Kenmore Electric or Gas Dryer User Guide

Kenmore Electric or Gas Dryer

DRYER SAFETY

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons when using the dryer, follow basic precautions, including the following:

• Read all instructions before using the dryer.
• Do not place items exposed to cooking oils in your dryer.
  Items contaminated with cooking oils may contribute to a chemical reaction that could cause a load to catch fire.
• Do not dry articles that have been previously cleaned in, washed in, soaked in, or spotted with gasoline, dry-cleaning solvents, or other flammable or explosive substances as they give off vapors that could ignite or explode.
• Do not allow children to play on or in the dryer. Close supervision of children is necessary when the dryer is used near children.
• Before the dryer is removed from service or discarded, remove the door to the drying compartment.
• Do not reach into the dryer if the drum is moving.
• Do not install or store the dryer where it will be exposed to the weather.
• Do not tamper with controls.
• Do not repair or replace any part of the dryer or attempt any servicing unless specifically recommended in this Use and Care Guide or in published user-repair instructions that you understand and have the skills to carry out.
• Do not use fabric softeners or products to eliminate static unless recommended by the manufacturer of the fabric softener or product.
• Do not use heat to dry articles containing foam rubber or similarly textured rubber-like materials.
• Clean lint screen before or after each load.
• Keep area around the exhaust opening and adjacent surrounding areas free from the accumulation of lint, dust, and dirt.
• The interior of the dryer and exhaust vent should be cleaned periodically by qualified service personnel.
• See “Electrical Requirements” located in the installation instructions for grounding instructions.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

CHECK YOUR VENT SYSTEM FOR GOOD AIR FLOW

Good Air Flow

Along with heat, dryers require good air flow to efficiently dry laundry. Proper venting will reduce your drying times and improve your energy savings. See Installation Instructions.
The venting system attached to the dryer plays a big role in good air flow.
Service calls caused by improper venting are not covered by the warranty and will be paid by the customer, regardless of who installed the dryer.

Maintain good air flow by:

• Cleaning your lint screen before each load.
• Replacing plastic or foil vent material with 4″ (102 mm) diameter heavy, rigid vent material.
  
• Using the shortest length of vent possible.
• Using no more than four 90° elbows in a vent system; each bend and curve reduces air flow.
  
• Removing lint and debris from the exhaust hood.
• Removing lint from the entire length of the vent system at least every 2 years. When cleaning is complete, be sure to follow the Installation Instructions supplied with your dryer for final product check.
• Clearing away items from the front of the dryer.

USE AUTO DRY CYCLES FOR BETTER FABRIC CARE AND ENERGY SAVINGS

Use the Auto Dry cycles to provide the most energy savings and enhanced fabric care from the dryer. During Auto Dry cycles, drying air temperature and moisture level are sensed in the load. This sensing occurs throughout the drying cycle and the dryer shuts off when the load reaches the selected dryness. Choose Normal cycle to save energy.
With Timed Dry cycle, the dryer runs the amount of time set and sometimes results in shrinkage, wrinkling, and static due to overdrying. Use Timed Dry cycle for the occasional damp load that needs a little more drying time or when using the drying rack.

CONTROL PANEL AND FEATURES

Not all features and options are available on all models.
Appearance may vary.

1. DRYER CYCLE KNOB
   Turn the knob to select a cycle for your laundry load.
   See “Cycle Guide” for detailed descriptions of cycles.
   Timed Dry
   Will run the dryer for the specified time on the control.
   On models with a selectable temperature knob, you may choose a setting based on the fabrics in your load. Drying time and temperature will depend on your dryer model.
   Auto Dry
   Auto Dry cycles give the best drying in the shortest time.
   Drying time will vary based on fabric type, load size, and dryness setting.
   Air Only
   Use the Air Only setting to dry foam, rubber, plastic, or heat-sensitive fabrics.
   Wrinkle Guard™ function (on some models)
   When you are unable to remove a load of clothes from the dryer as soon as it stops, wrinkles can form. The Wrinkle Guard™ function periodically tumbles, rearranges, and fluffs the load without heat to help keep wrinkles from forming, for up to 40 minutes at the end of a cycle.
2. Dry Temp (on some models)
   Select a drying temperature based on the fabrics in your load. If you are unsure of the temperature to select for a load, select the lower setting rather than the higher setting. See “Cycle Guide.”
3. Cycle Signal/Push to Start
   The Cycle Signal produces an audible sound when the drying cycle is finished. On some models, this knob is combined with the Push to Start button. Promptly removing clothes at the end of the cycle reduces wrinkling.
   Turn the CYCLE SIGNAL knob to select the desired setting (On or Off). With combined buttons, press and hold the CYCLE SIGNAL/PUSH TO START button to start the dryer.
   On models without the cycle signal, press the PUSH TO START button to start the dryer.
   NOTE: During the Wrinkle Guard™ function and when the Cycle Signal is on, the tone will sound every 5 minutes until the clothes are removed or the Wrinkle Guard™ function ends.

