Kenmore Elite Owners Manual Refrigerator

The Kenmore Elite refrigerator is a premium appliance featuring advanced cooling technology, energy-efficient operation, adjustable shelving, humidity-controlled crispers, ice and water dispensers, and smart connectivity options. This manual covers essential information for safety, features, installation, setup, daily operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Kenmore Elite refrigerator model.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Using the Refrigerator 7. Using the Freezer 8. Ice & Water System 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Energy Saving Tips 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Premium exterior finish, adjustable glass shelves, humidity-controlled crispers, gallon door bins, ice maker, water filter, digital temperature controls, and energy-saving mode.

FeatureDescription
Adjustable ShelvesTempered glass shelves that can be repositioned to accommodate tall items
Humidity-Controlled CrispersPreserve freshness of fruits and vegetables with adjustable humidity vents
Ice & Water DispenserThrough-the-door dispensing of ice cubes and chilled water
Door AlarmAudible alert if door is left open for extended period
Energy Saver ModeReduces energy consumption during low-usage periods
Quick Cool FeatureRapidly cools refrigerator compartment when activated
Filter Status IndicatorLight alerts when water filter needs replacement
Spill-Proof ShelvesContain spills for easier cleanup
LED LightingEnergy-efficient interior lighting
Temperature ControlsDigital controls for precise temperature management

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper clearance and leveling.

  1. Remove all packaging materials and tape from interior and exterior.
  2. Position refrigerator with at least 2 inches clearance on sides and top for proper airflow.
  3. Level the refrigerator using adjustable front leveling legs.
  4. Connect to dedicated 115V, 15-20 amp electrical outlet.
  5. Allow refrigerator to stand upright for 4 hours before plugging in to allow fluids to settle.
  6. Connect water supply line to ice maker (if applicable) following included instructions.

WARNING! Refrigerator is heavy; use two people for moving and installation. Ensure proper ventilation to prevent overheating.

First-Time Use

After installation, follow these steps for initial setup.

  1. Plug in refrigerator and turn on power.
  2. Set refrigerator temperature to 37°F (3°C) and freezer to 0°F (-18°C).
  3. Allow 24 hours for refrigerator to reach optimal temperatures.
  4. Install water filter (if included) and flush system by dispensing 2 gallons of water.
  5. Activate ice maker by lowering the wire signal arm.
  6. Load food items, ensuring proper air circulation around packages.

CAUTION! Do not overload shelves. Allow space between items for proper air circulation.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Digital control panel located inside refrigerator or on exterior door.

Control Functions: Temperature adjustment (refrigerator and freezer separate), ice maker on/off, quick cool, energy saver, filter reset, door alarm on/off, diagnostic mode.

Temperature Settings: Use up/down arrows to adjust. Recommended: Refrigerator 37°F, Freezer 0°F. Quick Cool: Temporarily lowers refrigerator temperature for rapid cooling of new items. Energy Saver: Reduces anti-condensation heater operation to save energy. Filter Reset: Press and hold for 3 seconds after replacing water filter. Diagnostic Mode: For service technicians only.

Using the Refrigerator

Optimal organization for food preservation and energy efficiency.

  1. Upper shelves: Ready-to-eat foods, leftovers, drinks.
  2. Lower shelves: Raw ingredients, dairy products.
  3. Crispers: Fruits and vegetables (adjust humidity accordingly).
  4. Door bins: Condiments, juices, butter (items with longer shelf life).
  5. Allow hot foods to cool before refrigerating.
  6. Cover foods to prevent odor transfer and moisture loss.
  7. Regularly check expiration dates and remove spoiled items.

Tip: Keep refrigerator at least ¾ full for optimal efficiency, but avoid overcrowding.

Using the Freezer

Proper freezing techniques for food preservation.

  1. Freeze foods in airtight packaging to prevent freezer burn.
  2. Label and date all frozen items.
  3. Leave space between packages for air circulation during initial freezing.
  4. Organize with newest items in back, oldest in front for rotation.
  5. Do not refreeze thawed foods unless cooked first.
  6. Ice cream storage: Keep in main compartment, not door.
  7. Manual defrost models: Defrost when frost reaches ¼ inch thickness.

WARNING! Never use sharp objects to remove ice buildup. Use plastic scraper provided.

Ice & Water System

Operation and maintenance of ice maker and water dispenser.

  1. Ice Maker: Ensure wire signal arm is in down position for ice production.
  2. First ice production may take 24 hours after activation.
  3. Water Dispenser: Press glass against paddle to activate; release to stop.
  4. Water Filter: Replace every 6 months or when indicator light comes on.
  5. Filter Installation: Turn off water supply, remove old filter, insert new filter, turn clockwise until it stops.
  6. System Flushing: Dispense 2 gallons after filter replacement to clear air and carbon fines.
  7. Cleaning: Wipe dispenser area with soft cloth and mild detergent.

Note: If not using ice maker for extended period, turn off and empty ice bucket.

Care & Cleaning

Regular maintenance for optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Unplug refrigerator before cleaning interior (except for quick wipe-downs).
  2. Interior: Clean with solution of 2 tablespoons baking soda to 1 quart warm water.
  3. Shelves and bins: Remove and wash with mild detergent, rinse and dry thoroughly.
  4. Exterior: Clean with mild soap and water; for stainless steel, use manufacturer-recommended cleaner.
  5. Condenser coils: Vacuum every 6 months (located at back or beneath refrigerator).
  6. Door seals: Wipe with warm soapy water; check for proper seal.
  7. Drain pan: Clean annually (consult manual for location).

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or solvents. Never pour water into interior.

Energy Saving Tips

Maximize efficiency and reduce operating costs.

  1. Maintain recommended temperatures: 37°F refrigerator, 0°F freezer.
  2. Ensure door seals are tight and clean.
  3. Allow hot foods to cool before refrigerating.
  4. Keep condenser coils clean and free of dust.
  5. Minimize door openings and close promptly.
  6. Use energy saver mode in low-humidity environments.
  7. Ensure proper ventilation around refrigerator.
  8. Defrost manual-defrost freezers regularly.
  9. Keep refrigerator reasonably full (thermal mass improves efficiency).

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Refrigerator not coolingPower issue, temperature setting, door sealCheck power connection, verify temperature settings, inspect door seals
Excessive frost in freezerDoor left open, faulty seal, defrost systemEnsure door closes completely, check seal, manual defrost if needed
Water dispenser not workingWater supply, filter, frozen lineCheck water supply valve, replace filter, check for kinks in line
Ice maker not producing iceTurned off, water supply, arm positionEnsure ice maker is on, check water supply, lower signal arm
Unusual noisesLeveling, items vibrating, normal operationLevel refrigerator, secure items inside, some noises are normal
Water leaking on floorClogged drain, loose connection, overfilled containerClear drain tube, check water connections, use proper container size
Controls not respondingPower surge, control lock activatedUnplug for 5 minutes then reconnect, check for control lock feature

Reset: Unplug refrigerator for 5 minutes, then reconnect to reset control board.

Service: 1-800-422-1230; www.kenmore.com

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