uL
What code uL means on a Kenmore washing machines, what causes it, and which part to check first.
● SEVERITY: MEDIUM
Kenmore uL means: Unbalanced load. The documented cause is: This code is steady on when an unbalanced load is detected and the washer runs a mini-cycle routine to balance the load.
What uL means
Unbalanced load
The display shows uL and the machine stops until the fault is cleared.
What the technical documentation says
Causes documented in the technical source published by applianceaid.com
| DOCUMENTED CAUSE OR CHECK |
|---|
| This code is steady on when an unbalanced load is detected and the washer runs a mini-cycle routine to balance the load |
| If the load cannot be balanced by that routine, then uL will flash and the door will unlock |
| You can redistribute the load and start the washer |
| If the tub bangs violently even with a balanced load then you may have a damaged suspension rod/spring assembly |
| Replace the suspension rods/springs in that situation |
Replacement parts
Tools you'll need
Before you open anything
Unplug the machine and close the water tap before removing any panel. Water and mains electricity sit centimetres apart inside a washing machine. If the drum still holds water, drain it from the filter first — it can be scalding.
What to check, in order
From the quickest check to the one that needs a technician.
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Frequently asked questions
What does uL mean on a Kenmore?
Unbalanced load The documented cause is: This code is steady on when an unbalanced load is detected and the washer runs a mini-cycle routine to balance the load. If the load cannot be balanced by that routine, then uL will flash and the door will unlock. You can redistribute the load and start the washer. If the tub bangs violently even with a balanced load then you may have a damaged suspension rod/spring assembly. Replace the suspension rods/springs in that situation
Can I fix uL myself?
It depends on the part involved: This code is steady on when an unbalanced load is detected and the washer runs a mini-cycle routine to balance the load. If the load cannot be balanced by that routine, then uL will flash and the door will unlock. You can redistribute the load and start the washer. If the tub bangs violently even with a balanced load then you may have a damaged suspension rod/spring assembly. Replace the suspension rods/springs in that situation Clearing a filter or straightening a hose is within reach of anyone; anything behind a panel means mains electricity and water together — that is a job for a technician.
Does Kenmore use other codes on this appliance?
Yes: we document 142 other codes for Kenmore on this washing machines. They are listed at the bottom of this page, each with its own meaning.
Does the same code mean the same thing on other brands?
Often not. The same two characters can point to completely different faults depending on the manufacturer — always check the page for your own brand.