Kenmore Fridge Repair Manual

The Kenmore Fridge Repair Manual provides comprehensive guidance for troubleshooting, maintaining, and repairing Kenmore refrigerators. This manual covers safety precautions, common issues, step-by-step repair procedures, part identification, and preventive maintenance for various Kenmore refrigerator models. Below are key sections for safety, diagnostics, component repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Safety Precautions 2. Model Identification 3. Common Symptoms & Diagnostics 4. Component Specifications 5. Repair Procedures 6. Electrical System 7. Cooling System 8. Door & Seal Maintenance 9. Cleaning & Care 10. Warranty & Support 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Safety Precautions

Before attempting any repair, ensure safety by following these guidelines.

Precaution	Description
Unplug refrigerator	Always disconnect power before servicing to prevent electric shock
Wear protective gear	Use gloves and safety glasses when handling components
Avoid refrigerant	Do not puncture refrigerant lines; contact certified technician for handling
Secure workspace	Ensure area is dry and well-lit to prevent accidents
Use proper tools	Employ insulated tools for electrical work
Check for gas leaks	For gas absorption models, inspect for leaks with soap solution
Handle sharp edges	Be cautious of metal edges inside unit
Lift with care	Refrigerator is heavy; use assistance for moving
Keep children away	Ensure children are not in work area
Follow local codes	Adhere to electrical and plumbing regulations

Model Identification

Locate model and serial numbers to ensure correct parts and procedures.

Find model tag: Typically inside refrigerator compartment on side wall or door frame.
Record serial number: Located near model number; required for warranty claims.
Identify type: Determine if unit is top-freezer, bottom-freezer, side-by-side, or French door.
Check manufacturing date: Often encoded in serial number for age reference.

WARNING! Using incorrect parts can cause damage or void warranty. Always verify model number before ordering parts.

Common Symptoms & Diagnostics

Power on unit; observe symptoms to diagnose issues.

Refrigerator not cooling: Check power supply, thermostat settings, condenser coils.
Excessive frost: Inspect door seals, defrost system, drain tube.
Unusual noises: Listen for compressor, fan, or ice maker sounds.
Water leakage: Examine water line connections, drain pan, ice maker.
Lights not working: Test bulb, door switch, wiring.

CAUTION! Diagnose with power disconnected where possible to avoid shock.

Component Specifications

Compressor: Hermetic reciprocating type, varies by model.
Refrigerant: R-134a or R-600a depending on model year.
Thermostat: Adjustable range typically 34°F to 45°F (1°C to 7°C).
Defrost Timer: Cycles every 6-12 hours for frost-free models.
Evaporator Fan Motor: 120V AC, multi-speed for air circulation.
Condenser Fan Motor: Cools compressor and condenser coils.
Ice Maker: Electromechanical, cycle time ~90 minutes.
Door Gaskets: Magnetic rubber seal, model-specific dimensions.

Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz, 15A circuit recommended.

Dimensions: Varies by model; refer to specific model datasheet.

Repair Procedures

Access components by removing panels and covers. Front Panel: Remove grille for condenser access. Interior: Remove shelves and drawers for evaporator access.

Tools Required: Multimeter, nut drivers, screwdrivers, pliers, vacuum cleaner, putty knife.

Compressor Replacement: Discharge refrigerant (professional only), disconnect electrical, unbolt mounts. Thermostat: Locate behind temperature control panel, disconnect wires, install new unit. Defrost Heater: Remove evaporator cover, test for continuity, replace if open. Evaporator Fan: Remove rear panel in freezer, disconnect connector, replace fan. Door Seal: Peel off old gasket, clean surface, align and press new seal into channel.

Electrical System

Test circuits with multimeter for continuity and voltage.

Unplug refrigerator before testing.

Check power cord: Test for continuity between prongs and wires.

Test door switch: Should show continuity when door open, open when depressed.

Inspect start relay: Shake for rattling (indicating faulty), test with ohmmeter.

Examine wiring: Look for burnt, frayed, or disconnected wires.

Tip: Label wires before disconnecting to ensure proper reconnection.

Cooling System

Supports frost-free and manual defrost models.

Check refrigerant: Look for oil stains indicating leaks (professional service required).

Clean condenser coils: Use coil brush or vacuum to remove dust and debris.

Test evaporator fan: Ensure fan runs when door closed; replace if noisy or stuck.

Inspect defrost system: Test defrost heater, thermostat, and timer for continuity.

Clear drain tube: Use warm water and pipe cleaner to unclog frozen or blocked drain.

Monitor temperature: Use thermometer to verify cooling performance after repair.

Check compressor: Listen for humming; test windings for proper resistance.

Verify airflow: Ensure no obstructions in air ducts between freezer and fridge sections.

WARNING! Do not attempt to repair refrigerant system unless EPA certified. Refrigerant under pressure can cause injury.

Door & Seal Maintenance

Door Alignment: Adjust hinges to ensure proper closure and seal. Gasket Replacement: Clean surface, install new gasket, test seal with dollar bill test. Door Switch: Test and replace if interior light stays on or cooling cycles affected.

Cleaning & Care

Unplug before cleaning. Use mild detergent and water for interior; vacuum condenser coils.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners or sharp objects on interior liner. Avoid water near electrical components.

Warranty & Support

Standard limited warranty: 1 year parts and labor, 5 years sealed system. Copyright © Kenmore; trademarks of Sears Brands, LLC. For support, visit www.kenmore.com or contact 1-800-469-4668. Keep receipt and model/serial numbers for warranty service.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom Possible Cause Corrective Action

Refrigerator not running Power issue, bad start relay Check outlet, test power cord, replace start relay.

Warm refrigerator section Dirty coils, faulty fan, defrost problem Clean condenser coils, test evaporator fan, check defrost system.

Excessive frost in freezer Door seal leak, defrost failure Replace door gasket, test defrost heater and thermostat.

Water on floor Clogged drain, leaking water line Clear drain tube, inspect water line connections.

Ice maker not working Water supply, faulty module Ensure water valve open, test ice maker motor, replace module.

Loud noises Fan obstruction, compressor mount Clear debris from fans, tighten compressor mounts.

Light stays on Faulty door switch Test and replace door switch.

Cycles too frequently Dirty coils, poor ventilation Clean coils, ensure 2-inch clearance around unit.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes to reset control board if available.

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

Kenmore Fridge Repair Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Refrigerator not running	Power issue, bad start relay	Check outlet, test power cord, replace start relay.
Warm refrigerator section	Dirty coils, faulty fan, defrost problem	Clean condenser coils, test evaporator fan, check defrost system.
Excessive frost in freezer	Door seal leak, defrost failure	Replace door gasket, test defrost heater and thermostat.
Water on floor	Clogged drain, leaking water line	Clear drain tube, inspect water line connections.
Ice maker not working	Water supply, faulty module	Ensure water valve open, test ice maker motor, replace module.
Loud noises	Fan obstruction, compressor mount	Clear debris from fans, tighten compressor mounts.
Light stays on	Faulty door switch	Test and replace door switch.
Cycles too frequently	Dirty coils, poor ventilation	Clean coils, ensure 2-inch clearance around unit.