Kenmore Dishwasher Not Draining? (Find Your Manufacturer First)

Quick Fix: Kenmore dishwashers are made by different manufacturers — primarily Whirlpool and LG. Your troubleshooting approach depends on who actually built your unit. Check the first three digits of your model number to identify the manufacturer, then follow the appropriate filter cleaning procedure.

Kenmore is a Sears brand that doesn’t manufacture its own appliances. Instead, they source from major manufacturers. This means “Kenmore dishwasher” could actually be a Whirlpool, LG, or occasionally another brand in disguise. For manuals and parts, visit Kenmore’s support site.

Identify Your Kenmore’s Manufacturer

The first three digits of your model number reveal who made your dishwasher:

Model PrefixManufacturerNotes
665WhirlpoolMost common for dishwashers
587FrigidaireLess common
630LGNewer Kenmore Elite models
796LGSome Kenmore Elite appliances

Where to find your model number:

  1. Open the dishwasher door
  2. Look on the door frame (side edge)
  3. Or check the door itself (inner panel)
  4. The model number starts with three digits followed by a period

Example: Model 665.13279K means Whirlpool made this dishwasher.

Kenmore by Whirlpool (Model 665)

Most Kenmore dishwashers are made by Whirlpool. Follow these steps:

Filter System

Whirlpool-made Kenmore dishwashers have a two-part filter:

  1. Upper filter — Cylindrical, twist to remove
  2. Lower filter — Flat mesh underneath

Cleaning:

  1. Remove the lower dish rack
  2. Turn the upper filter counterclockwise (1/4 turn)
  3. Lift out the upper filter
  4. Remove the lower flat filter underneath
  5. Rinse both under hot water
  6. Scrub with a soft brush
  7. Check the sump for debris
  8. Reinstall lower filter first, then upper

Diagnostic mode (Whirlpool-based): Press three buttons in sequence: 1-2-3, 1-2-3, 1-2-3 within 3 seconds. The dishwasher enters diagnostic mode where you can test the drain function.

Drain Hose Check

Look under the sink for the drain hose. Verify:

  • No kinks or crushed sections
  • High loop reaches countertop level
  • Connection to disposal isn’t pushed in too far

Kenmore by LG (Model 630/796)

Some newer Kenmore Elite dishwashers are made by LG. These have different characteristics.

Filter System

LG-made Kenmore dishwashers typically have:

  1. Fine filter — Cylindrical, center of tub
  2. Mesh filter — Surrounding the fine filter

Cleaning:

  1. Remove lower rack
  2. Turn the fine filter counterclockwise
  3. Lift out both filters (they may come out together)
  4. Rinse under hot water
  5. Use a soft brush on the mesh
  6. Check for debris in the filter housing
  7. Reinstall and lock clockwise

LG-Specific Error Codes

CodeMeaning
OEDrainage error
AELeak sensor activated
LEMotor error

Reset procedure: Press and hold Start for 3 seconds, or turn off power at breaker for 1 minute.

Common Kenmore Drainage Fixes

Regardless of manufacturer, these steps apply to all Kenmore dishwashers:

Step 1: Clean the Filter

Every Kenmore has some type of filter at the bottom of the tub. Remove and clean it thoroughly.

Step 2: Check the Drain Hose

Under the sink:

  1. Look for kinks
  2. Verify high loop installation
  3. Ensure connection is secure but not too deep

Step 3: Clear the Garbage Disposal

If your dishwasher drains through a disposal:

  1. Run the disposal for 20 seconds
  2. Run water while operating
  3. Check for knockout plug if disposal is new

Step 4: Run a Drain Cycle

Force a drain to test the pump:

  1. Press Cancel or Start (hold 3 seconds)
  2. Listen for pump operation
  3. Watch for water draining

Step 5: Check the Pump

If the filter is clean and hose is clear:

  • Listen during drain cycle
  • Humming = possible stuck impeller
  • Silence = electrical or motor failure

See our drain pump guide for testing instructions.

Kenmore Elite Specific Notes

Kenmore Elite dishwashers are premium models with additional features:

Turbo Zone / PowerWash: These intensive cleaning features use more water. A partially clogged filter may only show problems on these cycles.

Smart features (newer models): Some connect to the Kenmore Smart app for diagnostics. Check for error codes in the app if your model supports it.

Quieter operation: Elite models are designed to be quiet, which can make it harder to tell if the drain pump is running. Put your ear near the bottom of the dishwasher during the drain portion of the cycle.

Finding Kenmore Replacement Parts

Since Kenmore is made by various manufacturers, parts depend on who made your unit:

For Whirlpool-made Kenmore (665):

  • Use Whirlpool part numbers
  • Filter assemblies are interchangeable
  • Drain pumps are typically Whirlpool parts

For LG-made Kenmore:

  • Use LG part numbers
  • Some proprietary designs
  • May need to order through Sears Parts Direct

Part lookup: Use your complete model number at searspartsdirect.com to find exact replacement parts.

When to Call for Service

Contact service if:

  • You’ve cleaned the filter and checked the hose
  • Error codes persist after reset
  • The pump makes no sound during drain cycle
  • Water is leaking beneath the unit

Kenmore/Sears support: 1-800-469-4663

Note: Sears has reduced its presence, but authorized service is still available in most areas. You can also contact Whirlpool or LG directly if you’ve identified your manufacturer.

Preventing Future Problems

  • Clean filter monthly (all Kenmore models)
  • Scrape dishes before loading
  • Run disposal before dishwasher cycles
  • Use recommended detergent amounts
  • Run hot water at sink before starting

FAQ

Who makes Kenmore dishwashers?

Kenmore dishwashers are made by Whirlpool (model prefix 665) or LG (model prefix 630 or 796). Sears doesn’t manufacture appliances — they contract with major brands. Check the first three digits of your model number to identify who made yours.

Where is the filter on a Kenmore dishwasher?

The filter is at the bottom center of the dishwasher tub. Remove the lower rack to access it. Most Kenmore dishwashers have either a two-part Whirlpool-style filter (upper cylinder + lower flat mesh) or an LG-style single assembly. Twist counterclockwise to remove.

How do I reset my Kenmore dishwasher?

For Whirlpool-made models (665): Press Cancel twice quickly, then press Start once. Or turn off power at the breaker for 1 minute.

For LG-made models (630/796): Press and hold Start for 3 seconds, or turn off power at the breaker for 1 minute.

Why is my Kenmore Elite dishwasher not draining?

Most drainage issues in Kenmore Elite models are caused by a clogged filter. These premium models have fine filtration that catches more debris but requires more frequent cleaning. Remove and thoroughly clean the filter system, then check the drain hose for kinks.

Need more help? See our complete dishwasher not draining guide for troubleshooting that applies to all brands.