Kenmore Refrigerator: not starting

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Kenmore refrigerator not starting? If you've plugged it in but hear no sounds from the compressor or fans, and there's no cooling, you're likely facing a common issue. This guide addresses potential causes and DIY solutions to help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Many Kenmore refrigerators use Whirlpool-based components; compressor start relay failure is commonly reported.

Possible Causes

Failed compressor start relay or overload module

How to Identify: Often accompanied by a click when power applied but no compressor run; fridge not starting though power present. Common part failure on Kenmore/Whirlpool-based units.

Part: Compressor start relay / overload

Faulty control board or electronic control

How to Identify: No response from fridge when powered although power present, no click from relay, unresponsive controls.

Part: Main control board / electronic control board

Temperature control thermostat stuck or failed

How to Identify: Incorrect thermostat signal prevents compressor start; unit appears powered but doesn’t run fans/compressor.

Part: Temperature control thermostat

Compressor failure

How to Identify: No compressor sound, possible humming that stops, fridge never starts cooling; start relay repeatedly trips.

Part: Compressor

DIY Solutions

Test/Replace Start Relay and Overload

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: multimeter, nut drivers, screwdrivers
  1. Unplug fridge and access rear compressor area.
  2. Remove start relay/overload from compressor and test with multimeter or replace with new unit.
  3. If tested bad, install replacement part and power on to check if compressor starts.
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug fridge before servicing.

Reset Power and Temperature Controls

Easy 10 minutes
Tools Needed: none
  1. Unplug fridge for 5–10 minutes to reset control board and internal protections.
  2. Ensure temperature control is set to recommended mid range.
  3. Plug fridge back in and observe any startup behavior.
⚠️ Safety First: Only basic power cycling; no internal disassembly.

Professional Repairs

Control Board Replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $300

Compressor Replacement or Repair

Estimated Cost: $300 - $600+

When to Call a Professional

Unit shows no power or startup after DIY relay and reset attempts
Burning smell, smoke, tripped breakers when attempting startup
Internal diagnostics indicate control board fault

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean condenser coils: Overload on compressor start system
    Frequency: annually
  • Ensure adequate ventilation behind unit: Overheating protection triggers
    Frequency: periodically

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Refrigerator not starting?
Common causes include a failed compressor start relay, a faulty control board, or a stuck thermostat.
How do I fix Kenmore Refrigerator not starting myself?
Try testing or replacing the start relay and overload, or reset the power and temperature controls.
How much does it cost to fix not starting?
Professional repairs can cost between $150 to $600+, depending on whether it's the control board or compressor.
When should I call a technician for not starting?
If DIY solutions don't work or you're uncomfortable with repairs, it's best to call a technician due to the urgency.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

60%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Power supply issue (tripped breaker or unplugged unit)
  • Faulty start relay or overload protector
  • Defective control board or display board

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check the power supply: Ensure the refrigerator is plugged in and check the circuit breaker. If tripped, reset it and test the unit again.

  2. Inspect the start relay: Unplug the refrigerator, locate the start relay on the compressor, and test it for continuity. Replace if faulty.

  3. Examine the control board: If the display shows '888', it may indicate a fault. Inspect for burnt components or loose connections and replace if necessary.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Kenmore Refrigerator (79571303010) Won't Start Up. I've repl...

Community Discussions

Won't start up, fan clicks once, display shows 888

Cleaned the display board and performed a hard restart.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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