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Kenmore, Whirlpool, & Sears Services & Repairs Q&A

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Results from Kenmore, Whirlpool, & Sears Services & Repairs

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Kenmore Tube, 90, and Coupling Replacement

I have a Kenmore Vacuum Model 11640524 and a portion of the tubing collapsed. The tubing is 1 3/4 inched outside diameter. I need 2 feet of tube part number 616605. 1 90 degree elbow part number 701190. 2 couplings part number 616556. Sears has discontinued all of the above except the 90 degree elbow. Bob

Answer:

We have the parts you need. The smaller diameter pipe is not available, nor those fittings but you can use an adapter on each side and modern central vac pipe and fittings between. The pipe and fittings compatible with Kenmore 1-3/4 inch Central Vacuum Systems will resolve this.

Belt for Power Head 34620

I need a new belt for Kenmore powerhead Model 34620; Centra Vac model is S107-34226, purchased in 2005. The belt is smooth on both sides and has a number on it starting like HO1 - 295764. It is 22.5 cms long, 1.5 cm wide. Sears help desk is unable to find this part. Thanks Darlene BC

Answer:
We are not finding any cross references. You can see all our belts including smooth ones. We give you all the dimensions to help you find a belt. https://builtinvacuum.com/parts/belts.html. If you can't find the belt we'd love to help you find a new head or new hose and head kit for your system. Please send a photo of the vacuum head, hose and hose ends to help you further.

How To Remove Canister And Filter

I have a 650 Kenmore series central vac. I can't remove the canister. The same for removing the filter.

Answer:
Please click on the following link for a video tutorial on how to remove the canister and change the filter: https://builtinvacuum.com/help/kenmore/videos/index.html

Kenmore S10734226 Pars

I have a Kenmore central vacuum (model S10734226) and am searching for powerhead cord (one that goes up the wand from the powerhead to the gas pump style handle) to attach to a Kemore powerhead model 34620. Sears parts/repair people are unable to even locate this vac. model, let alone help me find the parts I need without engaging the services of a Sears repairman (for 'oh, about $100'). The cord entering the powerhead is a 3 prong female (square plug shape) type, at the top it is a 2 prong male type (with a 1/2 hexagon shape plug). any ideas? Also need the plug bit that fits in the gas pump style handle - prongs/plugs keep burning out. Help! Denise in 100 Mile House, BC

Answer:
That truly sounds like a rare part, sorry. Three prong items have all been phased out. Needless to say, we have complete replacement hoses, heads (may not be compatible with your set up), and kits but that is a lot different than just replacing a part.

Kenmore Carpet Brush

The wheeled floor brush that can be attached to my kenmore central vacuum is not working, it is not turning. Should I just buy a new one or have it fix. I don't know how old the vacuum is nor the accessories as it was with the house when we bought it. Princess, CA.

Answer:
In most cases it ends up costing more to keep repairing an old carpet brush than to just replace it. You can view your replacement option here https://builtinvacuum.com/help/kenmore/powermate.html If your old carpet brush says Powermate on it, this will be a direct replacement.

Motor or Minibreaker Going Bad

Hi, I have a Kenmore Whisperbelt Central Vac. The overheat protection breaker continuosly pops. I have checked the vaccum and it does not appear to be plugged, there is still good suction. I just replaced the bag....is my motor going? What else could be the problem?

Answer:
Correct, it is the motor or the minibreaker itself, but it is usually the motor. Do you smell any burning electrical? That would be the motor. Is it popping sooner and sooner? That would be the motor too. That said, sometimes as the motor goes out it takes the minibreaker out too.

Filter Options For Kenmore Units

Hello, I have a Kenmore central vac which is bagless and filterless and I cannot vent it to the outside, are there interior options for my unit. The model # 116.4053482

Answer:
Other than the built in screen, no. Your system was not designed to use filters. If dust is a problem in the location, you can easily replace it with our Flo Master model M85. It is a filtered unit with convenient bags that can be replaced and is about the same overall size but with more power. Contact your local dealer for options and pricing at https://builtinvacuum.com/dealers.html

Kenmore Mark III Bags?

I have a Kenmore Mark III central vac (Model# 116-4050080C BI-5). Wondering if this thing needs a bag, or a filter, or what. Can't seem to find any information on it.

Answer:
The Kenmore models did not come with bags, though some did have a piece of store bought foam or a screen that was just wrapped around the intake to the motor. If these are present in your system, they will need to be cleaned when you empty the collection bin. If you wash the foam or screen, it is very important to be sure that it is completely dry before using.

Kenmore 1164803080C Motor Replacement

I have a Kenmore 1164803080c B1-5 Central vac. I hear the relay clicking but motor won't start till I give the fans a twirl then way she goes. Works for a few days then won't start till I repeat the process Is this the motor and do you have one. Don't see this # in motor lists Ken

Answer:
Yes, your motor is out as you know. The motors they used are listed here so you'll be able to nail down the right one using the photo and description https://builtinvacuum.com/help/kenmore/motor.html. Let us know if you need help.

