Kenmore Refrigerator Over-freezing (847) 681-3411: You can turn off the refrigerator to defrost it, allowing all the ice to melt completely. If after turning it back on and the same issue reappears again a few days, there are two main likely causes:

The evaporator fan circulates cold air from the freezer to the refrigerator. If the fan is not working, the refrigerator may not cool, while the freezer may over-freeze.

The defrost system (defrost timer, defrost heater, or defrost thermostat) needs to be replaced is not working, ice can build up on the evaporator coils, blocking airflow and causing cooling issues.

While these repairs might seem straightforward if you’re handy, they do require some effort and expertise. For instance, replacing the evaporator fan involves removing panels in the freezer section. If you’re not confident in performing this type of work, it’s best to leave it up to a professional to handle it.

Before attempting any repairs, ensure the refrigerator is unplugged from the power outlet and fully defrosted. Trying to open panels while the fridge/freezer is still frozen could result in damage to the panel. If you have to force something to open it, it is definitely not the right way to do it.

Whenever you work on any refrigerator, make sure you clean the condenser coil as it tends to gather dirt and dust which makes the fridge work harder leading to cooling issues.

if both the defrost system and the evaporator fan work just fine it is time to check the control board as it manages the refrigerator’s operations.

Steps to follow in the diagnostics process:

Always unplug the refrigerator for safety before inspecting or cleaning any components.

Defrost the freezer if there is excessive ice buildup. Allow it to fully thaw before plugging it back in.

Check for error codes (if your Kenmore model has a digital display) to identify specific issues.

Test components like the evaporator fan, defrost system, and thermostat to determine if they are functioning properly.