Does my Kenmore top load washer have a filter?
Yes. Your Kenmore top-load washer model 11020232711 uses a drain-pump clean-out style filter that can catch small items and lint in the drain system. We recommend checking it when the washer drains slowly, won’t drain, or you hear coins or debris rattling.
On 11020232711, the filter is part of the drain pump area (not a lint screen at the top of the tub like some older washers). For operating and maintenance basics, see the 11020232711 use & care manual.
- Unplug the washer (or switch off power at the breaker).
- Turn off both water faucets.
- Have towels and a shallow pan ready; some water may spill.
- Access the drain pump area and remove debris from the clean-out.
- Reinstall the cap/cover securely before running a test cycle.
If the clean-out cap is damaged or won’t seal, the filter component is typically replaced as part of the pump clean-out assembly, such as the washer drain pump clean-out filter WPW10215093.
- Water drains very slowly or not at all
- Spin won’t start because the tub won’t empty
- Gurgling/humming during drain with little water movement
- Small items (coins, hair pins) missing after a wash
| Filter type | Common location | Typical on 11020232711? |
|---|---|---|
| Lint screen | Top rim or inside agitator | No |
| Drain pump clean-out | At/near drain pump | Yes |
| Inlet screen | Inside water inlet valve ports | Possible (separate from drain filter) |
A clogged drain-pump filter can cause long drain times, wet loads, and repeated drain/spin problems. Keeping the clean-out clear helps protect the drain pump and reduces service calls.
Last updated: January 2026
How to identify a Kenmore washer model?
To identify your Kenmore washer model, find the model/serial tag on the washer cabinet and match the model number exactly (for this unit, it’s 11020232711). Common tag locations include under the lid, behind the control panel, or on the cabinet frame.
On this Kenmore top-load washer, the model/serial label is typically found in one of these places:
- Under the washer lid, around the tub opening
- On the back of the control panel area
- On the main cabinet near the bottom edge
- On the rear panel of the washer
For diagrams and model-specific identification notes, we recommend checking the 11020232711 use & care manual.
When you find the tag, record these details:
- Model number (example: 11020232711)
- Serial number (unique to your washer)
- Brand (Kenmore)
- Any revision digits/letters shown after the model number (if present)
| Item | What it tells us | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | The exact washer design | Ensures parts fit your washer |
| Serial number | Production run details | Helps confirm compatible revisions |
| Type (top-load vs front-load) | Where labels are commonly placed | Speeds up locating the tag |
Kenmore model numbers can look similar, but small differences can change the correct replacement parts (like a lid lock, drain pump, or water inlet valve). Using the exact model number helps us match the correct diagrams and parts list the first time.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the average lifespan of a Kenmore washer?
A Kenmore washer typically lasts 10 to 15 years in normal household use. For the Kenmore 11020232711 top-load high-efficiency washer, lifespan is most influenced by how it’s installed, how it’s used, and how closely you follow the care steps in the 11020232711 use & care manual.
The manual for this model emphasizes practices that help prevent common performance problems over time:
- Use High Efficiency (HE) detergent only
- Run the Clean Washer cycle on a regular schedule
- Load items loosely (do not tightly pack)
- Leave the lid open between uses to help the tub dry
- Inspect and replace inlet hoses periodically
These ranges are practical averages across modern washers; heavier use generally shortens service life.
| Household usage | Typical lifespan | What tends to show wear first |
|---|---|---|
| Light (1 to 3 loads/week) | 12 to 15 years | Inlet hoses, lid lock, small seals |
| Average (4 to 7 loads/week) | 10 to 15 years | Suspension, drain components, shifting parts |
| Heavy (multiple loads/day) | 7 to 10 years | Drive system, suspension, electronic controls |
- Run Clean Washer about monthly or every 30 cycles (the manual calls for this minimum schedule).
- Use only HE detergent and measure carefully; too much detergent can create excess suds and lead to poor rinsing and operating issues.
- Load clothing in loose heaps around the basket wall; avoid overloading and tightly packing.
- Keep the washer level to reduce vibration and off-balance wear (leveling steps are covered in the 11020232711 installation instructions).
- Replace inlet hoses about every 5 years and check for bulges, kinks, cuts, wear, or leaks.
If the washer won’t drain or leaves loads wet, addressing it early can prevent secondary damage. A common service part in that symptom path is the washer drain pump W10919003.
Knowing the 10 to 15 year average helps you decide whether routine maintenance or a repair is the better value, especially as wear items like hoses, lid locks, and drain components age.
Last updated: January 2026





