My Kenmore Fridge Needs Too Much Power

Change Settings

• Your Kenmore refrigerator should have temperature settings for both the freezer and the refrigeration compartments. If the unit is running too long or using up too much power, the problem may be the settings you have chosen. Trying to tip the temperature range too low will keep the refrigerator running almost constantly. Keep the fridge between 37 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep the freezer between 0 and 5 degrees. If they fall below these marks, raise temperature ranges to save money.

Clean

• If your Kenmore model is old, it might have gathered dust through years of operation. This dust can settle on the evaporator and condenser coils of your system, which makes it more difficult for the refrigerator to exchange heat with the air. As a result, the fridge uses more power and has to run harder to work properly. After unplugging the fridge, open the back panel on your refrigerator and wipe down these coils to help increase efficiency and solve the problem.

Upgrade

• Refrigerators that were made a couple decades ago cannot compete with modern versions. Even those that are more than several years old may struggle to reach the same efficiency. If your Kenmore fridge is old, consider replacing it altogether with a version that will use power more efficiently. Look for Energy Star and eco-friendly ratings that indicate low energy use and more money saved on your monthly electric bills.

Cover and Move

• If your refrigerator is relatively new but you still think it is using too much power, there are several tricks you can start practicing to keep it operating correctly. Cover your food before putting it in the fridge to keep moisture from circulating. If you can move your fridge and it is located in the sun or between cabinets, moving to an open, shaded position can save power, too.