E L I

T

E

®

Refrigerator

Use & Care Guide

Refrigerador

Guia para su uso y cuidado

R_frig_rateur

Guide d'utilisation et d'entretien

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.

Sears Canada, inc., Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5B 2B8

www.seaFs.com

297208500 (September 2007)

"11

Congratulations on your purchase of a new refrigerator!

We are very proud of our product and we are completely committed to providing you with the best service possible.

Your satisfaction is our #1 priority.

We know you'll enjoy your new refrigerator and Thank

You for choosing our product. We hope you consider us for future purchases.

PLEASE

READ AND SAVE THESE

INSTRUCTIONS

This Owner's Guide provides specific operating instructions for your model. Use your refrigerator only as instructed in this manual. These instructions are not meant to cover every possible condition and situation that may occur. Common sense and caution must be practiced when installing, operating and maintaining any appliance.

Please record your model and serial numbers

below for future reference. This information is found

on the serial plate located inside the refrigerator compartment.

Model Number: or:

Serial Number:

Purchase Date:

Model and Serial

Num__

J

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome & Congratulations .............................................2

Important Safety Instructions .......................................2-3

Warranty Information ........................................................3

Protection Agreements .....................................................4

Installation ....................................................................5-6

TemperatureControl .........................................................6

Refrigerator Features....................................................7-8

Food Storage & EnergySaving Tips..................................9

Care & Cleaning..............................................................10

Before You Call..........................................................11-13

FOR YOUR SAFETY

• Do not store or use gasoline, or other flammable liquids in the vicinity of this or any other appliance.

Read product labels for warnings regarding flammability and other hazards.

,, Remove all staples from the carton. Staples can cause severe cuts, and also destroy finishes if they come in contact with other appliances or furniture.

CHILD SAFETY

,, Destroy carton, plastic bags, and any exterior wrapping material immediately after the refrigerator is unpacked. Children should never use these items to play. Cartons covered with rugs, bedspreads, plastic sheets or stretch wrap may become airtight chambers, and can quickly cause suffocation.

,, An empty, discarded ice box, refrigerator, or freezer is a very dangerous attraction to children.

,, Remove and discard any spacers used to secure the shelves during shipping. Small objects are a choke hazard to children.

,, Remove the door(s) of any appliance that is not in use, even if it is being discarded.

PROPER DISPOSAL

OF YOUR

REFRIGERATOR OR FREEZER

Risk of child entrapment

Child entrapment and suffocation are not problems of the past. Junked or abandoned refrigerators or freezers are still dangerous - even if they will sit for "just a few days." If you are getting rid of your old refrigerator or freezer, please follow the instructions below to help prevent accidents.

Before you throw away your old refrigerator/freezer:

• Remove doors.

• Leave shelves in place so children may not easily climb inside.

• Have refrigerant removed by a qualified service technician.

ELECTRICAL

iNFORMATiON

,, Refer to the serial plate for correct

electrical

rating. The power cord of the appliance is equipped with a three-prong grounding plug for your protection against shock hazards. It must be plugged directly into a properly grounded three-prong receptacle. The power supply circuit must be installed in accordance with current edition of the National Electrical Code

(NFPA 70) and local codes and ordinances. Consult a qualified electrician. Receptacles protected by

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFIC) are NOT

RECOMMENDED.

Do not use an extension cord or adapter

plug.

• If voltage varies by 10% or more, refrigerator performance may be affected. Operating refrigerator with insufficient power can damage the motor.

Such damage is not covered under the warranty. If you suspect your household voltage is high or low, consult your power company for testing.

• To prevent the refrigerator from being turned off accidentally, do not plug unit into an outlet controlled by a wall switch or pull cord.

• Do not pinch, knot, or bend the cord in any manner.

• To defrost refrigerator, always unplug unit first.

• Never unplug the refrigerator by pulling on the cord.

Always grip the plug firmly, and pull straight out from the receptacle.

KENMORE ELITE APPLIANCE WARRANTY

One Year Limited Warranty

When installed, operated and maintained according to all instructions supplied with the product, if this appliance fails due to a defect in material or workmanship within one year from the date of purchase, call 1-800-4-MY-

HOME ®to arrange for free repair.

LIMITED FIVE YEAR WARRANTY

ON SEALED

REFRIGERATION

SYSTEM

For five years from the date of purchase, when this appliance is installed, operated and maintained according to the instructions supplied with it, Sears will repair the sealed system (consisting of refrigerant, connecting tubing, and compressor), free of charge, if defective in material or workmanship.

If this appliance is used for other lhan private family purposes, this warranty applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.

This warranty covers only defects in material and

workmanship.

