Use & Care Guide Models: 796.8178*, 796.9178* Kenmore Elite Steam Dryer * = color number MFL69702016 Sears Brands Management Corporation Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A. www.kenmore.
PRODUCT RECORD TABLE OF CONTENTS In the space below, record the date of purchase, model, and serial number of your product. You will find the model and serial number printed on an identification plate located inside the dryer door. Have these items of information available whenever you contact Sears concerning your product. Model No. Date of Purchase Serial No. Save these instructions and your sales receipt for future reference. IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ....................
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USE Your safety and the safety of others is very important. We have provided many important safety messages in this manual and on your appliance. Always read and obey all safety messages. This is the safety alert symbol. This symbol alerts you to potential hazards that can kill or hurt you and others. All safety messages will follow the safety alert symbol and either the word DANGER or WARNING.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS BASIC SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons when using this appliance, follow basic precautions, including the following: • Do not use fabric softeners or products to eliminate static unless recommended by the manufacturer of the fabric softener or product. • Do not use heat to dry articles containing foam rubber or similarly textured rubber-like materials.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR INSTALLATION WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons when using this appliance, follow basic precautions, including the following: • Properly ground dryer to conform with all governing codes and ordinances. Follow details in the installation instructions. Electrical shock can result if the dryer is not properly grounded. • Remove all packing items and dispose of all shipping materials properly.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR STEAM FUNCTIONS WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons when using this appliance, follow basic precautions, including the following: • Do not open the dryer door during steam cycles. Failure to follow these instructions can result in a burn hazard.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS KEY PARTS AND COMPONENTS There are several important components that are referenced in this manual. A E A EASY-TO-USE CONTROL PANEL Rotate the cycle selector knob to select the desired dry cycle. Add cycle options or adjust settings with the touch of a button. F B D C B TIME AND STATUS DISPLAY The easy-to-read LED display shows cycle status and estimated time remaining. C CYCLE MODIFIERS Adjust the cycle settings such as temperature and dry level with the touch of a button.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS KEY DIMENSIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS Description Electrical Requirements Gas Requirements** NG: Gas Requirements** LP: Dimensions Net Weight Drying Capacity **Gas Models Only Dryer: 796.8178* Electric and 796.9178* Gas Refer to the rating label 4–10.5 inches WC (Water Column) 8–13 inches WC 27 in. (W) X 30 1⁄4 in. (D) X 38 11⁄16 in. (H), 52 1⁄4 in. (D with door open) 68.6 cm (W) X 76.7cm (D) X 98.3 cm (H), 132.7 cm (D with door open) Electric: 140.2 lb (63.6 kg) Gas: 143.1 lb (64.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS INSTALLATION WITH OPTIONAL PEDESTAL BASE OR STACKING KIT IMPORTANT: If you are installing your dryer using an optional pedestal base or stacking kit, refer to the instructions included with the accessory. Required Dimensions for Installation with Stacking Kit Required Dimensions for Installation with Pedestal 6 in. (15.2 cm) 52 ½ in. (133.4 cm) 77 7/8 in. (198 cm) 30 ¼ in. (76.7 cm) 4 in. (10 cm) 1 in. (2.5 cm) 27 in. (68.6 cm) 1 in. (2.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS CONNECTING GAS DRYERS GAS REQUIREMENTS (GAS MODELS ONLY) WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons when using this appliance, follow basic precautions, including the following: • Gas supply requirements: As shipped from the factory, this dryer is configured for use with natural gas (NG). It can be converted for use with propane (LP) gas. Gas pressure must not exceed 8 inches water column (203.2 mm H20) for NG, or 13 inches water column (330.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS CONNECTING GAS DRYERS (continued) WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons when using this appliance, follow basic precautions, including the following: • If necessary, the correct nozzle (for the LP nozzle kit, order part number D26-17025) should be installed by a qualified technician and the change should be noted on the dryer. Failure to do so can result in fire, explosion, or death.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS CONNECTING ELECTRIC DRYERS ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS Electrical Requirements for Electric Models Only WARNING: To help prevent fire, electrical shock, serious injury, or death, the wiring and grounding must conform to the latest edition of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70 and all applicable local regulations. Please contact a qualified electrician to check your home’s wiring and fuses to ensure that your home has adequate electrical power to operate the dryer.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS CONNECTING ELECTRIC DRYERS (continued) WARNING: Connect the power cord to the terminal block. Connect each power cord wire to the terminal block screw that has the same colored wire. For example, connect the black power cord wire to the terminal block screw with the black wire. Failure to follow these instructions may result in a short or overload.