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5 Easy Steps to Reset a Kenmore Refrigerator in 2024

By Albert G. Croley
1.8K views 2 mins read

Kenmore Refrigerator!

I always look at it first when Iโ€™m in my kitchen. It shines like a star.

Plus, its innovative designs and functionality draw my attention all the time. But in the last couple of days, it’s been making a noise and showing a code on display.

At first, I wasn’t serious!

But when my refrigerator stops cooling everything, then it becomes a headache. So, I tried to reset it first, but I really donโ€™t know how to do it.

Now I’ve figured out why it’s important to know the easy steps to reset a Kenmore refrigerator.

Based on these issues, you can apply a few reset methods, like a hard reset, a control panel reset, and a circuit breaker reset.

Read on to find out more!

Key Takeaways:
โœ…Kenmore refrigerator need to be reset for various reasons, like system failure, unstable temperature, ice maker issues, error codes, etc.
โœ…Adopting a few reset methods, like hard reset, control panel reset, and circuit breaker reset, can help you get a fresh start on your refrigerator.
โœ…Regular maintenance can keep it running smoothly.

What Are the Most Common Issues With Kenmore Refrigerators?

When it comes to Kenmore refrigerators, there are a few common issues that might pop up from time to time. They are as follows:

  • System failure
  • Electrical or connection issues
  • Water dispenser issue
  • Ice maker issues
  • Bizarre sounds/noises
  • Unstable temperature

When Should You Reset a Kenmore Refrigerator?

Resetting a Kenmore refrigerator is a pretty handy trick to have up your sleeve when things aren’t chilling as they should.

Here’s the lowdown on when to hit that reset button:

  • When your controls (buttons or touchpads) are not working
  • If an error code is popping up on the display panel
  • If the refrigerator is not working as you need it to, like cooling or freezing
  • When the refrigerator is acting unusually at the time of restraining after regaining power

3 Types of Resets for Kenmore Refrigerators

When it’s time to reset your Kenmore refrigerator, you might follow a few steps to do it properly. It’s an electric unit. So, it comes with a resetting/rebooting option to solve some quick issues.

Types Of Resets For Kenmore Refrigerators
Control Panel Reset

But, based on the issue, resetting might be different for your Kenmore refrigerator. So, how many types are there? To know it, check below:

  1. Hard Reset
  2. Control Panel Reset
  3. Circuit Breaker Reset

Hard Reset: How to Do It?

A hard reset can solve the problem when your Kenmore refrigerator acts up. Such a reset is best to solve a few issues, as follows:

  • Cooling problem
  • Electronic glitches

For the hard reset, you can follow the below steps:

Step 1: Disconnect from the Power Source

First things first.

Locate the power source. Unplug the refrigerator from the power source/outlet. Do it safely and gently.

Make sure you are wearing gloves or your hands are completely dry at the time of unplugging the appliance. It’s a crucial part of a hard reset and essential to avoid any electrical hazards as well.

Step 2: Find the Reset Button

Which model of Kenmore refrigerator do you have?

Iโ€™m asking because not all models of this brand come with a reset button. If your model has one, then you are good to go.

So, locate it.

In most models, it’s located on the control panel.

While, in others, it may be on the front door of your refrigerator or inside the compartment.

Still looking for the button?

Then look for a plastic cover and open it using a flat-head screwdriver. Your refrigerator’s reset button is hiding under it.

Step 3: Press It

It’s time to press the reset button. Make sure your refrigerator is still unplugged. Press the button with enough pressure as required.

Hold the button for 5 to 10 seconds.

It will reboot the system. Get help from the user manual of your Kenmore refrigerator to figure out button pressing time. Youโ€™ll hear a click or feel the action.

Done! Itโ€™s activated.

Now, release the finger from the button and make sure the refrigerator is functioning.

Step 4: Wait, Wait, Wait!

Once you press the reset button, your refrigerator’s internal system will respond to reset everything.

How much time will it take? Well, it depends on your refrigerator model and internal system design.

Most of the time, it takes 5 to 10 minutes.

If the process is complete, you will hear a sign as follows:

  • Changes in the display
  • Clicking sounds

Finally, the resetting process is over.

Step 5: Back to the Power!

Plug it back into the power source firmly to resume normal operation. After securing the connection, youโ€™ll hear some noise. Yes, it’s starting to function.

No need to rush!

After the fresh start, just set the desired temperature. It will take a few minutes to cool the system.

Control Panel Reset: How to Do It?

The control panel is the brain of your Kenmore refrigerator.

Sometimes, it stops responding to various issues. When it’s happening, then a control panel reset can solve this problem.

So, how do you do that effectively? Well, follow the below steps, and you will be all good to go:

Use Interface

Get access to your Kenmore refrigerator features. You can use the control panel to do that, which is always indicated by a digital display.

Find the home/menu button and click on it. Youโ€™ll see a few options, and you can scroll through them to select your desired option.

Try Button Combination

The button combination works to reset the control panel. To do that, first, find the power button. Now press and hold it.

At the same time, press the “Freezer” button for a minimum of 5 seconds. Release both buttons.

Now just wait for the system to reset.

Troubleshooting Control Panel Issues

What will you do if the control panel is still not responding?

You can do it a different way.

First, unplug your fridge. Then, keep it in this state for at least 1 minute.

Reconnect. And try a hard reset.

Solved or not?

If not, professional help may be necessary for you right now. They will refer you to the best solution.

Circuit Breaker Reset: How to Do It?

