FREE ENGLISH KENMORE 253.7041 (02) PDF USER GUIDE
FREE ENGLISH KENMORE 253.7041 (02) PDF USER MANUAL
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FREE ENGLISH KENMORE 253.7041 (02) PDF OWNER MANUAL
FREE ENGLISH KENMORE 253.7041 (02) PDF REFERENCE GUIDE
FREE ENGLISH KENMORE 253.7041 (02) PDF INSTRUCTION GUIDE
FREE ENGLISH KENMORE 253.7041 (02) PDF REFERENCE MANUAL
FREE ENGLISH KENMORE 253.7041 (02) PDF INSTRUCTION MANUAL
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What do the safety symbols (Danger, Warning, Caution, Important) mean in the manual?
These symbols alert you to potential hazards:
- DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
- WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
- CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
- IMPORTANT: Indicates installation, operation, or maintenance information which is important but not hazard-related.
- Safety Alert Symbol (!): Used to alert you to potential personal injury hazards. Obey all safety messages that follow this symbol to avoid possible injury or death.
What are the important safety precautions for using this refrigerator?
- Read all safety instructions before using the appliance.
- Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable liquids near this or any other appliance. Read product labels for flammability warnings.
- Do not operate the unit in the presence of explosive fumes.
- Remove and discard shipping spacers. Small objects are a choke hazard.
- Remove all staples from the carton to avoid cuts and damage to other surfaces.
- Child Safety: Destroy or recycle packaging immediately. Children should NEVER play with cartons, plastic bags, or wrapping material. These can become airtight chambers causing suffocation.
- Proper Disposal: Child entrapment is a risk with old appliances. Remove doors and leave shelves in place to prevent children from climbing inside. Ensure refrigerant is removed by a qualified technician for proper disposal, following environmental legislation. Old refrigerators may contain CFCs or HCFCs which harm ozone.
- Follow electrical safety guidelines (dedicated outlet, proper grounding, etc.).
- Do not attempt to install or operate the unit until you have read the safety precautions.
What are the electrical requirements for this refrigerator?
- The appliance must be plugged into its own dedicated 115 Volt, 60 Hz, AC-only electric outlet.
- The power cord has a three-prong grounding plug for protection against shock hazards.
- Plug directly into a properly grounded three-prong receptacle installed according to local codes.
- Consult a qualified electrician if needed. Do not use an extension cord or adapter plug.
- If the power cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, service technician, or a qualified person.
- Never unplug by pulling the cord; grip the plug firmly and pull straight out.
- Unplug the unit before cleaning or replacing a light bulb.
- Performance may be affected if voltage varies by 10% or more. Operating with insufficient power can damage the compressor (not covered by warranty).
- Do not plug into an outlet controlled by a wall switch or pull cord.
- Avoid connecting the unit to a Ground Fault Interrupter (GFI) circuit.
Where should I install the refrigerator?
- Choose a place near a grounded, non-GFCI electrical outlet. Do not use an extension cord or adapter plug.
- If possible, place the refrigerator out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources like ranges or dishwashers.
- Install on a level floor strong enough to support a fully loaded refrigerator.
- Consider water supply availability for models with an automatic ice maker.
- CAUTION: Do not install where the temperature will drop below 55°F (13°C) or rise above 110°F (43°C), as the compressor cannot maintain proper temperatures.
- Do not block the toe grille on the lower front. Sufficient air circulation is essential for proper operation.
What clearances are needed for installation?
Allow the following clearances for ease of installation, proper air circulation, and plumbing/electrical connections:
- Sides & Top: 3/8 inch (9.5 mm)
- Back: 1 inch (25.4 mm)
How do I level the refrigerator and adjust the doors?
Guidelines for Final Positioning:
- All four corners of the cabinet must rest firmly on the floor.
- The sides should tilt ¼ inch (6 mm) from front to back (ensures doors close and seal properly).
- Doors should align with each other and be level.
- Slightly open the freezer drawer. Lift the toe grille and gently pull it forward.
- Use a 3/8 inch socket wrench to turn the adjustment screws (one per side) located near the front rollers.
- To raise: Turn adjustment screw clockwise.