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS VENTING THE DRYER IMPORTANT! CHECK YOUR EXHAUST SYSTEM FOR PROBLEMS The most common cause of dryer problems is poor exhaust venting. Before installing your new dryer, check the items listed below to make sure you get the best possible performance. This can save you time and money by reducing cycle times and increasing energy efficiency. • RESTRICTED OR DAMAGED VENT HOOD. Check your vent hood outside. It must be clean and free of lint buildup.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS VENTING THE DRYER (continued) Correct Venting Routing and Connecting Ductwork Follow the guidelines below to maximize dryer performance and reduce lint buildup and condensation in the ductwork. NOTE: Transition duct (from dryer to wall) and fittings are NOT included and must be purchased separately. • Use 4-inch (10.2 cm) diameter rigid or semi-rigid metal duct. • The exhaust duct run should be as short as possible. • Use as few elbow joints as possible.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS CONNECTING THE INLET HOSE The dryer must be connected to the cold water tap using the new water supply hose. Do not use old hoses. NOTE: • Water supply pressure must be between 20 psi and 120 psi (138–827 kPa). • Do not strip or cross-thread when connecting inlet hose to the valve. • If the water supply pressure is more than 120 psi (827 kPa), a pressure reducing valve should be installed. • Periodically check the condition of the hose and replace the hose if necessary.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS LEVELING THE DRYER REVERSING THE DOOR SWING The swing of the dryer door can be reversed to fit your installation location. WARNING: WARNING: • Wear gloves during installation. • Failure to follow these instructions can result in injury. To ensure that the dryer provides optimal drying performance, it must be level. To minimize vibration, noise, and unwanted movement, the floor must be a level, solid surface.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS FINAL INSTALLATION CHECK Testing Dryer Heating Once you have completed the installation of the dryer and it is in its final location, confirm proper operation with the following steps and tests. 1 Close the dryer door. 1 Is gas turned on? (Gas models only) 2 Press the POWER button to turn the dryer on. 2 Is dryer plugged in? Dryer should always be plugged into the proper outlet. 3 Turn the cycle selector knob to Normal drying cycle.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS INSTALLATION TEST (DUCT CHECK) Once you have completed the installation of the dryer, use this test to make sure the condition of the exhaust system is adequate for proper operation of the dryer. This test should be performed to alert you to any serious problems in the exhaust system of your home. 4 Check the display for results. During the test cycle, monitor the CHECK VENT LED on the control panel.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS RESTRICTED OR BLOCKED AIRFLOW Avoid long runs or runs with multiple elbows or bends. Check the duct condition. If the CHECK VENT LED is blinking, check the exhaust system for restrictions and damage. Repair or replace the exhaust system as needed. NOTE: When the dryer is first installed, this test should be performed to alert you to any existing problems with the exhaust ducts in your home.
HOW TO USE WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons, read this entire manual, including the Important Safety Instructions, before operating this dryer. CONTROL PANEL FEATURES F A H B C A POWER (ON/OFF) BUTTON Press to turn the dryer ON or OFF. Pressing the POWER button during a cycle will cancel that cycle and any settings will be lost.
HOW TO USE OPERATING THE DRYER 1 CLEAN THE LINT FILTER If the lint filter has not already been cleaned, lift out the filter and remove the lint from the last load. This will help ensure the fastest and most efficient drying performance. 2 LOAD THE DRYER Load the dryer with the wet laundry from the washer. If the load is extra large, you may need to divide it into smaller loads for proper performance and fabric care. 3 TURN ON THE DRYER Press the POWER button to turn ON the dryer.
HOW TO USE WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons, read this entire manual, including the Important Safety Instructions, before operating this dryer. SORTING LOADS LOADING THE DRYER WARNING: Fabric Care Labels To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons when using this appliance, follow basic precautions, including the following: Most articles of clothing feature fabric care labels that include instructions for proper care.
HOW TO USE CYCLE GUIDE The cycle guide below shows the available options and recommended fabric types for Auto Dry cycles. *NOTE: The default time and actual time will vary depending on the size of the load and moisture content. Auto Dry Cycles Auto Dry cycles utilize a sensor that detects moisture levels in the clothes and adjusts the drying time as needed to ensure superior results. The dryer automatically sets the dry level and temperature at the recommended setting for each cycle.
HOW TO USE CYCLE GUIDE The cycle guide below shows the available options and recommended fabric types for Timed Dry cycles. Timed Dry Cycles Use Timed Dry cycles to select a specific amount of drying time and the drying temperature. When a Timed Dry cycle is selected, the display shows the actual time remaining in your cycle. You can change the actual time for the cycle by pressing MORE TIME or LESS TIME. Press and hold the MORE TIME or LESS TIME buttons to rapidly change the time.
HOW TO USE TIME AND STATUS DISPLAY The Time and Status Display shows the cycle time, cycle progress, and vent status. When the dryer is turned on, the display will illuminate. D C B E A TIME DISPLAY When a cycle is selected, the display will indicate the default time for that cycle including selected options or adjustments. In AUTO DRY cycles, the time remaining will be estimated and may change during the cycle, depending on the condition of the load.
