How many cubic feet is my Kenmore Elite washer?
The exact tub capacity (cubic feet) for Kenmore Elite washer model 11026924500 is listed in the product specifications section of the 11026924500 owner's manual. If you do not see it there, most Kenmore top-load washers of this design typically fall in the 3.2 to 3.6 cu. ft. range.
We recommend checking these spots first because they are the most reliable for your exact model:
- Product specifications or “features” section in the 11026924500 owner's manual
- Model and serial tag (often under the lid or on the rim of the washer opening)
- Any “capacity” or “basket size” callout in the literature that came with the washer
Capacity is the approximate internal volume of the wash basket. It helps you match load size, detergent amount, and cycle choice.
| Capacity (cu. ft.) | Typical load type | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5 to 3.1 | Compact or smaller top-load | Smaller loads, less bulky items |
| 3.2 to 3.6 | Standard large-capacity top-load | Most family loads, towels, jeans |
| 3.7+ | Extra-large top-load | Bulkier loads, comforters (model-dependent) |
Using the right load size for the washer’s capacity helps prevent out-of-balance spinning, reduces wear on the drive system, and improves cleaning performance.
- Load items loosely; do not pack clothes down
- Keep bulky items balanced (for example, one blanket plus several smaller items)
- If the washer struggles to spin or bangs, reduce the load size
- Use the correct water level and cycle for the fabric type
Last updated: January 2026
How do you reset your Kenmore Elite washing machine?
To reset a Kenmore Elite washer model 11026924500, we stop the current cycle by pushing in the Cycle Control knob, then restart by closing the lid and pulling the knob back out. This clears many “stuck cycle” situations without replacing parts; see the 11026924500 owner's manual.
- Push in the Cycle Control knob to stop the washer.
- Wait about 30 seconds.
- Make sure the lid is fully closed.
- Pull the Cycle Control knob out to restart.
- If the washer still will not run, set the knob to Off, then select a new cycle and start again.
A “reset” will not help if a safety switch or drain issue is stopping operation. Check these common causes:
- Lid not closing or not “clicking” into position (lid switch not engaging)
- Washer will not drain, so it will not advance to spin
- Timer knob turns but the cycle does not progress
- Load is off-balance and the washer stops mid-cycle
| Symptom after reset | Most likely area to check | Common next step |
|---|---|---|
| No action when you pull knob out | Lid safety circuit | Inspect/replace washer lid switch assembly WP8318084 |
| Hums but will not drain | Drain system | Check/replace washer drain pump WP3363394 |
| Agitates poorly or not at all | Agitator drive parts | Inspect agitator dog 80040 and agitator components |
Resetting correctly helps you avoid unnecessary part replacement and quickly separates a simple control interruption from a real failure (like a lid switch or drain pump problem).
Last updated: January 2026
What is the life expectancy of a Kenmore washer?
A Kenmore washer typically lasts 10 to 15 years. For the Kenmore Elite washer model 11026924500, lifespan is strongly influenced by load size, proper use, and preventive maintenance; the manual also notes the washer is designed for years of dependable operation when used as directed (see the 11026924500 owner's manual).
How the washer is used matters as much as the brand.
- Normal household use: 10 to 15 years
- Heavy use (large family, daily loads): 8 to 12 years
- Light use (few loads per week): 12 to 18 years
- Non-household use: expect shorter life due to higher wear
| Usage pattern | What wears faster | What helps most |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy, frequent loads | Drive system, suspension, pump | Smaller loads, balanced loads |
| Overloading | Gearcase, clutch, basket drive | Keep loads moving freely |
| Poor installation (vibration) | Suspension, tub components | Leveling and stable flooring |
The best way to extend life is to reduce strain and prevent avoidable damage.
- Keep loads balanced and avoid overloading so items move freely during washing
- Follow fabric care labels; damaged items can worsen tangling and stress seams
- Use chlorine bleach correctly (never pour directly on fabrics; wipe spills)
- Address draining or spinning issues early (a struggling drain system shortens component life)
- Fix small mechanical issues before they cascade into bigger failures
When performance changes, these are common wear items that can make a repair worthwhile.
- Washer drain pump WP3363394 (draining problems, slow drain)
- Washer lid switch assembly WP8318084 (won’t spin or won’t start symptoms)
- Washer motor coupling 285753A (agitation or spin issues on direct-drive designs)
A washer that is overloaded, unbalanced, or used with harsh chemicals incorrectly tends to develop vibration, draining, and drive issues sooner. Using the correct loading and chemical practices helps protect the basket, tub, and gearcase so the washer reaches its normal service life.
Last updated: January 2026
Is Kenmore Elite high end?
Yes. Kenmore Elite is Kenmore’s higher-end line, and the Kenmore Elite washer model 11026924500 is built with more premium components and longer warranty coverage than many basic washers, including extended coverage on major items like the basket, tub, and gearcase (see the 11026924500 owner's manual).
High end usually comes down to durability, performance, and long-term ownership value. For model 11026924500, the manual highlights stronger warranty coverage on key wash-system parts.
- Longer warranty coverage on major components (basket, tub, gearcase)
- Designed for years of dependable operation with routine maintenance
- Built around a traditional top-load wash system with serviceable mechanical parts
- Parts support is strong, with common wear items readily available
These warranty terms are a practical way to judge where the Elite line sits.
| Component | Coverage type | Coverage length |
|---|---|---|
| White porcelain basket | Limited lifetime | Lifetime of the washer |
| Plastic tub | Limited | Years 2 through 10 |
| Gearcase parts | Limited | Years 2 through 5 |
| Overall washer | Full | 1 year |
A “high-end” washer is not only about extra cycles; it is about how well the machine holds up when used weekly for years. Longer coverage on the basket, tub, and gearcase typically translates to better long-term value and repairability.
Even high-end washers need occasional maintenance. If agitation, spinning, or draining performance drops, these are common wear-related areas to check.
- Agitation issues: agitator dog 80040
- No spin or weak agitation: washer motor coupling 285753A
- Not draining: washer drain pump WP3363394
- Won’t run with lid open or intermittent operation: washer lid switch assembly WP8318084
Last updated: January 2026


