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Kenmore Refrigerator Not Cooling or Freezing? 9 Fixes!

  • So, your Kenmore refrigerator freezer is barely a year old, yet you cannot help but worry about the fridge compartment warming up when the freezer is cold. Now, you can’t help but ask, why is my Kenmore fridge not cooling but freezer working?

    Your Kenmore fridge is cooling, but the freezer is working because of iced evaporator coils, faulty damper control or fan motor, fridge overload, leaky door, or damaged start relay. Other reasons include dirty condenser coils or defective temperature control or defrost system.

    Once you can identify the exact reason behind your failing Kenmore fridge, it becomes much easier to fix it, and that’s where this Kenmore troubleshooting guide comes in.

    We will break down all the possible causes, explaining their likelihood and suggesting fixes. The goal is to enable you to do the troubleshooting yourself and get to save both valuable time and money.

    Let’s jump into it!

    Kenmore fridge not cooling but bottom freezer working

    In a rush? Check out a summary of the probable reasons behind a warm Kenmore fridge and cold freezer and their fixes:

    Quick Troubleshooting Guide for A Kenmore Fridge Not Cooling But Freezer Working

     Probable ReasonFix
    1.Iced Evaporator CoilsHair-dry the evaporator coils, but if the icing recurs quite often, replace the faulty defrost component (timer, heater, or thermostat)
    2.Faulty Damper ControlUnstick the damper control if it’s stuck but replace it if it’s broken
    3.Faulty Fan Motor Test the evaporator fan motor by rotating its blade by hand. If it doesn’t turn, replace it
    4.Fridge OverloadReduce the food load to encourage optimal air circulation in the fridge
    5.Leaky Fridge DoorShut the fridge door all the way and replace the door gasket if it’s faulty
    6.Damaged Start RelayReplace the compressors start relay if it fails the multimeter’s continuity test
    7.Dirty Condenser CoilsClean the condenser coils if they are dirty
    8.Faulty Temperature Control SystemReplace the faulty temperature control board or thermistor depending on what fails the multimeter continuity test
    9.Faulty Defrost SystemReplace the defrost thermostat if it fails the continuity test or the defrost timer if it fails to turn on the heater

    9 Reasons Your Kenmore Fridge Not Cooling But Freezer Working Plus Fixes

    If your Kenmore fridge is not cooling while the freezer is freezing just fine, you cannot look beyond the nine reasons discussed below: 

    1. Iced Evaporator Coils 

    Air goes into the evaporator coils to cool down before circulating throughout the fridge. Unfortunately, sometimes the coils become frosted, making the refrigerator warm when it should be cold.

    In such an event, the fridge won’t cool, and the freezer will work fine. But why will the evaporator coils ice up? 

    The most typical reason is a faulty defrost system, especially the heater, thermostat, or timer.

    If the defrost heater fails, it won’t melt the ice, meaning ice will likely build up on the evaporator coils. And even if the heater is fine, but the defrost thermometer is faulty, the heater won’t get the signal to defrost the accumulating ice. 

    Meanwhile, if the defrost timer is faulty, it won’t control the heating or cooling cycle.

    Fix 

    First, consider hair-drying the evaporator coils to defrost the accumulated ice. However, if the problem is a faulty defrost timer, thermostat, or heater, you may need to replace it. 

    I’ll explain how to check if they are defective under point 8 on the faulty defrost system.

    2. Faulty Damper Control

    The damper control’s job is to regulate the amount of air that flows into the fridge. Overall, its operation is dependent on smooth opening and closing.

    If the regulator becomes stuck or broken, it won’t do its job. Hence, the fridge may warm up instead of getting cold.

    Fix 

    Generally, you can tell if the damper control is faulty by examining it. You’ll need to turn the fan motor on by reducing the thermistor’s temperature.

    You’ll then need to cover the unit’s interior light to trick it into thinking that the refrigerator door is shut. 

    If you can’t feel some air escaping the damper vent, the damper control is likely faulty. So, check if it’s stuck to unstick it but if it’s broken, replace it.

    3. Faulty Motor Fan

    The evaporator fan motor is significant in cooling the Kenmore refrigerator. The motor draws in cold air and circulates it over the fridge’s evaporator coils and freezer.

