Kenmore Elite Electric Dryer - HE 4 Review

Due mostly to the steam feature, the Elite HE3 Steam model costs about $200 more than the basic Kenmore HE3 dryer. This feature refreshes clothing with the use of steam combined with heat. How well the cycle refreshes is actually a personal preference. Those who plan on using this cycle to replace ironing may be disappointed, but those who are satisfied with just a bit of freshening to their clothes may be quite pleased. If you're expecting crisp, perfectly ironed shirts, you're likely to be dissatisfied. If a more casual, softly worn look is to your liking, the steam refresh cycle may be perfect for you. Just keep in mind that the dryer will require access to a cold water hookup in order to produce steam.

Although the differences between this model and the more expensive steam HE5 are minimal, due to the price difference, they warrant discussion. This HE3 is a bit smaller, with a capacity of 7.0 cubic feet instead of 7.4 cubic feet. The difference in useable space is negligible and unlikely to make a difference when it comes to drying a bulky comforter or blanket. Both machines are sizeable and can handle such tasks with ease.

The HE3 dryer is somewhat noisier than the HE5 model, which has more stable and more expensive suspension to prevent vibration. Both machines offer Wrinkle Guard, but the HE3's cycle extends the tumble for 120 minutes, while the HE5 extends for 150 minutes. Similarly, this machine offers a maximum of 80 minutes in timed drying mode, while the larger machine offers 90 minutes. To us, the differences are slight, but they do vary the cost by about $100. If you are undecided as to which of these two models to purchase, you will need to determine if you're willing to pay that much more for a slightly larger interior, less vibration and a longer extended tumble and timed dry cycle.

You can also compare the Kenmore HE3 86762/96762 to the Whirlpool WED9500T (electric) / WGD9500T (gas) steam dryer. These are equivalent models and both are manufactured by Whirlpool, so we suggest you shop for the best price.


Pros: Manufactured by Whirlpool for Kenmore, adds steam to the wrinkle-fighting arsenal, excellent sensor controlled model, has slightly less depth than larger model
Cons: Some users find steam to be insufficient for their needs and thus not worth the added expense, smaller version of HE5 steam dryer