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Kenmore Washer dispenser not working properly

If your Kenmore washer dispenser is not working, detergent, bleach, or fabric softener may remain in the tray or fail to reach the wash load. The most likely cause is low water pressure or a faulty water inlet valve, which supplies water to flush the dispenser. The valve needs at least 20 psi to operate correctly, so check household water pressure before replacing it. Next, inspect the detergent container for clogs, misalignment, or damage. A blocked or damaged dispenser, drawer, or compartment can also cause common detergent dispenser problems. Clean the dispenser thoroughly, including any siphon break or siphon tube, because buildup can prevent proper dispensing or leave diluted product behind. If the water supply and dispenser components are clear, the control board may not be sending power to the dispenser valves or actuator at the correct time. Use a multimeter to check for voltage before replacing the control board. Inspect the drawer for obstructions or cracks as well. Enter your Kenmore washer model number to find the exact replacement part for your specific washing machine, including the water inlet valve, dispenser, drawer, siphon break, or control board.

01 - Kenmore Washing Machine Water Inlet Valve

The dispenser uses water from the inlet valve to flush out the detergent and fabric softener from the dispenser. If the water flow is too slow the dispenser will not distribute the detergent and softener properly. The water inlet valve requires at least 20 psi to function properly. First, check the water pressure to determine that it is adequate. If the water pressure is adequate, replace the water inlet valve.
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02 - Kenmore Washing Machine Detergent Container

The dispenser's detergent container could be clogged, misaligned, or damaged, and unable to dispense its contents properly. Inspect the detergent container for any damage and replace if necessary.
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03 - Kenmore Washing Machine Dispenser

A washer detergent dispenser not working is often the result of low water pressure in the home or a defective water inlet valve not supplying water to the dispenser. However, it's also possible the dispenser drawer is obstructed or damaged and not allowing the detergent to be dispensed. You should inspect the drawer for any obstructions or damage and replace the component if necessary.
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04 - Kenmore Washing Machine Siphon Break

Some dispensers use a siphon tube. If the siphon tube gets plugged you may get a diluted mixture of detergent, bleach, or fabric softener remaining in the tray. Make sure the dispenser compartment trays and siphon tubes are clean.
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Highly Likely

05 - Kenmore Washing Machine Control Board

A washer detergent dispenser not working is often the result of low water pressure in the home or a defective water inlet valve not supplying water to the dispenser. However, it's also possible the appliance's control board is not sending power to the dispenser water valves or dispenser actuator at the proper times. You can use a multimeter to help determine if voltage is reaching these components. If not, the control board will need to be replaced.
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Common

06 - Kenmore Washing Machine Drawer

A washer dispenser not working is often the result of low water pressure in the home or a defective water inlet valve not supplying water to the dispenser. However, it's also possible the dispenser drawer is obstructed or damaged and not allowing the detergent, bleach, or fabric softener to be dispensed. You should inspect the drawer for any obstructions or damage and replace the component if necessary.
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Common

07 - Kenmore Washing Machine Detergent Dispenser

Most washer dispensers use a water inlet valve to move water through the different dispenser compartments at specified times to dispense the soap or fabric softener. Some models use a diverter motor. If the dispenser is clogged and cannot be cleaned or the water inlet valve is part of the dispenser and no water is flowing through it, the dispenser will need to be replaced.
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Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore washer dispenser not working?
Can low water pressure cause my washer not to dispense detergent?
How do I fix a Kenmore washer detergent drawer that is not dispensing?
How can I test the water inlet valve or control board when the washer dispenser is not working?
How do I find the correct Kenmore washer dispenser part?

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