How many cubic feet is my Kenmore Elite washer?
The exact tub capacity (cubic feet) for Kenmore Elite washer model 11028042701 is listed in the product specifications section of the 11028042701 owner's manual. If you do not see it there, use the measurement method below to estimate capacity accurately.
How to estimate washer capacity (cubic feet)
We calculate capacity from the inside of the wash basket (not the cabinet). Measure in inches:
- Diameter (D): straight across the inside of the basket
- Depth (H): from the bottom of the basket to the top rim (inside)
- Use a tape measure; measure to the nearest 1/4 inch
- Do not include the agitator cap or dispenser height in the depth
Formula (cylinder):
- Capacity (cu ft) =
π × (D/2)^2 × H ÷ 1728
Quick reference table
| What you measure | Example | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Basket diameter (D) | 20 in | Wider baskets usually hold more |
| Basket depth (H) | 16 in | Deeper baskets usually hold more |
| Estimated capacity | ~2.9 cu ft | Typical mid-size top-load range |
Typical capacity range (so you can sanity-check your result)
Most Kenmore Elite top-load washers of this design land in the about 3.0 to 4.5 cu ft range depending on basket size and wash system.
Why it matters
Knowing cubic feet helps us match the right load size to the washer so it cleans well, spins out properly, and avoids out-of-balance conditions that can lead to vibration and noise.
Related setup tip that affects performance
If the washer is not level, it can shake and struggle with larger loads. The 11028042701 installation guide shows the correct leveling approach (including adjusting the right front foot and confirming all four feet contact the floor).
Last updated: January 2026
How to force a Kenmore Elite washer to drain?
For Kenmore Elite washer model 11028042701, we force a drain by canceling the current cycle so the washer pumps water out, then running Drain & Spin. This is the fastest, safest way to empty the tub without disassembly; see the steps in the 11028042701 owner's manual.
Fastest way to drain (control panel method)
- Press STOP twice to cancel the cycle; the washer will drain.
- Press POWER.
- Select DRAIN & SPIN.
- Press START.
- Wait for the cycle to finish; the lid unlocks when complete.
If it still will not drain
These checks fix most “won’t drain” situations on this style of Kenmore top-load washer.
- Make sure the lid is fully closed and the lid lock engages; a failed lock can stop draining and spinning.
- Check the drain hose for kinks, crushing, or a clog at the standpipe or laundry tub.
- Confirm the drain hose is installed with an air gap (secure but not airtight) so the washer can pump properly.
- If you hear the pump hum but water does not move, the drain pump may be jammed or failing.
Common parts related to draining
| Symptom | Most likely area | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| No drain, no pump sound | Lid lock or wiring | Washer lid lock WPW10619844 |
| Hums but no water movement | Drain pump | Pump-water W10536347 |
| Drains slowly or backs up | Hose/standpipe setup | Drain hose installation per 11028042701 installation guide |
Why it matters
A washer that cannot drain usually cannot spin. That leaves clothes soaking wet and can trigger out-of-balance shutdowns. Correct drain hose setup and a working lid lock and pump protect the motor system and help prevent leaks.
Last updated: January 2026
How to hard reset kenmore washer?
For a hard reset on your Kenmore Elite washer model 11028042701, unplug the washer (or turn off the breaker) for 2 minutes, then restore power and press POWER. If the control is just “stuck,” this power reset typically clears it and lets you start a new cycle.
Hard reset steps (power reset)
- Press STOP once to pause, or STOP twice to cancel and drain if a cycle is running.
- Turn the washer OFF.
- Unplug the power cord (or switch the breaker off).
- Wait 2 minutes.
- Restore power.
- Press POWER, select a cycle, then press START.
If you need the exact button sequence for your console style, follow the reset and diagnostic guidance in the 11028042701 owner's manual.
If the washer still will not start
These checks fix most “won’t start” or “won’t unlock” situations after a reset:
- Confirm the lid is fully closed; the washer will not run if it cannot lock.
- Watch the Lid Lock status light; wait for it to turn off before opening the lid.
- If you pressed POWER but do not press START within about 5 minutes, the washer can shut off automatically.
- If the tub is full of water, use DRAIN & SPIN after canceling the cycle.
- If the lid will not lock or unlock reliably, inspect the lid lock assembly.
Quick symptom guide
| What you see | What it usually means | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Lid will not lock | Lid lock not engaging | Check/replace washer lid lock WPW10619844 |
| Washer cancels and drains | STOP pressed twice | Restart cycle and press START once |
| Won’t open lid | Lid Lock light is on | Wait for Lid Lock light to turn off |
Why it matters
A hard reset clears temporary control glitches, but it does not fix a mechanical problem like a failing lid lock, drain pump, or wiring issue. Using the correct cancel, drain, and restart steps prevents lost detergent and helps you pinpoint whether you need a part replacement.
Last updated: January 2026
Is Kenmore Elite high end?
Yes. Kenmore Elite is Kenmore’s premium line, and the Kenmore Elite washer model 11028042701 is built with higher-end features and durability expectations than standard Kenmore models, including strong performance-focused cycle options and long-term component coverage noted in the product documentation.
What “high end” means for Kenmore Elite
Kenmore Elite typically sits above standard Kenmore models because it emphasizes a more premium ownership experience:
- More cycle and option flexibility for different fabric and soil needs
- Higher focus on efficiency and cleaning performance
- More robust build in key assemblies (tub, drive system, suspension)
- More detailed operating controls and status indicators
- Longer-term coverage on certain major components (varies by model)
For model 11028042701, the documentation includes a one-year limited warranty and a ten-year limited warranty on the stainless steel drum and plastic tub (parts coverage terms apply as described in the manual). See the 11028042701 owner's manual for the exact warranty language and usage requirements.
Quick comparison: Kenmore vs Kenmore Elite
| Line | Typical positioning | What you usually get |
|---|---|---|
| Kenmore | Standard | Core wash cycles, practical features |
| Kenmore Elite | Premium | More features, stronger performance focus, upgraded components |
Why it matters when you’re troubleshooting or buying parts
A “high-end” washer often uses more specialized components and tighter tolerances. When performance drops (noise, vibration, draining issues, lid lock problems), using the correct model-matched part matters.
Common part categories that affect performance on this model include:
- Drive and spin components (hub, rotor, stator)
- Tub and bearing components (bearing and drive shaft kit)
- Vibration control (suspension)
- Draining and water handling (drain pump, inlet valve)
- Safety interlocks (lid lock)
If you’re diagnosing a spin or agitation issue, the hub W10820039 is one of the model-matched parts that can be involved depending on symptoms.
Where to confirm features and operating details
For the most accurate, model-specific feature list (cycles, modifiers, options, status lights), use the 11028042701 owner's manual.
Last updated: January 2026





