Kenmore Freezer Running Constantly: Condenser Coil Cleaning Step by Step

A freezer that runs nearly all the time is working hard to shed heat. In many homes the reason is a dirty condenser coil, which cannot release heat when it is coated with dust and pet hair. Cleaning it is one of the most useful maintenance tasks on a Kenmore freezer.

Find the coil

On many upright freezers the coil is at the back or behind a lower front grille. On some chest freezers it is behind a panel at one end. Check the label or manual for your model. The prefix in the model number tells which platform it is, and the coil location can differ.

Cleaning steps

1. Unplug the freezer.
2. Remove the grille or panel.
3. Use a coil brush to loosen dust, working gently so as not to bend the fins.
4. Vacuum the loosened dust, including the fan and the floor under the unit.
5. Replace the panel and plug the freezer back in.

What to expect afterward

The freezer may run for a while to bring the temperature back down, then cycle normally. Give it a full day before judging the result.

If the coil was clean

• Check the door seal and that the door closes on its own.
• Look for frost buildup on the walls that would insulate the cold.
• Move the freezer away from the wall if there is no clearance.
• Listen for a fan that is not turning.

Limits

A constantly running freezer with a clean coil, a good seal and a cool room may have a weak sealed system or a failing control. Those cannot be assessed by touch, and we do not guess at a part from the running time alone.

For a freezer that still runs without rest, book freezer repair and send the model number with your request.