Kenmore Refrigerator Model 106.511 Manual

The Kenmore Refrigerator Model 106.511 is a top-freezer refrigerator designed for household use, featuring adjustable glass shelves, humidity-controlled crispers, a freezer with storage baskets, automatic defrost, and an ice maker (on select models). This manual provides essential information for safety, installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your appliance. Below are key sections to help you get the most out of your refrigerator.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Top-mounted freezer, Fresh food compartment, Adjustable glass shelves, Humidity-controlled crispers, Freezer baskets, Temperature controls, Ice maker (if equipped).

Feature	Description
Fresh Food Compartment	Adjustable temperature control and glass shelves for flexible storage
Humidity-Controlled Crispers	Help keep fruits and vegetables fresh longer
Freezer Compartment	Top-mounted with storage baskets for organized freezing
Automatic Defrost	Reduces frost buildup in the fresh food compartment
Adjustable Legs	For leveling the refrigerator on uneven floors
Door Bins	Adjustable for bottles and condiments
Ice Maker (Select Models)	Produces ice automatically; requires water line connection
Power Cord	Standard 3-prong plug for 120V AC outlet
Interior Light	Illuminates the fresh food compartment when door is opened
Temperature Controls	Separate dials or controls for fridge and freezer sections

Installation & Leveling

Unpack and remove all packaging materials. Place on a stable, level floor near a grounded electrical outlet.

Positioning: Allow at least 2 inches of clearance at the back and sides for proper air circulation.
Leveling: Use a wrench to adjust the front leveling legs until the refrigerator is stable and doors close properly.
Water Connection (Ice Maker): Connect a 1/4" copper water supply line to the inlet valve at the back. Turn water on and check for leaks.
Plug In: Plug the power cord into a dedicated 120V, 15-amp grounded outlet.

WARNING! Do not install near a heat source. Ensure the refrigerator is level to prevent door alignment issues and improper cooling.

First-Time Setup

After installation, allow the refrigerator to run for 24 hours before adding food to ensure proper cooling.

Set Temperatures: Turn the fresh food control to the midpoint (usually "4" or "5"). Set the freezer control to the midpoint.
Ice Maker: If equipped, lift the signal arm to start the ice-making cycle. Discard the first batch of ice.
Organize Shelves: Adjust glass shelves and door bins to suit your storage needs.
Check Operation: Listen for the compressor running and feel for cool air in both compartments after a few hours.

CAUTION! Do not overload the refrigerator. Allow space between items for air to circulate.

Specifications

Model: 106.511
Type: Top-Freezer Refrigerator
Total Capacity: Approximately 18-20 cubic feet (check specific model label)
Fresh Food Capacity: Approximately 13-14 cubic feet
Freezer Capacity: Approximately 5-6 cubic feet
Defrost System: Automatic (fresh food), Manual (freezer - may require periodic defrosting)
Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz, 2-3 Amps
Dimensions (HxWxD): Approximately 66" x 32" x 32" (varies)
Finish: White, Black, or Stainless Steel (model dependent)
Energy Star: May be Energy Star certified (check model sticker)

Controls and Settings

Temperature controls are typically located inside the fresh food compartment, on the ceiling or side wall.

Fresh Food Control: Dial numbered 1-9 or MIN-MAX. Higher numbers mean colder temperatures. Recommended setting is 4 or 5.

Freezer Control: Dial numbered 1-9 or MIN-MAX. Higher numbers mean colder temperatures. Recommended setting is 5 or 6.

Interior Light Switch: Activated by door opening. Replace bulb with appliance bulb (40W max) if needed.

Ice Maker On/Off Arm: Lift to turn ice maker ON. Lower to turn OFF (e.g., for cleaning).

Using the Refrigerator

For optimal food preservation and energy efficiency.

Storage: Place dairy, eggs, and drinks on upper shelves. Meats and fish on lower shelves (coldest area). Fruits and vegetables in crispers.
Crispers: Use humidity control slider - High for vegetables, Low for fruits.
Shelves: Adjust by lifting the front and sliding. Remove for cleaning.
Door Bins: Store condiments, juices, and butter. Bins are removable.
Temperature: Keep the fresh food compartment at 37°F - 40°F (3°C - 5°C).

Tip: Cover or wrap foods to prevent odor transfer and drying out.

Using the Freezer

For safe, long-term food storage.

Storage: Use baskets to organize frozen foods. Place newer items behind older ones.
Freezing Fresh Food: Allow hot food to cool first. Use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
Ice Maker: Ice will automatically harvest into the storage bin. Keep bin in place.
Manual Defrost: If frost buildup exceeds 1/4 inch, unplug the refrigerator, remove food, and allow frost to melt. Wipe dry before restarting.
Temperature: Keep the freezer at 0°F (-18°C).

WARNING! Do not use sharp objects to remove ice. Never refreeze thawed food completely unless it has been cooked.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Unplug the refrigerator before cleaning interior components (except for quick wipes).

Interior: Clean shelves, bins, and interior surfaces with a solution of warm water and baking soda. Rinse and dry.
Door Seals: Wipe with a damp cloth to remove food particles. Check for tears or gaps.
Exterior: Clean with a soft cloth and mild detergent. For stainless steel, use a cleaner designed for appliances.
Condenser Coils: Vacuum the coils (located at the back or underneath) every 6-12 months to maintain efficiency.
Drip Pan: (If accessible) Remove and clean with warm soapy water annually.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or harsh chemicals. Never pour water directly on or inside the unit.

Energy Saving Tips

Set temperatures to recommended levels. Colder settings use more energy.
Ensure door seals are clean and airtight.
Allow hot food to cool before placing inside.
Keep the refrigerator full but not overcrowded to maintain thermal mass.
Position the refrigerator away from ovens, dishwashers, and direct sunlight.
Vacuum condenser coils regularly.

Warranty Information

This Kenmore appliance is covered by a limited warranty. For full terms and conditions, refer to the warranty certificate included with your product or contact Kenmore customer service. Typically includes 1-year full warranty on parts and labor, and 5-year sealed system warranty. Proof of purchase is required for service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Refrigerator is not cooling	Power issue, controls set wrong, dirty coils	Ensure unit is plugged in and outlet works. Check temperature settings. Clean condenser coils.
Freezer is too warm	Overloaded, door not sealing, frost buildup	Do not block air vents. Check door seal. Manually defrost if frost is thick.
Unit runs constantly	High ambient temperature, dirty coils, door ajar	Ensure room temp is below 110°F. Clean coils. Check door seal and close firmly.
Water on floor	Clogged defrost drain, leaking water line	Clear the drain tube at the back of the fridge interior. Check ice maker water connection.
Ice maker not working	Water supply off, arm in OFF position, clogged filter	Turn on water supply. Raise signal arm. Replace water filter (if equipped) every 6 months.
Loud noises	Not level, items touching back wall, normal compressor sounds	Level the refrigerator. Rearrange items inside. Some gurgling/clicking is normal.

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

Service: For technical support or service, call Kenmore at 1-800-422-1230 or visit www.kenmore.com.