Sears will NOT pay for:

1. Expendable items that can wear out from normal use, including but not limited to filters, belts, light bulbs and bags.

2.

A service technician to instruct the user in correct product installation, operation or maintenance.

3.

A service technician to clean or maintain this product.

4.

Damage to or failure of this product if it is not installed, operated or maintained according to all instructions supplied with the product.

5.

Damage to or failure of this product resulting from accident, abuse, misuse or use for other than its intended purpose.

6.

Damage to or failure of this product caused by the use of detergents, cleaners, chemicals or utensils other than those recommended in all instructions supplied with the product.

7.

Damage to or failure of parts or systems resulting from unauthorized modifications made to this product.

Disclaimer of implied

warranties; limitation of remedies

Customer's sole and exclusive remedy under this limited warranty shall be product repair as provided herein. Implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to one year or the shortest period allowed by law. Sears shall not be liable for incidental or consequential damages. Some states and provinces do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, or limitations on the duration of implied warranties of merchantability or fitness, so these exclusions or limitations may not apply to you.

This warranty applies only while this appliance is used in the United States and Canada.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Dept. 817WA, Hoffman

Estates, IL 60179

Sears Canada Inc., Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5B 2B8

Master Protection Agreements

Congratulations on making a smart purchase. Your new

Kenmore_product is designed and manufactured for years of dependable operation. But like all products, it may require preventive maintenance or repair from time to time. That's when having a Master Protection

Agreement can save you money and aggravation.

The Master Protection Agreement also helps extend the life of your new product. Here's what the Agreement* includes:

F"4 Parts and labor needed to help keep products operating properly under normal use, not just defects. Our coverage goes well beyond the product warranty.

No deductibles, no functional failure excluded from coverage - real protection.

F4 Expert service by a force of more than 10,000 authorized

Sears service technicians, which means someone you can trust will be working on your product.

F"4 Unlimited service calls and nationwide service, as often as you wart us, whenever you wart us.

[] "No-lemon" guarantee - replacement of your covered product if four or more product failures occur within twelve months.

[] Product replacement if your covered product can't be fixed.

[] Annual

Preventive Maintenance

Check at your request no extra charge.

[] Fast help by phone - we call it Rapid Resolution - phone support from a Sears representative on all products. Think of us as a "talking owner's manual".

Power surge protection against electrical damage due to power fluctuations.

[_ $250 Food Loss Protection annually for any food spoilage that is the result of mechanical failure of any covered refrigerator or freezer.

[_ Rental reimbursement if repair of your covered product takes longer than promised.

[] 10% discount off the regular price of any non-covered repair service and related installed parts.

Once you purchase the Agreement, a simple phone call is all that it takes for you to schedule service. You can call anytime day or night, or schedule a service appointment online.

The Master Protection Agreement is a risk free purchase.

If you cancel for any reason during the product warranty period, we will provide a full refund. Or, a prorated refund anytime after the product warranty period expires.

Purchase your Master Protection Agreement today!

Some limitations and exclusions apply. For prices and additional information in the U.S.A. call 1-800-827-6655.

* Coverage in Canada varies on some items. For full

details call Sears Canada at 1-800-361-6665.

Sears Installation Service

For Sears professional installation of home appliances, garage door openers, water heaters, and other major home items, in the U.S.A. or Canada call 1-800-4-MY-

HOME ®.

ThisOwner'sGuideprovidesspecificoperating the refrigerator,followtheseimportantfirst steps.

LOCATION

• Choose a place that is near a grounded electrical outlet. Do Not use an extension cord or an adapter plug.

• For the most efficient operation, the refrigerator should be located where surrounding temperatures will not drop below 40°F (5°C) or exceed 1 IO°F

(43°C).

• Allow the following clearances for ease of installation, proper air circulation, and electrical connections:

Sides 3/8"

Back & Top 1"

Do Not block the toe grille on the lower front of your refrigerator. Sufficient air circulation is essential for the proper operation of your refrigerator.

1" (25ram)

DOOR OPENING

Freezer

Installation

Refrigerator

LEVELING

The refrigerator must have all bottom corners resting firmly on a solid floor. The floor must be strong enough to support a fully loaded refrigerator. NOTE: It is Very

Important for your refrigerator to be level in order to function properly. If the refrigerator is not leveled during installation, the door may be misaligned and not close or seal properly, causing cooling, frost, or moisture problems.

To Level

Refrigerator:

EIASTIC LEVELING

FEET

After discarding crating screws and wood base, use a carpenter's level to level the refrigerator from front-toback. Adjust the plastic leveling feet in front, Y2

DISCARD THE (4) CRATING

%

AND WOOD bubble higher, so that the door closes easily when left halfway open.

