Kenmore Elite Refrigerator Manual

The Kenmore Elite refrigerator is a high-performance appliance featuring advanced cooling technology, adjustable shelving, water and ice dispensers, energy-efficient operation, and smart temperature controls. This manual covers essential information for safety, features, installation, setup, daily operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your refrigerator.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Water Line 7. Using Ice and Water Dispensers 8. Temperature Management 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: French door design, bottom freezer drawer, external water and ice dispensers, LED interior lighting, adjustable glass shelves, humidity-controlled crispers, and digital temperature display.

FeatureDescription
External Ice & Water DispenserProvides filtered ice and water without opening doors
Adjustable ShelvingGlass shelves can be repositioned or removed for flexibility
Humidity-Controlled CrispersPreserves freshness of fruits and vegetables
LED Interior LightingEnergy-efficient, bright illumination
Digital Temperature ControlsPrecise settings for fridge and freezer sections
Door AlarmAlerts if door is left open
Energy Star CertifiedDesigned for energy efficiency
Spill-Proof ShelvesContain spills for easy cleaning
Freezer DrawerSlide-out bottom freezer with storage baskets
Water Filter IndicatorReminds when to replace water filter

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper clearance and level placement.

  1. Remove packaging materials and tape.
  2. Position refrigerator: Allow at least 2 inches clearance on sides and back for ventilation.
  3. Level the unit: Adjust front leveling legs using a wrench.
  4. Connect water line: For ice/water dispenser models, connect to cold water supply.
  5. Plug into dedicated 120V AC outlet.

WARNING! Refrigerator is heavy; use two people for moving. Ensure floor can support weight.

First-Time Setup

After installation, allow refrigerator to stabilize before loading food.

  1. Power on: Plug in and set temperature controls to recommended settings.
  2. Allow cooling: Let unit run for 2-4 hours before adding food.
  3. Install water filter: Insert and flush according to instructions.
  4. Set temperature: Fridge at 37°F (3°C), freezer at 0°F (-18°C).
  5. Test dispensers: Run water for 3 minutes to clear air from lines.

CAUTION! Do not overload shelves. Allow air circulation inside compartments.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Control panel located inside refrigerator or on exterior dispenser area.

Controls: Temperature settings (fridge/freezer), filter reset, door alarm, ice maker on/off, Sabbath mode, diagnostic mode.

Temperature Settings: Use + and - buttons to adjust. Display shows current temperatures. Filter Reset: Hold FILTER button for 3 seconds after replacing filter. Door Alarm: Can be disabled/enabled in settings. Ice Maker: Toggle on/off for cleaning or maintenance. Sabbath Mode: Disables interior lights and alarms for religious observance.

Connecting Water Line

Required for ice and water dispenser operation.

  1. Turn off main water supply.
  2. Connect ¼-inch copper or plastic water line to cold water valve.
  3. Route line to refrigerator connection point (usually bottom rear).
  4. Use compression fitting to secure connection.
  5. Turn water on and check for leaks.
  6. Flush line by dispensing water for 3 minutes.

Tip: Use manufacturer-approved water line kit. Ensure no kinks in line.

Using Ice and Water Dispensers

Dispensers located on exterior door.

  1. Water dispenser: Press glass against paddle; select chilled or room temperature.
  2. Ice dispenser: Select crushed or cubed ice; hold container under chute.
  3. Child lock: Press and hold LOCK button for 3 seconds to disable dispenser.
  4. Filter replacement: When indicator light turns on, replace filter.
  5. Cleaning: Wipe dispensers with damp cloth; never use abrasive cleaners.

WARNING! Do not use dispenser without water filter installed. Keep area clean to prevent mold.

Temperature Management

Proper temperatures ensure food safety and efficiency.

Note: Temperature may vary by shelf location. Store perishables accordingly.

Care & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures performance and hygiene.

  1. Unplug before cleaning interior components.
  2. Interior: Wash shelves and drawers with mild soap and water.
  3. Exterior: Clean with stainless steel cleaner or mild detergent.
  4. Condenser coils: Vacuum every 6 months (located at back or bottom).
  5. Door seals: Wipe with damp cloth; check for debris.
  6. Defrost: Unit is frost-free; manual defrost not required.

CAUTION! Do not use sharp objects to remove ice. Never use chemical cleaners on interior.

Regulatory Information

UL listed; meets FDA food storage guidelines. Energy Star certified. Manufactured to NSF/ANSI standards. Copyright © Kenmore; trademarks of Sears Brands, LLC. For support, visit www.kenmore.com or contact 1-800-469-4668. Proper disposal: Follow local regulations for refrigerant and foam.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Refrigerator not coolingPower/thermostatCheck power cord; ensure thermostat set correctly; clean condenser coils.
Water dispenser not workingFilter/lineReplace water filter; check water line for kinks or shutoff.
Ice maker not producing iceTemperature/armEnsure freezer at 0°F; check ice maker arm is in down position.
Excessive frost in freezerDoor sealCheck door seals for gaps; ensure door closes completely.
Unusual noisesLeveling/fanLevel refrigerator; check for obstructions in fan or compressor area.
Water leakageLine/defrost drainInspect water line connections; clear defrost drain tube.
Display not workingPower/controlReset by unplugging for 5 minutes; check control board connections.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes to reset electronic controls.

Service: 1-800-469-4668; www.kenmore.com

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