Kenmore Dishwasher Drain Pump Replacement

Kenmore doesn't build dishwashers; the first three digits of the model number name the real maker and the pump you need.

Decode the model number#

• 665 — Whirlpool: twist-lock pump under the tub (Whirlpool W10/WP parts).
• 587 — Frigidaire: screw-mounted pump, similar bottom access.
• 630 — Samsung: integrated pump/motor assembly.
• 722 — LG (Kenmore Elite): direct-drive, screw-mounted pump (LG EBR-prefix parts).

A Whirlpool pump (W10348269) won't fit an LG-based Elite, so match the OEM number, not the Kenmore label.

Is it really the pump?#

Real pump failure looks like:

• Standing water — 1–2 inches or more — left after the cycle.
• Loud grinding or humming during the drain phase, from a jammed impeller or shot bearings.
• The next fill landing on top of undrained water.
• A flashing Clean light on 665 units, or an OE code on 722 Elite models.

What looks like the pump but isn't: a little water in the sump below the filter (normal — it keeps the seals wet), slow draining that clears after cleaning the filter, a kinked drain hose under the sink, or a sealed garbage-disposal knockout plug on a new install. Before ordering, clear the filter and sump and run a drain-only cycle; a pump that buzzes but moves no water needs replacing.

Replacing the pump — Whirlpool (665)#

1. Cut power at the breaker and shut the water supply under the sink; lay towels down.
2. Remove the lower kickplate (2 Phillips screws).
3. Disconnect the drain hose at the pump outlet with a shallow pan ready.
4. Unplug the 2-pin connector.
5. Rotate the pump about 90 degrees counterclockwise (a quarter-turn twist-lock) and pull it straight down.
6. Check the housing for glass, food, or broken plastic.
7. Seat the new pump and twist clockwise until it clicks.
8. Reconnect the plug and drain hose with a fresh clamp, restore water and power, and run a rinse while watching for leaks.

Replacing the pump — LG Elite (722)#

Cut power and water, remove the kickplate, and tip the dishwasher onto its back on a protected floor. The pump is a compact motor/impeller assembly on the bottom with 3 screws — disconnect the harness and the rubber drain boot, remove the screws, and pull it free. Transfer the boot to the new pump if it's not included, mount and reconnect, then stand the unit up and test.

Tools: Phillips #2, 1/4-inch nut driver, channel-lock pliers, a shallow pan, towels, and a flashlight.

Parts and cost#

Codes and lifespan#

Whirlpool 665 units use the F-and-E system — F9 E1 for drain, F8 E1 for water inlet, F5 E1/E2 for the door, F6 E1-E4 for communication, F2 E2 for a stuck button, F1 E1 for the board — while LG 722 Elite units show LE, IE, OE, HE, tE, or FE. Whirlpool pumps last about 7–12 years and LG's higher-RPM units 6–10, with a cracked impeller (from hard debris) or worn bearings the usual end. Cleaning the filter monthly — it stops roughly 60% of "drain" complaints on its own — running a couple of cups of vinegar quarterly, and scraping plates before loading all stretch the pump's life.

Kenmore dishwasher trouble? Our technicians handle it in one visit across Sacramento and the Bay Area. Get started