- To lower: Turn adjustment screw counterclockwise.
- Ensure both doors are bind-free, seals touch the cabinet on all four sides, and the cabinet is stable.
- Remove all food items from the door bins on the door being adjusted.
- Open the doors to 90 degrees.
- Lift the door while adjusting the washer located at the bottom hinge.
- To raise the door: Rotate washer clockwise (when viewed from the bottom).
- To lower the door: Rotate washer counterclockwise (when viewed from the bottom).
How do I lower the anti-tip leg?
After the unit is leveled, lower the anti-tip leg (located at the front, center bottom) until it contacts the floor. This helps prevent the refrigerator from tipping forward. Rotate the leg to raise or lower it.
How do I adjust the refrigerator door stop?
The door stop is adjustable between 85 to 145 degrees. (View shown is looking up at the bottom of the refrigerator door).
- Open the door to provide access to the door stop screw located on the bottom hinge assembly.
- Loosen the screw.
- Adjust the door stop to the desired location/opening angle. The stop has markers for Min and Max open positions.
- Rotate the door stop piece until it makes contact with the lower hinge at the desired stopping point.
- Retighten the screw firmly.
- Ensure the door stops in the desired location before resuming normal use.
How do I adjust the flipper mullion?
The flipper mullion is the vertical hinged seal on the left refrigerator door.
- Loosen the screw located on the flipper mullion hinge (upper part of the mullion).
- Adjust the flipper mullion height. For proper connection with the flipper mullion guide (on the cabinet frame), there should be a separation about the thickness of a coin (0.060 inches or 1.5 mm) between the guide and the flipper mullion itself.
- Retighten the screw.
How do I remove the refrigerator doors?
Prepare for Removal:
- Ensure the power cord is unplugged.
- Open the freezer drawer and remove the toe grille (refer to “Installation” section in the PDF).
- Remove food from door shelves and close doors.
- Remove the two screws (front and rear) from each hinge cover over the top door hinges.
- Lift the inside edge of the hinge cover and tilt it back to remove.
- Lightly trace around the door’s top hinges with a pencil for easier reinstallation.
- Disconnect the electrical harness (at the top hinge) by grasping both sides of the connector firmly, depressing the latch, and pulling apart.
- Remove the two screws securing the top hinge to the cabinet. NOTE: DO NOT remove the ground screw from the hinge itself.
- Lift the door straight up off the bottom hinge and set it aside in a secure place.
- Repeat for the other door.
- Locate the water tube connector behind the refrigerator (usually near the top hinge area).
- Press inward on the outer sleeve of the connector while simultaneously pushing the tube toward the connector.
- While continuing to hold the sleeve in, pull the tube away from the connector.
- Pull the water tube back out to the front of the unit. (You will pull approximately five feet of tube from the back).
- Unscrew the three lower hinge screws.
- Remove the hinge if necessary.
How do I remove and replace the freezer drawer?
Removing Freezer Drawer:
Replacing Freezer Drawer:
- Locate the 4 hex head drawer screws securing the drawer front to the drawer slides (two on each side, inside the drawer). DO NOT remove other screws.
- Remove these 4 screws.
- Lift the drawer up and out to remove.
Replacing Freezer Drawer:
- Lower the drawer back into place, aligning it with the slides.
- Replace the 4 hex head drawer screws and tighten them.
- Ensure the drawer slides smoothly.
How do I install the door handles?
CAUTION: Wear gloves and safety goggles. Use extreme CAUTION; the rounded end of the handles may be sharp.
Refrigerator Handles:
Refrigerator Handles:
- Remove handles from protective packaging.
- Position the fresh food handle end over the upper and lower pre-installed shoulder bolts (A) on the door. Ensure the holes for the set screws (B) face the opposite door.
- Hold the handle firmly against the door.
- Fasten the upper and lower Allen set screws (B) using the supplied Allen wrench. Tighten until the screw is slightly below the handle surface.
- Repeat steps 2-4 for the opposite refrigerator handle. Ensure set screw holes face the first door installed.
- Position the freezer handle end over the left and right pre-installed handle mounts on the freezer drawer. Ensure the holes for the set screws face down.
- Hold the handle firmly against the drawer.
