E L ! T E
®
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
Z
m
www.sears,oom
297015000B (0411)
Serial/Model Numbers ......................... 2
Important Safety Instructions .............. 2-3
Refrigerator Warranty .......................... 3
Protection Agreement ......................... 4
First Steps ........................................... 5
Setting the Temperature Control .......... 6
Refrigerator Features .......................... 6-7
Food Storage & Energy Saving Tips ... 8
Care and Cleaning .............................. 9
Before You Call .................................... 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.
or 970.
SedaJ Number:
Purchase Date:
Model and Serial
Number Hate
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING
THIS REFRIGERATOR°
r',v_v__:_,,n_{_FOR YOUR 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.
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,
r,_,,vmi_._[_ELECTRICAL 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 directUyinto 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_{rsOTHER 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_[€
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
Avoid fire hazard or
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 refrigera-
tors 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
PROTECTION AGREEMENTS
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 phone- phone 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
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.
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 ®.
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 apUacethat 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 AHowthe following clearances for ease of installation,
proper air circulation, and electrical connections:
Sides 3/8"
Back & Top 1"
Freezer
tnstaimation
Do Not block the toe grille on the lower front of your
refrigerator, Sufficient air circulation isessential 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,
refrigerator to be level in
order to function
properly, if the
refrigerator isnot leveled
during installation, the
door may be misaligned
and not close or seal
properly, causing
Leveling Feet
Crating
cooling, frost, or
To LeveJRefrigerator:
screws and wood base,
use a carpenter's level
from front-to-back.
Unpacking and Leveling
(4) Crating Screws
And (2) Wood Bases
Adjust the plastic leveling feet in front, _/2bubble higher, so
that the door closes easily when left halfway open,
Leveling mnstruetionsfor aHRefdgeratodFreezer 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 fordoor swing clearance,
This last step may require at bast one extraction of the
second unit to properly align units in a "built-in" application,
_To allow doorto close and sealproperly, DO
NOTlet food packagesextend pastthe front of shelves.
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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 pUastictop 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,
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°
tory food storage temperatures, z
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
iNTERIOR LIGHT
The Hghtcomes 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
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.
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,
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
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,
Dell Drawer
Low
Humidity
Crisper Humidity Control
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FOOD STORAGE IDEAS
Fresh Food Storage
o The fresh food compartment shouUdbe 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 inan upright position to
prevent movement, Also protect outside of refrigerator with a blanket, or
similar item,
Keepyourrefrigeratordeantopreventodorbuild-up.WipeupanyspHUsimmediateUyanddeanatUeasttwiceayear.Never
usemetallicscouringpads,brushes,abrasivecleanersorstrongaUkaHnesoUutionsonanysurface.Donot washany
removablepartsinadishwasher.Always 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 light 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.
Care & Cleaning Chart
Part What To Use Tips and Precautions
Interior/Door Use 2 tablespoons of baking soda in 1 quart of warm water. Be sure to wring
Liner .. Soap and water excess water out of sponge or cloth before cleaning around controls,
Door Gaskets • Wipe gaskets with a clean soft cloth.
Drawers/Bins • Do not wash any removable items (bins, drawers, etc.) in dishwasher.
Glass Shelves • Allow glass to warm to room temperature before immersing in warm water.
Exterior and •
Handles •
Exterior and
Handles
(Stainless Steel
Models Only)
• 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
light bulb or any electrical part.
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 Before calling for service, review this list. It may save you time and expense. This list
GUIDE in this appliance.
includes common occurences that are not the result of defective workmanship or materials
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
REFRIGERATOR OPERATION
Refrigerator doee not run,
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.
Refrigerator rune too much or
too long,
Interior refrigerator temperature , Temperature Control is set too , Turn the control to a warmer setting. Allow several hours
is too cold. low. for the temperature to stabilize.
Interior refrigerator temperature
is too warm,
Refrigerator external surface _ The external refrigerator walls _ This is normal while the compressor works to transfer
temperature is warm. can be as much as 30°F warmer heat from inside the refrigerator cabinet.
SOUND AND NOISE
Louder sound levels whenever , Modern refrigerators have , This is normal. When the surrounding noise level is low,
refrigerator is on, increased storage capacity and you might hear the compressor running while it cools the
Longer sound levels when _ Refrigerator operates at higher _ This is normal. Sound will level off or disappear as
compressor comes on, pressures during the start of the refrigerator continues to run.
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 Control is set too
warm.
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.
than room temperature.
more stable temperatures. They interior.
require a high efficiency
compressor.
ON cycle.
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 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.
10
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
SOUND AND NOISE (Cent,)
Popping or cracking sound _ Metal parts undergo expansion _ This is normal. Sound will level off or disappear as
when compressor comes on. and contraction, as in hot water refrigerator continues to run.
Bubbling or gurgling sound, _ Refrigerant (used to cool _ This is normal.
like water boiling, refrigerator) is circulating
Vibrating or ratBing noise. _ Refrigerator is not level. It rocks _ Level the unit. Refer to "Leveling" in the "FIRST STEPS"
Snapping Sound. __ Cold Control turning the _ This is normal.
WATER,4MOISTUREiFROST INSIDE REFRIGERATOR
Moisture forms on inside o1'
refrigerator walls.
WATER,4MOISTURE/FROST OUTSIDE REFRIGERATOR
Moisture forms on outside of * Door may not be sealing * See "DOOR PROBLEMS" Section.
refrigerator, properly, causing the cold air
ODOR IN REFRIGERATOR
Odors in refrigerator. _o _nterior needs to be cleaned, o Clean interior with sponge, warm water, and baking soda.
DOOR PROBLEMS
Door will not close.
LIGHT BULB IS NOT ON
Light bomb is not on. __ Light bulb is burned out, _ Follow directions under "Interior Light" in the
pipes.
throughout the system.
on the floor when it is moved Section,
slightly,
_ Refrigerator is touching the wall. _ Relevel the refrigerator or move refrigerator slightly, Refer
refrigerator on and off.
Weather is hot and humid.
* Door may not be sealing
properly.
* Door is kept open too long, or is
opened too frequently.
from inside the refrigerator to
meet warm moist air from
outside,
_ Foods with strong odors are in o Cover the food tightly.
the refrigerator.
_ Refrigerator is not level. It rocks o This condition can force the cabinet out of square and
on the floor when it is moved misalign the door. Refer to "Leveling" in the "FIRST
slightly STEPS" Section.
_ No electric current is reaching _ See "BEFORE YOU CALL _ REFRIGERATOR
the refrigerator. OPERATION" Section,
to "Leveling" in the "FIRST STEPS" Section,
* This is normal.
* See "DOOR PROBLEMS" Section.
Open the door less often,
"REFRIGERATOR FEATURES" Section
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