E

L

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®

Use & Care Guide

Refrigerador

Gufa para su uso y cuidado

R_frig_rateur

Guide d'utilisation et d'entretien

44703

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, mL60179 U.S.A.

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

www.sears,oom

297015000B (0411) m

Z

Serial/Model Numbers .........................

2

Important Safety Instructions ..............

2-3

Refrigerator Warranty ..........................

3

Protection Agreement

Setting the Temperature

.........................

First Steps ...........................................

Control .......... 6

Refrigerator Features ..........................

Food Storage & Energy Saving Tips ... 8

Care and Cleaning ..............................

Before You Call ....................................

4

5

6-7

9

10-11

READ AND SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

This Owner's Guide provides specific operating instructions for your model, Use your refrigerator only as instructed in this guide, 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,

Record Your Model and SedaJ Numbers

Record the model and serial numbers in the space provided below, The serial plate is located on the left wall inside the refrigerator,

Modet Number: 253.

970.

SedaJ Number: or

Purchase Date:

READ

THIS

ALL INSTRUCTIONS

REFRIGERATOR°

BEFORE USING r',v_v__:_,,n_{_

SAFETY

Do not store or use gasoline, or other flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other appliance, Read product labels for flammability and other warnings, r'.,_w-_:_in_[_ CHILD SAFETY o 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, o Remove all staples from the carton, Staples can cause severe cuts, and destroy finishes if they come in contact with other appliances or furniture, o 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.

Model and Serial

Number Hate

Proper Disposa! ofYour RefdgeratodFreezer

_'! !lvAvl-q:t#ll#[L1

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 you r old refrigerator or freezer, please follow the instructions below to help prevent accidents,

BEFOREYOU THROW AWAYYOUR OLD

REFRIGERATOR/FREEZER: o Remove door,

,, Leave shelves in place so children may not easily climb inside,

• Have refrigerant removed by a qualified sewice technician,

mNFORMATJON

These guideJines must be followed to ensure that safety mechanisms in the design of this refrigerator wilt operate properJy.

*

Refer to the sedal plate for correct electdcaJ rating.

The power cord of the appliance is equipped with a three-prong grounding pUugfor your protection against shock hazards, it must be pUugged directUy into a property grounded three-prong receptacb, protected with a 15 amp time delay fuse or circuit breaker. The receptacle must be installed in accordance with 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 pJug.

o If voltage varies by 10% or more, 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 house hold voltage is high or low, consult your power company for testing.

*

To prevent the refrigerator from being turned off accidenticall_4 do not plug unit into an outlet controlled by a wall switch or pull cord. It is recommended that a separate circuit serving onty your refrigerator be provided.

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

r';v,v:1:i_,i_{rs

PRECAUTIONS o Never unplug the refrigerator by pulling on the cord,

Always grip the plug firmly, and pull straight out from the receptacle, o To avoid electrical shock, unplug the refrigerator before cleaning and before replacing a light bulb,

NOTE: Turning the temperature control to OFF turns off the compressor, but does not disconnect the power to the light bulb or other electrical components, o Do not operate refrigerator in the presence of explosive fumes, r!ViV.q:t_ll_[€

Avoid fire hazard or electric shock. Do not use an extension cord or an adapter plug. Do not remove any prong from the power cord.

Grounding type wall receptacle

Warranty

lnformadon

KENMORE

REFRIGERATOR

WARRANTY

ONE YEAR FULL WARRANTY ON

REFRIGERATOR

For one year from the date of purchase, when this refrigerator is operated and maintained according to the instructions supplied with it, Sears will repair this refrigerator, free of charge, if defective in material or workmanship. This one year time period does not include the refrigerator water filter cartridge (if equipped), which is an expendable part warranted for only 30 days (see below).

FIVE YEAR FULL WARRANTY ON SEALED

REFRIGERATION SYSTEM

For five years from the date of purchase, when this refrigerator is 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.

30 DAY FULL WARRANTY ON WATER FILTER

OARTRIDGE (if equipped)

For thirty days from the date of purchase, Sears will replace the refrigerator water filter cartridge if it is defective in material or workmanship.

All above warranty coverage applies only to refrigerators which are used for storage of food for private household purposes.

Warranty service is available in the United States or

Canada by contacting Sears at 1-800-4-MY-HOME ® (1-

800-469-4663).

This warranty applies only while this product is in use in the United States or Canada. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state or province to province.

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

Hoffman

Estates, IL 60179

Sears Canada Inc., Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5B

2B8

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Power supply cord with 3=prong grounding plug

In the U.S.A.

Master Protection Agreements

Congratulations on making a smart purchase. Your new Kenmore Elite ®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.

Purchase a Master Protection Agreement now and protect yourself from unexpected hassle and expense.

