Last Updated on August 10, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
Your Kenmore refrigerator not cooling is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. If your fridge isn’t keeping food cold, it could spoil and cause bacteria to grow. This could lead to illness if consumed. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of a Kenmore refrigerator not cooling and provide some tips on how to fix it.
Reasons Why Kenmore Refrigerator Not Cooling and How To Fix
1. Air Damper.
The air damper is located in the back of the refrigerator, near the bottom. It is a small, plastic piece that regulates the airflow inside the fridge. If the air damper is broken, it can cause the fridge to not cool properly.
Why does it fail?
The most common reason for the air damper to fail is because the coils inside the fridge are frozen. When this happens, the air damper cannot open and close properly, which prevents it from regulating the airflow.
Another reason why your air damper might not be working properly is because of a clogged filter. A clogged filter will prevent the airflow from moving properly, which can also cause the air damper to fail. Lastly, the air damper might simply be worn out and in need of replacement.
How to fix it.
This is a common problem with Kenmore refrigerators. The air damper is located in the back of the fridge, near the bottom.
It’s a small, black knob that controls the flow of air from the freezer to the fridge. If this damper is stuck closed, it will cause your fridge to not cool properly.
2. Compressor.
If your Kenmore refrigerator is not cooling, one of the first things you should check is the compressor.
The compressor is responsible for circulating coolant throughout the fridge, so if it’s not working properly, your fridge won’t be able to keep itself cool. There are a few signs that your compressor is broken:
-Your fridge is making strange noises
-The back of your fridge is hot to the touch
-Your fridge isn’t cooling evenly (some areas are warmer than others)
Why does it fail?
The most likely reason for a compressor to fail is because it’s overloaded. This can happen if the fridge is too full, or if there’s something blocking the airflow. Check to make sure that there’s nothing blocking the vents on the back of the fridge, and that the fridge isn’t too full.
If the compressor is overloaded, it can overheat and shut off. This is a safety feature to prevent the compressor from being damaged. Once the compressor has cooled down, it should start working again. If it doesn’t, there may be a more serious problem.
Another possible reason for a compressor to fail is because the Freon level is low. Freon is the coolant that helps keep the fridge cold. If the level is low, it can cause the compressor to overheat and shut off.
How to fix it.
If your Kenmore refrigerator isn’t cooling, the first thing to check is the compressor. If the compressor isn’t running, it could be because it’s overloaded, locked up, or has failed.
You can try resetting the overload protector by unplugging the fridge and then plugging it back in. If that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the compressor.
3. Broken Start Relay.
The start relay is a small switch located near the compressor. If this switch is defective, it may prevent the compressor from running.
To test the start relay, open the refrigerator door and listen for the click when you press the light switch. If you don’t hear a click, or if the compressor doesn’t run, replace the start relay.
Why does it fail?
There are a few reasons why your start relay may have failed. The most common reason is because of a power surge. This can cause the coil in the start relay to burn out.
Another reason could be because of too much heat. If your refrigerator is located in an area where it gets hot, this could cause the start relay to fail. Finally, if the start relay is not getting enough power, it can also fail.
How to fix it?
Luckily, replacing a start relay is relatively easy and inexpensive. You can find them online or at most appliance parts stores. Simply remove the old relay and install the new one in its place.
Be sure to check your refrigerator’s model number to make sure you get the correct replacement part.
If your Kenmore refrigerator is still not cooling properly after replacing the start relay, there may be a more serious problem with your fridge. You may need to call a repairman to diagnose and fix the issue.
4. Damper Control.
The damper control is located in the back of the fridge, near the bottom. If the damper control is not working properly, it will not allow enough cold air to enter the fridge.
To test the damper control, open the fridge and see if the damper control is open. If it is not, turn the knob to the “open” position. If the damper control is still not working, replace it with a new one.
Why does it fail?
There are a few reasons why your Kenmore refrigerator’s damper control might fail. The most common reason is that the control itself is faulty.
Other potential causes include a clogged or frozen damper, or a problem with the fridge’s air circulation. If your fridge is not cooling properly, it’s worth checking the damper control to see if it’s the root of the problem.
How to fix it?
First, check to see if the control itself is dirty or damaged. If so, you can clean or replace it. If the control is not the problem, then you’ll need to check the damper. Start by making sure that it’s not frozen or clogged.
You can do this by manually moving the damper back and forth. If it’s stuck, try thawing it out with a hairdryer or defrosting it with a warm, damp cloth.
Once the damper is clear, check to see if the air circulation in your fridge is adequate. If not, you may need to adjust the shelves or vents to improve airflow.
