A Kenmore Side-by-Side Freezer Will Not Stay Frozen

Temperature

• The temperature dial should be the first thing you check when food stops freezing or begins to defrost. Most refrigerators, including Kenmore side-by-sides, have separate controls for the refrigerator and freezer portions. Consult the user manual if you cannot locate the control knob, which is usually in the back of the freezer compartment or on a side wall. Turn the temperature down and check back in a few hours to see if it gets colder. It’s possible that someone in the household turned the knob or that a food item bumped it out of place.

Compressor

• The compressor is responsible for cooling both the fridge and freezer. If it stops working, you may notice that items are not freezing, but you are less likely to recognize if items in the refrigerator are beginning to warm since the difference in temperature is not as drastic. The compressor is on the back of the appliance. It should run all the time. It is isn't running at all, or if you notice that it starts and stops, call a professional to test it and possibly replace it.

Ice Maker Complications

• The ice maker can sometimes contribute to problems with keeping the freezer below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don't use the ice maker, turn it off for awhile so the additional heat from the unit doesn't increase the temperature inside the freezer compartment. If you never use it, consider disconnecting it completely.

Evaporator

• An evaporator fan should be running at all times to keep food cold. It keeps the cold air circulating throughout the freezer so that all of the food remains cold, regardless of where each item is stored. If the evaporator coils freeze, you may notice ice buildup that blocks air from circulating. You may be able to access the coils yourself to eliminate the need to call a repair technician. Check the owner’s manual to determine how to gain access on your model, and then defrost the coils if they're clogged with ice.