Kenmore Refrigerator Instruction Manual
Model: Kenmore Refrigerator
Brand: Sears Kenmore
For Future Use
Please record the model number, serial number, and date of purchase in the spaces provided. Model and serial numbers are located on the left wall of the refrigerator section.
Model: [Space for Model Number]
Serial Number: [Space for Serial Number]
Date Purchased: [Space for Date Purchased]
START/ADJUST CONTROLS
LOCATE
Your refrigerator requires specific air space for proper operation: one inch at the rear, three inches above, and one half inch on each side. Additional space may be needed in corners for door clearance. The refrigerator is designed for room temperatures of 60°F (16°C) or warmer. Below this temperature, the compressor may not operate sufficiently to maintain freezer temperatures of 0°F to +5°F (-18°C to -15°C).
ELECTRICAL GROUNDING
Your refrigerator must be grounded. Use a 120 Volt, 60 Hz outlet. Do not use an extension cord or adapter plug. Use a 3-prong plug with a 3-prong grounded wall outlet. This is required to comply with the National Electrical Code and local codes. Failure to follow this grounding method leaves you unprotected against severe or lethal shock in case of an electrical short circuit.
[Diagram: 3-prong ground plug connected to a 3-prong grounding type wall receptacle via a power supply cord.]
INSTALL
Adjusting Levelers: Tip the cabinet back slightly and raise or lower the screw-type levelers as needed.
[Diagram: Illustrating tipping the cabinet and adjusting levelers.]
Adjusting Rollers: Open the refrigerator door. Turn the bolts with an adjustable wrench until the refrigerator is level and stable. If your appliance did not come with rollers, they can be purchased from your dealer. Rollers make moving the refrigerator for cleaning easier.
START
Set the refrigerator cold control to 5 and the freezer control to 3.
[Diagram: Refrigerator and Freezer Temperature Controls, showing numbered settings from 1 (Coldest) to 5 (Cold).]
Upon initial startup, the compressor may run for up to 24 hours to reach full cooling. Higher settings do not cool faster. After 24 hours, check temperatures. Milk and fresh vegetables should not freeze. Ice cream should be firm but scoopable; if it's hard to serve, the freezer is too cold.
ADJUST
The controls are adjustable to suit your climate and household needs. Each control works independently, with 1 being the warmest setting.
- If a section is not cold enough, turn its control to a higher number.
- If a section is too cold, turn its control to a lower number.
Wait 24 hours after adjusting before making further changes. In summer or with frequent door openings, you may need to set the freezer control to a lower number to direct more cold air to the refrigerator section.
Do not turn the refrigerator cold control off unless both sections are completely empty, as this shuts off all refrigeration.
FOOD STORAGE TIMES AND TIPS
Use these times as a guide; actual storage times may vary based on food quality.
FOR THE REFRIGERATOR SECTION
Moving air cools food but can carry odors and dry it out. Wrap food or place it in a freezer container/bag before refrigerating, unless using storage drawers. Wrap all food unless it's going into storage drawers.
- Bread: Use within 3 days. Refrigeration slows mold but can make bread stale.
- Dairy Products: Keep cartons closed. Milk/cream/cottage cheese: use within 5 days. Hard cheese: up to 1 month (wrap tightly). Soft cheese: up to 2 weeks. Unwrapped butter for table use: use within 2 days. Wrapped butter: about 2 weeks.
- Eggs: Store unwashed. Use within 2 weeks.
- Fish: Clean and wrap tightly. Freeze unless using the same day.
- Fruits: Wash, dry, and store in crisper/humidrawer. Store fruits with strong aromas (apples, melons) in plastic bags. Berries: up to 3 days in a shallow, covered bowl (unwashed).
- Leftovers: Cool before storing. Wrap well. Use within 2 days or freeze.
- Meat: Wrap fresh meats loosely (end seal). Wrap smoked meats tightly. Use foil or plastic wrap. Store in meat drawer or lower shelf.
