The Virtual Repairman's Appliance Help

Cora · Apprentice DIYer Joined: 13 Apr 2011 Posts: 1

I have a Kenmore front loading washing machine model number 417.44042400. The detergent drains fine but the softener does not drain. I have pulled the drawer out many times and cleaned it. (by the way...after pulling drawer out I discovered thick mold and have cleaned it many times). I've change brands in hopes that would mae a difference but no luck. The softener just sits in the cup.

Virtual Repairman · Posted: Thu Apr 14, 2011 7:40 am Post subject: softener

The reason there is mold is because you use softener in the first place. I would be willing to bet that you had no idea that liquid fabric softerner is made with fat...pig fat and cow fat both. When left exposed to air after a few days, it decomps just like a dead animal, attracting bacteria and mold. Use dryer sheets to soften instead.

The problem with your dispenser is usually the dispenser valve, located right behind the tray. The valve, show as #36 in the diagram below, is replaceable without having to buy a whole new dispenser. To order just the dispenser valve, CLICK HERE .

To get to everything, simply remove the main top by taking out the 3 screws on the back of the lid and slide it off. Don't forget to unplug it first!

Diagram of Dispenser Area-
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