CYCLE GUIDE

AUTO DRY CYCLES

Not all cycles and settings are available on all models. Settings and options shown in bold are default settings for that cycle.

AUTO DRY – Senses moisture in the load or air temperature and shuts off when the load reaches the selected dryness level.
Depending on model, temperature may be selected on cycle knob or be a separate control. Choose Normal to save energy.

NOTE: If loads do not seem as dry as you would like, select More next time you dry a similar load. If loads seem drier than you like, select Less next time you dry a similar load.

TIMED DRY CYCLES

Not all cycles and settings are available on all models.
TIMED DRY – Will run the dryer for the specified time on the control.
Depending on model, temperature may be selected on cycle knob or be a separate control

Setting the Drying Temperature

If your dryer has multiple temp settings:
A High Cotton temp setting may be used for drying heavyweight items such as towels and work clothes.
A Low Delicates or Medium Casual temp setting may be used for drying medium-weight items such as sheets, blouses, dresses, underwear, permanent press fabrics, and some knits.
Use a Air Only (no heat) setting for foam, rubber, plastic, or heat-sensitive fabrics.
Line dry bonded or laminated fabrics.
NOTE: If you have questions about drying temperatures for various loads, refer to the care label directions.

USING YOUR DRYER

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons, read the IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS before operating this appliance.

1. Clean the lint screen
   Clean the lint screen before each load. Pull the lint screen out of its holder. Roll lint off the screen with your fingers. Do not rinse or wash screen to remove lint. Push the lint screen firmly back into place. For additional cleaning information, see “Dryer Care.”
   
2. Load the dryer
   Place laundry in the dryer. Close the door. Do not tightly pack the dryer; clothes should be able to tumble freely.
   NOTE: Your model may have a different door than the one shown. Some models have drop down doors.

   

3. Select the desired cycle
   Select the desired cycle for your load. See the “Cycle Guide”
   for more information about each cycle.
   Auto Dry cycles
   You can select a different dry level, depending on your load, by turning the knob to More, Normal, or Less.
   Selecting More, Normal, or Less automatically adjusts the dryness level at which the dryer will shut off. Once a dry level is set, it cannot be changed without stopping the cycle.
   Auto Dry cycles give the best drying in the shortest time. Drying time varies based on fabric type, load size, and dryness setting.
   NOTE: More Dry removes more load moisture. Normal Dry is used for a starting point for Auto Dry cycles. Choose normal to save energy. Less Dry removes less moisture and is used for loads you may want to put on a hanger to complete drying
   
4. Set temperature (on some models)
   Turn the DRY TEMP knob to change the drying temperature setting. See “Setting the Drying Temperature.”
   
5. Select Cycle Signal, if desired (on some models)
   Turn the CYCLE SIGNAL knob to select the desired setting (On or Off). The Cycle Signal produces an audible sound when the drying cycle is finished. Promptly removing clothes at the end of the cycle reduces wrinkling.
   NOTE: During the Wrinkle Guard™ function and if the Cycle Signal is on, the tone will sound every 5 minutes until the clothes are removed or the Wrinkle Guard™ function ends.
   
6. Press and hold PUSH TO START to begin cycle
   Press and hold the PUSH TO START button to begin the cycle.
   Promptly remove garments after cycle has completed to reduce wrinkling. The Wrinkle Guard™ function at the end of the cycle avoids wrinkling when you are unable to remove a load from the dryer as soon as it stops.
   