    If the circulation only happens in the freezer compartment, the freezer will freeze, but the fridge compartment will become warm.

    Fix 

    You can test the evaporator fan motor by hand to see if it’s defective. Just try moving the blade with your hand. The fan motor is faulty if it doesn’t turn freely and there’s no obstruction. So, replace it.

    Kenmore fridge not cooling but bottom freezer working

    4. Fridge Overload

    While it’s tempting to overfill the fridge when stocking it up, it’s never a good idea as it can interfere with the cooling. 

    Remember, the more you load your fridge, the less space you leave for air circulation. Moreover, you even block the air vents, making it harder for air to flow interiorly.

    Fix 

    Check your Kenmore fridge load to see if the food is in excess. If it is, then you should reduce it. Find food items almost expiring and take them out for immediate consumption.

    You must also organize the containers properly and avoid oversize options not to block the air vents.

    5. Leaky Fridge Door

    So much could go wrong with the fridge door, causing it to leak cold air. For starters, if you fail to close the fridge door tight, cold air will escape, causing the fridge to become warm.

    As you know, the words warm and refrigeration are not compatible. So, the fridge won’t cool.

    The other source of a leaky fridge door is a worn-out, damaged, or loose door seal/gasket. 

    Such a door seal is faulty and will therefore allow warm air to get in, warming up the fridge.

    Fix 

    Ensure you properly close the fridge door. Remove anything that could be preventing it from closing all the way. And if the door gasket is faulty, replace it.

    6. Damaged Start Relay

    Sometimes, people rush to replace the entire compressor when their fridges won’t cool when the only faulty component is the compressor’s start relay.

    While the compressor’s job is to form hot gas, which cools and absorbs the fridge’s heat, its operation is dependent on the start relay.

    If the start relay is faulty, the compressor will fail, and the fridge won’t cool your food.

    Fix 

    Use a multimeter to test the compressors’ start relay for continuity. If it fails the continuity test, replace it as it’s faulty.

    Other Reasons on Kenmore Fridge Not Cooling But Freezer Working

    7. Dirty Condenser Coils 

    It’s hard to talk about the fridge cooling without mentioning the condenser coils. Over time, the coils accumulate dust and dirt, making it hard for them to cool the fridge.

    Fix 

    It’s generally advisable to clean the condenser coils at least once every six months. That’ll eliminate the dirt and help keep the condenser coils working optimally. For easy cleaning, consider using a refrigerator coil cleaning brush.

    Why the fridge is not cold but the freezer is

    8. Faulty Temperature Control System

    Two components are essential for the Kenmore fridge temperature control system; thermistor and temperature control board.

    If either part is faulty (which you can tell if they fail the multimeter’s continuity test), the refrigerator won’t cool. 

    A faulty thermistor, for instance, fails to deliver the temperature reading to the unit’s control board. That means the fridge may overheat without the control board taking any action in terms of dictating the compressor or fans to start cooling.

    And if the temperature control board fails, the motor and compressor won’t receive the correct signal to start running and cool the fridge.

    Fix 

    Test the thermistor and the temperature control board with a multimeter and replace what is defective. 

    9. Faulty Defrost System

    Having touched on this point earlier under number one, it’s worth affirming that a faulty defrost system is a faulty fridge. The defrost timer and thermostat must work well for the fridge to cool.

    If they are faulty, frost will accumulate over the evaporator coils, interfering with the cooling.

    Fix 

    You can quickly determine if the defrost thermostat is faulty if it fails the multimeter’s continuity test. In that case, you’ll need to replace it.

    As for the defrost timer, try turning it on to see if it’ll turn the defrost heater on. If it doesn’t, it’s faulty and thus you should get a new one.

    Is Your Kenmore Fridge Still Not Cooling, But the Freezer is Working? Try This!

    If you still can’t figure out why your Kenmore fridge won’t cool even after going through the above possibilities, then the problem could be the main control board. 

    It might be defective and cause the other parts to fail. So, consider replacing the main control board if your fridge doesn’t suffer from any of the nine causes above.

    But since the replacement is costly and technical, consult a fridge expert to confirm the fault’s source.

