Kenmore Refrigerator Manual 596

The Kenmore Refrigerator Model 596 is a top-freezer refrigerator featuring adjustable glass shelves, humidity-controlled crispers, gallon door storage, ice maker capability (optional), adjustable temperature controls for both fresh food and freezer compartments, energy-saving mode, and reversible doors. Powered by standard 120V household outlet. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Top-mounted freezer compartment, adjustable tempered glass shelves, humidity-controlled crispers, gallon-size door bins, ice maker connection kit (sold separately), adjustable leveling legs, reversible door hinges.

Feature	Description
Adjustable Glass Shelves	Removable and height-adjustable for flexible storage
Humidity-Controlled Crispers	Preserve freshness of fruits and vegetables
Gallon Door Bins	Store large containers and beverages
Ice Maker Ready	Pre-plumbed for optional ice maker installation
Temperature Controls	Separate dials for refrigerator and freezer
Reversible Doors	Can be configured to open left or right
Energy Saver Switch	Reduces condensation in humid environments
Adjustable Leveling Legs	For stability on uneven floors
Interior Light	LED lighting for better visibility
Door Alarm	Audible alert if door is left open

Installation

Unpack and remove all packaging materials. Position refrigerator in desired location.

Level the refrigerator: Adjust front leveling legs until refrigerator is stable and doors close properly.
Connect to power: Plug into dedicated 120V, 15-amp grounded outlet.
Allow stabilization: Let refrigerator stand upright for at least 4 hours before turning on.
Install ice maker (optional): Follow ice maker kit instructions for connection.
Configure door swing: Reverse hinges if needed for your kitchen layout.

WARNING! Refrigerator is heavy; use two people for moving. Ensure proper clearance from walls (at least 2 inches on sides, 4 inches on back).

First-Time Setup

After installation, follow these steps for initial operation.

Power on: Plug in and turn temperature controls from OFF position.
Set temperatures: Set refrigerator to 37°F (3°C) and freezer to 0°F (-18°C).
Allow cooling: Wait 24 hours for temperatures to stabilize before adding food.
Test features: Verify interior light, door alarm, and ice maker (if installed) work properly.
Adjust leveling: Check door closure and adjust legs if doors don't close automatically.

CAUTION! Do not overload shelves. Distribute weight evenly for proper cooling.

Specifications

Model: Kenmore 596
Type: Top-Freezer Refrigerator
Total Capacity: 18.6 cubic feet
Refrigerator Capacity: 13.2 cubic feet
Freezer Capacity: 5.4 cubic feet
Dimensions (HxWxD): 66" x 30" x 32"
Shelves: 3 adjustable glass shelves
Door Bins: 4 adjustable bins (2 gallon-size)
Crispers: 2 humidity-controlled
Power Requirements: 120V, 60Hz, 2.5A
Annual Energy Use: 480 kWh
Refrigerant: R-600a (isobutane)

Controls and Settings

Temperature controls located inside refrigerator compartment.

Refrigerator Control: Dial with settings 1-7 (1 warmest, 7 coldest). Recommended setting: 4.

Freezer Control: Dial with settings 1-7 (1 warmest, 7 coldest). Recommended setting: 4.

Energy Saver Switch: Located near temperature controls. Use ON in humid conditions to reduce condensation.

Crisper Controls: Slide controls on each crisper (LOW to HIGH humidity).

Door Alarm Reset: Press and hold alarm button for 3 seconds to reset.

Using the Refrigerator

For optimal food preservation and energy efficiency.

Organize shelves: Place frequently used items at eye level.
Use crispers properly: Set high humidity for vegetables, low humidity for fruits.
Door storage: Store condiments, juices, and beverages in door bins.
Allow air circulation: Don't overpack; leave space between items.
Cover foods: Store foods in airtight containers to prevent odor transfer.
Check temperatures: Use refrigerator thermometer to verify 35-38°F range.

Tip: Let hot foods cool to room temperature before refrigerating to save energy.

Using the Freezer

Proper freezer use maintains food quality and efficiency.

Package foods properly: Use freezer bags or airtight containers.
Label and date: Mark packages with contents and freeze date.
Freeze in portions: Divide large quantities into meal-sized portions.
Don't overload: Leave space for air circulation around packages.
Defrosting: Plan ahead - thaw in refrigerator for best results.
Ice maker: Keep ice bin at least half full for most efficient operation.
Freezer organization: Group similar items together for easy finding.

WARNING! Never refreeze thawed food unless it has been cooked. Keep freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Unplug before cleaning: Always disconnect power before maintenance.
Interior cleaning: Use solution of baking soda and warm water (2 tbsp per quart).
Exterior cleaning: Use mild detergent and soft cloth. Avoid abrasives.
Shelves and bins: Remove and wash with warm soapy water.
Condenser coils: Vacuum every 6 months (located at back or bottom).
Door seals: Clean with mild detergent; check for proper seal.
Defrosting: Manual defrost when frost buildup exceeds 1/4 inch.

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

Energy Saving Tips

Reduce energy consumption and save on utility bills.

Set optimal temperatures: 37°F refrigerator, 0°F freezer.
Keep doors closed: Minimize opening time and frequency.
Check door seals: Ensure tight seal by closing dollar bill in door - should resist pull.
Allow hot foods to cool: Before refrigerating or freezing.
Clean condenser coils: Dirty coils increase energy use by up to 30%.
Use energy saver: In humid environments to reduce heater use.
Proper placement: Keep away from heat sources (oven, dishwasher, direct sunlight).
Fill empty space: Use water jugs in refrigerator to reduce air volume.

Warranty Information

Kenmore Refrigerator Model 596 comes with limited warranty.

Full Warranty: 1 year on all parts and labor from date of purchase.

Sealed System Warranty: 5 years on compressor, condenser, evaporator, and connecting tubing.

To Obtain Service: Call 1-800-536-6247 or visit www.kenmore.com. Have model and serial numbers ready (located on interior side wall).

Warranty Conditions: Valid only for original purchaser with proof of purchase. Does not cover commercial use, improper installation, or damage from accident/misuse.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Refrigerator not cooling	Power issue, controls set wrong	Check power cord plugged in; verify controls not set to OFF; ensure proper clearance around unit.
Freezer too warm	Overloaded, door not sealing	Reduce load; check door seal; clean condenser coils; adjust temperature control.
Excessive frost in freezer	Door left open, poor seal	Check door seal; ensure door closes completely; defrost completely.
Water leaking on floor	Clogged defrost drain	Clear drain tube at back of refrigerator compartment.
Loud noises	Not level, items touching back	Level refrigerator; ensure bottles/jars not touching back wall.
Interior light not working	Bulb burned out, door switch	Replace LED bulb; check door switch operation.
Ice maker not working	Water supply, arm position	Ensure water connected and turned on; check ice maker arm in down position.
Door won't close properly	Not level, items blocking	Adjust leveling legs; check for items blocking closure.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes, then replug to reset electronic controls.

Service: 1-800-536-6247; www.kenmore.com