A customer in Alliance called about their Kenmore washer showing a SUD error during the rinse cycle. When we arrived, the machine was displaying the error code consistently, though it had run through one complete cycle without issues earlier that morning.
The Problem
The washer displayed a SUD error code during rinse cycles, indicating excessive suds in the drum. The customer had been using regular liquid detergent in what appeared to be larger-than-recommended amounts. The machine would stop mid-cycle and display the error, requiring manual intervention to complete the wash.
Diagnosis
After running a diagnostic cycle, we found the immediate cause was detergent-related — too much regular detergent creating excessive suds. However, during our inspection we also detected early signs of bearing wear that could contribute to future SUD errors as the drum movement becomes less precise. The bearings weren’t failed yet, but showed enough wear to warrant monitoring.
The Repair
- Parts replaced: None required at this time
- Work performed: Recommended switching to HE detergent and reducing quantity used
- Result: Washer completed full cycle without SUD error after detergent adjustment
Is It Worth Repairing?
This 110-series Kenmore is a solid machine that typically runs 12-15 years with proper care. At this age, addressing the detergent issue should give you several more years of service. If the bearings do fail down the road, that repair would be worth considering given the overall reliability of this model.
Maintenance Tips for Kenmore Washers
- Use only HE (High Efficiency) detergent in Kenmore front-loaders, even if not specifically labeled HE-only
- Measure detergent carefully — this model needs about 1 tablespoon for normal loads, 2 tablespoons maximum for heavily soiled items
- Leave the door cracked open after cycles to prevent moisture buildup that can affect sensors and create false SUD readings
Appliance Repair in Alliance, OH
Alliance is in Stark County — an area we cover regularly from our base in Louisville, OH. We also serve Canton, North Canton, and Hartville. Louisville Appliance Repair is owned and operated by Samuel Willhite, a master-certified technician with Bosch and Speed Queen factory authorizations. If your appliance needs service, schedule online or call (330) 693-9163. You can also find us on Google and read verified reviews from customers across Stark County and surrounding areas.
Louisville Appliance Repair serves Stark County and surrounding areas.
Schedule your repair online,
call (330) 693-9163,
or see our reviews on Google.