owners manual kenmore coldspot model 106

The Kenmore Coldspot Model 106 is a classic top-freezer refrigerator known for its reliable performance and efficient cooling. This manual covers essential information for the safe installation, operation, and maintenance of your appliance. Key sections include safety instructions, features, installation guidelines, temperature controls, cleaning procedures, and troubleshooting tips to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Water Line (If Applicable) 7. Using the Freezer & Refrigerator 8. Energy Saving Tips 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Top-mounted freezer compartment, adjustable glass shelves, crisper drawers for produce, interior light, manual defrost system, and adjustable leveling legs.

Feature	Description
Freezer Compartment	Top-mounted manual defrost freezer for frozen food storage
Adjustable Shelves	Tempered glass shelves that can be repositioned for flexibility
Crisper Drawers	Humidity-controlled drawers for fruits and vegetables
Interior Light	Illuminates the refrigerator compartment when door is opened
Temperature Control Dial	Single dial for adjusting cooling intensity
Leveling Legs	Front legs can be adjusted to ensure the unit is level
Door Bins	Storage compartments on the inside of the refrigerator door
Manual Defrost	Requires periodic defrosting of the freezer compartment
Power Cord	Standard 3-prong plug for 120V AC outlet
Product Dimensions	Approx. 60" H x 30" W x 30" D (Check specific model plate)

Installation

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

Choose Location: Place on a flat, sturdy floor near a grounded 120V outlet. Allow at least 2 inches of clearance on all sides for ventilation.
Level the Unit: Use a wrench to adjust the front leveling legs until the refrigerator is stable and doors close properly.
Connect Power: Plug the power cord directly into a dedicated wall outlet. Do not use an extension cord.
Initial Cooling: Allow the refrigerator to run for 2-4 hours before loading food to reach proper temperature.

WARNING! Do not install near a heat source (oven, heater, direct sunlight). Ensure the unit is level to prevent door misalignment and operational issues.

First-Time Setup

After installation and power connection, follow these steps.

Set Temperature: Turn the control dial to the mid-point setting (e.g., "4" or "MED"). Allow 24 hours for temperatures to stabilize.
Organize Interior: Adjust shelves and bins to suit your storage needs. Place lighter items on upper shelves.
Check Door Seal: Ensure the magnetic door gaskets are clean and sealing tightly by closing the door on a dollar bill; it should hold firmly.
Load Food: After the unit is cold, load food items. Avoid blocking air vents inside the compartment.

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

Specifications

Model: Kenmore Coldspot 106
Type: Top-Freezer Refrigerator
Defrost System: Manual Freezer Defrost
Total Capacity: Approximately 18 Cubic Feet (Check model plate)
Refrigerant: R-12 or as specified on data plate
Electrical: 120V AC, 60Hz
Amperage: See rating label on interior wall or back of unit
Shelves: Adjustable Tempered Glass
Finish: White Porcelain or Almond Enamel
Warranty: Refer to your Sears warranty documentation

Controls and Settings

The primary control is a single dial located inside the refrigerator compartment, usually on the upper right wall or ceiling.

Temperature Control Dial: Typically numbered 1 (Warmest) to 9 (Coldest) or marked MIN to MAX. A mid-setting (4 or 5) is recommended for normal use.

Operation: - Turning Dial: Rotate the dial to adjust cooling power. Clockwise (higher numbers) for colder temperatures. - Freezer Control: The same dial controls both the refrigerator and freezer compartments. Adjusting it affects both. - Interior Light Switch: Activated by the door opening; no user settings.

Tip: Allow 24 hours for temperature to adjust after changing the setting. Use a refrigerator thermometer to verify internal temperature (ideal fridge temp: 37-40°F / 3-4°C; freezer: 0°F / -18°C).

Connecting Water Line (If Applicable)

Model 106 typically does not have an ice maker or water dispenser. If a field-installed ice maker kit was added, follow the kit's instructions.

Turn off the refrigerator and shut off the main water supply.
Connect a 1/4" copper water supply line to the inlet valve at the back of the unit, using the compression fitting provided in the kit.
Turn on water supply and check for leaks at the connection.
Follow ice maker kit instructions to activate the unit.

Note: Most standard Model 106 units do not include this feature. Refer to your specific appliance or accessory manual.

Using the Freezer & Refrigerator

For optimal food preservation and energy efficiency.

Freezer Use: Store frozen foods in airtight packaging. Do not overfill; allow space for air circulation.
Refrigerator Organization: Store dairy on upper shelves, meats in the coldest area (usually top shelf back), produce in crispers.
Manual Defrost: When frost buildup in the freezer exceeds 1/4 inch, it's time to defrost.
- Turn control dial to OFF or unplug the unit.
- Remove all food and store in a cooler.
- Place towels and a shallow pan to catch water.
- Leave doors open to allow frost to melt. Do not use sharp objects to scrape ice.
- Wipe interior dry, plug in, and reset temperature control.
Door Storage: Use door bins for condiments, juices, and other items less sensitive to temperature fluctuations.

WARNING! Never use electrical appliances, hot water, or heat guns to speed up defrosting. This can damage the liner and create a safety hazard.

Energy Saving Tips

Set the temperature control to the recommended mid-setting. Colder settings use more energy.
Ensure the door seals are airtight. Test and clean gaskets regularly.
Allow hot food to cool to room temperature before placing in the refrigerator.
Keep the condenser coils (located at the back or underneath) clean and free of dust.
Minimize door openings and ensure doors are closed completely.
Position the refrigerator away from heat sources like ovens and dishwashers.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug the refrigerator before cleaning.

Interior: Clean shelves, drawers, and interior surfaces with a solution of 2 tablespoons baking soda per quart of warm water. Rinse with clean water and dry.
Exterior: Wipe the cabinet and door with a soft cloth dampened with mild soap and water. Dry thoroughly.
Door Gaskets: Clean with the same baking soda solution to maintain seal and prevent odors.
Condenser Coils: Vacuum the coils (located at the back) every 6-12 months to maintain efficiency.
Drip Pan: (If accessible) Remove and clean the defrost water drip pan with warm soapy water.

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

Regulatory Information

This appliance complies with applicable safety standards. The refrigerant system contains R-12 or other specified refrigerant, which should only be serviced by qualified personnel. Disposal must be in accordance with federal and local regulations. For service, contact Sears Service Center or refer to your warranty. Kenmore is a registered trademark of Sears Brands, LLC.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Refrigerator not cooling	Power issue, control set to OFF, dirty coils, overloaded	Ensure unit is plugged in and outlet works. Check temperature setting. Clean condenser coils. Do not overfill.
Freezer has excessive frost	Door left open, faulty seal, frequent door openings, manual defrost needed	Ensure door closes tightly. Check and clean door gasket. Defrost the freezer.
Unit runs constantly	High ambient temperature, dirty coils, door seal leak, set too cold	Move unit to cooler location. Clean coils. Check door seal. Adjust to a warmer setting.
Interior light not working	Bulb burned out, door switch faulty	Replace bulb (unplug first). Check door switch mechanism.
Water on floor	Defrost drain clogged, drip pan overfull, water line leak (if equipped)	Clear defrost drain tube. Check and empty drip pan. Inspect water line connections.
Loud noises	Unit not level, items vibrating inside, compressor or fan noise	Level the refrigerator. Secure items on shelves. Some operational noise is normal.

Reset: Unplug the unit for 5 minutes, then plug back in. This may reset the compressor.

Service: For persistent issues, contact Sears Service at 1-800-469-4663 or visit the Sears Parts & Repair website.