
- In addition to this, there are several video tutorials you can watch on youtube to guide you on how to replace your washer shift actuator.
There Are Too Much Loads In The Washer
Without a doubt, there are lots of issues attached to putting too many excess loads in your washer and sensing getting stuck is one of them.
You need to ensure there aren’t too many loads In the washer and it should have the basic optimal load size.
After reducing the excessive loads, try to restart your washer and the issue should get solved with this method or try others below.
The Sensing Switch Or Sensor Is Faulty
Take note of that sensing switch or sensor that keeps blinking with proceeding to the next phase. It might be stuck because it is damaged or faulty.
Most of the time, this sensor hardly gets damaged despite having used your washer for several years.
Even if you reach out to a repairer, this could be the last spot he’d even think of troubleshooting.
This should not exclude the fact that the sensing button doesn’t get damaged. It is also among the reasons why your washer is stuck on sensing.
Note: If your kenmore washer is still under warranty, you might not want to work on it but instead call the attention of the company in order not to void the warranty.
Related: Amana Washer Stuck On Sensing Fill
How Do You Reset a Kenmore Sensor Washer?
In order to reset a kenmore sensor washer, what you need to do is unplug the washer from the wall outlet. Make sure that appliance is calm while waiting for 5 to 10 minutes. Then plug it back in, that should reset the kenmore washer.
Kenmore Washer Stuck On Sensing – Final Thoughts
You can actually fix these problems yourself without having to pay a huge amount of money to repairmen or purchase a new one.
With the help of the well organized content above, you should be able to re-calibrate the appliance (washer).
Most times, numerous breakdown issues seem to appear while using your appliances if not properly maintained. I hope with the step-by-step guide above, you should be able to fix kenmore washer stuck on sensing problems.