Refrigerator Storage Times Summary:
Item | Storage Time |
---|---|
Bacon and other Smoked Meats | No longer than 14 days |
Cold Cuts (Date on Package) | 3 days |
Ground Meat | 1-2 days |
Liver and other Organ Meats | 1-2 days |
Steaks and Roasts (Fresh) | 2-3 days |
Poultry | Use within 2 days (wrap giblets separately) |
Vegetables | Store in crisper/humidrawer or unwashed in plastic wrap. |
FOR THE FREEZER
Food for the freezer requires special packaging; supermarket wrappings are often insufficient. Repackage or use a second wrapping for storage longer than a week or two. Airtight containers are essential, as contact with air shortens food life. Rewrap pre-packaged foods like bread or poultry. Use heavy-duty aluminum foil, freezer paper, tape, or special freezer containers with tight lids.
Freeze food only when fresh. Do not refreeze. Label and date each package, using older items first. Leave space at the front of the freezer for the door to close completely.
Freezer Storage Times Summary:
Item | Storage Time |
---|---|
Bread | 6 months |
Butter, Margarine | 6-9 months |
Cooked Dishes | 3 months |
Fish (Packaged Frozen) | 3 months |
Fruits | 12 months |
Ice Cream | 1 month |
Juice Concentrate | 6 months |
Meats: Bacon/Smoked | 1 month |
Meats: Beef or Lamb | 5-6 months |
Meats: Ground Meat | 2-3 months |
Meats: Liver/Variety Meats | 3-4 months |
Meats: Pork or Veal | 8-9 months |
Poultry | 4-6 months |
Poultry Giblets | 3 months |
Vegetables | 12 months |
ENERGY SAVING TIPS
- Close doors promptly after use to prevent cold air escape.
- Reduce door openings to lessen compressor run time.
- Keep rear coils clean; dusty coils make the motor work harder. Clean coils at least every three months.
- Adjust temperature controls to a warmer setting if possible. Check freezer with ice cream (should be scoopable) and refrigerator with milk (should not freeze).
- Do not place hot foods in the refrigerator.
- Do not block inside air vents, as this disrupts airflow and cooling.
- Ensure the refrigerator is level and stable for tight door seals.
- Keep the refrigerator away from heat sources like stoves; a cool, dry location is best.
USE AND CARE INFORMATION
AUTOMATIC ICE MAKER OR SPACE AVAILABLE FOR ONE
An automatic ice maker provides a continuous supply of ice. A water line connection is required. If your refrigerator did not come with one, it can be added, or a copper tubing kit (978567) can be purchased. This model uses ice maker 46-8085; a freezer shelf (176582) is required for models with an ice maker. Installation can be done by the user or a service center. A taste and odor filter (42-3474) is recommended.
To start the ice maker, lower the signal arm. To stop it, raise the signal arm.
[Diagram: Illustrating the ice maker signal arm in lowered (start) and raised (stop) positions.]
Note: After connecting the water line, it may take up to 24 hours for ice production. Initial ice may have discoloration or off-flavor due to new plumbing; discard the first few batches. It can take up to a week for the ice bucket to fill. The bucket refills as ice is used. Shake the bucket daily to prevent sticking. Ice can develop an off-flavor or shrink if stored too long; empty and wash the bucket monthly.
For parties, empty the bucket into a container or bag and store in the freezer. If water overflows, ensure the refrigerator is level. Frequent or prolonged door openings reduce ice making.
AIR OUTLET
Do not block the air outlet located behind the cold control in the refrigerator. This outlet cools the entire unit. Blocking it can cause beverages and food to freeze.
POWER MISER SWITCH
If moisture appears on the outside, switch to "REDUCES EXTERIOR MOISTURE." Return to "SAVES ENERGY" when humidity is low.
SHELVES
Refrigerator shelves are adjustable. Before adjusting, remove all food.
- Cantilevered Shelves: Lift the back of the shelf and pull forward. Reinsert by aligning rear hooks into slots, then lower and lock.
- Sliding Shelves: Pull forward to the stop position, lift the front edge, and pull out. Replace by reversing the process.
FOOD STORAGE
Door Storage: Door shelves are convenient for bottles and cans. The dairy compartment is ideal for short-term butter/cheese storage. Some models have door areas for short-term egg storage; for longer periods, store eggs in their carton on a shelf. Freezer door shelves are for juice cans and frozen packages.
