Is Kenmore Elite high end?
Yes. Kenmore Elite is Kenmore’s premium line, and the Kenmore Elite washer model 11046742700 is built with higher-end features and durability upgrades compared with standard Kenmore models, including a stainless steel wash drum and advanced cycle options such as a certified sanitizing temperature.
What “high end” means for this washer
On model 11046742700, “Elite” typically shows up as better materials, more specialized cycles, and stronger performance features than entry-level washers.
Common high-end traits you will see on Kenmore Elite washers like this one:
- Stainless steel wash drum (designed for long service life)
- Sanitizing temperature option (certified to reduce bacteria on fabrics)
- More cycle and option control, including soil level, wash temp, and spin speed adjustments
- Designed for dependable operation with routine washer care and maintenance
- Premium fit and finish compared with basic models
Feature snapshot (model 11046742700)
| Feature area | What you get | Why it’s considered premium |
|---|---|---|
| Drum material | Stainless steel drum | Better durability and wear resistance |
| Hygiene cycles | Certified sanitizing temperature | Higher-temp cleaning for certain loads |
| Controls | Adjustable soil level, wash temp, spin speed | More control over results |
| Ownership support | Warranty coverage structure | Higher-tier product positioning |
Why it matters
If you are comparing washers, “Elite” usually means you are paying for better long-term durability and more specialized wash performance. For example, the sanitizing temperature option is useful for bedding, towels, and other loads where higher-temperature washing is important.
Where to confirm the exact features on your unit
We recommend checking the cycle chart, option descriptions, and care guidance in the 11046742700 owner's manual. This is the best place to match “Elite” features to the exact control panel and cycle set on your washer.
Last updated: January 2026
Does my Kenmore Elite washing machine have a filter?
Yes. Your Kenmore Elite washer model 11046742700 uses a drain pump clean-out (often called a pump filter or coin trap) that catches lint and small items before they reach the pump; cleaning it helps prevent no-drain problems and odors. See the 11046742700 owner's manual for the exact access steps for your version.
Where the “filter” is on this washer
On most Kenmore Elite front-load designs like 11046742700, the filter is part of the drain system:
- It’s typically built into the drain pump housing (clean-out port)
- Access is usually from the lower front of the washer (behind a small panel)
- It collects coins, hair pins, lint, and debris that can block draining
How to check and clean it safely
Before opening any drain clean-out, plan for water to come out.
- Unplug the washer (or switch off the breaker)
- Place towels and a shallow pan under the front access area
- Drain slowly; open the clean-out cap a little at a time
- Remove debris from the trap and inspect the cap O-ring for damage
- Reinstall the cap firmly, then run a quick rinse/drain to confirm no leaks
Symptoms a clogged pump filter can cause
A dirty pump clean-out is a common cause of drain and spin complaints.
| What you notice | What it often points to |
|---|---|
| Water left in the drum | Partial blockage in pump clean-out or hose |
| Long drain times | Debris restricting flow |
| Rattling during drain | Coin or small object in the trap |
| Musty odor | Standing water from poor draining |
When it’s more than just cleaning
If the washer still will not drain after cleaning the trap, the drain pump itself may be jammed or failing. For this model, the replacement pump is pump 280187.
Why it matters
Keeping the drain clean-out clear protects the pump, improves draining performance, and reduces the chance of mid-cycle stoppages and water left in the tub.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the average lifespan of a Kenmore washer?
A Kenmore washer typically lasts 10 to 15 years with normal household use. For the Kenmore Elite 11046742700, regular preventive care (cleaning, hose checks, and proper installation) helps you reach the higher end of that range; see the 11046742700 owner's manual for model-specific care guidance.
Typical lifespan and what affects it
Most washers land in the 10 to 15 year range, and these factors make the biggest difference:
- Load size and frequency (daily heavy loads shorten life)
- Detergent use (too much HE detergent can cause residue and odors)
- Water quality (hard water increases scale and valve wear)
- Installation and leveling (reduces vibration and bearing stress)
- Preventive maintenance (keeps drain and fill systems working correctly)
Maintenance that helps you get the full lifespan
The manual for this model includes a dedicated washer-care section. These habits are the most impactful:
- Run periodic cleaning cycles and wipe the door area dry after use
- Inspect water inlet hoses regularly and replace aging hoses before they burst
- Use the correct detergent type and amount for a high-efficiency washer
- Avoid chronic overloading, which strains the drive system and suspension
- Address draining issues early (slow drain, standing water, or repeated drain errors)
Common wear items (and what they usually look like when failing)
| Symptom | Often related to | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t drain, water left in tub | Drain pump or restriction | Pump 280187 |
| Leaks at the door, musty odor | Door boot wear or tears | Washer door boot WP8182119 |
| Door won’t lock or cycle won’t start | Door lock mechanism | Washer door lock WP8183270 |
| Loud thumping or “walking” | Leveling, load balance, suspension wear | (check leveling and load size first) |
Why it matters
Knowing the typical lifespan helps you decide whether to invest in a repair (like a pump or door boot) versus planning for replacement. On a washer that is already near 10 to 15 years old, fixing a simple leak or drain issue can still be a smart way to extend service life.
Last updated: January 2026
How to force a Kenmore Elite washer to drain?
To force your Kenmore Elite washer model 11046742700 to drain, cancel the current cycle and run Drain & Spin from the control panel. This is the safest manual-drain method because it uses the washer’s drain pump and unlock logic. See the steps in the 11046742700 owner's manual.
Control-panel steps (manual drain)
- Select STOP twice to cancel the wash cycle.
- Select POWER.
- Select DRAIN & SPIN.
- Select and hold START (about 1 second) to begin draining.
- When the spin is complete, the door unlocks and you can remove items.
If it still will not drain
These checks fix most “won’t drain” situations on front-load washers.
- Unplug the washer for 1 minute, then restore power and try Drain & Spin again.
- Check the drain hose for kinks, crushing, or a clogged standpipe.
- Make sure the drain hose is not shoved too far into the standpipe (this can cause siphoning or slow draining).
- Confirm both water faucets are on (some cycles and controls behave oddly with supply issues).
- If you hear the pump humming but water does not move, inspect the drain path for a blockage.
Parts that commonly cause a no-drain symptom
If the drain path is clear and the washer still will not drain, these parts are common suspects.
| Symptom | Most likely area | Example part for 11046742700 |
|---|---|---|
| Hums but no water movement | Drain pump or blockage at pump | Pump 280187 |
| Slow drain, intermittent drain | Hose restriction or internal collapse | Washer tub-to-pump hose WPW10467168 |
| Drains but door will not unlock | Door lock system | Washer door lock WP8183270 |
Why it matters
Forcing the door open with water in the tub can cause a spill and can also leave water trapped in the washer. Using Drain & Spin protects the door lock and helps the washer complete its normal drain and unlock sequence.
Last updated: January 2026




