How many cubic feet is a Kenmore Elite dryer?
The Kenmore Elite dryer model 79671412310 has a 7.3 cu. ft. drying capacity (IEC rating), which is a large-capacity size suitable for bulky items like comforters and for fewer loads overall. For the exact spec list, use the 79671412310 owner's manual.
What “7.3 cu. ft.” means for real-world loads
A 7.3 cu. ft. Kenmore Elite dryer typically handles:
- A full mixed load from a standard washer
- King or queen bedding (depending on fabric and fill)
- Large towels and jeans without overpacking
- Better tumbling space, which helps reduce wrinkles and improves drying evenness
Quick capacity guide
Use this as a simple comparison when shopping or matching performance expectations.
| Dryer capacity | Typical use case | What you may notice |
|---|---|---|
| 6.0 to 6.5 cu. ft. | Smaller households, lighter loads | More loads, easier to overload |
| 7.0 to 7.5 cu. ft. | Most families, bulky items | Good airflow and tumbling room |
| 8.0+ cu. ft. | Very large loads, oversized items | Best for big households |
Why it matters (drying performance and safety)
Capacity affects airflow. When the drum is overfilled, clothes can dry slowly and heat can build up. We also recommend keeping airflow strong by cleaning the lint filter every load and checking the exhaust duct for lint buildup at least yearly (or sooner if drying slows).
If drying seems slow even with the right load size
Check these common causes first:
- Lint filter is coated with residue (wash and fully dry it)
- Vent duct is crushed, too long, or clogged
- Outside vent hood flap is stuck closed
- Blower area has lint buildup
- Moisture sensing is not reading correctly (sensor bars need cleaning)
If you are troubleshooting airflow or heat issues, the dryer blower thermostat 6931EL3002M is one of the components that can be involved in temperature control on this model.
Last updated: January 2026
How to reset a Kenmore Elite dryer?
To reset your Kenmore Elite dryer model 79671412310, we recommend a simple power reset: turn the dryer off, unplug it for about 1 minute, then plug it back in and press POWER. If the controls are locked, unlock them using the Control Lock function described in the 79671412310 owner's manual.
Reset options that work most often
- Power reset (most common): Unplug for 1 minute, plug back in, then press POWER.
- Cancel a cycle: If a cycle is running, press START/PAUSE to pause, then change cycles; note that canceling a cycle clears settings.
- Control Lock reset: Press and hold CONTROL LOCK for 3 seconds to lock or unlock the controls.
- Auto shutoff reset: If the dryer has been stopped for more than 4 minutes, it turns off and clears settings; press POWER and reselect the cycle.
If the dryer still will not start after a reset
A reset restores the control, but it will not fix a safety shutdown or airflow problem. Check these common causes next:
- Confirm the door is fully closed; a failed door switch can prevent starting.
- Clean the lint filter and check the vent path for restrictions.
- If the drum will not turn, inspect the belt and idler system.
- If the dryer runs but shuts down, overheating protection can trip when airflow is restricted.
| Symptom after reset | Most likely area to check | Example part that can be involved |
|---|---|---|
| Controls unresponsive or locked | Control Lock setting | Use Control Lock steps in the manual |
| Dryer will not start | Door circuit | Dryer door switch EBF61496102 |
| Drum will not tumble | Belt drive | Dryer drum belt 4400EL2001F |
| Long dry times, hot cabinet | Venting and lint buildup | Lint filter, vent duct, blower area |
Why it matters
Resetting clears temporary control glitches and restores normal operation, but persistent no-start or overheating symptoms usually point to airflow restriction or a failed start safety component.
Last updated: January 2026
What does CL mean on my Kenmore Elite dryer?
On the Kenmore Elite 79671412310 dryer, CL means the controls are locked (Control Lock/Child Lock). When Control Lock is on, the dryer will not accept most button presses, and CL can alternate on the display with the estimated time remaining. See the 79671412310 owner's manual for the exact button sequence for your panel.
How to turn Control Lock off (most common method)
- Make sure the dryer is powered on.
- Press and hold the Control Lock button (or the button labeled with a lock icon).
- Hold the button for about 3 seconds until you hear a chime or the lock indicator changes.
- Try starting a cycle again.
- If the door is open, close it and retry.
What you will notice when CL is on
- The display shows CL.
- A lock indicator light may stay on.
- Cycle settings may not change when you press buttons.
- The dryer may still power on, but it will not start a cycle.
Quick checks if CL will not clear
- Confirm you are holding the correct button; some panels use a secondary function printed above a key.
- Hold the button long enough; quick taps usually do nothing.
- Power reset: unplug the dryer (or switch off the breaker) for 1 minute, then restore power and try again.
- If the dryer is showing an error code along with CL behavior, use our Kenmore elite dryer error codes reference to match the code to the fix.
Control Lock vs. a real “won’t start” problem
| What you see | Most likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| CL on display, buttons do not respond | Control Lock enabled | Hold Control Lock button about 3 seconds |
| No lights, no display | Power supply issue | Check breaker, outlet, cord, then reset |
| Lights on, but dryer will not run | Door not sensed closed or other fault | Check door closure and door switch function |
Why it matters
Control Lock prevents accidental cycle changes and starts, especially around kids. Clearing CL is often the fastest fix for a Kenmore Elite dryer that “suddenly stopped responding” even though it still powers on.
Last updated: January 2026





