Fabric softener not dispensing

You will need to clear the line from the fabric dispenser to the tub.

The problem with the fabric softener not dispensing is not likely related to and F03 error code due to the washer not draining.

For the dispenser problem, I recommend that you pull the dispenser drawer out and clean it thoroughly.
The fabric softener dispenser works on a siphoning principle.
Make sure that the siphon hole in the dispenser is clear and not restricted or plugged.

You can fill the fabric softener compartment with water and make sure that it is siphoning properly while you are cleaning it.
Make sure that the cover is properly replaced on the fabric softener dispenser when the drawer is replaced in the washer.
You can use the diagnostic test described below to test the fabric softener dispenser.
If the softener dispenser does not fill and dispense properly, you could have a failed dispenser valve, a failed control board or a wiring failure between components.

You indicated that you tested the pump and that it is good. You could have a clogged drain hose or a clogged washer drain that would prevent the washer from draining.
You could also have a failed drain pump even though it runs. If the impeller is jammed or damaged, it will not pump out the water in the washer.
You will likely need to unplug the washer and drain the water out of the tub using a wet/dry shop vacuum.
To check the pump and drain hose at the bottom of the washer, remove the bottom front service panel and remove the drain pump. You may find a clog or restriction in the drain pump or connecting hoses. If the drain pump is damaged or will not work, it will need to be replaced.



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The problem with the fabric softener not dispensing is not likely related to and F03 error code due to the washer not draining.

For the dispenser problem, I recommend that you pull the dispenser drawer out and clean it thoroughly.
The fabric softener dispenser works on a siphoning principle.
Make sure that the siphon hole in the dispenser is clear and not restricted or plugged.

You can fill the fabric softener compartment with water and make sure that it is siphoning properly while you are cleaning it.
Make sure that the cover is properly replaced on the fabric softener dispenser when the drawer is replaced in the washer.
You can use the diagnostic test described below to test the fabric softener dispenser.
If the softener dispenser does not fill and dispense properly, you could have a failed dispenser valve, a failed control board or a wiring failure between components.

You indicated that you tested the pump and that it is good. You could have a clogged drain hose or a clogged washer drain that would prevent the washer from draining.
You could also have a failed drain pump even though it runs. If the impeller is jammed or damaged, it will not pump out the water in the washer.
You will likely need to unplug the washer and drain the water out of the tub using a wet/dry shop vacuum.
To check the pump and drain hose at the bottom of the washer, remove the bottom front service panel and remove the drain pump. You may find a clog or restriction in the drain pump or connecting hoses. If the drain pump is damaged or will not work, it will need to be replaced.



Thanks for using FixYa - a 4 THUMBS rating is appreciated for answering your FREE question

The problem with the fabric softener not dispensing is not likely related to and F03 error code due to the washer not draining.

For the dispenser problem, I recommend that you pull the dispenser drawer out and clean it thoroughly.
The fabric softener dispenser works on a siphoning principle.
Make sure that the siphon hole in the dispenser is clear and not restricted or plugged.

You can fill the fabric softener compartment with water and make sure that it is siphoning properly while you are cleaning it.
Make sure that the cover is properly replaced on the fabric softener dispenser when the drawer is replaced in the washer.
You can use the diagnostic test described below to test the fabric softener dispenser.
If the softener dispenser does not fill and dispense properly, you could have a failed dispenser valve, a failed control board or a wiring failure between components.

You indicated that you tested the pump and that it is good. You could have a clogged drain hose or a clogged washer drain that would prevent the washer from draining.
You could also have a failed drain pump even though it runs. If the impeller is jammed or damaged, it will not pump out the water in the washer.
You will likely need to unplug the washer and drain the water out of the tub using a wet/dry shop vacuum.
To check the pump and drain hose at the bottom of the washer, remove the bottom front service panel and remove the drain pump. You may find a clog or restriction in the drain pump or connecting hoses. If the drain pump is damaged or will not work, it will need to be replaced.



Thanks for using FixYa - a 4 THUMBS rating is appreciated for answering your FREE question

HI. your model has a dispenser solenoid for the fabric softener dispenser on this unit. If the solenoids are out or malfunctioning, it will render the dispenser useless. i recommend checking the solenoids on the fabric softener dispenser for continuity. The resistance should be 1100+- 7%. replacing this blown solenoid will fix this issue. Remember. the dispenser valve will not function without a working solenoid.


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I've had this same problem and solved it by removing the detergent/bleach/softener dispenser drawer from the machine and seriously cleaning out all of the "gunk" from the drawer and from inside the drawer area on washer. Sometimes I have had to repeat the cleaning and then the fabric softener begins dispensing again. I have model # 417.43042200 but it may work on all the Kenmore front loading washers.

Kenmore 110 front load washer wil not dispense fabric softner. Code 21. Have already checked pump and filter obstructions

The detergent dispenser is located above the detergent drawer. A water pipe is connected to it and water entrance and distributed to drawer's cells (following the programmed cycle)by a lever's movement (part of the dispenser). The lever movement is controlled by two solenoids that received their power from the timer. By opening upper machine's cover you will have an access to the dispenser. Disconnect the power cable from the machine before moving to next test !!!! Look first that they are not any disconnected wires. Move manually dispenser's lever and see if water running to all cells (depend on your movement). In case it doesn't work properly remove the unit from the machine and try to clean it (I hope it will help, otherwise you should replace the unit). In case it works properly (manually) - you should test by a multi-tester solenoid's resistance. the one that doesn't have a resistance measurement should be replaced. Good luck !!

We had the exact same situation with the fabric softener not draining and here is how we fixed it. Turn the water off first, then remove the water lines that bring water into your washer. (They are near the top.) There is a screen in the end of the line, do not remove it, but take an old toothbrush and brush the gunk out and clean it as best you can. Do both the hot & cold sides. The screens keep any debris out of the washer, so after a while it collects and slows down the water intake time (has your washer been slow to fill also?) Screw back the lines, making sure to put the hot and cold back as they were originally, then test that they do not leak. Put your washer back in place and viola - problem solved! I hope this works for you, and good luck!