Loud Whistle in Hose

Rob in Ft. Lauderdale- I have a Whirlpool built-in vacuum cleaner model FB7700XSO (vintage ~1989.) It operates fine but the hose has started to emit a high pitched, ear-piercing shrieking noise when the suction ring is fully closed. Lessens when ring is opened, but then poor suction! Can you help me?

Answer:
Usually that noise happens immediately because the hose was manufactured with the ends on the wrong sides. But for it to happen later is interesting. Try cleaning your filter really well. Suction a full paper towel through the hose. See if the dynamics of the hose and suction changes and fixes this.

Rusted Main Unit

I have a Kenmore 116.4053280 central vac and the bottom of the canister is rusting through. Do you carry replacements or do I have to replace the whole unit? Dave North Tonawanda, NY

Answer:
That is a problem that can only be resolved by replacing the entire vacuum unit. You can use any unit on the market but we highly recommend our's from California. The FloMaster M85 and SilentMaster S44 are powerful, quieter, and we have the parts to fit it into your system easily. Please call us for details.

Brushes Not Turning

116.35922500 When i turn vac on the motor runs fine but the brushes won,t turn ?? Joe Columbia ms

Answer:
Sounds like the gear on the motor brush is broken or the motor burned out. If it is airpowered then take it apart to unjam the turbine.

Need Inlet

Hi, I have a Sears Kenmore 300 model# 20.40261 and I was looking for a new inlet for my wall. I recently gutted the walls in my house and threw out the original inlet with it. I was wondering what I could do to replace the inlet? I don't have any of the pipes that are in the wall but I have the pipes and electric wires run in my basement to the unit.

Answer:
The original inlets are not available but if they used the standard, non proprietary ones then you can get them here https://builtinvacuum.com/inlets/basic.html. Call us for some options, ask for technical assistance.

Missing Gasket or Filter, Need Complete Kit

Hi, we purchased a home that had a Kenmore 116.40534BI central vacuum unit in it. Unfortunately we can't use it because it is missing something (either a gasket and or/filter) in the middle of the upper and lower metal drums. Hopeing you can help. Also, we are missing all the hoses and attachments and would like to know what would fit with this unit?

Answer:
Hi, please watch video #2 here on Kenmore filtration https://builtinvacuum.com/help/kenmore/videos/index.html. Be sure all screens are cleaned in the unit. Also, the motor could be full of hair. From the bottom look up into it. If it is you'll need to replace the motor. The videos are help for that as well and for what you can get in a hose and a kit. Here is a link to buy kits for your system. https://builtinvacuum.com/help/kenmore/kits.html. Do read the NOTE about adapters and let us know if you need any further help. mdservice@builtinvacuum.com

Replace Wall Inlets and Unit?

Ron (Albany NY) I have an old Kenmore 200 central vac system, Model 116.40240. The two wall outlets need to be replaced. They operate with a pressure switch inside the cover - there are no metal pins inside the hose inlet. Do you have recommendation for a replacement? Also, I may have to replace the central vacuum unit - is there a recommendation for an acceptable replacement unit (minimum change in installation)? Thanks.

Answer:
Hi Ron, good and bad news. Bad news first, those inlets are only replaceable if you open up your wall, cut the pipe, put in a new 90 and backing plate. Sorry. Good news is you can buy a new unit and hook it up to the existing pipe and wire. See our #2 and 10 videos for Kenmore here https://builtinvacuum.com/help/kenmore/videos/index.html.

Hose and Extension Hose for Old System

HELP!! I HAVE A 35+ YEAR OLD KENMORE CENTRAL VAC SYSTEM, MODEL 20.40521. I NEED TO REPLACE THE HOSE. THE WALL INLETS APPEAR TO BE 1-3/16 TO 1-1/4 INCHES INSIDE DIAMETER. THE OLD PLASTIC HOSE FITTING THAT SLIPS INTO THE WALL OUTLET IS 1-1/8 INCH OUTSIDE DIAMETER WITH A SLIGHT TAPER. WALL OUTLETS OPERATE VIA A LOW VOLTAGE MICRO-SWITCH IN EACH OUTLET. WHEN YOU LIFT AN OUTLET COVER THE VACUUM STARTS. THERE IS NO POWER IN THE HOSE OR ANY OF THE ATTACHMENTS. IF POSSIBLE I WOULD LIKE TO GET A RELPACEMENT HOSE PLUS A 10-20 FT EXTENSION HOSE TO EXPAND THE RANGE OF THE VAC. ANY HELP YOU CAN PROVIDE IS APPRECIATED. RICHARD, EMERALD ISLE, NC

Answer:
Hi, we have what you need. Buy the Basic Hose for 1.25 inch inlets here https://builtinvacuum.com/help/kenmore/hoses.html#basic and then the Stretch Hose found under it. The Stretch Hose fits on to the end of the Basic Hose when you need to reach further.

New to Central Vac - Compatible Parts?

Laura - Kansas City. I am purchasing a home that has a Kenmore central vacuum system already installed. I wanted to know if the MD parts / accessories are compatible with the Kenmore system (i.e., Hose, brushes, etc.). Also, how long does the interior piping last? Does it need to be reinstalled after awhile?

