Kenmore Refrigerator Manual Model 253

The Kenmore Model 253 is a top-freezer refrigerator designed for reliable home food preservation. It features adjustable glass shelves, humidity-controlled crispers, a freezer with storage baskets, an automatic defrost system, and an energy-efficient design. 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 Your Refrigerator 7. Care & Cleaning 8. Energy Saving Tips 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Top-mounted freezer, Fresh food compartment, Adjustable glass shelves, Humidity-controlled crispers, Freezer storage baskets, Temperature control dial, Door bins, Leveling legs.

Feature	Description
Top Freezer	Provides convenient frozen food storage with baskets
Adjustable Glass Shelves	Easy to clean and reposition for flexible storage
Humidity-Controlled Crispers	Preserves freshness of fruits and vegetables
Automatic Defrost	Reduces maintenance; defrosts freezer automatically
Temperature Control Dial	Adjusts cooling level for both compartments
Door Storage	Bins for condiments, beverages, and other items
Leveling Legs	Front adjustable legs for stability on uneven floors
Energy Star Rated	Designed for energy efficiency
Reversible Doors	Door swing can be changed to left or right opening
Interior Light	Illuminates fresh food compartment when door opens

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Remove all packaging materials and tapes.

Choose Location: Place on a level, solid floor near a grounded electrical outlet. Allow space for air circulation (at least 1 inch on sides and back, 2 inches above).
Level the Refrigerator: Adjust front leveling legs using a wrench to ensure door closes properly and unit is stable.
Connect Power: Plug into a dedicated 115V, 60Hz, 15-amp grounded outlet. Do not use an extension cord.
Door Reversal (Optional): Follow instructions in manual to change door swing direction if needed.

WARNING! Refrigerator is heavy; use two people for moving. Ensure it is level to prevent door alignment issues.

First-Time Setup

After installation, allow refrigerator to cool before adding food.

Initial Cooling: Set temperature control to midpoint. Allow 24 hours for compartments to reach proper temperature.
Temperature Settings: For fresh food compartment, ideal temperature is 37°F (3°C). Freezer should be at 0°F (-18°C). Adjust control dial as needed.
Organize Shelves: Arrange adjustable shelves and door bins according to your storage needs.
Test Operation: Listen for compressor operation; ensure interior light turns on when door opens.

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

Specifications

Model: Kenmore 253
Type: Top-Freezer Refrigerator
Total Capacity: 18 cubic feet
Fresh Food Capacity: 12.5 cubic feet
Freezer Capacity: 5.5 cubic feet
Defrost System: Automatic (Freezer), Manual (Fresh Food - Frost-Free)
Shelves: 3 adjustable tempered glass shelves
Door Bins: 4 adjustable door bins
Crispers: 2 humidity-controlled crispers
Power Requirements: 115V, 60Hz, 2.5 amps
Energy Consumption: Approximately 450 kWh per year
Dimensions (HxWxD): 66" x 30" x 32"

Controls and Settings

Temperature Control: Single dial controls cooling for both compartments. Turning dial toward higher numbers/colder settings increases cooling.

Recommended Settings: For normal use, set dial to midpoint (usually 3 or 4). Adjust based on ambient temperature and load.

Freezer Control: Temperature is affected by the main control dial. Ensure freezer baskets are properly positioned for air flow.

Interior Light: Turns on automatically when fresh food door opens. Replace bulb (type: 40-watt appliance bulb) if needed.

Using Your Refrigerator

Proper organization maximizes efficiency and food preservation.

Shelves: Adjust height to accommodate tall items. Glass shelves are easy to wipe clean.
Crispers: Use high humidity setting for leafy vegetables; low humidity for fruits.
Door Bins: Store condiments, juices, and other frequently used items.
Freezer: Use baskets to organize frozen foods. Do not block air vents.
Temperature Monitoring: Use a refrigerator thermometer to verify temperatures periodically.

Tip: Allow hot foods to cool to room temperature before placing in refrigerator to reduce energy use.

Care & Cleaning

Regular cleaning maintains performance and hygiene.

Unplug refrigerator before cleaning interior components.
Interior: Wash shelves, crispers, and interior surfaces with mild detergent and warm water. Rinse and dry.
Exterior: Clean door and handles with soft cloth and mild cleaner. Avoid abrasive materials.
Door Seals: Wipe gaskets with damp cloth to ensure proper seal.
Condenser Coils: Vacuum coils at rear or bottom every 6-12 months to maintain efficiency.
Defrosting: Freezer defrosts automatically. Fresh food compartment may need occasional manual defrosting if frost builds up.

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals, abrasives, or steam cleaners. Never pour water into or over the unit.

Energy Saving Tips

Set temperature to recommended settings (37°F fresh food, 0°F freezer).
Ensure door seals are clean and tight.
Allow hot foods to cool before refrigerating.
Keep condenser coils clean.
Minimize door openings and close doors promptly.
Position refrigerator away from heat sources (oven, dishwasher, direct sunlight).
Do not overfill; allow air circulation around items.

Regulatory Information

This appliance complies with applicable safety standards. Proper disposal is required; consult local regulations for recycling or disposal of refrigerators. The refrigerant used is R-134a. For technical support or service, contact Kenmore customer service at 1-800-536-6247 or visit www.kenmore.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Refrigerator not cooling	Power issue, control setting	Ensure plugged in and outlet works; set control to colder setting; check circuit breaker.
Excessive frost in freezer	Door not sealing, frequent openings	Check door seal; ensure door closes completely; avoid holding door open.
Water pooling inside	Drain tube clogged	Clear drain tube at back of fresh food compartment.
Loud noises	Leveling, items touching back wall	Ensure refrigerator is level; move items away from back interior wall.
Light not working	Bulb burned out, door switch	Replace bulb; check door switch operation.
Door difficult to close	Not level, gasket dirty, overloaded bins	Level refrigerator; clean gasket; ensure bins are not overfilled.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes, then plug back in to reset control system.

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