    Why the fridge is not cold but the freezer is

    People Also Ask

    1. Why Would My Freezer Work but Not the Fridge?

    The reason why the fridge is not cold but the freezer is because of iced evaporator coils, dirty condenser coils, fridge overstuffing, faulty door seal, defective defrost system, or a stuck damper control. So, look at all these angles to fix it.

    2. Why Is My Kenmore Fridge Not Cooling But Bottom Freezer Working?

    Your Kenmore fridge is not cooling, but the bottom freezer is working because the condenser coils might be dirty, the evaporator coils might be frosty, or the evaporator fan motor might be defective. If not, it could be due to a faulty defrost thermostat or control board.

    3. How Do You Fix a Kenmore Refrigerator That Is Not Cooling?

    If your Kenmore refrigerator is not cooling, try to find the source of the problem. Common culprits include dirty condenser coils, faulty fan motor, icy evaporator coils, fridge overstuffing, or defective defrost system.

    What should I do if the temperature sensor is defective?

    If you suspect that the temperature sensor in your refrigerator may be defective, there are a few steps you can follow to address the issue. The temperature sensor, also known as a thermistor, plays a crucial role in monitoring the temperature inside the refrigerator and communicating that information to the control board.

    To begin, you will need a multimeter to test the sensor. The multimeter will help you determine if the thermistor is functioning as it should. Start by disconnecting the refrigerator from the power source to ensure your safety.

    Next, locate the thermistor within the refrigerator. It is typically positioned near the evaporator coils or in the air ducts. Once found, remove any covers or panels that may be obstructing access to the thermistor.

    Using the multimeter, set it to measure resistance (ohms) and connect the meter’s probes to the two terminals of the thermistor. The resistance should change in sync with fluctuations in the refrigerator’s temperature. If the resistance doesn’t vary or the thermistor shows no continuity (no flow of electric current), this indicates a defective thermistor.

    In such cases, it is recommended to replace the defective thermistor. Consult the refrigerator’s manual or contact the manufacturer to identify the correct replacement part for your specific model. Take note of the make, model, and serial number of your refrigerator to ensure you obtain the appropriate thermistor.

    Once you have the replacement thermistor, carefully disconnect the faulty sensor from its wiring harness, taking note of its original positioning. Attach the new thermistor to the wiring harness, making sure to match the connections correctly. Reinstall any covers or panels that were removed during the process.

    Finally, reconnect the refrigerator to the power source and monitor its performance. With the new thermistor in place, it should now accurately monitor the temperature inside the refrigerator, allowing the control board to regulate power to the compressor and evaporator fan as needed.

    Replacing a defective temperature sensor may resolve issues such as the compressor and evaporator fan not functioning correctly, resulting in inadequate cooling. However, if the problem persists after replacing the thermistor, it is advisable to consult a professional technician or contact customer support for further assistance.

    How can I test if the temperature control thermostat is defective?

    To test if the temperature control thermostat is defective, you can follow these steps:

    1. Start by rotating the thermostat from the lowest setting to the highest setting. Listen carefully for a clicking sound. If you hear a click, it is unlikely that the thermostat is defective.

    2. However, if you do not hear a clicking sound when rotating the thermostat, the next step is to use a multimeter to test the thermostat for continuity.

    3. Set your multimeter to the continuity or ohms mode.

    4. Remove the thermostat from its power source, ensuring that it is completely disconnected.

    5. Locate the terminals on the thermostat. These are usually labeled “C” (common), “NO” (normally open), and “NC” (normally closed).

    6. Place one probe of your multimeter on the “C” terminal and the other probe on the “NO” terminal. If the thermostat has continuity, meaning there is a complete electrical path, the multimeter will display a reading of close to zero ohms.

    7. Repeat this test by placing one probe on the “C” terminal and the other probe on the “NC” terminal. Again, if there is continuity, the multimeter should show a reading close to zero ohms.

    8. If the temperature control thermostat does not have continuity at any setting, this indicates a defective thermostat. In this case, it is necessary to replace the thermostat with a new one.

    By following these steps, you can successfully test the temperature control thermostat to determine if it is defective or not.

    How can I determine if there is a restriction or leak in the refrigeration system?

    To determine if there is a restriction or leak in the refrigeration system, you can follow these steps:

    1. Make sure the compressor, condenser, and evaporator fans are all running properly. The condenser coil should be clean and have good airflow.

