Kenmore Refrigerator Model 106 Manual

The Kenmore Refrigerator Model 106 is a top-freezer refrigerator designed for household use, featuring adjustable glass shelves, humidity-controlled crispers, a freezer with storage baskets, automatic defrost, adjustable temperature controls for both fresh food and freezer compartments, and an energy-saving 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. Food Storage Tips 9. Energy Saving 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

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

Feature	Description
Top Freezer	Provides frozen food storage with baskets for organization
Adjustable Glass Shelves	Removable and height-adjustable for flexible storage
Humidity-Controlled Crispers	Preserve freshness of fruits and vegetables
Automatic Defrost	Eliminates need for manual defrosting in fresh food compartment
Temperature Controls	Separate dials for refrigerator and freezer settings
Door Bins	Storage for frequently used items like condiments
Energy Saver Switch	Reduces condensation and saves energy
Leveling Legs	Adjustable front legs for stability on uneven floors
Interior Light	Illuminates fresh food compartment when door is open
Reversible Doors	Door swing can be changed to left or right opening

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on a level floor in a well-ventilated area.

Remove all packaging materials and tape from inside and outside.
Adjust leveling legs: Use a wrench to turn legs until refrigerator is level and doors close properly.
Ensure proper clearance: Allow at least 1 inch at back and sides for air circulation.
Plug into a dedicated 120V AC, 60Hz grounded outlet.
Let refrigerator stand upright for at least 4 hours before turning on.

WARNING! Do not install near heat sources like ovens or direct sunlight. Ensure the power cord is not pinched or damaged.

First-Time Setup

After installation, follow these steps to prepare your refrigerator for use.

Turn on the refrigerator: Plug in and set the refrigerator and freezer controls to the middle setting.
Allow cooling: Let the refrigerator run for 4-6 hours to reach proper temperature before adding food.
Set temperatures: Recommended settings are 37°F for refrigerator and 0°F for freezer.
Adjust shelves and bins: Configure interior layout according to your storage needs.
Engage Energy Saver: Switch to "ON" in humid conditions to reduce condensation.

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

Specifications

Model: 106
Type: Top-Freezer Refrigerator
Total Capacity: 18 cubic feet
Refrigerator Capacity: 12.5 cubic feet
Freezer Capacity: 5.5 cubic feet
Defrost System: Automatic (refrigerator), Manual (freezer)
Shelves: 3 adjustable tempered glass shelves
Door Swing: Reversible (right-hand default)
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Annual Energy Use: Approximately 450 kWh

Controls and Settings

Temperature is controlled by two dials located inside the fresh food compartment.

Refrigerator Control: Dial with settings from 1 (warmest) to 9 (coldest). Recommended setting is 5.

Freezer Control: Dial with settings from 1 (warmest) to 9 (coldest). Recommended setting is 5.

Energy Saver Switch: Located near temperature controls. Use "ON" in humid environments to reduce sweating. Use "OFF" in dry environments.

Allow 24 hours for temperatures to stabilize after any adjustment.

Using Your Refrigerator

Organize food for optimal cooling and accessibility.

Refrigerator compartment: Store dairy, meats, and leftovers on upper shelves. Use crispers for fruits and vegetables.
Freezer compartment: Use baskets for frozen vegetables, ice cream, and prepared foods. Store meats on bottom.
Door bins: Ideal for condiments, juices, and butter.
Allow hot foods to cool before placing in refrigerator.
Cover foods to prevent odor transfer and drying.
Do not block air vents inside compartments.

Tip: Label and date frozen foods. Use within recommended time frames for best quality.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug refrigerator before cleaning. Use mild detergent and warm water. Do not use abrasive cleaners.

Interior: Clean shelves, bins, and walls. Wipe spills immediately.
Exterior: Clean door and handles with soft cloth. Stainless steel models require specific cleaners.
Door gaskets: Wipe clean to ensure proper seal.
Condenser coils: Vacuum coils at rear or bottom every 6-12 months for efficiency.
Defrost freezer: When frost is 1/4 inch thick, remove food, turn off, and let frost melt. Wipe dry.

CAUTION! Never use sharp objects to remove frost. Do not clean glass shelves with hot water.

Food Storage Tips

Maximize freshness and minimize waste with proper storage.

Food Item	Recommended Location	Storage Time
Fresh Meat	Bottom shelf (coldest)	1-2 days
Dairy Products	Upper shelves	Check expiration
Fruits	Crisper (low humidity)	Varies by type
Vegetables	Crisper (high humidity)	3-7 days
Leftovers	Covered containers	3-4 days
Frozen Vegetables	Freezer basket	8-12 months

Energy Saving

Reduce energy consumption with these practices.

Set temperatures to recommended levels (37°F fridge, 0°F freezer).
Ensure door seals are tight. Test by closing door on a dollar bill; it should hold firmly.
Keep condenser coils clean.
Allow hot foods to cool before refrigerating.
Minimize door openings and close doors promptly.
Use Energy Saver switch appropriately.
Position refrigerator away from heat sources.

Regulatory Information

This appliance complies with FCC Part 15 for Class B digital devices. Manufactured under license from Kenmore, a trademark of Sears Brands, LLC. For support, visit www.kenmore.com or contact 1-800-469-4668. Dispose of packaging materials responsibly. At end of life, recycle according to local regulations.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Refrigerator not cooling	Power/controls	Ensure plugged in and outlet works; check temperature settings; clean coils.
Freezer too warm	Overloaded/vent blocked	Do not overload; ensure air vents inside are clear.
Excessive frost in freezer	Door seal/defrost needed	Check door seal; manually defrost if needed.
Water on floor	Drain clogged	Check defrost drain for blockage; clear if necessary.
Noisy operation	Leveling/items vibrating	Ensure refrigerator is level; check for items touching walls.
Light not working	Bulb/switch	Replace bulb; check door switch.
Door won't close	Leveling/obstruction	Adjust leveling legs; check for food packages blocking closure.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes, then plug back in.

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