Crispers: Designed for fresh produce. Wash most vegetables in clear water and drain before placing them in the crisper. Remaining water helps maintain crispness.
CLEAN YOUR REFRIGERATOR THOROUGHLY TWICE A YEAR
WARNING: Always unplug the power cord before cleaning near electrical parts (bulbs, switches, controls). Wring out sponges/cloths to be barely damp to prevent electric shock.
INSIDE
- Remove food. Pack frozen food in a chest or wrap in newspaper to keep it frozen.
- Remove and wash removable parts with mild detergent, rinse, and dry.
- Wash the interior with a solution of two tablespoons of baking soda in one quart of warm water. Mild soap or detergent can be used if necessary. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
CAUTION:
- Do not use flammable or toxic cleaning liquids.
- Do not use strong detergents, scouring powder, or pads that may scratch plastic.
- Do not wash parts in a dishwasher unless marked "Dishwasher Safe."
- Wash magnetic door gaskets with mild detergent and warm water. Rinse and dry.
- Replace all parts and plug the power cord back into the wall outlet.
OUTSIDE
- Use a mild detergent or soap solution on the cabinet exterior. Rinse and dry. Do not use scouring powder or pads.
- In humid climates, automotive wax can protect the exterior. Avoid getting wax on door gaskets or the interior liner, as it can cause damage.
- Vacuum the coils located at the rear of the refrigerator. Do not bend or twist the tubes. Keep coils clean.
- Clean the defrost water tray, located on top of the compressor at the rear bottom. Ensure the water tube is positioned over the tray.
- After moving the refrigerator, check that doors seal tightly. If not, level the refrigerator (see INSTALL, page 2).
VACATION
When away for an extended period, empty and unplug the refrigerator. Clean the interior and leave doors slightly ajar to allow air circulation and prevent odors.
MOVING
Before moving, remove all food (pack frozen items with dry ice). Unplug the refrigerator and secure the power cord to the back. Remove and pack all removable shelves and drawers. Clean and dry the interior. Tape doors, drawers, and shelves securely. Always move the Kenmore refrigerator in an upright position; never on its back or side.
POWER FAILURE
Keep refrigerator doors closed during a power outage. If power is off for more than five hours, add dry ice to the freezer or transfer food to a food locker.
WARNING: Do not use the refrigerator near flammable liquids like gasoline, nor for storing them.
REVERSING DOOR SWING
Your refrigerator features convertible hinges, allowing doors to be switched to the opposite side. An envelope with extra hole plugs may be included.
Tools Required: #2 Phillips screwdriver, putty knife, adjustable wrench.
Turn the Cold Control to OFF. Remove food, juices, and loose items from the doors before proceeding.
Step 1: Freezer Door Hinge
With the freezer door closed, remove the two screws attaching the upper hinge to the cabinet. Lift the hinge off. Save all screws, the hinge, shim, and washer for reinstallation.
[Diagram: Showing removal of screws from the upper hinge of the freezer door.]
Step 2: Freezer Door Removal
Open the freezer door and lift it off the center hinge.
[Diagram: Showing the freezer door being lifted off the center hinge.]
Step 3: Refrigerator Door Hinge
With the refrigerator door closed, remove the center hinge pin. Note the arrangement of washers on the pin for reassembly. Open the lower door and lift it off the lower hinge. Remove two screws from the center hinge. Save the hinge, pin, screws, spacer (if applicable), and washers.
[Diagram: Showing removal of the center hinge pin and screws for the refrigerator door.]
Step 4: Lower Hinge Removal
Remove the hinge pin (if applicable), hinge, and the two screws attaching the lower hinge. Save the hinge pin and shim (if applicable), and washer for reassembly.
[Diagram: Showing removal of the lower hinge.]
Step 5: Center Hinge Relocation
Remove the screws from the center hinge holes and reinstall them in the opposite set of holes.
[Diagram: Showing screws being moved to opposite holes for the center hinge.]
Step 6: Door Stop and Plug Relocation
Remove the door stop and small plug (if applicable) from the bottom of the lower door and reinstall them on the opposite side.
