A customer in Akron called with both their Kenmore washer and dryer down, leaving them unable to do laundry. When we arrived, the dryer was actually working fine, but the washer was full of water and wouldn’t drain. A quick inspection of the drain pump revealed the culprit — a sock had worked its way into the pump housing and completely blocked the impeller.
The Problem
The homeowner reported that both their washer and dryer had stopped working suddenly. The washer was stuck mid-cycle with a tub full of water that wouldn’t drain, while the dryer appeared completely dead. This kind of double failure often points to electrical issues, but our initial assessment showed the dryer was actually functioning normally.
Diagnosis
The washer’s drain pump was completely obstructed by a sock that had slipped past the drum seal during a previous wash cycle. When small items like socks, underwear, or baby clothes work loose, they can migrate into the pump housing through the drain hose connection. The fabric wrapped around the impeller blades, preventing any water movement and triggering the washer’s safety systems to shut down the cycle.
The Repair
- Parts replaced: W11315637 — lock cam assembly (damaged during pump access)
- Work performed: Removed sock obstruction from drain pump, replaced damaged lock cam
- Result: Washer drains completely and cycles properly through all functions
Is It Worth Repairing?
For a straightforward obstruction like this on a Kenmore washer, repair is almost always the right choice. These machines are built to last decades with proper maintenance, and clearing a drain pump blockage restores full functionality. Even if the washer is 10-15 years old, this type of repair typically provides years more reliable service.
Maintenance Tips for Kenmore Washers
- Always check pockets thoroughly — coins, tissues, and small items cause most drain pump failures
- Use mesh laundry bags for socks, underwear, and delicate items to prevent them from slipping past seals
- Run a monthly cleaning cycle with Kenmore’s recommended cleaner or white vinegar to prevent soap buildup in the pump
Appliance Repair in Akron, OH
Akron is in Summit County — an area we cover regularly from our base in Louisville, OH. We also serve Green, Uniontown, and Barberton. 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 Summit County and surrounding areas.
Louisville Appliance Repair serves Summit County and surrounding areas.
Schedule your repair online,
call (330) 693-9163,
or see our reviews on Google.