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  1. Repair
  2. Kenmore
  3. Kenmore Refrigerator

Kenmore Refrigerator not freezing

Common reasons your Kenmore Refrigerator not freezing

The most common reasons your Kenmore refrigerator is not freezing are a locked compressor, a damaged evaporator, or a defective PCB.

  • 28%

    28% of the time it's the
    Compressor

  • 7%

    7% of the time it's the
    Evaporator

  • 4%

    4% of the time it's the
    PCB

  • 61%

    61% of the time it's the
    Something else

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    Most common repairs needed to fix a Kenmore refrigerator

    Compressor Replacement

    A locked refrigerator compressor can exhibit several symptoms indicative of a malfunction. The most noticeable sign is a lack of cooling in the refrigerator compartment, leading to elevated temperatures and the potential for food spoilage. The freezer may also fail to maintain the desired freezing temperatures, resulting in no ice production from the icemaker or dispenser. You might notice that the compressor is unusually silent or fails to produce its typical humming sound during operation. In some cases, the compressor may attempt to start but fail, resulting in repeated clicking noises. The inability of the compressor to circulate refrigerant properly can affect the defrosting process, leading to ice buildup in the freezer. Diagnosing compressor problems requires the knowledge and training of a certified repair technician, such as those with Sears Home Services.


    Evaporator Replacement

    A damaged refrigerator evaporator causes a decrease in overall cooling performance, leading to elevated temperatures in both the refrigerator and freezer compartments. These higher temperatures can result in food spoilage and less effective preservation of frozen items. Frost or ice buildup on the evaporator coils may hinder their ability to absorb heat efficiently. Excessive condensation inside the refrigerator can lead to leaks. Additionally, a damaged evaporator may cause unusual noises, such as hissing or gurgling sounds, during the refrigeration cycle.

    PCB Replacement

    A defective printed circuit board (PCB) can lead to various failures in a refrigerator, including a lack of power or cooling. This is because the PCB, also called the electronic control board, serves as the brain of the refrigerator, controlling operations such as regulating internal temperatures, running fans, managing defrost cycles, overseeing the icemaker, and controlling dispenser functions. If the board malfunctions, it can disrupt communication between many different components. A failing board may cause a chattering or clicking noise from the refrigerator and may emit a burning odor. Due to the potential impact on multiple components, it is advisable to have a Sears Home Services professional conduct diagnostic tests on the board to confirm if replacement is necessary.

    What to expect when you experience a Kenmore refrigerator not freezing issue

    How is the refrigerator not freezing issue fixed?

    Correcting most refrigerator not freezing issues involves replacing the compressor, evaporator, or PCB. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

    Sears Home Services recommendations for a refrigerator not freezing problem

    When a refrigerator is not freezing, it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts, we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of refrigerator failures.

    What to look out for with a refrigerator not freezing diagnosis

    Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your refrigerator problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

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    Glossary Terms

    A French-door refrigerator features two doors that open side-by-side on the top section for the refrigerator compartment, with a bottom freezer drawer, combining style, efficiency, and easy access to both refrigerated and frozen goods.

    Refrigerant is a chemical compound used in HVAC systems and refrigerators to absorb heat from the environment by cycling through states of evaporation and condensation, enabling the cooling process through its cycle of evaporation and condensation.

    R-12 refrigerant, also known as Freon-12, is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) compound that was once widely used in air conditioning systems, refrigerators, and aerosol propellants before its phase-out due to environmental concerns.

    CFC certification refers to the credentialing process that qualifies HVAC technicians to handle chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other refrigerants in a manner that complies with environmental regulations. It is essential for professionals who install, maintain, or repair HVAC systems and refrigeration equipment.

    Additional possible Kenmore refrigerator symptoms you may experience