A Kenmore 110 9227 Heavy Duty Washer Is Leaking

Load

• A load that is too large or unbalanced can cause the fill spray to bounce off the clothes and cause a minor leak. Try removing part of the load, or stop the cycle and manually redistribute the clothes around the agitator. Heavy items such as rugs, comforters and loads of towels or jeans are more prone to becoming unbalanced. Kenmore recommends limiting loads to four pairs of jeans or 10 bath towels to avoid this problem. It's best to combine large and small items in a load to keep the weight distributed.

Installation

• If your washer was recently installed or moved, the hookup could be to blame. Unplug the unit and move it away from the wall to gain access to the back panel. Disconnect the inlet and drain hoses, and reconnect them. Use pliers or a wrench to tighten them to ensure a strong seal. If you don't have plumber's tape on the threads of the hoses, add some. Secure both ends of the hoses -- where they connect to the washer and where they connect to the wall. While you're back there, inspect the hoses themselves for cracking, splitting or other damage, and replace them if necessary. Put the washer back into place, and use a carpenter's level to ensure the unit sits evenly from front to back and side to side. A tub that is not level can cause the fill spray to bounce off the tub ring and create a leak.

Minor Repairs

• Don't attempt to go any further with troubleshooting if your warranty is still valid. Otherwise, unplug the machine and remove the access panel. Inspect all internal hoses for signs of wear, and replace them as necessary. Check the inlet spout near the upper inner rim of the tub, and replace it if it's damaged. Check the air gap device -- a small plastic case about halfway down the drain hose -- and replace it if it's cracked. If the leak becomes very apparent when the washer is full but idle, your pump may need replacing.

Major Repairs

• If your washer leaks during the entire cycle, it's probably a job for a professional repairman, whether you're still under warranty or not. Your main tub seal may need to be replaced, but it is difficult to access and difficult to replace. If your seal is broken, you'll notice water pooling toward the center of the tub when the machine is full. Otherwise, inspect the tub itself for rust and wear, which can allow water to seep through. Replacing the tub can cost as much as replacing the whole machine, so if your 10-year warranty has expired, it may be time to get a new washer.