Defrost Timer Settings

• Most Kenmore self-defrosting models have an internal timer to determine how frequently the refrigerator defrosts. Usually this timer is either preset by the manufacturer or set during professional installation, but the setting is easily altered according to the owner's preferences by following the model's equipment guide. If your Kenmore refrigerator is defrosting too frequently or infrequently, check your internal timer setting. Because the available settings, location and setting instructions vary by model, refer to your equipment guide (see Resources) for instructions on how to view and change your timer settings.
  
  

Defrost Thermostat

• Every self-defrosting Kenmore refrigerator contains a defrosting thermostat to recognize when defrosting is required, indicated by the sudden drop below the normal cool temperature and when the defrost process has completed by determining the temperature change after the ice and frost has melted. If a refrigerator's defrosting thermostat has malfunctioned, its defrosting abilities stop because it is unable to determine the accurate temperature within the freezer, which begins and stops the defrosting process.
  
  

Defrost Heater

• Kenmore refrigerators are usually equipped with a defrosting heater, which melts any frost or ice located on the evaporator coils. If ice or frost builds up and coats these coils, not only is the self-defrosting process halted, but the refrigerator may stop circulating cool air all together which limits its ability to produce the required cool temperatures with the refrigerator and freezer. The defrosting heater melts the buildup on the evaporator coils so the refrigerator continues to function normally and, therefore, continues to defrost accordingly. If these coils become heavily coated in ice, they risk becoming severely damaged and require replacing.
  
  

Defrost Drain

• Self-defrosting Kenmore refrigerators contain a defrost drain. Melted ice and frost flow out through this drain, avoiding refreezing in the freezer. If this drain is clogged, the refrigerator continues to defrost normally but the melted ice and frost have nowhere to go. Water sits in the freezer until the defrosting process completes and cold temperatures resume circulating throughout the refrigerator which, in turn, refreezes all of the standing water. Dirt, dust and other particles can clog the drain as well as ice or frost that has frozen inside the drain itself.
  
  

Troubleshooting and Repair

• Because refrigerators consist of many wires and machines, as well as a dangerous substance known as refrigerant, troubleshooting and repairing any of the above defrosting parts requires the assistance of a licensed professional. If your refrigerator remains under warranty, contact Kenmore at (888)536-6673 for further assistance, including warranty status, appointments with professionals and part replacement.