Pulling out the power cord from the refrigerator is not the only way to disconnect the power supply. You can do it using the circuit breaker as well.

A circuit breaker works as a bridge to supply power to your Kenmore refrigerator. By turning it off, you can do it.

To do that, locate it in your house. Here, youโ€™ll find many designated breakers. Find the one that corresponds to the refrigerator.

Switch it off and wait for a while. Switch it back on to supply power once again. Such action causes a power outage.

Power outages help many home appliances to reset their functionality.

Following the Reset, What Comes Next?

After resetting the Kenmore refrigerator, what do you do?

To keep everything smooth, you can follow a few steps after the reset. Details are given below:

Confirm the Reset

How do you know that it was a successful reset? Confirm it first.

With a few symptoms, it’s easy to identify, like:

  • Smooth and properly running
  • Listening to familiar sounds of the motor
  • Control panel showing factory setting

If you are not getting something right, then try once again to reset it.

Monitor Performance

After the reset, monitor its performance carefully. A few things might help you to do that, like checking temperature, error messages, cycling, working state, changes with the control panel, ice maker functionality, etc.

You can do the following things:

  • Document any discrepancies
  • Using a thermometer to track temperature changes
  • If your Kenmore ice maker doesnโ€™t work properly, you can reset the Kenmore ice maker

Call a Professional

Professionals, the life savior.

But when do you need their help? Well, a few signs can help determine it, like water leaks, error codes flashing continuously, not cooling, and scary noises.

In this case, you can seek professional assistance and consult with them ASAP.

Error Codes Kenmore Refrigerator: What Does It Mean?

Error Codes! What is that?

It indicates that your refrigerator is facing some issues โ€“ guiding you on what exactly is happening inside your refrigerator.

Some of the important error codes to know are:

  • Er-Fs: Freezer Sensor Fault
  • Er-rS: Refrigerator Sensor Fault
  • Er-dS: Defrosting Sensor Fault
  • Er-IS: Icing Sensor Fault
  • Er-dH: Insufficient Defrosting
  • Er-IF: Ice-Making Fan Motor Fault
  • Er-FF: Freezer Fan Motor Fault
  • Er-CF: Mechanical Fan Motor Fault
  • Er-CO: Communication Fault
  • r-dH: The sensor did not get over 40 F
  • F-dH: The Sensor did not get over 40 F in the defrost
  • Er-gF: Flow meter error code

How to Maintain to Prevent Future Issues?

The Kenmore refrigerator is an electric appliance. So, at any time, you might face these issues. However, the good news is that you can easily prevent such issues by maintaining them.

How To Maintain To Prevent Future Issues?
How to Maintain to Prevent Future Issues?

Hereโ€™s how:

Regular Cleaning

There is no better alternative to regular cleaning to keep your refrigerator in tip-top condition. Over time, refrigerators tend to grow mold, odor, residue, etc.

To clean them, you need a few things:

  • A Solution (Mix of baking soda and warm water)
  • Soft Fabric

First, remove all your things from the shelf. Use the solution and scrub with gentle pressure. Wipe down the gaskets. Now look for the back of the fridge.

Vacuum the condenser coil from there. Let everything dry for a while. Now reassemble them.

Ensure Optimal Temperature Settings

To get the best performance, you have to maintain optimal temperature. Such things save you food and energy as well.

So, what is the ideal temperature for optimal performance? Well, below are some suggestions for you.

  • Fridge Section: 37ยฐF (3ยฐC)
  • Freezer Section: 0ยฐF (-18ยฐC)

Avoiding Common User Errors

First, never overfill your refrigerator. Otherwise, it will struggle to circulate the necessary air.

Secondly, ensure you’re closing the refrigerator door properly. Finally, change the water filters from time to time and inspect the power supply routine-wise.

Final Thoughts

Let’s talk straightforwardly.

For me, resetting a Kenmore refrigerator is the easiest thing! What about you?

After reviewing these easy steps to reset a Kenmore refrigerator, it’s also an easy task for you. Isnโ€™t it?

Every type of resetting process has only a few simple steps that won’t take much of your time. Regular monitoring and maintenance of your Kenmore refrigerator can minimize the chance of issues.

However, to ensure its optimal performance, you should take quick action as soon as possible. And for any issues, make sure to reach out to the professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is my refrigerator not getting cold but the freezer works?

A dirty condenser coil is the culprit that prevents your refrigerator from getting cold, but the freezer works in this situation. Condenser coils are a key part of the job to remove heat from the air.

Why is my Kenmore fridge not getting cold?

For a few reasons, this can happen. Your Kenmore fridge is not getting cold because of a locked compressor, a defective electronic control board, or a damaged evaporator. So, when your fridge is not getting cold, make sure to check for all these issues.

What would cause a Kenmore refrigerator not to get cold?

It may be happening because of the temperature. Hence, to ensure its optimal performance and get enough cold, maintain an ideal value for it. For example, maintain 37ยฐF (3ยฐC) for the fridge section and 0ยฐF (-18ยฐC) for the freezer section.

Why is my Kenmore fridge not cooling but the fan running?

If your Kenmore fridge is not cooling but the fan is running, it means all of your Freon has leaked out. Another possibility can also create this problem when the compressor cannot create enough pressure to keep the air cool for your refrigerator.

What is the first thing to check when a refrigerator stops working?

When you face this issue, you need to check the power supply first. Most of the time, the connection (plug or wire) gets loose or damaged. Therefore, ensure that it is still functional. And if everything is fine and your refrigerator is still not working, then the problem is the refrigerator itself.

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