- Loosely tighten the far right Allen set screw (B) until there is no gap between the handle and the drawer.
- Still holding the handle firmly, firmly tighten the far left Allen set screw (B).
- Return to the far right Allen set screw (B) and firmly tighten it.
What do I need before connecting the water supply line?
You Will Need:
- Basic Tools: Adjustable wrench, flat-blade screwdriver, Phillips™ screwdriver.
- Water Access: Household cold water line with water pressure between 30 and 100 psi.
- Tubing: ¼ inch (6.4 mm) OD, copper or stainless steel braided tubing. Measure distance from ice maker inlet valve (back of fridge) to cold water pipe, then add approx. 7 feet (2.1 m) for moving/cleaning.
- Shutoff Valve: Connects supply line to household system. DO NOT use a self-piercing type valve.
- Compression Nut & Ferrule (Sleeve): For connecting copper tubing to the ice maker inlet valve. (Braided lines usually have nut pre-installed).
- Disconnect refrigerator from power before connecting water.
- Use Copper or Stainless Steel braided tubing. ¼ inch plastic tubing is NOT recommended due to leak potential.
- DO NOT install tubing where temperatures fall below freezing.
- Chemicals from a malfunctioning water softener can damage the ice maker. Ensure softener is working correctly.
- Comply with all local plumbing codes.
- Do not reuse compression fittings or use thread seal tape.
How do I connect the water supply line to the ice maker inlet valve?
- Disconnect the refrigerator from the electrical power source.
- Place the end of the water supply line into a sink or bucket. Turn ON the household cold water supply and flush the line until the water runs clear. Turn OFF the water supply at the shutoff valve.
- Remove the plastic protective cap from the water valve inlet on the back of the refrigerator and discard the cap.
- If using copper tubing: Slide the brass compression nut, then the ferrule (sleeve), onto the end of the water supply line. Push the water supply line into the water valve inlet as far as it will go (approximately ¼ inch / 6.4 mm). Slide the ferrule (sleeve) into the valve inlet and finger-tighten the compression nut onto the valve. Tighten another half turn with a wrench. DO NOT overtighten. (See Figure 1 in PDF).
- If using braided flexible stainless steel tubing: The nut is already assembled on the tubing. Slide the nut onto the valve inlet and finger-tighten the nut onto the valve. Tighten another half turn with a wrench. DO NOT overtighten. (See Figure 2 in PDF).
- For copper tubing only: Use the provided steel clamp and screw to secure the water supply line to the rear panel of the refrigerator as shown in the diagrams.
- Coil the excess water supply line (approx. 2½ turns for copper tubing) behind the refrigerator. Arrange coils so they do not vibrate or wear against other surfaces. This loop allows the refrigerator to be moved out for cleaning.
- Turn ON the water supply at the shutoff valve. Check all connections carefully for leaks and tighten any connections that leak.
- Reconnect the refrigerator to the electrical power source.
How do I use the IQ-Touch™ controls?
Touch the corresponding icon on the control panel to activate options. A red indicator light illuminates above active features.
- quick ice: Touch to increase ice production temporarily.
- water filter: Press and hold for three seconds to reset the filter status light after changing the filter.
- C/F: Touch to toggle the temperature display between Fahrenheit and Celsius.
- default settings: Touch to reset all refrigerator settings (temperature, display, tones) to factory defaults.
- power on-off: Press and hold for three seconds to turn OFF the cooling system (including the ice maker) for cleaning. The display will read “OFF”. Press and hold again to turn the cooling system back ON. IMPORTANT: This does NOT disconnect power to the refrigerator; you must unplug the power cord to cut all power.
How do I set the cooling temperatures?
- Locate the refrigerator temp and freezer temp sections on the control panel.
- Press the “∧” (up) or “∨” (down) indicator next to the desired compartment (refrigerator or freezer) to adjust the temperature.
- The temperature display will blink with the first touch.
- Adjust to the desired setting.
- The display will time out after 10 seconds and return to the basic display, showing the set temperatures.
- Allow 24 hours for the temperature to stabilize after making adjustments.
What do the different alarms mean (Door Ajar, High Temp, Power Fail)?