5. Defrost System.
If your Kenmore refrigerator is not cooling, one possible reason is that the defrost system is not working properly. The defrost system consists of a heating element and a thermostat.
The heating element heats up the coils in the freezer to melt any frost that has built up on them. The thermostat monitors the temperature of the coils and turns the heating element on and off as needed.
Why does it fail?
The most common reason for a Kenmore refrigerator to stop cooling is because the defrost system has failed. The defrost system is what keeps the coils on the back of the fridge from freezing over, and if it fails, then the coils can’t do their job properly.
There are a few different things that can cause the defrost system to fail, but the most common is simply age. Over time, the parts of the defrost system can wear out and stop working properly.
How do you fix it?
Fortunately, the fix for a failed defrost system is relatively simple. You just need to replace the parts that have worn out. The first step is to identify the problem.
If you notice that the coils on the back of your fridge are covered in ice, then that’s a good indication that the defrost system has failed.
Once you’ve identified the problem, you can purchase the replacement parts from a Kenmore dealer or an appliance store.
Be sure to get the correct parts for your model of fridge. Once you have the parts, you can follow the instructions in your Kenmore refrigerator’s manual to replace them.
6. Defrost Timer.
If your Kenmore refrigerator isn’t cooling, the defrost timer might be to blame. This part controls the amount of time that the compressor runs, and if it’s not working properly, your fridge won’t get cold enough.
To check if the defrost timer is the problem, first unplug your fridge and then remove the back panel. Locate the timer and check to see if it’s turning. If it’s not, you’ll need to replace it.
7. Condenser Coils.
These are the coils on the back of your fridge, and they’re vital to the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your fridge won’t be able to properly cool. Clean them with a brush (or a vacuum attachment) and some soapy water.
Why does it fail?
The most common reason for a refrigerator to stop cooling is because the condenser coils are dirty. When the coils are covered in dust and dirt, they can’t do their job properly.
As a result, your fridge will have to work harder to cool down, which uses more energy and raises your utility bills. In some cases, dirty coils can cause the fridge to stop cooling altogether.
How to fix
If they’re dirty, simply clean them with a vacuum and a coil brush. You can find these brushes at most hardware stores. Once you’ve cleaned the coils, your fridge should start cooling properly again.
If the coils aren’t dirty, the next thing to check is the evaporator coils. These coils are located in the freezer compartment and they help remove heat from the air inside the fridge. If these coils are frosted over, they can’t do their job properly.
8. Evaporator Fan Motor.
This part circulates air over the evaporator coils to help remove heat and moisture from the air inside the fridge. If the evaporator fan motor is not working properly, it could cause your fridge to stop cooling properly.
Why does it fail?
There are a few reasons the evaporator fan motor might fail. The most common reason is that the bearings in the motor have seized up. Other possible causes include a failed start capacitor or a broken wire.
How to fix it?
If the evaporator fan motor has failed, it will need to be replaced. This is generally a fairly simple repair that can be completed by a qualified appliance technician.
9. Condenser Fan Motor.
If your Kenmore refrigerator is not cooling, one possible issue could be the condenser fan motor. The condenser fan motor helps circulate cool air throughout the fridge, so if it’s not working properly, your fridge will not be able to maintain a consistent temperature.
Why does it fail?
The condenser fan motor works hard to keep the fridge cool. Over time, this part can wear out and fail. When it does, your fridge will no longer be able to properly cool down.
How do you know if it’s the condenser fan motor?
There are a few signs that point to a failed condenser fan motor. First, you’ll notice that your fridge is no longer cooling as well as it used to. The fridge may also be louder than usual, or you may hear strange noises coming from the back of the fridge.
How to fix it?
If the fridge is not cooling, one of the first things to check is the condenser fan motor. This part helps circulate air over the coils that remove heat from the fridge. If the motor isn’t working, your fridge won’t be able to properly cool.
There are a few ways to test whether or not the condenser fan motor is working. First, try turning on the fridge and listening for the sound of the motor running. If you don’t hear anything, it’s likely that the motor has failed and will need to be replaced.
Another way to test the condenser fan motor is to feel for air coming from the vents on the back of the fridge. If you don’t feel any air coming out, that’s another sign that the motor has failed and will need to be replaced.
10. Improperly closed door.
If the door isn’t closed all the way, warm air from outside can enter the fridge and cause the temperature to rise. Check to make sure that the door is shut tight and if it’s not, simply close it until you hear it click.
