Seal Is Leaking on a Kenmore 44102 Front-Load Washer

Seal

• The rubber door seal on a Kenmore front-load washing machine surrounds the interior door frame and keeps the door shut so liquid from the washtub won’t leak out while the washer is running. Since the washtub’s contents come in direct contact with the door during a typical wash cycle, debris, such as soap residue, lint and pet hair, can get trapped in the seal’s folds. If the debris isn’t eliminated, it could eventually create a gap between the door and the seal where liquid could escape and leak out.

Leaks

• Once your front-load washer starts leaking from the door, the seal is no longer effective and must be replaced. If you disregard the problem and continue to use the washer, what may have started out as a small leak will get bigger and could eventually cause permanent damage to the door panel. Rather than take this risk, make arrangements to replace the worn seal and take your laundry to a laundromat in the meantime.

Replacement

• You should be able to swap out the seal yourself without too much effort as long as you don’t mind disassembling your washer. All that’s generally required is a flat head screwdriver and a wrench or socket to remove the top and front covers, as well as the door latch and panel, at which point you can remove the old seal and install a new one. Instructions usually accompany the replacement seal, which you should be able to obtain from Sears appliance center. If your Kenmore front-load washing machine is still under warranty or you’re not comfortable performing the repair, contact Kenmore to change out the bad seal.

General Seal Maintenance

• Kenmore recommends wiping down the door and its seal after each wash load to prolong the seal’s performance. The seal’s folds can become magnets for bacteria and mold that could make your washer and clothes smell. If there is a foul odor in your washing machine, thoroughly clean the seal, including inside the folds, with a mixture of one part baking soda to four parts warm water. Leave the washer’s door open for about 30 minutes, following a wash cycle, to allow time for any moisture around the seal to dry.