Kenmore Refrigerator Model 106 Service Manual

The Kenmore Refrigerator Model 106 is a top-freezer refrigerator designed for reliable household use. This service manual provides authorized technicians with essential information for installation, operation, troubleshooting, and repair. It covers specifications, component identification, electrical schematics, refrigeration system details, and step-by-step repair procedures. Always disconnect power before servicing. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, operation, maintenance, and technical service.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation Instructions 3. Operation & Controls 4. Technical Specifications 5. Component Identification 6. Electrical System 7. Refrigeration System 8. Disassembly & Access 9. Maintenance Procedures 10. Regulatory & Safety 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Features at a Glance

Key components: Top-mounted freezer, adjustable glass shelves, crisper drawers, door bins, mechanical temperature control, automatic defrost system, and interior light.

Feature	Description
Freezer Location	Top-mounted, manual defrost recommended periodically
Refrigerator Capacity	Approximately 18 cubic feet
Shelving	Adjustable tempered glass shelves
Crispers	Humidity-controlled crisper drawers for produce
Temperature Control	Mechanical dial control (1-9 or Coldest-Cold)
Defrost System	Automatic defrost cycle for refrigerator compartment
Interior Light	Incandescent bulb, door-activated switch
Door Storage	Adjustable door bins for bottles and condiments
Power Requirements	120V AC, 60Hz, 15A dedicated circuit recommended
Finish	White vinyl-clad steel exterior

Installation Instructions

Unpack and inspect for shipping damage. Ensure proper clearance and leveling.

Location: Place on a level, solid floor. Allow minimum 2 inches clearance at back and top, 1 inch on sides for airflow.
Leveling: Adjust front leveling legs to ensure door closes and seals properly.
Electrical: Plug into a grounded 120V, 60Hz outlet. Do not use an extension cord.
Initial Setup: Let unit stand upright for 4 hours before powering on to allow refrigerant to settle.
Temperature Setting: Set control to midpoint (e.g., 5). Allow 24 hours to stabilize temperature.

WARNING! Risk of electric shock. Disconnect power before any service. Ensure proper grounding.

Operation & Controls

Primary user controls consist of a mechanical temperature dial inside the refrigerator compartment.

Temperature Control: Rotate dial from 1 (warmest) to 9 (coldest), or OFF position. Mid-range (4-6) is typical for normal operation.
Freezer Use: Keep freezer at least 2/3 full for optimal efficiency. Manual defrost when frost exceeds 1/4 inch.
Interior Light: Turns on when refrigerator door is opened. Replace bulb (type: 40W appliance bulb) by unscrewing lens cover.
Door Alarm: Some models may have an alarm if door is left ajar for several minutes.

CAUTION! Do not block air vents inside compartments. This ensures proper cooling.

Technical Specifications

Model: Kenmore 106 Series
Type: Top-Freezer Refrigerator
Total Capacity: ~18 cu ft (Refrigerator: ~13 cu ft, Freezer: ~5 cu ft)
Dimensions (HxWxD): Approximately 66" x 32" x 32"
Electrical: 120V AC, 60Hz, 2.5 Amps (running), 15A circuit breaker
Refrigerant: R-134a (Charge: See data plate)
Defrost System: Automatic (refrigerator), Manual (freezer)
Thermostat: Mechanical, capillary tube type
Compressor: Hermetic reciprocating, 1/5 HP
Weight: Approximately 180 lbs

Component Identification

Major components for service reference.

Exterior: Cabinet, Doors (refrigerator & freezer), Hinges, Magnetic Gaskets, Handle.

Interior (Refrigerator): Shelves, Crisper Drawers, Light Assembly, Thermostat Control Dial, Air Duct Cover, Evaporator Fan Cover (rear wall).

Interior (Freezer): Shelf, Ice Cube Trays (if equipped), Evaporator Coils (behind rear panel).

Rear/Bottom: Compressor, Condenser Coils, Condenser Fan, Start Relay & Overload Protector, Drain Pan, Water Inlet Valve (if ice maker equipped).

Electrical System

Refer to wiring diagram on back of unit or in manual supplement.

Power Cord: 3-prong, grounded. Supplies power to main junction.
Thermostat: Controls compressor and evaporator fan operation based on cabinet temperature.
Compressor Circuit: Includes start relay, overload protector, and run capacitor.
Fan Motors: Evaporator fan (inside) and condenser fan (rear, if equipped).
Light Circuit: Door switch interrupts 120V to light bulb when door closes.
Defrost Heater & Timer: Automatically cycles to melt frost on evaporator.

Tip: Use a multimeter to check continuity and voltage. Always unplug unit first.

Refrigeration System

Sealed system containing compressor, condenser, evaporator, capillary tube, and filter-drier.

Compressor: Pumps refrigerant vapor.
Condenser Coils: Located at rear; dissipate heat, condensing refrigerant.
Capillary Tube: Metering device for refrigerant flow.
Evaporator Coils: Located behind freezer panel; absorb heat from interior.
Filter-Drier: Removes moisture and debris from refrigerant.
Refrigerant: R-134a. Charge amount specified on data plate. System is sealed; only qualified technicians should service.

WARNING! Refrigerant under pressure. Do not puncture lines. Recover refrigerant according to EPA regulations.

Disassembly & Access

Procedures to access internal components. Document wire and part locations before disassembly.

Maintenance Procedures

Regular maintenance ensures efficiency and longevity.

Cleaning: Unplug. Clean interior with baking soda and water. Wipe door gaskets. Clean condenser coils (rear or bottom) with brush or vacuum every 6 months.

Defrosting Freezer: Turn control to OFF, remove food, place towels. Let frost melt. Do not use sharp tools. Wipe dry, restart.

Door Alignment: Adjust hinges if door does not seal. Tighten or loosen screws as needed.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners or sharp objects on interior liner.

Regulatory & Safety

UL Listed. Complies with applicable FCC standards. Contains refrigerant regulated by EPA Section 608. Dispose of according to local regulations. For safety, always use proper tools and personal protective equipment (PPE) when servicing.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Refrigerator not cooling	Power issue, thermostat setting, dirty coils, sealed system fault	Check power/outlet. Verify thermostat setting. Clean condenser coils. If persists, check compressor operation.
Freezer too warm, fridge cold	Evaporator fan not running, blocked air vent	Listen for fan. Check fan for obstruction or failure. Clear vents between compartments.
Unit runs constantly	Dirty coils, warm room temp, door seal leak, thermostat fault	Clean coils. Ensure room temp below 110°F. Check door seal. Test thermostat continuity.
Excessive frost in freezer	Door left ajar, defective door seal, defrost system failure	Ensure door closes tightly. Inspect/replace gasket. Check defrost heater, timer, and thermostat.
Water inside refrigerator	Clogged defrost drain, improper leveling	Clear drain tube at back of liner. Ensure unit is level front-to-back.
Unusual noise	Fan hitting obstruction, loose parts, compressor mounting	Inspect evaporator/condenser fans. Tighten any loose panels or shelves. Check compressor mounts.
Light does not work	Bulb burned out, door switch faulty	Replace bulb. Test door switch for continuity when depressed.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes, then plug back in to reset control board (if electronic).

Service: For parts and technical support, contact Sears PartsDirect at 1-800-469-4663 or visit www.searspartsdirect.com. Reference Model 106.