If the door isn’t closing properly, there could be an issue with the hinges or gasket. Inspect both to see if they need to be adjusted or replaced. In most cases, simply tightening a few screws will do the trick. If the gasket is damaged, however, you’ll need to replace it.
11. Main Control Board.
If your Kenmore refrigerator is not cooling, one potential issue could be the main control board. The main control board controls many of the fridge’s key functions, such as the interior light and the coolness of the fridge. If this part is defective, it may cause your fridge to stop cooling properly.
Why does it fail?
The main control board can fail for a number of reasons. The most common reason is a power surge that fries the circuit board. This can happen if there is a power outage or if the fridge is plugged into a faulty outlet.
Another common reason for failure is simply age and wear and tear. Over time, the circuitry on the board can degrade and eventually fail.
How to fix it?
If the main control board fails, it will usually need to be replaced. This is a relatively simple process that does not require any special tools or skills.
Simply unplug the fridge, remove the old board, and install the new one. Be sure to double check all of the connections before plugging the fridge back in.
If the main control board is not the problem, then there are a few other possible issues that could be causing the fridge to fail to cool properly. These include a failed compressor, dirty condenser coils, or low Freon levels. Each of these issues will require a different repair process.
12. Overstuffing.
You know how it goes. The fridge is already packed to the brim with food, but you just can’t resist buying that extra pint of ice cream or six-pack of beer. And so you cram it in, shoving everything else aside to make room.
But here’s the thing: overstuffing your fridge can actually lead to problems with the cooling system.
When the fridge is too full, air can’t circulate properly, and that can cause the compressor to overwork itself trying to keep everything cool. So if your fridge isn’t keeping things as cold as it should be, take a look inside and see if it’s time to do some decluttering.
13. Sealed System Freon Leak.
The most common cause of a Kenmore refrigerator not cooling is a Freon leak in the sealed system. This can be caused by a number of things, but the most common is simply age and use.
If your fridge is more than ten years old, it’s probably time to start shopping for a new one. But if it’s less than ten years old and you’re handy with tools, you may be able to repair the leak yourself.
The first thing you need to do is locate the leak. This can be done by using a soap and water solution. Simply mix equal parts of dish soap and water in a bowl and then use a brush or cloth to apply it to all of the seams and joints on your fridge. If you see any bubbles forming, that’s where the leak is.
Once you’ve located the leak, the next step is to repair it. This usually involves replacing the gasket or seal that’s causing the leak. You can find replacement parts at most hardware stores. Just be sure to take the old part with you to ensure you get the right size.
Once you’ve replaced the gasket or seal, the next step is to recharge the fridge with Freon. This can be done at most auto parts stores. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully, as too much Freon can damage your fridge.
14. Start Capacitor.
The start capacitor helps the compressor to start up. If it’s damaged or burned out, it won’t be able to provide the necessary power to start the compressor.
To test whether the start capacitor is defective, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the multimeter shows that the capacitor is open, it needs to be replaced.
Next, check the run capacitor. The run capacitor helps the compressor to keep running. If it’s damaged or burned out, the compressor won’t be able to stay on for long.
15. Temperature Control Board.
The temperature control board regulates the voltage to the compressor and fan motors. If it is defective, the fridge will not cool properly. To test it, use a multimeter to test the continuity of the thermal fuse. If the fuse is open, replace it.
Why does it fail?
There are a few reasons why the temperature control board might fail. The most common reason is that the power supply to the board has failed. Another possibility is that a component on the board has failed. In either case, you will need to replace the temperature control board.
To replace the temperature control board, follow these steps:
-Unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet.
-Remove the screws that hold the control panel in place.
-Pull the control panel off of the fridge.
-Remove the screws that hold the temperature control board in place.
-Pull the temperature control board out of the fridge.
-Install a new temperature control board in the fridge.
-Screw it in place.
-Replace the control panel.
-Screw it in place.
-Plug the refrigerator back into the wall outlet.
16. Temperature Control Thermostat.
The next thing you’ll want to check is the temperature control thermostat. This regulates the amount of cool air that flows into the refrigerator. If it’s set too low, your fridge won’t be cold enough. If it’s set too high, your food will freeze.
Why does it fail?
Your Kenmore refrigerator’s temperature control thermostat monitors the temperature inside your fridge and turns the cooling system on and off to maintain the set temperature.
If this part fails, it will no longer be able to accurately monitor the temperature, which can cause your fridge to become too cold or too warm.
How to fix it?
This thermostat controls the amount of cool air that flows into the fridge. If it is set too low, then not enough cool air will flow into the fridge and it will not cool properly.
