My condo had a brand-new Kenmore washer when I moved in 3 years ago. After the 4th serious drain clog, with water pouring all over my kitchen floor, I reviewed the information packet for the machine and found it claims to have a 'self-cleaning' lint filter -- by which it means it forces the lint down the washer drain hose and stand pipe. (Why any designer would think this is a good idea is beyond me.) There are expensive parts one can buy and install that will basically break the lint up into smaller particles as they are forced out, but I have my doubts this is going to solve the recurring problem, since it's still going to push mounds of inorganic material into the sewers, and it seems that will just cause a clog further up in the washer drain line. I've tried cleaning the drains each week with vinegar and baking soda, and even putting the enzymes intended for septic systems into the toilets each month, to no avail. Any suggestions?

Chemicals will not do the job properly. You have wet lint that is sticking to a sharp edge protrusion probably ABS Glue, that is causing the problem. When your Washer pumps water into the drain, how long does it take to overflow? We are trying to determine how far into the line the stoppage exists? Snake the drain with a retriever head to bring out the culprit. If this continues to happen after you have snaked the drain, you may have to open the wall and cut out the piping that has the problem. If you think the stoppage is beyond the trap, you could try snaking from the vent if it is straight through the roof. If there are elbows in the wall or in your attic, you will not be able to snake from the vent. Let us know what you are dealing with.

It has happened each time almost immediately after the washer begins to drain. The last time, I had Mr. Plumber come out and they cleared the main sewer line from the clean out.