HOW TO USE CYCLE MODIFIER BUTTONS Each cycle has default settings that are selected automatically. You may also customize these settings using the cycle modifier buttons. AUTO DRY cycles are designed to properly care for specific fabrics and loads. As a result, not all settings are available for each cycle selection. NOTE: To protect your garments, not every dry level, temperature, or option is available with every cycle.
HOW TO USE CYCLE OPTIONS AND SPECIAL FEATURES Your dryer features several additional cycle options and special features to meet your individual needs. For all steam features, see the following pages. INSTALLING AND USING THE OPTIONAL DRYING RACK WRINKLE GUARD Selecting this option will tumble the clothes after the cycle ends for a few seconds every few minutes without heat. This option is active for 180 minutes after the end of the cycle, or until the door is opened.
HOW TO USE STEAM FEATURES Using the STATIC SHIELD Option IMPORTANT NOTES ABOUT STEAM FUNCTIONS: • Steam may not be clearly visible during the steam functions. This is normal. • Do not use Steam Refresh with items such as wool, wool blankets, leather jackets, silk, wet clothes, lingerie, foam products, or electric blankets. • For best results, load articles of similar size and fabric type. Do not overload.
HOW TO USE STEAM CYCLE GUIDE Cycle Steam Temp.
HOW TO USE MY CYCLE Use the My Cycle feature in the Kenmore Smart app to select and download an additional cycle to your dryer. The default My Cycle on the dryer is SMALL LOAD.
USER MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons, read this entire manual, including the Important Safety Instructions, before operating this dryer. • Unplug the dryer or turn the power off before cleaning to avoid the risk of electric shock. Failure to follow this warning can cause serious injury, fire, electrical shock, or death. • Never use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or solvents to clean the dryer. They will damage the finish.
USER MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS MAINTAINING THE EXHAUST SYSTEM The most common cause of dryer problems is poor exhaust venting. Poor exhaust venting may result from the following conditions: • DIRTY OR DAMAGED EXHAUST DUCTS • WRONG VENT MATERIAL • RESTRICTED OR DAMAGED VENT HOOD • EXCESSIVELY LONG VENT • THE USE OF PLASTIC OR FOIL VENTING CHECK VENT Operation Maintaining the Exhaust System The CHECK VENT system uses components already in the dryer.
DIAGNOSTICS If you experience problems with your dryer, call 1-844-553-6667. Only use the Diagnostics feature when instructed to do so by the Diagnostics Team. The transmission sounds that you will hear are normal and sound similar to a fax machine. Diagnostics cannot be activated unless your dryer is turned on by pressing the POWER button. If your dryer is unable to turn on, then troubleshooting must be done without using Diagnostics.
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE FAQs Q: When I press a button, why does my dryer beep and then nothing happens? A: The Control Lock feature is turned on. To turn off Control Lock, turn the dryer on, then press and hold the button that has *Control Lock on or under it for 3 seconds. Q: Why does my dryer take so long to dry clothes? A: Proper airflow is critical to the efficient operation of clothes dryers.
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE BEFORE CALLING FOR SERVICE (continued) Problem Possible Cause Dryer will not turn on Power cord is not properly plugged in. House fuse is blown, circuit breaker has tripped, or power outage has occurred. CONTROL LOCK function is engaged. Buttons are disabled or CL shows in display Error code: tE1 through tE7 Temperature sensor failure.
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE BEFORE CALLING FOR SERVICE (continued) Problem Drying time is not consistent Possible Cause Solutions Heat settings, load size, or dampness of clothing is not consistent. The drying time for a load will vary depending on the type of heat used (electric, natural gas, or LP gas), the size of the load, the type of fabrics, the wetness of the clothes, and the condition of the exhaust duct and lint filter.
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE BEFORE CALLING FOR SERVICE (continued) Problem Possible Cause Solutions Clothes are wrinkled Clothes dried too long (over dried). Clothes are shrinking Clothes left in dryer too long after cycle ends. Garment care instructions are To avoid shrinking your clothes, always consult and follow fabric not being followed. care instructions. Some fabrics will naturally shrink when washed. Other fabrics can be washed but will shrink when dried in a dryer. Use a low or no heat setting.
WARRANTY Kenmore Elite Limited Warranty WITH PROOF OF SALE the following warranty coverage applies when this appliance is correctly installed, operated and maintained according to all supplied instructions. One Year on Appliance FOR ONE YEAR from the date of sale this appliance is warranted against defects in material or workmanship. A defective appliance will receive free repair. If the appliance cannot be repaired it will be replaced free of charge.
Kenmore ® Customer Care Hotline To schedule in-home repair service or order replacement parts Para pedir servicio de reparación a domicilio, y ordenar piezas 1-844-553-6667 www.kenmore.