Answer:
Hi Laura, congratulations on the home and central vac (the only way to clean!). Yes, we have everything you need to get your system functioning to it fullest potential. There is basically nothing you need to change, you just need to get a hose and tool set. All the sets fit and the only issue is if you need an adapter. See the NOTE text after the Electric Kit header here https://builtinvacuum.com/help/kenmore/kits.html. All the accessories you see are compatible with the new kit and we your current hose if you have one. Please don't hesitate to let us know how else we can help. We are also available by phone four days a week.

Newer Kenmore Paper Bag Orientation

hi there my kenmore central vac is one yera old and bag filter has dropped and now I do not know khow to reinstall it. motor is at the top then blue bag filter then paper bag. Which way do I put it in? does it mater?

Answer:
Hi, if the motor is at the top then the larger portion of the bag should be installed so it is suctioned upwards.

116.2531290 PowerMate Replacements?

My vacuum is a Kenmore Whispertone. The model on the canister is 116.2531290; the model number of the "Power Mate" which has the brush assembly that broke is 116.5441290. (YES IT FITS HAYDEN)

Answer:
Hi, yes the model number vacuum nozzle you have, and the wands, are all replaceable with the parts found on this page https://builtinvacuum.com/parts/hayden-parts.html.

Replace Inlet Faceplates?

have a kenmore central vac model 116.501 installed in 1978. would like to replace the wall valves, which are discontinued. which wall valve would you recommend? the hose end that inserts into the outlet measures about 1 1/4\" and the outlet has a metal bar to push to start and push to stop the vac. help!!!! joe reinhardt 27 colonel glenn drive carmel, ny 10512 845 225 7117

Answer:
Joe, out of the multitude of inlets you have the hardest to work with. The intake hole for the faceplate neck is not the standard 1-5/8 inch diameter. Plus, if you where to go into the wall to put new backing plates you probably have the non-standard diameter pipe. We have adaptors to bring it up to 2 inch OD but working in the wall is a real mess. If you only have a couple inlets you may be crazy enough to retrofit a tight 90 standard fitting over a freshly cut old 90 just under the sleeve where the old pipe was glued. Call us for more information.

Add Inlet Directly to Kenmore Pipe

ordering hose and outlet question: You guys have helped me previously and I have 2 situations I'd like to clarify before ordering: 1.We have a Kenmore built in # 116-4053280 and I'd like to order another replacement hose: does your 1'25 basic 35 ft hose have the plastic friction fit that connects to the wall? Also our garage hose hook up next to the canister broke (cover and spring closing) and we'd like to order some sort of replacement connector. Right now we have to stuff things secured with a bungie cord to seal it up. Is there some sort of new garage outlet replacement we could order? Thanks again for your help. Cris

Answer:
Hi, the Basic Hose for 1.25 inlets has a 1.25 metal friction fit end and works perfectly. We don't have any solution for the broken garage inlet on the unit. You can splice into the plastic tube and put a simple inline valve there. Here is what you'll need for your 1-3/4 inch diameter PVC thinwall pipe https://builtinvacuum.com/retail/shopretail.php?part_no=613A,507P2,508,520-4&qty=1,2,1,1.

Replace Hose Handle?

I have an old Kenmore gas pump handle that the plastic end of the handle that fits into the wand has broken off. Will the gas pump replacement part fit my unit?

Answer:
Hi, sorry, we don't have the hose handle but we do have the hose - in fact two options - found here https://builtinvacuum.com/help/kenmore/hoses.html. Replacing the hose, though expensive, is well worth it. The newer hoses are so much better to handle and use.

116-4053481 Filter?

I have a Sears Kenmore power unit Model 116 4053481, Class BI5. The filter is missing and I want to replace it. Are they still available? If so, what is the part # and where can I get one? The unit runs fine otherwise. Thanks, CRAIG, Victorville,CA.

Answer:
Hi Craig, you have the bottom emptying unit with the plastic T shaped part inside and on the straight section is a screen where the air is suctioned in, right? You can by regular 1 foam and wrap it around the screen portion. There are plenty of folks who don't though and more debris goes through the motor and out the exhaust.

Mark III Inlet Valve

I have an older central vacuum. Kenmore mark III. It was installed in 1984. I am looking for a wall inlet valve. The diameter is 1 and 3/8 inches. Any help would be appreciated. Thankyou Todd from Canada

Answer:
Hi, you are in luck if your inlets look like any of these https://builtinvacuum.com/inlets/basic.html. If not then there are none available. On a good note we have hoses and vacuum kits that fit all the Kenmore inlets. https://builtinvacuum.com/help/kenmore/kits.html

Off and On, Relay?

Hi, My Kenmore central vacuum, model 116.4053280 is not working. I believe it's due to relay or the motor. The issue is at first the motor kept running even if all outlets were closed. Then the motor stops working or couldn't even turn on. Anyway, could you please point me to the correct part number for the relay and the motor? Where can I order those parts? Thanks!

Answer:
Hi, first be sure to go through our troubleshooting guide here www.builtinvacuum.com/flowchrt.html. If it turns out the be the electronics then have an electrician install our small circuit board #235S to replace all the components.
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