kenmore elite stove manual self cleaning

The Kenmore Elite stove self-cleaning feature is an advanced pyrolytic cleaning system that incinerates food spills and grease at high temperatures, leaving behind a fine ash that can be easily wiped away. This manual covers safety precautions, step-by-step cleaning instructions, maintenance tips, and troubleshooting for the self-cleaning cycle. Below are key sections for operation, safety, maintenance, and problem resolution.

1. Safety Precautions 2. Preparing for Self-Cleaning 3. Starting the Self-Cleaning Cycle 4. During the Cleaning Cycle 5. After Cleaning Completion 6. Manual Cleaning (Alternative) 7. Control Panel Overview 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Troubleshooting Common Issues 10. Specifications & Warranty

Safety Precautions

Critical safety measures before using the self-cleaning function.

Precaution	Description
Ventilation	Ensure kitchen is well-ventilated; open windows or use exhaust fan.
Remove items	Take out all oven racks, pans, foil, and cookware before cleaning.
Child safety	Keep children and pets away from oven during and after cycle.
Smoke alarms	Temporarily disable nearby smoke detectors to prevent false alarms.
Cool down	Do not open oven door until lock light turns off and oven is cool.
Flammable materials	Keep plastics, chemicals, and flammable items away from oven.

Preparing for Self-Cleaning

Proper preparation ensures effective and safe cleaning.

Remove oven racks and accessories: Wash separately in sink.
Wipe loose debris: Use damp cloth to remove large food particles.
Check door seal: Ensure gasket is intact and free of obstructions.
Clear area: Move items from stovetop and nearby counters.
Set ventilation: Turn on range hood or open a window.

WARNING! Do not use oven cleaners or chemicals before self-cleaning. Remove all plastic items.

Starting the Self-Cleaning Cycle

Step-by-step instructions to activate the pyrolytic cleaning.

Close oven door securely.
Press "CLEAN" button on control panel.
Select cleaning duration (typically 2, 3, or 4 hours) using +/- buttons.
Press "START" to initiate cycle. Door will lock automatically.
"CLEAN" or "LOCK" indicator light will illuminate during cycle.

NOTE: Oven will heat to approximately 880°F (470°C) to burn off soil.

During the Cleaning Cycle

Duration: Cycle lasts 2 to 4 hours depending on soil level.
Locking: Door remains locked until interior cools below 600°F.
Ventilation: Expect smoke and odor; ensure ventilation is active.
Exterior: Oven exterior may become very hot; avoid touching.
Interruption: To cancel, press and hold "CLEAN" for 3 seconds (only if cycle just started).

CAUTION! Do not attempt to force open door during cleaning. High temperatures can cause injury.

After Cleaning Completion

Post-cycle steps for safe cleanup.

Wait for "LOCK" light to turn off indicating door is unlocked.
Open door slightly to allow remaining heat to escape.
After oven cools, wipe interior with damp cloth to remove ash residue.
Reinstall oven racks and accessories.
Run a brief bake cycle (350°F for 15 minutes) to eliminate any residual odor.

Tip: Use a dry cloth for final wipe-down to prevent streaks.

Manual Cleaning (Alternative)

For light soil or between self-cleaning cycles.

Use mild detergent and non-abrasive sponge for interior surfaces. For glass door, use ceramic cooktop cleaner. Avoid abrasive pads or oven cleaners on surfaces.

Control Panel Overview

Control	Function
CLEAN	Activates self-cleaning mode
START/ENTER	Initiates selected cycle
+ / -	Adjusts cleaning time or temperature
LOCK light	Illuminates when door is locked
CANCEL/OFF	Stops cycle (if allowed)
OVEN LIGHT	Turns interior light on/off

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance for optimal performance.

Monthly: Wipe exterior with soft cloth; clean control panel.
After each self-clean: Inspect door seal; remove ash residue.
Every 6 months: Check oven light bulb; replace if needed.
Annually: Verify oven calibration with thermometer.

NOTE: Excessive soiling may require more frequent self-cleaning cycles.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Self-clean won't start	Door not closed properly	Ensure door is fully closed; check for obstructions.
Excessive smoke/odor	Heavy soil or poor ventilation	Increase ventilation; wipe excess debris before next cycle.
Door remains locked after cycle	Oven still cooling	Wait up to 1 hour for temperature to drop; do not force.
Error code displayed	Malfunction	Consult error code chart in manual; reset circuit breaker.
Ash residue remains	Incomplete cycle	Run additional 1-hour clean cycle; wipe with vinegar solution.

Reset: Turn power off at breaker for 1 minute to reset control board.

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