Leveling

Instructions for all Refrigerator/Freezer

Pair:

• Remove two leg levelers provided in literature bag.

While unit is lying on its back for wood skid removal, install both leg levelers in rear of unit.

Level door of first unit using all four levelers and slide unit into place. Recheck for levelness and adjust if necessary.

Measure distance from floor to bottom of door on first unit. Adjust and level second unit so door height matches.

• Leg Level Adjustments

- One full turn of all four leg levelers will raise door

5/32".

- One full turn of both front leg levelers will raise door 3/16" and tilt top of door back 7/16".

- One full turn of both rear leg levelers will lower door 1/32" and tilt top of door forward 7/16".

- One full turn of both side leg levelers will raise door 3/16" and tilt top of door 3/8".

Slide second unit into place leaving a minimum gap of 3/16" between units for door swing clearance.

This last step may require at least one extraction of the second unit to properly align units in a "built-in" application.

Shelf Front

DOOR REMOVAL

If door must be removed:

1 Gently lay refrigerator on its back, on a rug or blanket.

2 Remove two base screws and base panel.

3 Remove bottom hinge screws.

4 Remove plastic top hinge cover.

5 Remove screws from top hinge.

6 Remove top hinge from cabinet.

7 Remove door and bottom hinge from cabinet.

8 To replace door, reverse the above order and securely tighten all screws to prevent hinge slippage.

COOL DOWN PERIOD

For safe food storage, allow 4 hours for the refrigerator to cool down completely. The refrigerator will run continuously for the first several hours.

TEMPERATURE CONTROL

The temperature control is located inside the refrigerator compartment.

The temperature is factory preset to provide satisfactory food storage temperatures.

However, the temperature control is adjustable to provide a range of temperatures for your personal satisfaction. If a colder temperature

Cold Control is desired, turn the temperature control knob toward

COLDEST and allow several hours for temperatures to stabilize between adjustments.

INTERIOR LIGHT

The light comes on automatically when the door is opened. To replace the light bulb, turn the temperature control to OFF and unplug the electrical cord. Replace the old bulb with a bulb of the same wattage.

ADJUSTABLE

INTERIOR

SHELVES

Multi-position adjustable interior shelves can be moved to any position for larger or smaller packages.

The shipping spacers that stabilize the shelves for shipping may be removed and discarded.

To Remove Light Lens

Press Tabs in Direction Shown.

_,

Mid Level Lighting

o/ \o

,%

Adjustable Interior Shelves - Upright Models

TO ADJUST CANTILEVER SHELVES

......

Lift front edge up.

Pull shelf out.

Replace the shelf by inserting the hooks at rear of the shelf into the wall bracket. Lower the shelf into the desired slots and lock into position.

MID LEVEL LIGHT

The light comes on automatically when the door is opened. To replace the light bulb, turn the temperature control to OFF and unplug the electrical cord. Remove the lens from the lamp housing by unsnapping it from the lamp housing using your fingers or a screwdriver. Be careful not to break the locking tabs on the lamp housing.

Replace the old bulb with a bulb of the same type and wattage. To replace the lens, snap one side of the lens opening to the tab on the lamp housing. Then carefully attach the other side.

DOOR STORAGE

Door bins, shelves, and racks are provided for convenient storage of jars, bottles, and cans. Frequently used items can be quickly selected.

Some models have door racks or bins that can accommodate gallon-sized plastic drink containers and economy-sized jars and containers.

The dairy compartment, which is warmer than the general food storage section, is intended for short term storage of cheese, spreads, or butter.

ADJUSTABLE

DOOR BINS

Some models have adjustable door bins that can be moved to suit individual needs.

To move door bins :

1 Lift bin straight up.

2 Remove bin.

3 Place bin in desired position.

4 Lower bin onto supports until locked in place.

DELl DRAWER

(SOME MODELS)

Some models are equipped with a drawer for storage of luncheon meats, spreads, cheeses and other dell items.

CRISPER

WiTH ADJUSTABLE

DiViDERS

(SOME MODELS)

The crisper located under the bottom refrigerator shelf is designed for storing fruits, vegetables and other fresh produce. Wash items in clear water and remove excess water before placing them in the crispers.

Items with strong odors or high moisture content should be wrapped before storing.

Dividers may be adjusted for different size items within the crisper.

HUMiDiTY CONTROL (SOME MODELS)

The Humidity Control, present on some models with crisper drawers, allows you to adjust the humidity within the crisper.

This can extend the life of fresh vegetables that keep best in high humidity.

