Kenmore Refrigerator Not Cooling and Ice Maker Issues – Top Easy Fixes
If your Kenmore refrigerator is not cooling, it is very frustrating. Below, we will list the most common causes for this issue.
Kenmore Refrigerator Not Cooling Fixes
- First, check the door seal. If it is cracked or loose, warm air can get in and affect the cooling. Replace it with a new one.
- The condenser coils under the fridge can become dusty, which can affect the cooling efficiency. Clean the condenser coil with a brush and vacuum once every year. Due to a dusty condenser coil, the compressor will get overheated and will be damaged if the coil is not cleaned.
- Make sure the freezer is set to 0–5°F. Check the temperature setting.
- If the fan is running but no cold air is coming out, the evaporator fan motor might be broken. Also, check for any blocked vents inside the fridge (air supply on the top and return air damper at the bottom), as this can stop airflow. The air should circulate from the freezer to the fresh food section.
- Unplug the fridge for 10 minutes to reset it, which may sometimes resolve the issue. Most of the time, the control board needs to be reset, and unplugging the fridge for several minutes will take care of the issue.
If the problem continues, you might need to call an appliance repair technician to inspect the fan or wiring, especially in older models.
Kenmore Elite is not cooling
If your Kenmore Elite is not cooling and the compressor is either silent or continuously clicking, this typically indicates a major problem, as it may be a broken relay or a stuck compressor. The control board could also be faulty, preventing power from reaching the necessary parts, such as the compressor or fans.
Defrost Issue will cause the frost on the back wall in the freezer
Look for frost buildup in the freezer back panel—too much buildup of frost indicates a defrost issue. Unplug the fridge for a day to thaw it out, then plug it back in to see if it cools. If the refrigerator starts to cool down after a few days of being disconnected, then it means you need a professional Kenmore refrigerator repair technician to find the broken part and replace it. If you don’t fix the fridge, after a week, the frost will come back, and you will have the same problem back and your Kenmore Elite is not cooling again.
Linear Compressor or Relay Issue
If you hear a buzzing or a clicking noise, it is likely the compressor or a faulty relay. In side-by-side models, check the wires, as frequent door opening can cause wear. It’s located at the bottom of the fresh food door where the hinge is. A professional refrigerator repair technician can test the compressor with special tools to check for low coolant or freon leaks.
A Kenmore refrigerator that is not cooling may be due to a faulty start relay, thermostat, defrost issue, or compressor. Try replacing them if they are faulty by following an online guide. Also, unplug the fridge for a little while to see if it resets control. For side-by-side models, inspect the wiring harness at the bottom of the door, as it can get damaged from constant use.
Kenmore Ice Maker Not Working Tips
If your Kenmore ice maker not working, it is inconvenient, especially in summer. If the freezer temperature is above 10°F, lower it and wait a few hours. A kinked or frozen water line prevents water from reaching the ice maker. Use a hairdryer to thaw the frozen line, but don’t keep the heat in one spot in order to avoid damage. The water inlet valve might be malfunctioning, and water won’t get to the ice maker. This can be tested with a multimeter if you’re familiar with using one. A clogged valve can cause problems, and replacing it might resolve the issue.
If the Kenmore refrigerator not cooling, it can also affect the ice maker. Check if the ice maker’s arm is stuck in the “off” position (usually up). A clogged water filter restricts water flow, so replace it every six months. After replacing the filter, run water through the dispenser to clear air or debris. You have to run a gallon of water through a newly installed water filter. If the ice maker’s gears do not turn manually, the unit might need replacement. Make sure not to turn the ice maker gears manually, as it will break the ice maker mechanism.
If the Kenmore ice maker not working and remains silent even when the arm is down, it might be broken. Replacing it is usually straightforward—disconnect the unit, unplug the wires, and install a new one. Check the ice maker reset button; it’s under the ice maker mechanism. Press it and hold it for 5 seconds. You will hear a beep. If you don’t hear any sound, it is broken and needs to be replaced.
Check the water supply line for bends or problems. A faulty valve that does not let water through under pressure can be an issue. Refer to your manual for the correct part number. Sometimes resetting the fridge by unplugging it can help if the ice maker sensor is malfunctioning. If problems persist, a repair technician can test the water pressure to ensure it is adequate.
Learn simple steps to fix your ice maker at home — read our full Kenmore Ice Maker Not Working: Complete DIY Repair Guide for easy solutions.