- Door Ajar: If a door is left open for an extended period, an alarm sounds, and the ‘door ajar’ indicator displays. Close the door to turn off the alarm. The mute sounds icon (often part of the alert reset) may blink; press it to reset system alarms if needed.
- High Temp: If the temperature inside rises too high, the temperature display blinks and shows “HI”. After 20 minutes, an alarm sounds, and the ‘high temp’ indicator turns red. Press the mute sounds icon (alert reset) to acknowledge the alarm. The highest temperature reached will be displayed, and the refrigerator will resume normal operation. If not acknowledged, the alarm repeats when the door is first opened after the initial timeout.
- Power Fail: If a power failure occurs, the ‘power fail’ alert displays, and the temperature display blinks upon power restoration. Press the mute sounds icon (alert reset) to acknowledge the alarm. Other modes might be off until acknowledged. The refrigerator resumes normal operation after acknowledgement. The ‘high temp’ alarm might also illuminate until a safe operating temperature is reached.
What is Sabbath Mode and how do I use it?
Sabbath Mode disables portions of the refrigerator and its controls for observance of the weekly Sabbath and religious holidays within the Orthodox Jewish community.
- Activate/Deactivate: Press and hold both the freezer “∨” (down) and refrigerator “∧” (up) indicators simultaneously for five seconds. The display shows “Sb” when Sabbath Mode is active. Repeat to deactivate.
- Functionality in Sabbath Mode:
- Lights (interior) do not turn on when doors are opened.
- The control panel display and icons will not illuminate or function (except for the initial “Sb” display).
- The High Temp alarm remains active for health reasons (activates if temperature is unsafe for 20 min, silences after 10 min, but indicator stays lit until mode exit).
- The refrigerator resumes normal cooling function.
- The automatic ice maker continues to operate. It must be manually turned off (e.g., by lifting the wire signal arm in the freezer ice maker) to be compliant with Sabbath observances if required.
- Sabbath Mode remains active after a power failure recovery; it must be manually deactivated using the buttons.
- For further assistance and guidelines, visit http://www.star-k.org.
How does the freezer automatic ice maker work?
- After installation, the ice maker can produce ice within 24 hours. It may take about three days to fill the ice bin completely.
- When first starting the ice maker, allow the bucket to fill completely, then discard the first TWO FULL buckets of ice to clear air from the water line. It may take up to two days to completely fill the bucket on regular mode or 1.5 days on Quick Ice mode.
- The ice maker produces approximately four pounds of ice every 24 hours, depending on usage.
- IMPORTANT: The ice maker must be turned ON at the factory so it can work as soon as installed. If you do not connect a water supply, lift the ice maker’s wire signal arm to turn it OFF to prevent noise.
- Turning On/Off: Ice production is controlled by lifting (OFF) or lowering (ON) the wire signal arm.
- Normal Sounds: Motor running, ice dropping into bin, water valve opening/closing, running water.
- Quick Ice Function: Activates via the control panel to increase ice production temporarily. This function terminates automatically.
- CAUTION: If using softened water, ensure the softener is properly maintained, as chemicals can damage the ice maker.
How do I clean the freezer ice maker and bin?
Clean the ice maker and bin at regular intervals, especially before vacation or moving.
- Turn off the ice maker by lifting the wire signal arm.
- Remove the ice bin.
- Empty the ice bin. Carefully clean it with mild detergent. Do not use harsh or abrasive cleaners. Rinse well with clean water.
- Allow the ice bin to dry completely before replacing it in the freezer.
- Replace the ice bin. Turn the ice maker on by lowering the wire signal arm.
When should I remove and empty the ice bin?
Remove and empty the ice bin if:
- An extended power failure (one hour or longer) causes ice cubes in the bin to melt and freeze together. (Remove bin, shake to loosen or clean as needed).
- Ice cubes develop an odd flavor from being stored too long.
How do I adjust or move the refrigerator shelves?
CAUTION: Handle tempered glass shelves carefully to avoid personal injury or property damage. Shelves can break if nicked, scratched, or exposed to sudden temperature change. Let shelves stabilize to room temperature before cleaning. Do not wash in dishwasher.