Low

Crisper

Humidit

High

Humidit_

FOOD STORAGE IDEAS

Fresh Food Storage

• The fresh food compartment should be kept between

34°F and 40°F with an optimum temperature of 37°E

• Avoid overcrowding the refrigerator shelves. This reduces the circulation of air around the food and results in uneven cooling.

Fruits and Vegetables

• Storage in the crisper drawers traps moisture to help preserve the fruit and vegetable quality for longer time periods.

Meat

Raw meat and poultry should be wrapped securely so leakage and contamination of other foods or surfaces does not occur.

ENERGY SAVING IDEAS

• Locate the refrigerator in the coolest part of the room, out of direct sunlight, and away from heating ducts or registers. Do not place the refrigerator next to heat-producing appliances such as a range, oven, or dishwasher.

If this is not possible, a section of cabinetry or an added layer of insulation between the two appliances will help the refrigerator operate more efficiently.

Level the refrigerator so that the door closes tightly.

• Refer to the "TEMPERATURE CONTROL" section for the suggested temperature control settings.

• Do not overcrowd the refrigerator or block cold air vents. Doing so causes the refrigerator to run longer and use more energy.

• Cover foods and wipe containers dry before placing them in the refrigerator. This cuts down on moisture build-up inside the unit.

• Organize the refrigerator to reduce door openings.

Remove as many items as needed at one time and close the door as soon as possible.

VACATION

AND MOVING

TIPS

Short Vacations:

Leave the refrigerator operating during vacations of less than three weeks.

Long Vacations:

If the refrigerator will not be used for several months:

• Remove all food and unplug the power cord.

Clean and dry the interior thoroughly.

Leave the refrigerator door open slightly, blocking it open if necessary, to prevent odor and mold growth.

Moving: When moving the refrigerator, follow these

guidelines to prevent damage:

• Disconnect the power cord plug from the wall outlet.

Remove foods, then defrost, and clean the refrigerator.

Secure all loose items such as base panel, baskets, and shelves by taping them securely in place to prevent damage.

In the moving vehicle, secure refrigerator in an upright position to prevent movement.

Also protect outside of refrigerator with a blanket, or similar item.

Keep your refrigerator clean to prevent odor build-up.

Wipe up any spills immediately and clean at least twice a year. Never use metallic scouring pads, brushes, abrasive cleaners or strong alkaline solutions on any surface. Do not wash any removable parts in a dishwasher. Always

unplug the electrical power cord from the waft outlet before cleaning.

Part

Interior/Door

Liner

Door Gaskets

Drawers/Bins

Glass Shelves

Exterior and

Handles

Exterior and

Handles

(Stainless

Steel Models

Only)

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

What To Use

Soap and water

Baking soda and water

Soap and water

Soap and water

Soap and water

Glass cleaner

Mild liquid sprays

Soap and water

Non Abrasive Glass

Cleaner

Soap and water

Ammonia

Stainless Steel

Cleaners

Care & Cleaning Chart

Tips and Precautions

Use 2 tablespoons of baking soda in 1 quart of warm water. Be sure to wring excess water out of sponge or cloth before cleaning around controls, light bulb or any electrical part.

Wipe gaskets with a clean soft cloth.

Do not wash any removable items (bins, drawers, etc.) in dishwasher.

Allow glass to warm to room temperature before immersing in warm water.

Do not use commercial household cleaners, ammonia, or alcohol to clean handles. Use a soft cloth to clean smooth handles. Do Not use a dry cloth to clean smooth doors.

Clean stainless steel front and handles with soapy water and a dishcloth.

Rinse with clean water and a soft cloth. Wipe stubborn spots with an ammonia-soaked paper towel, and rinse. Use a non-abrasive stainless steel cleaner. These cleaners can be purchased at most home improvement or major department stores. Always follow manufacturer's instructions.

NOTE: Always clean, wipe and dry with the grain to prevent crossgrain scratching.

Wash the rest of the cabinet with warm water and mild liquid detergent. Rinse well, and wipe dry with a clean soft cloth.

10

TROUBLESHOOTING

GUIDE

Before calling for service, review this list. It may save you time and expense. This list includes common occurrences that are not the result of defective workmanship or materials in this appliance.

Refrigerator Operation

Refrigerator does not run.

•

e e e e

Refrigerator is plugged into a circuit that has a ground fault interrupt.

Temperature control is in the

OFF position.

Refrigerator may not be plugged in, or plug may be loose.

House fuse blown or tripped circuit breaker.

Power outage.

Use another circuit. If you are unsure about the outlet, have it checked by a certified technician.

See "Temperature Control" Section.