Kenmore Ice Dispenser Not Working
A Kenmore ice dispenser that does not work usually has ice jammed in the chute. Clear it with warm water or a plastic tool—not a knife, as that could cause damage. The dispenser door might have a broken solenoid that fails to open, preventing ice from being dispensed. Press the door switch, and if the freezer light stays on, the switch is likely faulty and needs replacing. Check the wiring in the door hinge too, since frequent opening and closing of the door can wear it out.
If both the Kenmore ice dispenser and ice maker are not functioning, the auger motor that pushes ice might be frozen. Unplug the fridge and let it thaw. A faulty control board might cut power to the dispenser. Test the motor with a meter to check for power. If the voltage drops during dispensing, a wire might be loose. Also, ensure the ice bin is correctly placed, as it will not function properly if it’s not properly aligned. Some ice bins use optic sensors to check a proper ice bin installation.
A Kenmore ice dispenser not working could be due to a broken coupling where the motor connects to the ice bucket. Check for cracks by taking out the bucket. If the dispenser hums without moving, the motor might be stuck or burned out. Replacing it isn’t too difficult, but you’ll need to get the right part for your model. Make sure to clean the chute regularly to prevent ice buildup that can cause jams.
If none of these solutions help, it may be related to the main control board. This fix is more complex, so it’s best to call a professional Kenmore refrigerator technician to diagnose and repair it. We at Hill Country Repairs offer same-day service if your Kenmore ice maker not working, or your Kenmore refrigerator not cooling. Call us for any repair help on Kenmore brand refrigerators in the Austin and Lakeway areas.
Local Repair in Austin
Do you have a Kenmore refrigerator that is not cooling, or issues with the Kenmore ice maker or Kenmore ice dispenser not working in Austin, Lakeway, North Austin, or South Austin? We also fix Kenmore Elite refrigerators that aren’t cooling. Our team can quickly get your fridge back to working order. Contact us for fast and reliable service right in your area. We are here to help ensure your refrigerator and ice maker are functioning just as they should.
FAQ – Kenmore Refrigerator Not Cooling and Ice Maker Issues
Why is my Kenmore refrigerator not cooling?
Your Kenmore fridge may stop cooling because of dirty condenser coils, broken fans, low refrigerant, or a bad compressor. Sometimes a faulty thermostat or control board can also cause the problem.
How do I fix a Kenmore refrigerator that is not cooling?
First, clean the coils under or behind the fridge. Check the fans to be sure they run. Make sure the vents inside are not blocked. If it still does not cool, a technician may need to check the compressor or sealed system.
Why is my Kenmore ice maker not working?
Most of the time, the ice maker stops because of a clogged water filter, a frozen water line, or a faulty water inlet valve. Sometimes the ice maker motor or switch fails and needs repair.
How do I reset the ice maker on my Kenmore refrigerator?
Find the on/off switch or reset button on the ice maker (location depends on the model). Turn it off, wait a few seconds, then turn it back on. In some models, press and hold the reset button for a few seconds until you hear a beep.
How much does it cost to repair a Kenmore refrigerator that is not cooling?
Costs vary by problem. A simple relay or fan repair may cost $150–$300. If the compressor or sealed system needs work, it can be $600 or more. Always ask for a diagnosis before repair.
How often should I change the water filter in my Kenmore refrigerator?
Most Kenmore refrigerators need a new water filter every 6 months. A clogged filter can stop ice making and reduce cooling performance.
Why is my Kenmore ice maker making no ice or very little ice?
This can happen if the water filter is clogged, the water pressure is too low, or the fill tube is frozen. In some cases, the ice maker itself is faulty and needs replacement.
Why does my Kenmore refrigerator run but not cool?
If the fridge is running but still warm, the condenser coils may be dirty, the evaporator fan may not work, or the compressor may be weak. These parts keep the air cold inside the fridge.
Why is water leaking from my Kenmore refrigerator with an ice maker?
Water leaks can come from a clogged defrost drain, a cracked water line, or a loose ice maker connection. A blocked water filter can also cause leaks during ice production.
How do I know if my Kenmore refrigerator compressor is bad?
A bad compressor often makes clicking or buzzing sounds, runs constantly without cooling, or does not run at all. If your Kenmore refrigerator is not cooling and the compressor is hot, it likely needs repair or replacement.