To Change Shelf Position:
To Change Shelf Position:
- Remove all food from the shelf.
- Lift the front edge of the shelf up.
- Pull the shelf straight out.
- To replace, align the mounting bracket hooks (at the rear of the shelf) with the desired support slots in the back wall of the compartment.
- Insert the hooks into the slots.
- Lower the front of the shelf until it locks into position. Ensure it is secure.
How do I use the crisper humidity controls?
Crisper drawers have a sliding humidity control.
- Set to Higher Humidity (slide towards “hi” or graphic representing vegetables) for leafy vegetables to keep them crisp.
- Set to Lower Humidity (slide towards “lo” or graphic representing fruit) for fruits and vegetables with skins to prevent sogginess.
How do I remove the crisper drawer for cleaning?
- Pull the drawer out until it stops.
- Lift the front of the drawer slightly.
- Remove the drawer by pulling it out completely.
How do I adjust the position of the door bins?
Some door bins are adjustable, while others are fixed. For adjustable bins:
- Remove all food from the bin.
- Grip the bin firmly with both hands.
- Lift the bin straight upward until it clears the supports/tabs.
- Remove the bin.
- To replace, position the bin just above the desired support tabs.
- Lower the bin onto the supports until it locks securely in place.
How do I remove and reinstall the freezer baskets?
Upper Basket:
- Remove all items from the basket.
- Pull the basket out to its full extension.
- Lift the basket up and out of the drawer frame.
- To reinstall: Position the basket onto the retainer clips on the drawer sides, ensuring the front of the basket rests in the retainer clips on the stabilizer bar (front bar across the drawer). NOTE: If the basket isn’t resting on the stabilizer bar clips, the drawer won’t close properly.
- Locate the plastic basket clips in the rear corners of the basket, where it attaches to the drawer slides.
- Pull the tabs on the clips outward or as indicated to release them from the basket frame.
- Lift the basket up and remove it from the drawer slides.
- To reinstall: Place the freezer basket back inside the freezer drawer frame, aligning it with the slides.
- Slide the basket clips back into their slots, ensuring they lock the basket securely to the drawer slides.
How do I reposition the freezer basket dividers?
- Basket Divider (Upper or Lower): Lift up on the front edge of the divider and pull it out of its slots/retainers. Place it into the desired slots.
- Pivoting Divider (Some models, lower basket): Lift the divider up slightly and slide it along the basket to the desired location. This type of divider is not designed to be completely removed.
What are the best practices for storing food?
Fresh Food Storage:
- Keep the fresh food compartment between 34°F and 40°F (optimum 37°F).
- Avoid overcrowding shelves to allow air circulation for even cooling.
- Store fruits and vegetables in crisper drawers; use humidity controls appropriately. Wash items and remove excess water first.
- Wrap items with strong odors or high moisture content.
- Wrap raw meat and poultry securely to prevent leaks and contamination. Use the deli drawer for short-term storage (max 2 days); freeze for longer storage.
- Keep the freezer compartment at 0°F or lower.
- A freezer operates most efficiently when at least ⅔ full.
- Use aluminum foil, freezer wrap, freezer bags, or airtight containers to minimize dehydration and quality loss. Force air out and seal tightly.
- Wrap fresh meats and poultry properly before freezing.
- Do not refreeze meat that has completely thawed.
- Avoid adding large amounts of warm food at once. Use “quick freeze” before adding new groceries if needed. Leave space between packages for air circulation.
How can I save energy with my refrigerator?
Installation:
- Locate the refrigerator in the coolest part of the room, away from direct sunlight and heat sources (ducts, registers, range, oven, dishwasher). If near a heat source, consider adding insulation or cabinetry section.
- Ensure the refrigerator is level so doors close tightly.
- Refer to the “Controls” section for setting temperatures. Avoid setting temperatures colder than necessary.
- Avoid overcrowding or blocking cold air vents, which makes the refrigerator run longer.
- Cover foods and wipe containers dry before placing them inside to reduce moisture buildup.
- Organize the refrigerator to reduce door openings. Remove multiple items at once and close the door promptly.
- Do not place hot containers directly on cold shelves; allow food to cool first.
What are the normal operating sounds I might hear?