Ensure plug is tightly pushed into outlet.

Refrigerator runs too much or too long.

• Room or outside weather is hot.

Check/replace fuse with a 15 amp time-delay fuse. Reset circuit breaker.

Check house lights. Call local Electric

Company.

It's normal for the refrigerator to work harder under these conditions.

It takes 4 hours for the refrigerator to cool down completely.

Refrigerator has recently been disconnected for a period of time.

Large amounts of warm or hot food have been stored recently.

Doors are opened too frequently or too long.

Refrigerator door may be slightly open.

Temperature Control is set too low.

Refrigerator gasket is dirty, worn, cracked, or poorly fitted.

Interior refrigerator temperature is too cold.

Interior refrigerator temperature is too warm.

Refrigerator external surface temperature is warm.

• Temperature control is set too low.

• Temperature control is set too wa rm.

Door is kept open too long or is opened too frequently.

Door may not be sealing properly.

Large amounts of warm or hot food may have been stored recently.

Refrigerator has recently been disconnected for a period of time.

The external refrigerator walls can be as much as 30°F warmer than room temperature.

o o

Warm food will cause refrigerator to run more until the desired temperature is reached.

Warm air entering the refrigerator causes it to run more. Open doors less often.

See "Door Problems" in the "Before You Call"

Section.

Turn control knob to a warmer setting. Allow several hours for the temperature to stabilize.

Clean or change gasket. Leaks in the door seal will cause refrigerator to run longer in order to maintain desired temperature.

Turn the control to a warmer setting. Allow several hours for the temperature to stabilize.

Turn control to a colder setting. Allow several hours for the temperature to stabilize.

Warm air enters the refrigerator every time the door is opened. Open the door less often.

See "Door Problems" in the "Before You Call"

Section.

Wait until the refrigerator has had a chance to reach its selected temperature.

Refrigerator requires 4 hours to cool down completely.

This is normal while the compressor works to transfer heat from inside the refrigerator cabinet.

11

Sound and Noise

Louder sound levels whenever refrigerator is on,

Longer sound levels when compressor comes on.

Popping or cracking sound when compressor comes on.

Bubbling or gurgling sound, like water boiling.

Vibrating or rattling noise,

•

•

•

•

•

Modern refrigerators have increased storage capacity and more stable temperatures.

They require a high efficiency compressor.

Refrigerator operates at higher pressures during the start of the

ON cycle.

Metal parts undergo expansion and contraction, as in hot water pipes.

Refrigerant (used to cool refrigerator) is circulating throughout the system.

Refrigerator is not level. It rocks on the floor when it is moved slightly.

Floor is uneven or weak.

Refrigerator rocks on floor when it is moved slightly.

Refrigerator is touching the wall.

• This is normal. When the surrounding noise level is low, you might hear the compressor running while it cools the interior.

• This is normal. Sound will level off or disappear as refrigerator continues to run.

• This is normal. Sound will level off or disappear as refrigerator continues to run.

• This is normal.

• Level the unit. Refer to "Leveling" in the

"Installation" Section.

Ensure floor can adequately support refrigerator. Level the refrigerator by putting wood or metal shims under part of the refrigerator.

Relevel the refrigerator or move refrigerator slightly. Refer to "Leveling" in the

"Installation" Section.

This is normal.

Snapping Sound

Water/Moisture/Frost

Inside

Moisture forms on inside of refrigerator walls.

• Cold Control turning the refrigerator on and off.

,,

Refrigerator

Weather is hot and humid.

o

Door may not be sealing properly.

Door is kept open too long, or is opened too frequently.

Water/Moisture/Frost Outside Refrigerator

Moisture forms on • Door may not be sealing

T

|,

This is normal.

See "Door Problems" in the "Before You Call"

Section.

Open the door less often.

See "Door Problems" in the "BeforeYou Call" outside of refrigerator, from inside the refrigerator to meet warm moist air from properly, causing the cold air outside.

/ Section.

Odor in Refrigerator

Odors in refrigerator.

• interior needs to be cleaned.

Foods with strong odors are in the refrigerator.

|,

/

Clean interior with sponge, warm water, and baking soda.

• Cover the food tightly.

12

Door Problems

Door will not close.

, on the floor when it is moved efrigerator is not level. It rocks slightly.

I of square and misalign the door. Refer to his condition can force the cabinet out

"Leveling" in the "installation" Section.

Light Bulb Is Not On

Light bulb is not on.

• Light bulb is burned out.

No electric current is reaching the refrigerator.

I

Level Light" in the "Refrigerator Features"

Section.

Follow directions under"lnterior Light" or"Mid

You Call" Section.

13