DRYER CARE

Cleaning the dryer location

Keep dryer area clear and free from items that would block the air flow for proper dryer operation. This includes clearing piles of laundry in front of the dryer.

Cleaning the dryer interior

To clean dryer drum

1. Apply a liquid, nonflammable household cleaner to the stained area of the drum and rub with a soft cloth until stain is removed.
2. Wipe drum thoroughly with a damp cloth.
3. Tumble a load of clean cloths or towels to dry the drum.

NOTE: Garments that contain loose dyes, such as denim blue jeans or brightly colored cotton items, may discolor the dryer interior. These stains are not harmful to your dryer and will not stain future loads of clothes. Dry these items inside out to avoid drum staining.

Removing accumulated lint

From Inside the Dryer Cabinet
Lint should be removed every 2 years, or more often, depending on dryer usage. Cleaning should be done by a qualified servicer.

From the Exhaust Vent
Lint should be removed every 2 years, or more often, depending on dryer usage.

Cleaning the lint screen

Every load cleaning
The lint screen is located in the dryer. A screen blocked by lint can increase drying time.

To clean:

1. Pull the lint screen out of its holder. Roll lint off the screen with your fingers. Do not rinse or wash screen to remove lint.
   
2. Push the lint screen firmly back into place.

IMPORTANT:

• Do not run the dryer with the lint screen loose, damaged, blocked, or missing. Doing so can cause overheating and damage to both the dryer and fabrics.
• If lint falls off the screen into the dryer during removal, check the exhaust hood and remove the lint. See “Venting Requirements” in the Installation Instructions.

As needed cleaning
Laundry detergent and fabric softener residue can build up on the lint screen. This buildup can cause longer drying times for your clothes or cause the dryer to stop before your load is completely dry. The screen is probably clogged if lint falls off while the screen is in the dryer.
Clean the lint screen with a nylon brush every 6 months, or more frequently, if it becomes clogged due to a residue buildup.

To wash:

1. Roll lint off the screen with your fingers.
2. Wet both sides of lint screen with hot water.
3. Wet a nylon brush with hot water and liquid detergent.
   Scrub lint screen with the brush to remove residue buildup.
   
4. Rinse screen with hot water.
5. Thoroughly dry lint screen with a clean towel. Reinstall screen in dryer.

Vacation, storage, and moving care

Non-Use or Storage Care
Operate your dryer only when you are at home. If you will be on vacation or not using your dryer for an extended period of time, you should:

1. Unplug dryer or disconnect power.
2. (For gas dryers only): Close shut-off valve to gas supply line.
3. Clean lint screen. See “Cleaning the Lint Screen.”

Moving Care
For power supply cord-connected dryers:

1. Unplug the power supply cord.
2. Make sure leveling legs are secure in dryer base.
3. Use tape to secure dryer door.

For direct-wired dryers:

1. Turn off power at fuse or breaker box.
2. Disconnect wiring.
3. Make sure leveling legs are secure in dryer base.
4. Use tape to secure dryer door.

For gas dryers:
1. Unplug or disconnect power to dryer.

2. Close shut-off valve to gas supply line and disconnect.
3. Make sure leveling legs are secure in dryer base.
4. Use tape to secure dryer door.

Reinstalling the Dryer
Follow the Installation Instructions to locate, level, and connect the dryer.

Changing the drum light (on some models)

1. Unplug dryer or disconnect power.
2. Open the dryer door. Locate the light bulb cover on the back wall of the dryer. Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the screw located in the lower right-hand corner of the cover. Remove the cover.
   
3. Turn bulb counterclockwise. Replace the bulb with a 10-watt appliance bulb only. Replace the cover and secure with the screw.
4. Plug in dryer or reconnect power.