    2. Remove the evaporator cover to expose the coil.

    3. Observe the frost pattern on the coil. Ideally, there should be a light frost covering most of the coil.

    4. If you notice that there is frost or ice buildup in only one specific section of the coil, this indicates a possible restriction or leak in the system.

    5. It’s important to note that diagnosing and repairing such issues should be done by a qualified technician, as it can be an expensive repair.

    By following these steps and seeking professional assistance, you can assess whether there is a restriction or leak in your refrigeration system and take appropriate steps to address the issue.

    How can I troubleshoot an incoming power problem with my refrigerator?

    To troubleshoot an incoming power problem with your refrigerator, please follow these steps:

    1. Check the electrical outlet: Ensure that the plug is tightly pushed into the outlet. If it feels loose, unplug it and try plugging it back in firmly.

    2. Verify power supply: Confirm that the outlet is supplying power. You can test this by plugging in another device or by using a voltage tester. If there is no power, check the circuit breaker or fuses related to the outlet and reset or replace them if necessary.

    3. Consider a dedicated circuit: It is recommended to have the refrigerator plugged into a separate, dedicated circuit. This arrangement ensures that there is sufficient power exclusively available for your refrigerator, minimizing potential electrical issues.

    4. Ground fault receptacles: If your refrigerator is connected to a ground fault receptacle and you’re experiencing power problems, consider plugging it into a regular receptacle instead. It is generally not recommended to use a ground fault receptacle for a refrigerator, as it may cause unnecessary disruptions to the power supply.

    By following these troubleshooting steps, you can effectively address incoming power problems with your refrigerator and potentially resolve any issues you may be facing.

    What should I do if the condenser fan motor is not working properly?

    If you are experiencing issues with the condenser fan motor not functioning properly, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve the problem. Follow these guidelines:

    1. Check for any obstructions: Examine the fan blade to ensure there are no objects or debris obstructing its movement. Clear away any obstacles that are hindering the rotation of the blade.

    2. Test for free rotation: Try manually turning the fan motor blade with your hand. If you encounter resistance or the blade does not spin freely, it is likely that the condenser fan motor is defective and needs to be replaced.

    3. Inspect for continuity: In case there are no obstructions and the fan blade rotates easily, you can further assess the condition of the fan motor using a multimeter to check for continuity. Set the multimeter to measure resistance and carefully test the fan motor. If there is no continuity detected, it indicates a malfunctioning fan motor, and it should be replaced.

    By following these steps, you will be able to diagnose and determine the appropriate course of action for fixing a condenser fan motor that is not operating correctly.

    How do I adjust the freezer and refrigerator temperature settings?

    To adjust the temperature settings of your freezer and refrigerator, follow these steps:

    1. Start by checking the current temperature settings of both the freezer and refrigerator.
    2. For the freezer, ensure that the temperature is set between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit or -18 to -15 degrees Celsius.
    3. For the refrigerator, make sure the temperature is set between 34 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit or 1 to 5 degrees Celsius.
    4. If the current settings are not within the recommended range, locate the temperature control knobs or buttons inside your appliance.
    5. Adjust the freezer and refrigerator temperature by turning the knobs or pressing the buttons to the desired temperature range.
    6. Once you have set the new temperature, give your appliance some time to adjust accordingly. It is generally recommended to wait for at least 24 hours.
    7. Monitor the temperature levels during this time to ensure they stabilize within the recommended range.

    By following these steps, you will be able to adjust the freezer and refrigerator temperature settings correctly.

    How does the start device contribute to the operation of the compressor?

    What are the possible indications of a defective start device?
    One possible indication of a defective start device is a burnt odor. If you notice a burnt smell coming from the start device, it is a strong indication of a malfunction. In such cases, the start device should be replaced.

    How can one determine if the start device is defective?
    To determine if the start device is defective, you can use a multimeter to test it for continuity between the run and start terminal sockets. If there is no continuity between these terminals, it indicates a faulty start device that should be replaced.

    What are the potential consequences if the start device is defective?
    If the start device is defective, it can lead to the compressor failing to run or not running at all. As a result, the refrigerator will not be cold enough, and the food inside may not be properly cooled.