The first thing you should do is check the settings on the thermostat and make sure it is set to the correct temperature. If it is, then you should check to see if the coils are dirty. If they are, then you will need to clean them.
17. Thermistor.
This is the part of the fridge that senses the temperature and tells the compressor when to turn on and off. If this part is defective, it can cause your fridge to not cool properly. You’ll need to replace it with a new one.
Why does it fail?
A thermistor is a temperature-sensing resistor whose resistance varies with changes in temperature. The most common type of thermistor is made of ceramic or glass, and contains metal oxide semiconductor material.
Thermistors are used in many types of electronic devices for temperature measurement and control.
Thermistors typically have a negative coefficient of resistance, meaning that their resistance decreases as the temperature increases. The resistance of a thermistor can be measured using a multimeter, and the resistance value can be used to calculate the temperature.
Thermistors can fail due to a number of reasons, including physical damage, corrosion, or electrical leakage. If a thermistor is damaged or corroded, it may not be able to accurately measure the temperature. If a thermistor is leaking electricity, it may give false readings.
How to fix it?
If your thermistor is damaged or corroded, it will need to be replaced. If your thermistor is leaking electricity, you may be able to repair it by soldering the connection.
You can usually find a replacement thermistor at your local hardware store. Alternatively, you can order one online. Be sure to get the correct type of thermistor for your refrigerator.
Kenmore refrigerator not cooling but freezer works?
This is a very common issue that can be easily fixed. The first thing you want to do is check and see if the coils are dirty. If they are, clean them off with a coil cleaning brush.
If the coils are not dirty, then the next thing you want to check is the Freon levels. If they are low, then you will need to call a professional to come and recharge the system.
If you have checked the coils and the Freon levels and everything seems to be in working order, then the next thing you want to do is check the thermostat.
It is possible that it is not set properly and needs to be adjusted. If you are still having issues, then you will need to call a professional to come and take a look at your refrigerator.
Kenmore refrigerator not cooling enough?
Check out these five possible causes and solutions.
If your Kenmore refrigerator isn’t cooling enough, it’s likely due to one of five possible causes. Fortunately, all of these are relatively easy to fix yourself.
The first possibility is that the fridge is simply not set cold enough. Check the thermostat and make sure it’s set as low as it will go.
Another possibility is that the fridge is too full. A full fridge has to work harder to keep things cold, so make sure you’re not overloading it.
If your fridge is empty, on the other hand, that could be the problem. An empty fridge doesn’t have enough mass to stay cold, so make sure you keep it at least half full.
Another possibility is that the door seal is damaged. A damaged door seal will let warm air in, making it harder for the fridge to stay cold. Check the seal and replace it if necessary.
Finally, if your fridge is old, it may simply be worn out. An old fridge may not be able to maintain the cold temperature as well as a new one. If your fridge is more than ten years old, it may be time for an upgrade.
Kenmore refrigerator not cooling after power outage?
Here are a few things to check.
First, make sure that the power cord is plugged into a working outlet. Next, check the circuit breaker or fuse box and reset any tripped breakers or blown fuses. Finally, consult your owner’s manual for troubleshooting tips specific to your model of refrigerator.
If your Kenmore refrigerator still isn’t cooling after power is restored, contact a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance.
How do you reset the compressor on a Kenmore refrigerator?
If your Kenmore refrigerator is not cooling properly, one potential cause could be a malfunctioning compressor. In this case, you will need to reset the compressor in order to get it working again.
To reset the compressor on your Kenmore refrigerator, first unplug the fridge from its power source. Next, locate the reset button on the back of the fridge, and press it. Finally, plug the fridge back in and wait for the compressor to restart.
Related:
- GE Hotpoint Refrigerator That’s Not Cooling? {Here’s How To Fix It}
- Frigidaire Side by Side Refrigerator Not Cooling? How to Fix It
- Frigidaire Refrigerator Not Cooling? 6 Reasons Why and How to Fix Them
- 8 Reasons for GE Refrigerator Not Cooling and {How To Fix}
- 10 Reasons For Whirlpool Refrigerator Not Cooling and {How To Fix}
Conclusion
If your Kenmore refrigerator is not cooling, there are several potential causes. First, check to ensure that the fridge is properly plugged in and that the power cord is not frayed or damaged.
Next, inspect the condenser coils and clean them if they are dirty. If the problem persists, you may need to replace the condenser fan motor. Finally, if the fridge is still not cooling properly, you may need to call a professional for further assistance.
We hope this article has helped you troubleshoot your Kenmore refrigerator.
