A Kenmore dryer shares most of its parts with other dryers, but its controls, error codes and sensor-dry cycles are specific to the brand. We flag companies whose listing or website mentions Kenmore and fill in with nearby dryer repair companies so you always have options.
Independent listings only: Washer and Dryer Repair is not affiliated with or endorsed by Kenmore. If your dryer is still under manufacturer coverage, contact Kenmore directly.
Kenmore appliances were sold through Sears for decades, so many owners look for Sears dryer repair. The companies here are independent technicians who work on Kenmore and Kenmore Elite dryers; they are not Sears.
Kenmore Dryer Repair Near University Place
We found 40 appliance repair companies within 30 miles of University Place. 2 list an address in University Place, and the rest are spread across Tacoma (14), Federal Way (6), and Spanaway (4). Distances run up to about 16 miles. The closest is Essential University Place Appliance Repair, about 1.3 miles away. No company within 30 miles of University Place names Kenmore in its listing, so the list adds matches from farther out and the closest appliance repair companies. Rated companies nearby average 4.6 stars across 29 businesses.
Companies are shown by relevance and distance from University Place. A mention does not mean manufacturer certification, so ask each company about its experience with your dryer.
| Mention Kenmore | 0 |
|---|---|
| Three nearest companies, miles away | 1.3, 2.0, 2.2 |
| Appliance repair companies in range (30 mi) | 60 |
| Rated 4.5 stars or higher (10+ reviews) | 20 |
| Open on Saturdays (per listing) | 34 |
| List dryer or washer & dryer work | 14 |
Closest matches for University Place: Sears Appliance Repair (41.3 miles away, based in Chehalis, 4.4 stars from 134 reviews, lists Saturday hours); HotWire Furnace, Air Conditioning & Appliance Repair Tacoma (9.5 miles away, based in Tacoma, 4.9 stars from 470 reviews, lists Saturday hours); FIX UFA Appliance Repair (6.3 miles away, based in Tacoma, 4.5 stars from 76 reviews); Sears Appliance Repair (9.8 miles away, based in Spanaway, 4.5 stars from 111 reviews, lists Saturday hours).
Kenmore Dryer Features Technicians Work On
What Makes Kenmore Dryer Repairs Different
Kenmore's Check Vent sensor alerts the owner when the dryer is not moving enough air to the outside. Source: Kenmore - Laundry List: Kenmore Dryer Buying Guide
SmartDry Ultra dryers combine two moisture sensors with a temperature monitor and a dual heating element to fine-tune heat and cycle length. Source: Kenmore - 8.8 cu. ft. Electric Dryer w/ SmartDry Ultra Technology
Kenmore Dryer Symptoms and First Checks
- Check Vent light blinking. Kenmore says the exhaust is seriously restricted and the ducts should be cleaned and inspected before using the dryer again. Source: Kenmore - Kenmore Elite Steam Dryer Use & Care Guide (796.8178/796.9178)
- Dryer not heating. Kenmore says to check for a tripped breaker or blown fuse and, on gas models, confirm the gas supply is on, noting an electric dryer can tumble without heat on a partial circuit. Source: Kenmore - Kenmore Elite Steam Dryer Use & Care Guide (796.8178/796.9178)
Kenmore Dryer Error Codes
| Code | What it means |
|---|---|
| CL (Elite steam dryers) | Control Lock is on. Source: Kenmore - Kenmore Elite Steam Dryer Use & Care Guide (796.8178/796.9178) |
| CHECK FILTER (Elite steam dryers) | A reminder to clean the lint filter before the load. Source: Kenmore - Kenmore Elite Steam Dryer Use & Care Guide (796.8178/796.9178) |
| HS (Elite steam dryers) | The humidity (moisture) sensor has failed; the dryer needs service. Source: Kenmore - Kenmore Elite Steam Dryer Use & Care Guide (796.8178/796.9178) |
Kenmore Dryer Problems Worth a Service Call
- Drum turns but the air stays cool
- Dryer will not start when you press Start
- Clothes still damp after a full cycle
Inside a Dryer Repair Visit
Keeping a Kenmore Dryer Running
- If the lint screen looks clogged when held to the light, scrub it with hot soapy water and a stiff brush and let it dry fully before reinstalling. Source: Kenmore - Kenmore Elite Steam Dryer Use & Care Guide (796.8178/796.9178)
- Use only 4-inch rigid or semi-rigid metal duct (no plastic or foil), check it for lint monthly and clean it at least yearly; one Elite steam model allows about 65 feet with no elbows and 28 feet with four 90-degree elbows using a 4-inch hood. Source: Kenmore - Kenmore Elite Steam Dryer Use & Care Guide (796.8178/796.9178)
Brand guides: Kenmore Dryer Not Heating: Causes and Fixes.
Kenmore Dryer Repair Cost Ranges
Most Kenmore dryer repairs involve common parts and an hour or so of labor. For reference, published cost guides report:
- Thermostat replacement: $100–$260 Source: Fixr - How much does it cost to repair a dryer?
- Drive motor replacement: $250–$450 Source: Fixr - How much does it cost to repair a dryer?
- Gas valve coil replacement (gas dryer): $150–$300 Source: Fixr - How much does it cost to repair a dryer?
- Heating element replacement: $150–$350 Source: Fixr - How much does it cost to repair a dryer?
- Technician labor: $50–$100 per hour Source: Angi - How Much Does Dryer Repair Cost?
A dryer that keeps needing repairs despite regular maintenance is usually cheaper to replace. Source: Angi - How Much Does Dryer Repair Cost?
Ranges are published estimates, not quotes. See the dryer repair cost guide and how long dryers last.
Getting Ready for the Repair
- How long the vent run is and where it exits the house
- What happens when you press Start (no response, hum, runs with no heat, stops early)
- Whether the dryer is gas or electric
Local Notes for University Place
Most dryer calls in University Place come down to the same handful of parts: the vent and lint path, the heat source, the belt and rollers, and the door and start switches.
Washington's Department of Labor & Industries issues an appliance repair (07D) specialty electrician certificate that covers like-for-like repair and replacement of self-contained appliances such as ovens on an unchanged circuit, but excludes branch-circuit wiring and plumbing work. Source: WAC 296-46B-920, Electrical/telecommunications license/certificate types and scope of work
Washington's state plumber certification law defines plumbing as potable water, waste, medical gas and similar systems and does not list fuel gas piping, so gas line work is not part of the state plumber certificate. Source: Chapter 18.106 RCW, Plumbers
Before You Book in University Place
- How often do you repair Kenmore dryers, and do you carry common parts on the truck?
- Do you work on gas dryers, and who handles anything involving the gas line?
- What guarantee do you give on parts and labor?
Kenmore Dryer Repair FAQs: University Place, WA
Is this Kenmore customer service?
Should I repair or replace my Kenmore dryer?
Why does my dryer take so long to dry?
More Laundry Repair in University Place, WA
Kenmore Dryer Repair in Nearby Cities
Before you call, find the model and serial number on your Kenmore dryer's label, usually inside the door opening. A technician who knows the model can often tell you on the phone what the first visit will involve.