    How does the start device work in conjunction with the start winding to start the compressor?
    The start device, such as a start relay, works together with the start winding to initiate the compressor’s operation. It provides the necessary electrical connection and power boost to kickstart the compressor.

    “The start device, known as the start relay, plays a crucial role in the operation of the compressor. Its primary function is to initiate the compressor, which is responsible for forming hot gas that cools and absorbs the heat from the refrigerator. However, if the start relay is faulty, it can lead to a complete failure of the compressor, resulting in the fridge failing to cool your food adequately.

    To determine if the start relay is defective, it is essential to conduct a thorough examination. One straightforward method is to use a multimeter to test for continuity between the run and start terminal sockets of the start relay. If there is no continuity detected, this indicates a malfunctioning start relay, and it should be replaced promptly.

    In addition to testing for continuity, it is crucial to be attentive to any unusual signs. If you notice a burnt odor emanating from the start relay, it is a strong indication that it needs to be replaced.

    Remember, the start relay is a critical component in initiating the compressor’s operation. Ensuring its proper functioning is vital for maintaining the optimal cooling performance of your refrigerator. By conducting the necessary tests and promptly replacing a defective start relay, you can ensure that your fridge operates efficiently and keeps your food fresh.”

    Can the main control board be the cause of the refrigerator not cooling?

    Is it necessary to test other components before considering the main control board as the cause of the issue?
    Yes, it is necessary to test other components before considering the main control board as the cause of the issue. The excerpt suggests that if none of the other components are found to be defective, then one should consider replacing the main control board. This implies that other potential causes should be ruled out before attributing the issue to the main control board.

    What should be done before replacing the main control board?
    Before replacing the main control board, it is recommended to test all of the more commonly defective parts. This suggests that troubleshooting and ruling out other potential causes should be done before resorting to replacing the main control board.

    Is the main control board the primary cause of the refrigerator not cooling, or is it a less likely possibility?
    The excerpt states that the main control board might be defective, but it also mentions that this is almost never the cause. Hence, the main control board is considered a less likely possibility as the primary cause of the refrigerator not cooling.

    If none of the other components are defective, should the main control board be replaced?
    If none of the other components are found to be defective after testing, it is suggested to consider replacing the main control board. This implies that the main control board can be a potential cause of the issue if all other potential culprits have been ruled out.

    What are the more commonly defective parts that should be tested before considering replacing the main control board?
    Before replacing the main control board, it is recommended to test all of the more commonly defective parts. This suggests that there are multiple potential components that could cause the issue, but the excerpt does not specify which parts specifically to test.

    “If you still can’t determine the reason why your Kenmore fridge is not cooling, it is possible that the main control board could be the culprit. While it is important to consider other potential causes first, such as checking for faulty components, the main control board may be the underlying issue if none of the previously mentioned possibilities are to blame. Keep in mind that replacing the main control board can be a costly and technical process, so it is advisable to consult a refrigerator expert to confirm the source of the fault. By following this thorough approach and ruling out other potential causes, you can confidently consider replacing the main control board as a solution to your fridge’s cooling problem.”

    What should I do if the temperature control board is defective?

    Why is testing the other components important before replacing the temperature control board?
    Testing the other components is important to ensure accurate diagnosis and avoid unnecessary replacement of the temperature control board.

    What are the more commonly defective components to test before replacing the temperature control board?
    Some of the commonly defective components that should be tested before replacing the temperature control board include the compressor, fan motors, and thermostats.

    What should be done before replacing the temperature control board?
    Before replacing the temperature control board, it is recommended to test all the more commonly defective components.

    How common is it for a temperature control board to be defective?
    Defective temperature control boards are not a common occurrence.

    What could be the potential cause of a defective temperature control board?
    A defective temperature control board may occur if it stops sending voltage to the cooling system.

    “When dealing with a potentially defective temperature control board, it is important to approach the situation with thoroughness. Start by testing the thermistor and temperature control board using a multimeter. This will help identify any faults or defects. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that the temperature control board is not commonly the cause of the issue.

    To avoid unnecessary replacements, it is recommended to conduct additional tests on other components that are more commonly prone to defects. By doing so, you can accurately diagnose the problem and prevent wasting time and resources on an incorrect solution. If, after thorough testing, it is determined that the temperature control board is indeed defective, then it should be replaced accordingly.