The Master Protection Agreement also helps extend the life of your new appliance. Here's what's included in the Agreement:

_" Expert service by our 12,000 professional repair specialists

• " Unlimited service and no charge for parts and labor on all covered repairs

_" "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 phonephone support from a

Sears technician on products requiring in-home repair, plus convenient repair scheduling

_" Power surge protection against electrical damage due to power fluctuations

• " Rental reimbursement if repair of your covered product takes longer than promised

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.

Sears has over 12,000 professional repair specialists, who have access to over 4.5 million quality parts and accessories. That's the kind of professionalism you can count on to help prolong the life of your new purchase for years to come. Purchase your Master

Protection Agreement today!

Some limitations and exclusions apply. For prices and additional information, call 1-800-827-6655.

Sears Installation Service

For Sears professional

installation of home appliances and items like garage door openers, water heaters, and other major home items, in the U.S.A. call

1-800-4MY-HOME ®.

PROTECTION AGREEMENTS

In Canada

Maintenance Agreements

Your purchase has added value because you can depend on Sears HomeCentral ®for service. With over

2400 Service Technicians and more than a million parts and accessories, we have the tools, parts, knowledge and skills to back our pledge:

We Service What We Sell.

Your Kenmore Elite ®product is designed, manufactured and tested to provide years of dependable operation. But like all products, it may require service from time to time. The Sears

Maintenance Agreement offers you an outstanding service program, affordably priced.

The Sears Maintenance Agreement

•

Is your way to buy tomorrow's service at today's price.

• Eliminates repair bills resulting from normal wear and tear.

• Provides phone support from a Sears technician on products requiring in-home repair.

• Even if you don't need repairs, provides an annual

Preventive Maintenance Check, at your request, to ensure that your product is in proper running condition.

Some limitations apply. For more information

about concerning Sears Canada Maintenance

Agreements, call 1-800-361-6665.

This Owner's Guide provides specific operating instructions for your model Use the refrigerator onUyas instructed in this

Owner's Guide. Before starting the refrigerator, foltow these important first steps.

iNSTALLATiON o Choose a pUacethat is neara grounded eUectricaUoutbt.

Do Not use an extension cord or an adapter pUug.

o For the most efficient operation, the refrigerator shouUd be bcated where surrounding temperatures wHUnot drop bebw 40 ° F (5 ° C) or exceed 110 ° F (43 ° C).

o AHow the following clearances for ease of installation, proper air circulation, and electrical connections:

Sides 3/8"

Back & Top 1" 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

To LeveJRefrigerator: screws and wood base, use a carpenter's level

Freezer

tnstaimation

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,

NOTE: The exterior walls of the refrigerator may become quite warm as the compressor works to transfer heat from the inside, Temperatures as much as 30 ° F warmer than room temperature can be expected, For this reason it is particularly important in hotter climates to allow enough space for air circulation around your refrigerator,

Leveling Feet

Crating

And (2) Wood

(4) Crating

Bases

Screws from front-to-back.

Unpacking and Leveling

Adjust the plastic leveling feet in front, _/2bubble higher, so that the door closes easily when left halfway open,

Leveling mnstruetions for aH RefdgeratodFreezer Pair:

, Remove two leg levelers provided in literature bag, While unit is lying on its back 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 fuji turn of aii four leg levelers wiii 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 bast one extraction of the second unit to properly align units in a "built-in" application,

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_To allow door to close and seal properly, DO

NOT let food packages extend past the front of shelves.

DOOR OPENING side against a wall, you may have to a!!ow additional space so the door can be opened wider.

LEVEUNG

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

Shelf Front

DOOR REMOVAL

If door must be removed :

1, GentUyUayrefrigerator on its back, on a rug or bUanket,

2, Remove two base screws and base panel

3, Remove bottom hinge screws,

4, Remove pUastic top hinge cover,

5, Remove screws from top hinge,

6, Remove top hinge from cabinet,

7, Remove doorand bottom hinge from cabinet,

8, To repUacedoor, reverse the above order and secureUy tighten aHscrews to prevent hinge slippage, iNTERIOR LIGHT

The Hght comes on automatically when the door is opened,

To repUacethe Hght buUb,turn the temperature controUto

OFF and unpJug the eJectricaJ cord. Replace the old bulb with a bulb of the same wattage,

To adjust cantilever shelves:

NOTE: Cantilever shelves are supported at the back of

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 satisfac° z tory food storage temperatures,

However, the temperatu re control is adjustable to provide a range of temperatures for your personal satisfaction, if a colder temperature is desired, turn the temperature control knob toward COLDEST and allow several hours for temperatures to stabilize between adjustments,

""

Cold Control

0 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,

"N.

Futl Width Cantilever Glass Shelf

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.