Your high-efficiency refrigerator may make unfamiliar sounds. These are usually normal:
- A Evaporator: Boiling or gurgling sound from refrigerant flow.
- B Evaporator Fan: Air being forced through the refrigerator.
- C Defrost Heater: Hissing or sizzling during defrost cycle as water drips on heater. Popping sound after defrosting.
- D Automatic Ice Maker: Ice cubes falling into bin. Sounds from ice maker fan, water valve activation, refrigerant flow.
- E Electronic Control & Defrost Control: Snapping or clicking when the cooling system turns on/off.
- F Condenser Fan: Air being forced through the condenser coils.
- G Compressor: High-pitched hum or pulsating sound from the variable speed compressor (runs continuously).
- H Water Valve: Buzzing sound each time it opens to fill the ice maker.
- I Drain Pan (Not Removable): Water dripping into the pan during the defrost cycle.
- J Condenser: Minimal sounds from forced air.
- M Motorized Damper: Light humming during operation.
How do I change the water filter?
The water filter is usually located at the top right side of the fresh food compartment. Change every six months or when prompted by the Water Filter Status light (typically after 200 gallons/757 liters).
- It’s not necessary to turn off the water supply, but be ready to wipe up small spills.
- Turn OFF the ice maker (lift freezer ice maker wire arm).
- Remove the old filter by pushing on the end/face of the filter cartridge.
- Slide the old filter cartridge straight out of the housing and discard it.
- Unpackage the new filter cartridge (Kenmorepure!™ Part #046-9999 recommended).
- Using the alignment guide on the new cartridge, slide it gently into the filter housing until it stops against the snap-in connector at the back.
- Push firmly until the cartridge snaps into place. You should hear a click as it engages.
- Turn ON the ice maker (lower freezer ice maker wire arm).
- Prime the water system by dispensing water for several minutes to flush air and carbon fines.
- Reset the Water Filter status light on the control panel: Press and hold the ‘water filter’ icon for three seconds until the indicator light changes (e.g., from Red to Green).
What are the general cleaning guidelines?
- Keep the refrigerator clean to maintain appearance and prevent odor buildup.
- Wipe up spills immediately. Clean freezer and fresh food compartments at least twice a year.
- Do NOT use: Abrasive cleaners (window sprays, scouring cleansers, flammable fluids, cleaning waxes, concentrated detergents, bleaches, petroleum-based cleansers) on plastic parts, interior doors, gaskets, or liners. Do not use paper towels, scouring pads, or other abrasive materials.
- Never use metallic scouring pads, brushes, abrasive cleaners, or strong alkaline solutions on any surface.
- Never use CHLORIDE or cleaners with bleach to clean stainless steel.
- Do not wash removable parts (shelves, bins) in a dishwasher.
- Safety: Always unplug the electrical power cord before cleaning. If controls are set to turn off cooling, power to lights etc. remains until unplugged.
- Remove adhesive labels by hand; avoid sharp instruments that can scratch surfaces.
- Do not remove the serial plate (voids warranty).
- When moving the refrigerator: Raise anti-tip brackets. Pull straight out; shifting side-to-side can damage flooring. Be careful not to move beyond plumbing connections.
- CAUTION: Damp objects stick to cold metal surfaces. Do not touch refrigerated surfaces with wet or damp hands.
- IMPORTANT: If storing or moving in freezing temperatures, completely drain the water supply system to prevent leaks later. Contact a service representative for this.
How should I clean specific parts of the refrigerator?
| Part | Cleaning Agents | Tips and Precautions |
|---|---|---|
| Interior & Door Liners |
|
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| Door Gaskets |
|
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| Drawers & Bins |
|
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| Glass Shelves |
|
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| Toe Grille |
|
|
| Exterior & Handles (Standard Finish) |
|
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| Exterior & Handles (Stainless Steel Models Only) |
|
|
What should I do when going on vacation or moving?
Short Vacations (3 weeks or less):
- Leave refrigerator operating.
- Use up perishable items.
- Turn automatic ice maker off and empty ice bucket, even if gone only a few days.
- Remove all food and ice.
- Turn the cooling system OFF (use “power on-off” control) and disconnect power cord.