[Diagram: Showing door stop and plug being moved to the opposite side of the lower door.]
Step 7: Handle Relocation (Type 1)
For models with handles mounted as shown, remove and save handle screws. Remove screws and hole plugs from the corresponding holes on the opposite side of the doors. Install the handle originally on the upper door onto the opposite side of the lower door. Install the handle from the lower door onto the opposite side of the upper door. Seal the original handle holes with the saved screws and plugs.
[Diagram: Illustrating handle removal and transfer between doors.]
Step 8: Handle Relocation (Type 2)
For models with handles mounted on the sides of the doors, remove and save handle screws. Remove hole plugs from corresponding holes on the opposite side of the doors. Install the handle on the opposite side. Seal the original handle screw holes with the plugs you removed.
[Diagram: Illustrating handle removal and transfer for side-mounted handles.]
Step 9: Lower Hinge Reassembly
Using a putty knife, remove the black plastic plug from the front of the base and reinstall it in the opposite set of lower hinge holes. Assemble the lower hinge to the cabinet, ensuring the shim (if applicable) is placed between the hinge and cabinet. Install the hinge pin (if applicable) into the opposite hinge hole from which it was removed. Place the washer onto the lower hinge pin. Tighten hinge screws until the hinge touches the cabinet, but do not overtighten. Hinges should remain slightly loose to allow door alignment.
[Diagram: Showing lower hinge reassembly with plug, shim, pin, and washer.]
Step 10: Center Hinge Attachment
Attach the center hinge with the washer and spacer (if applicable) to the cabinet as shown. Do not tighten yet.
[Diagram: Showing center hinge attachment.]
Step 11: Lower Door Installation
Install the lower door onto the lower hinge pin. Align the door with the cabinet edge; the gasket magnet will hold it in place. Using the original washer on the bottom pin of the center hinge, install the pin into the top of the lower door.
[Diagram: Showing lower door installation on hinge pin.]
Step 12: Upper Door Stop and Plug Relocation
Remove the door stop and small plug (if applicable) from the bottom of the upper door and reinstall them on the opposite side.
[Diagram: Showing door stop and plug relocation on the upper door.]
Step 13: Top Bearing Plug Relocation
Remove the plug from the top hinge bearing of the upper door and reinstall it on the opposite side.
[Diagram: Showing plug removal from top hinge bearing.]
Step 14: Top Hinge Relocation
Remove screws (or plugs) from the hinge holes in the top of the cabinet and reinstall them in the opposite set of holes.
[Diagram: Showing screws/plugs being moved to opposite holes in the top cabinet hinge area.]
Step 15: Upper Door Placement
Place the washer onto the center hinge pin. Position the upper door onto the center hinge.
[Diagram: Showing washer placement and upper door positioning on the center hinge.]
Step 16: Upper Hinge Assembly and Alignment
Assemble the upper hinge to the top of the cabinet and door, using the opposite set of holes. Do not tighten screws yet. Align the upper door parallel to the lower door. Adjust the door so the gasket seals without binding. Tighten all upper and lower hinge screws.
Door Seal Check: Close the door on a strip of paper (approx. 1 inch wide). A slight drag should be felt when pulling the paper out. Repeat this check on all four sides of the door. If the door does not seal properly, readjust the upper or lower hinge as needed.
If the door still does not seal, contact your dealer or service agency. Service for door seals after reversing doors is not covered by warranty. Further adjustment may be needed after loading door shelves.
[Diagram: Showing door seal check with paper strip.]
Step 17: Final Steps
Return food, juices, and other items to the doors. Turn the refrigerator/freezer controls back on.
NORMAL OPERATING SOUNDS
Your refrigerator may produce various sounds during normal operation:
- Evaporator Fan: Air being forced through the cabinet.
- Evaporator: Refrigerant flow may create boiling or gurgling sounds.
- Ice Maker: Occasional sounds of ice cubes dropping into the bucket.
- Cold Control & Defrost Timer: May produce snapping sounds when turning the unit on/off. The timer may sound like an electric clock.
