Kenmore Washer Error Code Po

Po stands for Pump Out on a Kenmore washer. It indicates that the lid was left open for more than 10 minutes while water was in the tub, causing the control board to automatically activate the drain pump. Closing the lid will stop the pump and end the pump-out cycle. If the pump runs with no water present, inspect the pressure hose for pinching or kinking.

The Po code itself is not a failure or safety hazard. It is an intentional protective function that drains standing water when the lid has been open too long. However, if the pump is running dry with no water in the tub, continued operation in that state could stress the pump motor over time, so it is best to diagnose the pressure hose issue before running more cycles.

If the fix is simply closing the lid or straightening a pinched pressure hose, there is no parts cost involved. Replacing a pressure switch typically runs in the range of $15 to $40 for the part, while a lid switch replacement generally costs between $10 and $35. If a control board replacement is needed, costs can range from $100 to $250 or more depending on the model, plus any labor charges if a technician is hired.

Start by simply closing the lid, which should stop the drain pump immediately and resolve the code. If the drain pump continues to run when the tub is empty, locate the pressure hose and check for any pinching, kinking, or damage along its length. If the hose looks intact, the pressure switch or lid switch may need to be tested and potentially replaced.

Closing the lid is the correct way to stop and clear the Po condition since the code is tied to the lid-open status and the pump-out timer. A power reset alone may not resolve the issue if the underlying cause, such as a pinched pressure hose or faulty lid switch, is still present. Address the root cause first before relying on a reset.