    Remember, taking a step-by-step approach and testing all possible culprits before resorting to replacing the temperature control board will help ensure an accurate diagnosis and an effective solution.”

    How does the temperature control board affect the operation of the cooling system?

    What should be done if none of the other components are defective?
    If none of the other components are found to be defective after testing, then it is recommended to consider replacing the temperature control board as a possible solution.

    What are the commonly defective components that should be tested before replacing the temperature control board?
    Excerpt_Theirs does not explicitly list the commonly defective components. However, it suggests testing all other components before considering the replacement of the temperature control board. This implies that there are multiple components that could potentially be the cause of the issue.

    Should the temperature control board be replaced immediately?
    It is not recommended to replace the temperature control board immediately. Before replacing the control board, it is advised to first test all of the more commonly defective components to ensure that the control board is indeed the problem.

    Is a defective temperature control board a common occurrence?
    No, a faulty temperature control board is not a common occurrence. It is not a frequently encountered issue.

    How does the temperature control board affect the operation of the cooling system?
    The temperature control board provides voltage to the compressor and fan motors. If the temperature control board is defective, it will stop sending voltage to the cooling system, leading to a malfunction.

    “When troubleshooting a Kenmore fridge that is not cooling properly, one of the components to consider is the defrost timer. To check if the defrost timer is functioning correctly, simply turn it on and observe if it activates the defrost heater. If the defrost heater fails to turn on, it is likely that the defrost timer is faulty and requires replacement.

    However, if the fridge still fails to cool even after addressing the defrost timer issue, it may be necessary to investigate the main control board. The main control board, responsible for coordinating the various functions of the refrigerator, can sometimes be defective and cause other components to malfunction.

    While the main control board is a potential culprit, it is crucial to note that a malfunctioning temperature control board can also disrupt the cooling system’s operation. The temperature control board plays a vital role in supplying voltage to the compressor and fan motors. If this control board becomes defective, it will cease to send the necessary voltage to the cooling system, leading to inadequate cooling.

    Although it is relatively uncommon for the temperature control board to fail, it is essential to conduct a comprehensive diagnosis before considering a replacement. By meticulously testing all other commonly defective components and ruling out any issues with them, one can determine whether the temperature control board needs to be replaced.

    In conclusion, while the defrost timer and the main control board are potential sources of cooling system problems, it is equally important to consider the functionality of the temperature control board. By investigating all possible causes and conducting thorough testing, one can pinpoint the specific component responsible for the fridge’s cooling issues and proceed with the appropriate solution.”

    How can I test if the thermistor is defective?

    What should I do if the thermistor and temperature control board are defective?
    If both the thermistor and temperature control board are found to be defective, it is recommended to replace them. These components play crucial roles in regulating the refrigerator temperature, and faulty parts can lead to temperature inconsistencies or malfunctions. Replacing the defective thermistor and temperature control board should help resolve the issue.

    How do I test the temperature control board?
    Testing the temperature control board requires a multimeter. Follow these steps:

    When should I replace the thermistor?
    You should replace the thermistor under the following circumstances:

    What should I look for when testing the thermistor?
    When testing the thermistor, you should look for the following:

    How can I test if the thermistor is defective?
    To test the thermistor, you can use a multimeter. Follow these steps:

    To determine if the thermistor is defective, follow these steps for a thorough testing process. Start by using a multimeter to test both the thermistor and the temperature control board. Begin by disconnecting the power supply and locating the thermistor within the refrigerator. Carefully remove any covers or panels necessary to access it. Set your multimeter to the resistance (ohms) setting and connect the test leads to the thermistor terminals. Measure the resistance and compare it to the expected values provided by the manufacturer. The resistance should change in sync with the refrigerator temperature. If the resistance remains constant or there is no continuity, it indicates a defective thermistor. In such cases, it is recommended to replace the thermistor to ensure proper functioning of the refrigerator. Remember to always consult the refrigerator’s manual or seek professional assistance if you are unsure about any step in the testing or replacement process.

    What role does the thermistor play in regulating the refrigerator temperature?