TROUBLESHOOTING

PROTECTION AGREEMENTS

Master Protection Agreements
Congratulations on making a smart purchase. Your new Kenmore® product is designed and manufactured for years of dependable operation.
But like all products, it may require preventive maintenance or repair from time to time. That’s when having a Master Protection Agreement can save you money and aggravation.
The Master Protection Agreement also helps extend the life of your new product. Here’s what the Agreement* includes:
Parts and labor needed to help keep products operating properly under normal use, not just defects. Our coverage goes well beyond the product warranty. No deductibles, no functional failure excluded from coverage—real protection.
Expert service by a force of more than 10,000 authorized Sears service technicians, which means someone you can trust will be working on your product.
Unlimited service calls and nationwide service, as often as you want us, whenever you want us.
– replacement of your covered product if four or more product failures occur within twelve months.
Product replacement if your covered product can’t be fixed.
Annual Preventive Maintenance Check at your request – no extra charge.
Fast help by phone – we call it Rapid Resolution – phone support from a Sears representative on all products. Think of us as a “talking owner’s manual.”
Power surge protection against electrical damage due to power fluctuations.
Rental reimbursement if repair of your covered product takes longer than promised.
25% discount off the regular price of any non-covered repair service and related installed parts.
Once you purchase the Agreement, a simple phone call is all that it takes for you to schedule service. You can call anytime day or night, or schedule a service appointment online.
The Master Protection Agreement is a risk free purchase. If you cancel for any reason during the product warranty period, we will provide a full refund. Or, a prorated refund anytime after the  product warranty period expires. Purchase your Master Protection Agreement today! Some limitations and exclusions apply.
For prices and additional information in the U.S.A., call 1-800-827-6655. *Coverage in Canada varies on some items. For full details, call Sears Canada at 1-800-361-6665.

Sears Installation Service
For Sears professional installation of home appliances, garage door openers, water heaters, and other major home items, in the U.S.A. or Canada, call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.

KENMORE APPLIANCE WARRANTY

KENMORE LIMITED WARRANTY
FOR ONE YEAR from the date of sale this appliance is warranted against defects in material or workmanship when it is correctly installed, operated, and maintained according to all supplied instructions.
WITH PROOF OF SALE, a defective appliance will receive free repair or replacement at option of seller. For warranty coverage details to obtain free repair or replacement, visit the web page: www.kenmore.com/warranty.
This warranty applies for only 90 DAYS from the sale date in the United States, and is void in Canada, if this appliance is ever used for other than private household purposes.

This warranty covers ONLY defects in material and workmanship, and will NOT pay for:

1. Expendable items that can wear out from normal use, including but not limited to filters, belts, bags, or screw-in base light bulbs.
2. A service technician to clean or maintain this appliance, or to instruct the user in correct appliance installation, operation, and maintenance.
3. Service calls to correct appliance installation not performed by Sears authorized service agents, or to repair problems with house fuses, circuit breakers, house wiring, and plumbing or gas supply systems resulting from such installation.
4. Damage to or failure of this appliance resulting from installation not performed by Sears authorized service agents, including installation that was not in accord with electrical, gas, or plumbing codes.
5. Damage to or failure of this appliance, including discoloration or surface rust, if it is not correctly operated and maintained according to all supplied instructions.
6. Damage to or failure of this appliance, including discoloration or surface rust, resulting from accident, alteration, abuse, misuse or use for other than its intended purpose.
7. Damage to or failure of this appliance, including discoloration or surface rust, caused by the use of detergents, cleaners, chemicals, or utensils other than those recommended in all instructions supplied with the product.
8. Damage to or failure of parts or systems resulting from unauthorized modifications made to this appliance.
9. Service to an appliance if the model and serial plate is missing, altered, or cannot easily be determined to have the appropriate certification logo.

DISCLAIMER OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES; LIMITATION OF REMEDIES
Customer’s sole and exclusive remedy under this limited warranty shall be product repair or replacement as provided herein. Implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to one year or the shortest period allowed by law. Seller shall not be liable for incidental or consequential damages. Some states and provinces do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, or limitation on the duration of implied warranties of merchantability or fitness, so these exclusions or limitations may not apply to you.
This warranty applies only while this appliance is used in the United States or Canada*.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
* In-home repair service is not available in all Canadian geographical areas, nor will this warranty cover user or servicer travel and transportation expenses if this product is located in a remote area (as defined by Sears Canada Inc.) where an authorized servicer is not available.

Sears Brands Management Corporation
Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Sears Canada Inc.
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5B 2C3