106.56532400 Kenmore Refrigerator - Freezer cold but not cold enough

[guy451]

Model Number

106.56532400

Brand

Sears Kenmore

Age

More than 10 years

My freezer section isn't as cold as it used to be. I've tried a few things but don't know what this issue is.

• Vacuumed the coils underneath
• The fan at the back is running
• I've turned the temp colder (from 4 to 7) on both the fridge and freezer
• Temp in fridge is normal; freezer is 20F
• Meat is frozen/ice cream is not
• Evaporator coil had frost visible through the vent
• Evaporator coil after I removed the whole panel: frost on the bottom; no frost at all on the rest (80-90% frost free) (see attached picture)
• Evaporator fan spun when I turned the power back on

Unit is:

• Kenmore Coldspot side-by-side model 106.56532400
• Made in 2004

Any suggestions on what it is or what to try next?
Thank you!

Glen

 

[Dan O.]

Any suggestions on what it is or what to try next?

The photo shows a refrigeration system problem. You will need to call a professional refrigerator technician to determine what exactly is the cause. There is nothing most homeowners are capable of doing to correct it.

Evaporator Frost Pattern Examples



Dan O.

 

[guy451]

Thank you!
I was afraid it was something like that.
It's good to know that I've done what I can on my own.

Thanks again

 

[Dan O.]

How dirty was the condenser? If it was very plugged it could have caused the compressor to run more than normal, eventually damaging it. If a compressor is required, it is probably not worthwhile fixing.

Good luck!

Dan O.