    What components are regulated by the control board based on the thermistor readings?
    The control board regulates power to the compressor and evaporator fan based on the thermistor readings. It uses the information provided by the thermistor to determine when these components should be activated to maintain the desired temperature inside the refrigerator.

    What is the role of the thermistor in the refrigerator temperature control system?
    The thermistor plays a crucial role in the refrigerator temperature control system. It is responsible for monitoring the temperature inside the refrigerator and providing this information to the control board. Based on the thermistor readings, the control board determines whether to activate the compressor and evaporator fan for cooling.

    What happens if the thermistor is defective?
    If the thermistor is defective, the compressor and evaporator fan may not run when necessary. This means that the refrigerator will not be cold enough, as the control board will not receive accurate temperature readings and will not activate the necessary components for cooling.

    How does the control board regulate power based on the thermistor readings?
    The control board regulates power to the compressor and evaporator fan based on the thermistor readings. It uses the temperature information provided by the thermistor to determine whether the compressor and fan need to be activated to cool the refrigerator.

    How does the thermistor monitor the refrigerator temperature?
    The thermistor monitors the refrigerator temperature by measuring the temperature inside the refrigerator and sending the temperature reading to the control board.

    The efficient regulation of refrigerator temperature relies on two vital components: the thermistor and the temperature control board. A key player in this system is the thermistor. When functioning properly, the thermistor measures the temperature within the refrigerator and transmits this crucial data to the control board. This allows the control board to make informed decisions on when to activate the compressor and evaporator fan.

    However, if the thermistor becomes defective, an unfortunate chain of events may unfold. In such cases, the thermistor fails to deliver the temperature reading to the control board, leaving it uninformed about the current temperature inside the refrigerator. This lack of information prevents the control board from taking appropriate action to cool the fridge. Consequently, the refrigerator may experience overheating without any intervention from the control board to engage the compressor or fans in the cooling process.

    It becomes evident that a properly functioning thermistor is of utmost importance in maintaining the desired temperature within the refrigerator. Without accurate temperature readings, the control board cannot effectively manage the cooling components, resulting in an insufficiently cooled refrigerator. Thus, ensuring the reliability and functionality of the thermistor is crucial for optimal refrigerator performance.

    What should I do if the defrost thermostat is defective?

    What should I do if the defrost thermostat does not have continuity when it reaches the low temperature of its operating range?
    If the defrost thermostat does not have continuity when it reaches the low temperature of its operating range, it is recommended to replace it as it is likely defective.

    How can I determine if the defrost thermostat is defective?
    To determine if the defrost thermostat is defective, you can use a multimeter to test it for electrical continuity.

    If you suspect that your defrost thermostat may be defective, there is a simple way to confirm this using a multimeter’s continuity test. By performing this test, you can quickly determine if the thermostat fails to show electrical continuity, indicating a fault. In such cases, replacing the defrost thermostat is necessary to resolve the issue effectively. Taking these steps will allow you to identify the problem accurately and take appropriate action to rectify it.

    How can I test if the defrost thermostat is defective?

    Are there any alternative methods to determine if the defrost thermostat is defective?
    While using a multimeter is the recommended method, you may consult the appliance’s manual or seek professional assistance for any alternative methods to determine if the defrost thermostat is defective.

    Is a multimeter necessary for testing the defrost thermostat?
    Yes, using a multimeter is necessary to accurately test the defrost thermostat for electrical continuity.

    What should I do if the defrost thermostat does not have continuity?
    If the defrost thermostat does not have continuity when it reaches the low temperature, it indicates a defect, and you should replace it.

    What should I look for during the test?
    During the test, you should check if the defrost thermostat has continuity when it reaches the low temperature of its operating range.

    How should I test the defrost thermostat for defects?
    To test the defrost thermostat for defects, you can use a multimeter to check for electrical continuity.

    To determine if the defrost thermostat is defective, you can easily conduct a quick test using a multimeter. By performing a continuity test, you can assess whether the defrost thermostat is functioning properly or not. If the multimeter indicates a lack of continuity, it indicates a faulty defrost thermostat. In such a case, it is recommended to replace the defrost thermostat with a new one to ensure efficient and reliable operation.

    What should I do if the refrigerator door gasket is damaged?

