Sears Kenmore Elite Refrigerator Manual

The Sears Kenmore Elite refrigerator is a high-performance appliance featuring advanced cooling technology, adjustable shelving, humidity-controlled crispers, ice and water dispensers, energy-efficient operation, and smart temperature management. 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 the Refrigerator 7. Using the Freezer 8. Ice and Water Dispenser 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Twin cooling system, adjustable glass shelves, humidity-controlled crispers, external ice and water dispenser, digital temperature controls, door alarm, and energy-saving mode.

FeatureDescription
Twin Cooling SystemSeparate cooling for fridge and freezer to maintain optimal humidity
Adjustable Glass ShelvesCustomizable storage space for items of various sizes
Humidity-Controlled CrispersPreserves freshness of fruits and vegetables
Ice & Water DispenserExternal access to filtered ice and water
Digital Temperature ControlPrecise settings for fridge and freezer compartments
Door AlarmAlerts if door is left open for extended period
Energy Saver ModeReduces power consumption during low usage
Spill-Proof ShelvesContained edges prevent liquids from dripping
LED Interior LightingBright, efficient lighting with low heat output
Freezer DrawersSlide-out baskets for organized frozen food storage

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper clearance and level placement.

  1. Remove packaging: Take off all tape, foam, and protective film.
  2. Position refrigerator: Allow at least 2 inches clearance on sides and back for ventilation.
  3. Level the unit: Adjust front leveling legs to ensure doors close properly.
  4. Connect water line: For ice/water dispenser, attach to cold water supply with included kit.
  5. Plug into dedicated outlet: Use 115V, 60Hz grounded outlet.

WARNING! Refrigerator is heavy; use two people for moving. Ensure floor can support weight.

First-Time Setup

After installation, allow refrigerator to stabilize before loading food.

  1. Initial cooling: Turn on and set recommended temperatures (fridge: 37°F, freezer: 0°F).
  2. Wait 24 hours: Let interior reach stable temperature before adding food.
  3. Set controls: Use digital panel to configure temperature, door alarm, and energy saver.
  4. Prime water system: Dispense water for 3 minutes to clear air from lines.
  5. Load food: Organize items with proper air circulation in mind.

CAUTION! Do not overload shelves; distribute weight evenly.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Digital control panel located on front exterior or inside fridge compartment.

Control Panel Features: Temperature display, fridge/freezer temp buttons, filter reset, door alarm toggle, energy saver mode, lock control.

Temperature Settings: Adjust in 1° increments. Door Alarm: Sounds after 3 minutes if door ajar. Filter Indicator: Lights when filter needs replacement. Control Lock: Prevents accidental setting changes. Energy Saver: Reduces condensation in humid environments.

Using the Refrigerator

Optimize organization for best performance and food preservation.

  1. Shelving: Adjust heights to accommodate tall items; use spill-proof feature.
  2. Crispers: Set humidity slider high for vegetables, low for fruits.
  3. Door bins: Store condiments, drinks; not recommended for perishable dairy.
  4. Air circulation: Leave space between items for cold air flow.
  5. Temperature zones: Upper shelves are warmer, lower shelves and drawers are coldest.

Tip: Keep fridge at ¾ capacity for optimal efficiency.

Using the Freezer

Organize frozen foods for easy access and maximum storage.

  1. Drawer system: Use top drawer for frequently accessed items.
  2. Freezing new items: Spread packages to freeze faster; stack after frozen.
  3. Ice storage: Keep ice bucket full for dispenser operation.
  4. Defrosting: Frost-free system requires no manual defrosting.
  5. Long-term storage: Use airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.

WARNING! Do not store glass containers with liquids that may expand when frozen.

Ice and Water Dispenser

External dispenser provides cubed ice, crushed ice, and filtered water.

  1. Select mode: Press ICE for cubes, CRUSH for crushed ice, WATER for filtered water.
  2. Activate: Press glass against paddle or use touch controls.
  3. Change filter: Indicator light alerts when replacement needed (every 6 months).
  4. Clean dispenser: Wipe with damp cloth; run cleaning cycle monthly.
  5. Troubleshoot: If no ice/water, check water supply, filter, or ice bucket position.

CAUTION! First-time use may produce discolored water; dispense 2 gallons to clear.

Care & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Interior: Clean shelves and drawers with warm water and mild detergent.
  2. Exterior: Wipe with soft cloth; stainless steel models use manufacturer-approved cleaner.
  3. Condenser coils: Vacuum every 6 months (located at back or bottom front).
  4. Door seals: Clean with baking soda solution; check for proper seal.
  5. Dispenser: Run vinegar solution through water system annually.

CAUTION! Unplug before cleaning interior; never use abrasive cleaners on surfaces.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Meets safety standards. Energy Guide: Complies with DOE regulations. California Proposition 65: Contains materials that may cause cancer or reproductive harm. For support, visit www.kenmore.com or contact 1-800-469-4668. Serial number located on interior side wall or door frame. Register product online for warranty validation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Refrigerator not coolingPower/thermostatCheck power cord; ensure thermostat set correctly; clean condenser coils.
Water dispenser not workingFilter/water supplyReplace filter; check water line connection; ensure water valve open.
Ice maker not producing iceTemperature/obstructionEnsure freezer at 0°F; check for ice jam; reset ice maker.
Excessive frost in freezerDoor seal/warm foodCheck door seal; ensure food cooled before freezing; avoid frequent door openings.
Loud noisesLeveling/fanLevel refrigerator; check for items touching back wall; clean fan area.
Water leakageDrain line/defrostClear drain line; check defrost system; ensure proper installation.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes to reset electronic controls.

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

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