Why Does My Kenmore Frost-Free Freezer Frost Up?

Warm Air

• The likely reason frost develops inside the freezer is warm or moist air that enters the freezer, causing the temperature to shift and condensation to develop, which then turns to frost. Limit the amount of time the door is open and keep the door shut for several hours after adding large amounts of warm food to the freezer. During periods of warm or humid weather, close the doors as much as possible.

Door Gasket

• If the door isn't opened frequently and warm food isn't being placed inside on a regular basis -- but frost is developing nonetheless -- inspect the door gasket. If the gasket is very dirty, the door might not seal completely, allowing warm air to enter. Wash the gasket with a warm, damp cloth, then dry the gasket. Check for any areas of splitting or damage and contact Kenmore for assistance if the gasket needs to be replaced.

Level the Freezer

• When the freezer isn't level, the doors may not close completely and warm air can enter the unit. Set a carpenter’s level on top of the freezer to see if it's level. If the bubble remains centered in the level, no adjustment is necessary. If the bubble isn't centered, turn the plastic leveling feet in the front of the freezer a half-turn clockwise to lift the freezer, or a half-turn counterclockwise to lower the freezer. Make the necessary adjustments until the bubble is centered and the door closes automatically when opened halfway.

Flash Defrost

• The Kenmore freezer comes with a “Flash Defrost” function that's designed to quickly melt frost that develops in the unit. To operate, pull out the “Flash Defrost” plunger located in the inner left side of the freezer door. Remove all perishable food from the freezer and prop the door open. When the freezer is finished defrosting, replace the food in the freezer and insert the plunger back into position. Note that some models have a “Temp Alarm” that should be turned off when the defrost feature is in use, as temperatures will change rapidly and the alarm may go off.