CRISPERS (SOME MODELS)

The crispers, located under the bottom refrigerator shelf, are designed for storing fruits, vegetables, and other fresh produce, Wash items in dear water and remove excess water before placing them in the crispers, Items with strong odors or high moisture content should be wrapped before storing,

Crisper Drawer

Adjustable Door Bin

DELl DRAWER (SOME MODELS)

Some models are equipped with a De[[ Drawer for storage of luncheon meats, spreads cheeses, and other de[[ items,

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,

Humidity Control set on High Humidity, or in a drawer without a Humidity Control This keeps incoming air to a minimum and maintains maximum moisture content,

Low

Humidity

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Dell Drawer

Crisper Humidity Control

FOOD STORAGE IDEAS

Fresh Food Storage o

The fresh food compartment shouUd be kept between 34 ° F and 40 ° F with an optimum temperature of 37 ° R

o

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

Fruits and Vegetables

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

Meat o

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.

o Refer to the "SETTING TH ETEMPERATU RE 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,

Dover 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

Vacations: if the refrigerator will not be used for several months:

Remove all food and unplug the power cord.

Clean and drythe 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 and clean the refrigerator, o Secure all loose items 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,

partsina dishwasher.

unplug the electrical

power cord from the wall outlet before Meaning.

When moving the refrigerator, pull straight out. Do not shift the refrigerator from side to side as this may tear or gouge the floor covering.

-

NOTES:

Turning the refrigerator temperature control to "OFF"tu rns off the compressor, but does not disconnect electrical power to the lig ht bulb or other electrical components. To turn off power to your refrigerator, you must unplug the power cord from the wall outlet,

Do not use razor blades or other sharp instruments which can scratch the appliance surface when removing adhesive labels. Any glue left from tape or labels can be removed with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent, or. touch the glue residue with the sticky side of tape you have already, removed. Do not remove the seriaJ pJate.

Part

Interior/Door

Liner

Door Gaskets

Drawers/Bins

Glass Shelves

Exterior and

Handles

Exterior and

Handles

(Stainless Steel

Models Only)

•

•

•

•

•

..

•

What To Use

Care & Cleaning Chart

Tips and Precautions

Soap and water

Baking soda and water

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.

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

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 cross-grain scratching.

Wash the rest of the cabinet with warm water and mild liquid detergent.

Rinse well, and wipe dry with a clean soft cloth.

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TROUBLESHOOTING

GUIDE

PROBLEM

REFRIGERATOR

Refrigerator doee

OPERATION

not run,

Before calling for service, review this list. It may save you time and expense.

This list includes common occurences that are not the result of defective workmanship or materials in this appliance.

CAUSE CORRECTION

Refrigerator too long, rune too much or

Interior refrigerator is too cold.

temperature

Interior refrigerator is too warm, temperature

Refrigerator temperature external surface is warm.

SOUND AND NOISE

Louder sound levels whenever refrigerator is on,

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.

Rouse 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 "SETTING THE TEMPERATURE CONTROL" Section.

, Ensure plug is tightly pushed into outlet.

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

Check house lights. Call local Electric Company.

Room or outside weather is hot,

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.

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

, Temperature low.

Temperature Control is set too warm.

Control is set too

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.

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

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

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" Section.

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" 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 heat from inside the refrigerator works to transfer cabinet.

Longer sound levels when compressor comes on,

, 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.

, 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.

10

PROBLEM

SOUND AND NOISE (Cent,)

Popping or cracking sound when compressor comes on.

CAUSE CORRECTION

Bubbling or gurgling sound, like water boiling,

Vibrating or ratBing noise.

_ 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,

_ Refrigerator is touching the wall.

_ 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 "FIRST STEPS"

Section,

_ Relevel the refrigerator or move refrigerator slightly, Refer to "Leveling" in the "FIRST STEPS" Section,

_ This is normal.

Snapping Sound.

__ Cold Control turning the refrigerator on and off.

WATER,4MOISTUREiFROST

INSIDE REFRIGERATOR

Moisture forms on inside o1' refrigerator walls.

WATER,4MOISTURE/FROST

Weather is hot and humid.

* Door may not be sealing properly.

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

OUTSIDE REFRIGERATOR

Moisture forms on outside of refrigerator,

* Door may not be sealing properly, causing the cold air from inside the refrigerator to meet warm moist air from outside,

ODOR

IN REFRIGERATOR

Odors in refrigerator.

_o _nterior needs to be cleaned,

_ Foods with strong odors are in the refrigerator.

DOOR PROBLEMS

Door will not close.

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

LIGHT BULB

IS NOT

ON

Light bomb is not on.

__ Light bulb is burned out,

_ No electric current is reaching the refrigerator.

* This is normal.

* See "DOOR PROBLEMS" Section.

Open the door less often,

* See "DOOR PROBLEMS" Section.

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

o Cover the food tightly.

o This condition can force the cabinet out of square and misalign the door. Refer to "Leveling" in the "FIRST

STEPS" Section.

_ Follow directions under "Interior Light" in the

"REFRIGERATOR

FEATURES" Section

_ See "BEFORE YOU CALL _ REFRIGERATOR

OPERATION" Section,

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