- Turn water supply valve to the closed position.
- Clean interior thoroughly.
- Leave both doors open to prevent odors and mold. Block doors open if necessary.
- Remove all food and ice.
- If using a handcart, load from the side.
- Adjust rollers all the way up (raise fridge) to protect them during sliding/moving.
- Pad the cabinet to avoid scratching the surface.
- Ensure water supply system is drained if moving in freezing temperatures (contact service rep).
How do I replace the LED lights? (select models)
Fresh food compartments may have LED lights. Always use Sears Parts Direct for replacement LEDs. Order new LEDs through your dealer.
- Unplug the refrigerator’s power cord.
- Remove the light cover/lens by pushing it up and then out.
- Hold the LED cover/board with one hand.
- Press the connector latch and pull the connector apart with the other hand.
- Connect the new LED light.
- Snap the LED light/cover back into place, ensuring the light faces inward toward the fresh food compartment.
How do I replace the incandescent light bulbs? (select models)
Both freezer and fresh food compartments may have incandescent bulbs. Some lights have covers that need removal first. Always use bulbs designed for appliance lighting (typically 40 watts).
CAUTION: Wear gloves when replacing incandescent bulbs to avoid getting cut.
CAUTION: Wear gloves when replacing incandescent bulbs to avoid getting cut.
- Unplug the refrigerator’s power cord.
- Wear protective gloves.
- Remove the light cover, if necessary (may snap or slide off).
- Unscrew the old bulb.
- Replace with a new appliance bulb of the same type and wattage (normally 40 watts).
- Replace the light cover, if necessary.
- Plug in the refrigerator’s power cord.
Troubleshooting: Ice maker is not making any ice. What could be the cause?
- Ice maker is turned off: Turn on the ice maker. For freezer ice maker, lower the wire signal arm. For fresh food ice maker, press and hold the “Ice Off” button for three seconds until the indicator light turns off.
- Refrigerator not connected to water line or valve is closed: Connect the unit to the household water supply and ensure the water valve is fully open.
- Water supply line is kinked: Ensure the supply line does not kink when the refrigerator is pushed into place. Straighten any kinks.
- Water filter not seated properly: Remove and re-install the water filter. Push firmly until you hear it lock solidly into position.
- Water filter clogged: If water dispenses slowly or not at all, or if the filter is 6 months old or older, replace the filter.
- Freezer ice maker wire signal arm blocked: Move any item or frozen ice cubes blocking the signal arm from being in the down (ON) position.
Troubleshooting: Ice maker is not making enough ice. Why?
- Normal production rate: Each ice maker (fresh food and freezer) produces approximately 2.5 pounds of ice every 24 hours, depending on usage conditions.
- Water filter clogged: If water dispenses slower than normal, or the filter is 6 months old or older, replace it.
- Water supply line kinked: Ensure the supply line isn’t kinked behind the refrigerator.
- Saddle valve clogged/restricted (if used): Turn off household water valve. Remove the saddle valve. Ensure it’s not a self-piercing type. Clean the valve opening. Replace valve if necessary. (Self-piercing valves are not recommended).
- Heavy traffic/door openings: Frequent or lengthy door openings increase demand. Try to minimize.
- Freezer control set too warm: Set the freezer control to a colder setting. Allow 24 hours for temperature to stabilize. Consider using the “Fast Freeze” / “Quick Ice” function temporarily.
Troubleshooting: Freezer ice maker won’t stop making ice (select models). What’s wrong?
- Ice maker wire signal arm held down: An item/package in the freezer may have fallen against the ice maker, holding the signal arm down (in the ON position). Move any item blocking the signal arm from moving to the OFF (upward) position.
Troubleshooting: Ice cubes are freezing together. Why is this happening?
- Infrequent use or power interruption: Ice is not being used often enough, or a power interruption caused melting and refreezing. Remove the ice container, discard the clumped ice, and let the ice maker produce a fresh supply. Use ice at least twice weekly to keep cubes separated.
- Hollow ice cubes / Insufficient water fill: Ice cubes may be hollow (shells of ice with water inside) which break open, leak water onto existing ice, causing freezing together. This usually means the ice maker isn’t getting enough water per cycle. This is often due to a clogged water filter or restricted water supply (kinked line, partially closed valve, clogged saddle valve). Replace the filter first. If the problem persists, check the water supply line and valves for restrictions.
