Kenmore refrigerator light not working

Common reasons your Kenmore refrigerator light is not working

The most common reasons your Kenmore refrigerator light is not working are a defective electronic control board, dead power supply board or an inoperative user interface.

65% of the time it's the
Electronic Control Board

14% of the time it's the
Power Supply Board

14% of the time it's the
User Interface Control

7% of the time it's the
Something else

Most common repairs needed to fix a Kenmore refrigerator

Electronic Control Board Replacement

A defective electronic control board can lead to various failures in a refrigerator, including a lack of power or cooling and water leaking. This is because the board serves as the brain of the refrigerator, controlling crucial operations such as regulating internal temperatures, running fans, managing defrost cycles, overseeing the ice maker, and controlling dispenser functions. If the electronic control board malfunctions, it can disrupt communication between many different components, including automatic doors if equipped. A failing board may cause a chattering or clicking noise from the refrigerator and may emit a burning odor. Due to the potential impact on multiple components, it is advisable to have a Sears Home Services professional conduct diagnostic tests on the board to confirm if replacement is necessary.

How to replace the electronic control board in a refrigerator

Power Supply Board Replacement

A dead refrigerator power supply board can result in a complete loss of power to the refrigerator, resulting in no lights, no cooling, and no operational sounds. The display panel, if present, may be blank or unresponsive. In models with automatic doors, a malfunctioning power supply board may lead to the doors no longer opening or closing automatically as intended. In some cases, there might be intermittent power issues, where the refrigerator may work inconsistently or sporadically. Additionally, the failure of the power supply board can lead to an absence of any audible humming or clicking sounds typically associated with the refrigerator's normal operation.

Why won't my refrigerator run?

User Interface Control Replacement

When a refrigerator user interface control becomes inoperative, it loses the ability to communicate with the main control board, affecting settings like temperature or ice maker status. The interface will cease to display, creating the appearance of a powerless refrigerator. In some instances, it may only show an error code. If the user interface solely controls drawer temperature settings, a crack in the shelf housing the interface can prevent it from responding to the selected settings.

How to replace the user interface control on a refrigerator

What to expect when you experience a Kenmore refrigerator light not working issue

How is the light not working problem fixed?

Correcting most light not working problems usually involves replacing the electronic control board, power supply or user interface control. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

Sears Home Services recommendations for a refrigerator light that is not working

When the refrigerator light is not working it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of refrigerator failures.

What to look out for with a refrigerator light not working diagnosis

Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your refrigerator problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

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Glossary Terms

What is Refrigerant?

Refrigerant is a chemical compound used in HVAC systems and refrigerators to absorb heat from the environment by cycling through states of evaporation and condensation, enabling the cooling process through its cycle of evaporation and condensation.

What is R-12 Refrigerant?

R-12 refrigerant, also known as Freon-12, is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) compound that was once widely used in air conditioning systems, refrigerators, and aerosol propellants before its phase-out due to environmental concerns.

What is CFC Certification?

CFC certification refers to the credentialing process that qualifies HVAC technicians to handle chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other refrigerants in a manner that complies with environmental regulations. It is essential for professionals who install, maintain, or repair HVAC systems and refrigeration equipment.

What is a Refrigerator Thermostat?

A refrigerator thermostat is a device within a refrigerator that regulates its temperature by turning the cooling system on and off based on the interior temperature compared to the set desired temperature.