- Drain Pan: Water running into the drain pan during defrost cycles.
- Defrost Heater: Water dripping onto the heater during defrost can cause hissing or sizzling. A popping sound may occur after defrosting.
- Water Valve: A buzzing sound and running water may be heard when the ice maker fills with water.
- Motor Compressor: Modern compressors may have a high-pitch hum or pulsating sound.
- Insulation: Rigid foam insulation is energy efficient but can amplify sounds.
[Diagram: Illustrating internal components and their associated sounds.]
BEFORE CALLING FOR SERVICE
WARNING: ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD
Unplug the refrigerator before servicing or changing light bulbs. You may save a service call by reviewing these common issues:
MY REFRIGERATOR SOUNDS NOISY
- New refrigerators sound different due to new features.
- Improved insulation may absorb less sound.
- High-efficiency compressors run faster and produce different sounds.
- Ensure the refrigerator is level, not touching the wall, and flat on the floor.
- Check that food containers or bottles inside are not touching or rattling.
MY NEW REFRIGERATOR RUNS MORE THAN MY OLD ONE
- It may be maintaining a lower temperature.
- High-efficiency compressors are designed to run more but use less energy.
MY REFRIGERATOR IS TOO WARM
- Adjust controls to a colder setting.
- Review the "ADJUST" section on page 2.
MY REFRIGERATOR HAS STOPPED RUNNING AND THE LIGHT IS NOT ON
- Check the light bulb.
- Verify the cold control is set properly (see page 2).
- Ensure the power cord is securely plugged into the wall outlet. Test the outlet with another appliance.
- Check the fuse box for a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker.
MY CRISPERS DON'T SLIDE EASILY ANYMORE
- Ensure the slides are clean.
- Check for items obstructing the crisper's movement.
MOISTURE COLLECTS ON THE OUTSIDE OF MY REFRIGERATOR
- Some exterior moisture is normal in high humidity.
- Ensure doors seal tightly and check for items inside preventing closure. Refer to leveling instructions (page 2).
- Set the Power Miser switch to "Reduces Exterior Moisture."
MOISTURE COLLECTS ON THE INSIDE OF MY REFRIGERATOR
- Frequent door openings in humid weather can cause condensation.
- Uncovered food can contribute to moisture (see Food Storage Times and Tips).
- Check if items inside are preventing the door from closing properly.
- Crispers may collect moisture from washed produce; clean and dry them as needed.
NOTE: Moisture originates from stored food or ambient air, not from the refrigerator itself.
THERE IS AN ODOR IN MY REFRIGERATOR
- Spilled foods cause odors. Clean both sections thoroughly twice a year, or more often if needed.
- Always cover foods. Ensure strong-flavored items like onions and garlic are tightly covered.
- Check for spilled foods on containers (e.g., salad dressings, catsup).
ICE HAS AN ODD FLAVOR
- Ice absorbs odors.
- Ensure the refrigerator is clean and all foods are covered.
- Make a fresh supply of ice monthly.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
FULL ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON REFRIGERATOR
For one year from the purchase date, Sears will repair or replace, free of charge, any defective material or workmanship in this refrigerator, provided it is operated and maintained according to the instructions.
FULL FIVE YEAR WARRANTY ON SEALED REFRIGERATION SYSTEM
For five years from the purchase date, Sears will repair, free of charge, the sealed system (refrigerant, tubing, compressor motor) if defective in material or workmanship, provided the refrigerator is operated and maintained according to instructions.
These warranties apply only to refrigerators used for private household food storage within the United States. Warranty service is available by contacting the nearest Sears Service Center/Department in the United States.
This warranty grants specific legal rights, and you may have other rights that vary by state.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., D-731CR-W, Sears Tower, Chicago, IL 60684
WE SERVICE WHAT WE SELL
Kenmore refrigerators are backed by Sears' professional technicians, parts, and equipment. Consider a Sears Maintenance Agreement for additional protection against unexpected repair bills.
MODEL NUMBER LOCATION
For service, provide the complete model number, found on a plate located on the left wall of the refrigerator section.
To order parts, refer to the Repair Parts List that came with your refrigerator.
P/N 201296