Kenmore 596 Refrigerator Manual

The Kenmore 596 is a side-by-side refrigerator featuring advanced temperature management, adjustable shelves, ice and water dispenser, energy-saving modes, and digital controls. This manual covers essential information for safe installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your appliance. Below are key sections detailing features, setup, usage, care, and support.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. Controls & Settings 4. Specifications 5. Using Your Refrigerator 6. Ice & Water System 7. Care & Cleaning 8. Energy Saving Tips 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty & Support 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Digital temperature display, adjustable glass shelves, humidity-controlled crispers, gallon door bins, ice maker, water filter, and energy saver switch.

Feature	Description
Digital Controls	Precise temperature adjustment for fridge and freezer
Ice & Water Dispenser	Dispenses cubed ice and chilled water through door
Adjustable Shelves	Customizable storage with spill-proof glass shelves
Humidity Crispers	Preserve freshness of fruits and vegetables
Door Alarm	Alerts if door is left open
Energy Saver Switch	Reduces condensation and saves power
Ice Maker	Automatic ice production with shut-off arm
Water Filter	Removes impurities; indicator light for replacement
Gallon Door Bins	Store large containers easily
Interior Light	LED lighting for better visibility

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper clearance and leveling.

Position refrigerator: Allow at least 2 inches clearance on sides and back for ventilation.
Level the unit: Adjust front leveling legs to ensure door closes properly.
Connect water line: For ice/water dispenser, connect to cold water supply (¼" copper tubing recommended).
Plug into dedicated 120V AC outlet.
Allow 24 hours for cooling before loading food.

WARNING! Heavy appliance; use two people for moving. Ensure water connection is tight to prevent leaks.

Controls & Settings

Access controls via digital panel on exterior door.

Temperature Settings: Use + and - buttons to set fridge (recommended 37°F) and freezer (recommended 0°F).

Dispenser Lock: Press and hold LOCK button for 3 seconds to disable ice/water dispenser.

Energy Saver: Switch ON in humid conditions to reduce condensation.

Filter Reset: Press and hold FILTER button for 3 seconds after replacing water filter.

Alarm Reset: Press ALARM button to silence door-open alert.

Specifications

Model: Kenmore 596 Side-by-Side Refrigerator.
Capacity: 25 cu. ft. total (14.5 cu. ft. fridge, 10.5 cu. ft. freezer).
Dimensions: 70" H x 36" W x 34" D.
Finish: Stainless steel exterior.
Defrost System: Frost-free for both compartments.
Power: 120V, 60Hz, 6.5 amps.
Water Filter: EveryDrop® EDR1RXD1, replace every 6 months.
Warranty: 1-year limited parts and labor.

Using Your Refrigerator

Optimize storage for efficiency and food preservation.

Shelves: Adjust heights to accommodate tall items.
Crispers: Use high humidity for veggies, low for fruits.
Door bins: Store condiments, beverages; avoid heavy items.
Freezer organization: Use baskets for frozen foods; label and date items.
Allow hot food to cool before placing inside.
Do not overfill; allow air circulation.

Tip: Keep fridge between 35-38°F and freezer at 0°F for optimal performance.

Ice & Water System

For models with dispenser.

Initial setup: Flush water system for 3 minutes after installation.
Ice production: Allow 24 hours for first batch of ice.
Dispensing: Press glass against paddle for water; press for ice.
Replace filter: When indicator light turns red, twist old filter out, insert new.
Clean dispenser area: Wipe with damp cloth; no abrasive cleaners.

WARNING! Use only EveryDrop® certified filters. Do not use with water that is microbiologically unsafe.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning interior. Use mild detergent and warm water.

Exterior: Clean with stainless steel cleaner; wipe with grain.
Interior: Remove shelves and bins; wash with soapy water.
Gaskets: Wipe with damp cloth to maintain seal.
Condenser coils: Vacuum every 6 months (located at back or bottom).
Dispenser: Clean drip tray regularly.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive pads, bleach, or ammonia. Never steam clean.

Energy Saving Tips

Set temperatures to recommended levels.
Ensure door seals are tight.
Keep condenser coils clean.
Allow hot food to cool before storing.
Use ENERGY SAVER switch in humid conditions.
Do not place near heat sources (oven, dishwasher).

Safety Information

Read all safety instructions before use.

Electrical Safety: Plug into grounded outlet. Do not use extension cord.

Child Safety: Use dispenser lock to prevent accidental activation.

Food Safety: Maintain proper temperatures to prevent spoilage.

Moving: Empty contents and secure doors before relocating.

Flammable Materials: Do not store explosive substances inside.

Warranty & Support

1-year limited warranty from date of purchase. Register product online at kenmore.com. For service, call 1-800-536-6247 or visit kenmore.com/support. Keep receipt for proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Refrigerator not cooling	Power/thermostat	Check power cord; ensure thermostat set correctly; clean coils.
Ice maker not working	Water supply/filter	Ensure water line connected; replace filter; check shut-off arm.
Water dispenser slow	Clogged filter	Replace water filter; check for kinks in line.
Excessive frost	Door seal/defrost	Check gasket seal; ensure door closes fully; run defrost cycle.
Noisy operation	Leveling/fan	Level refrigerator; check for items touching back wall; clean fan.
Dispenser light flashing	Filter life	Replace water filter; reset filter indicator.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes, then plug back in to reset control board.

Service: 1-800-536-6247; kenmore.com/support