    What should I do if the door gasket is damaged?
    If the door gasket is damaged, it is recommended to replace it with a new one. This will ensure that an airtight seal is formed, allowing the refrigerator to cool properly and prevent warm air from entering the appliance.

    How can I determine if the door gasket is damaged?
    To determine if the door gasket is damaged, inspect it closely for any signs of twisting, tearing, or other visible damage. Look for any gaps or irregularities in the seal that may indicate a faulty gasket.

    What are the potential consequences of a damaged door gasket?
    If the door gasket is twisted or torn, it can result in gaps forming, which will allow warm air to enter the refrigerator. This can lead to improper cooling and affect the refrigerator’s ability to maintain the desired temperature.

    What is the purpose of a refrigerator door gasket?
    The purpose of a refrigerator door gasket is to form an airtight seal around the appliance’s frame to keep the cold air in and the warm air out.

    “If you find that the refrigerator door gasket is faulty, it is important to take immediate action. A faulty gasket can lead to inefficient cooling and wastage of energy. To address this issue, start by ensuring that you properly close the fridge door to create a tight seal. Check for any obstructions that might prevent the door from closing completely, as this can also impact the effectiveness of the gasket.

    In addition, it is crucial to inspect the door gasket for any signs of damage. Look for twists or tears that can result in gaps, allowing warm air to seep into the refrigerator. If you notice any damage to the gasket, it is recommended to replace it with a new one. This will restore the proper functioning of the refrigerator and help maintain the desired temperature.

    Remember, a well-maintained door gasket plays a vital role in keeping cold air inside and warm air out. By taking these steps and addressing any issues with the gasket promptly, you can ensure that your refrigerator cools efficiently and keeps your food fresh for longer periods.”

    How can I determine if the evaporator fan motor is defective?

    What is the purpose of using a multimeter to test the motor windings?
    Using a multimeter to test the motor windings helps to determine if there is continuity in the electrical circuits of the evaporator fan motor. If the windings do not have continuity, it suggests an electrical problem within the motor, and replacing the motor is recommended.

    How can I test the evaporator fan motor by hand?
    To test the evaporator fan motor by hand, simply try turning the fan blade manually. If the fan blade does not turn freely and there are no obstructions, it indicates a potential issue with the motor, and you should consider replacing it.

    What should I do if the motor does not run at all?
    If the evaporator fan motor does not run at all, you can use a multimeter to test the motor windings for continuity. If the windings do not show continuity, it suggests a problem with the motor. In such cases, it is recommended to replace the evaporator fan motor.

    What should I do if the motor is unusually noisy?
    If the evaporator fan motor is unusually noisy, it is advised to replace it. Excessive noise from the motor can indicate a defect or malfunction, and replacing it should resolve the issue.

    What should I do if the fan blade does not turn freely?
    If the fan blade does not turn freely, it indicates a potential issue with the evaporator fan motor. In this case, it is recommended to replace the fan motor as it may be defective and not functioning properly.

    To determine if the evaporator fan motor is defective, you can follow these steps for a thorough diagnosis. Start by trying to move the fan blade with your hand. If the blade doesn’t turn freely and there are no obstructions, it suggests a potential issue with the fan motor, indicating that it might need to be replaced.

    In addition to testing the movement of the fan blade, it’s important to pay attention to any unusual noises coming from the motor. If you notice that the motor is unusually noisy, this can also be an indication of a faulty motor. In such cases, it is recommended to replace the motor.

    Furthermore, if the fan motor does not run at all, you can use a multimeter to test the motor windings for continuity. This advanced diagnostic step involves using a specific tool called a multimeter to measure the electrical continuity of the motor windings. If the windings do not have continuity, it suggests a problem with the motor, and it is advisable to replace the evaporator fan motor.

    By following these thorough steps, including checking the blade movement, listening for unusual noises, and using a multimeter to test for continuity, you can confidently determine the condition of the evaporator fan motor and take appropriate actions for troubleshooting or replacement as needed.

    Closing Thought On Kenmore Fridge Not Cooling But Freezer Working!

    Generally, the Kenmore fridge shouldn’t warm things up when the freezer is cold. If it does, you should act fast, checking the condenser and evaporator coils, defrost system, door gasket, start relay, damper control, temperature control board, and thermistor. If none is faulty, think of replacing the main control.

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