Water Level Adjustment for Kenmore FL Washer

[mobilemaid]

I just aquired a slightly used Kenmore frontloader (Model 417-44082400). My old Kenmore frontloader had an adjustment under the top that would enable me to slightly increase the water level in the wash basket. This model does not seem to have a water level adjustment that I can see, unless it is located elsewhere? I'm guessing this machine is about 2 years old, and is similar to current 3.5 capacity GE and Fridigaire models that you see at Loews and Home Depot.

Anyone have any idea where (or if there is) the water level adjustor?

Shawn
NE Alabama

 

[decodriveboy]

Hi Shawn

My best friend has a newer Kenmore FL and the pressure switch is not readily visible. I found it directly under one of the metal support strips which run horizontally across the top of the machine under the top panel (visible when removed).

Hope this helps.

 

[nurdlinger]

Here's a URL for the parts list to this machine.

ftp://ftp.electrolux-na.com/ProdInfo_PDF/webster/5995425427.pdf

(FTP URLs do not represent correctly in the "URL" box.)

On page 6 you can see depicted a hose (item 44) running upwards from the top of the pump. The other end of this hose will be connected to the pressure sensor. That sensor is shown in cutaway on page 2 (item 17) but the placement described by "decodriveboy" in the post above seems very likely.

 

[rocketeer500]

Why would you want to increase the water level?

After reading this thread, I checked my Kenmore front loader and I have the same model. But as I was taking off the bottom panel to see the location of the switch, I started to think: what is the rational behind increasing the water level?

Call me naive, but the reason why I ask this is the drum is suspending on hydraulics, with concrete blocks as stablizers. By increasing the water level, you increase the weight of the load, and by so doing, you then need to then decrease the amount of items being washed, as these machines are designed for a specific amount of weight; beyond that limit, they do become unstable and water does leak out of the door or water pump. In addition, there is a small threshold between the lowest part of the drum and the lower level of the door. Even if you have a very good seal, the additional pressure of the water could cause damage to the water pump, directly below the machine.

So again I ask, what is the benefit of increasing the water level? I live in an area that has extremely hard water. For me to see any suds, I have to double the amount of detergent and add STPP. So if the end-desire to see more suds action, my advice is: add more detergent.