Troubleshooting: Refrigerator door(s) will not close. What should I check?
- Door closed too hard: Closing one door too hard might cause the other door to pop open slightly due to air pressure. Close doors gently.
- Refrigerator not level: If the unit rocks or is not level, doors may not close properly. Ensure the floor is level and solid. Level the refrigerator using the front rollers, ensuring a slight tilt from front to back. Contact a carpenter if the floor is sagging or sloping.
- Obstruction: Ensure food packages or containers inside are not blocking the door from closing completely.
- Refrigerator touching wall/cabinet: Ensure there is proper clearance around the unit.
Troubleshooting: Drawers are difficult to move. What can I do?
- Food obstruction: Food items may be touching the shelf above the drawer, preventing smooth movement. Remove or rearrange items.
- Drawer not installed properly: Ensure the drawer is correctly seated on its track/rollers.
- Dirty tracks/rollers: Clean the drawer, rollers, and tracks according to the Care & Cleaning section.
Troubleshooting: Compressor does not run. What should I check?
- Freezer control set to “OFF” or “0”: Set the freezer control to a numerical temperature setting.
- Refrigerator in defrost cycle: This is normal for a fully automatic defrost refrigerator. The cycle occurs periodically and lasts about 30 minutes. Wait for the cycle to complete.
- Power plug disconnected: Ensure the plug is tightly pushed into the wall outlet.
- House fuse blown or circuit breaker tripped: Check/replace the fuse with a 15 amp time-delay fuse. Reset the circuit breaker.
- Power outage: Check house lights. Call the local electric company if there is a power outage.
Troubleshooting: Refrigerator runs too much or too long. Why?
- Warm environment: Room temperature is hot, or outside weather is hot. It’s normal for the refrigerator to work longer under these conditions.
- Frequent/long door openings: Warm air entering causes the unit to run more. Open doors less often and for shorter durations.
- Door slightly open: Ensure the fresh food or freezer door is completely closed and not blocked by food items or containers. Check that the unit is level.
- Freezer control set too cold: If the freezer is set much colder than needed, it will run longer. Adjust to a slightly warmer setting and allow 24 hours to stabilize.
- Door gasket issues: The fresh food or freezer gasket may be dirty, worn, cracked, or poorly fitted. Clean or replace the gasket. Leaks in the door seal cause the refrigerator to run longer.
- Dirty condenser coils: Clean the condenser coils (usually requires removing the toe grille and using a vacuum/brush). Refer to Care & Cleaning section.
- Large amount of warm food added:** This will temporarily increase run time.
Troubleshooting: Digital temperature displays are flashing. What does this mean?
- Performance problem detected: The electronic control system has detected a performance issue. Call your Sears Home Service representative. They can interpret any messages or number codes flashing on the digital displays.
Troubleshooting: Moisture collects on the inside refrigerator walls. Why?
- Hot and humid weather: Increases the rate of frost buildup and internal sweating. This is normal during humid periods.
- Door slightly open: Allows warm, moist air to enter. Ensure doors are closing completely. Check for obstructions or leveling issues.
Troubleshooting: Water collects on the bottom side of the drawer cover. Is this normal?
- Normal moisture from vegetables: Vegetables contain and release moisture. It is not unusual to have some moisture collect on the underside of the cover above the crisper drawers.
- Humidity control setting: If excessive, try moving the humidity control (on applicable models) to a lower setting.
Troubleshooting: Water collects in the bottom of the drawer. What causes this?
- Moisture from washed produce: Washed vegetables and fruits draining while in the drawer can cause water collection. Dry items before putting them in the drawer. Some water collecting in the bottom of the drawer is considered normal.
Troubleshooting: Moisture collects on the outside of the refrigerator or between doors. Why?
- Humid weather: This is normal in humid weather. The moisture should disappear when the humidity level drops.
- Door slightly open: Cold air escaping from inside meets warm, moist outside air, causing condensation. Ensure doors are closing completely. Check for obstructions or leveling issues.
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