Kenmore Refrigerator: not functioning

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Kenmore refrigerator not functioning? You may notice it completely off, with no compressor sound, inactive lights, and unresponsive controls. This issue can stem from several causes, including power supply problems, a malfunctioning compressor, or issues with the electronic control board. Let’s explore potential fixes to get your fridge running again.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Kenmore refrigerators can sometimes be reset by power cycling to clear electronic glitches, but persistent failure often indicates compressor or control board issues.

Possible Causes

Power supply or electrical connection issue

How to Identify: Check if interior light is off, no sounds from compressor or fans, verify breaker not tripped and cord firmly in outlet

Part: Power cord / outlet / breaker

Compressor not running due to internal failure or locked compressor

How to Identify: No humming or clicking from compressor area; if compressor is cool and silent, internal failure or locked compressor possible

Part: Compressor / start relay / overload protector

Electronic control board failure (Kenmore specific)

How to Identify: No signs of power to compressor even when power and settings are correct; diagnostic codes or display irregularities (if present

Part: Electronic control board

Evaporator or internal component fault

How to Identify: Frost build-up or frozen evaporator coil combined with no running compressor could indicate internal fault

Part: Evaporator / defrost system

DIY Solutions

Check power connection and reset breaker

Easy 5-10 minutes
  1. Ensure the refrigerator plug is fully seated in a working outlet.
  2. Check home circuit breaker panel for any tripped breaker and reset if necessary.
  3. Try a different known working outlet to confirm power supply.
  4. Observe interior light and listen for compressor or fan noises to confirm power restored.
⚠️ Safety First: Do not use extension cords or power strips which can cause power issues.

Compressor reset procedure (if recommended for Kenmore)

Moderate 10-20 minutes
  1. Unplug the refrigerator from the power outlet.
  2. Wait for about 10-15 minutes to allow internal electronics and compressor to reset.
  3. Plug the refrigerator back in and observe if compressor starts up.
  4. Check temperature control settings and wait a short period for compressor to respond.
  5. If compressor still does not run, further diagnosis needed.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure food safety: extended unplugging can raise internal temperature; remove perishable items if long delay anticipated.

Professional Repairs

Replace compressor or repair sealed system

Estimated Cost: $200 - $600+

Replace electronic control board

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400+

When to Call a Professional

Refrigerator still does not power on or run after checking power and performing reset.
Compressor remains silent with no attempt to start.
Electronic control board/fault codes observed or interior lights and display unresponsive.

Preventive Maintenance

  • Ensure good ventilation around refrigerator: Overheating and stress on compressor
    Frequency: monthly
  • Check power cord condition and secure connection: Intermittent power issues
    Frequency: monthly
  • Clean condenser coils: Compressor overheating/failure
    Frequency: bi-annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Refrigerator not functioning?
Common causes include power supply issues, a faulty compressor, or a failed electronic control board.
How do I fix Kenmore Refrigerator not functioning myself?
Check the power connection, reset the breaker, or try the compressor reset procedure.
How much does it cost to fix not functioning?
Professional repairs can range from $200 to $600+ for compressor work and $150 to $400+ for control board replacement.
When should I call a technician for not functioning?
If DIY fixes don't work or if the issue involves complex components, it's best to consult a professional.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Unplug the 4-5 wire plug at the rear end of the ice maker to deactivate it.

    Success rate: 33.0%
Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. How do I disconnect the ice maker on Kenmore refrigerator

Community Discussions

The little swing arm on the ice maker is broken, won’t click into place in the off position.

Unplug the 4-5 wire plug at the rear end of the ice maker to deactivate it.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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