Kenmore 111 model top-freezer refrigerator error codes
These error code explanations help troubleshoot a problem with your Kenmore top-freezer refrigerator with a model number that starts with 111. The LED light on the main control board flickers a number of times then pauses to indicate an error code. Remove the main control board cover to view the LED light and count the flickers. To avoid getting shocked, don't touch anything inside the refrigerator while you have the control board cover removed because the main control board is connected to electricity when the refrigerator is plugged in. Unplug the refrigerator to disconnect power and reinstall the control board cover after counting the LED flickers. Find the error code in the chart below and repair the failure.
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Refrigerator temperature sensor failure
The refrigerator temperature sensor attaches to the back wall inside the refrigerator compartment. Unplug the refrigerator and check the temperature sensor wiring connected to the control board for damage and repair any broken wires. Measure the resistance through the refrigerator temperature sensor circuit from the control board. Replace the refrigerator temperature sensor if resistance isn't between 5,000 and 40,000 ohms.
Ambient temperature sensor failure
The ambient temperature sensor (also called RT-sensor) attaches to the top of the refrigerator. Unplug the refrigerator and check the temperature sensor wiring connected to the control board for damage and repair any broken wires. Measure the resistance through the ambient temperature sensor circuit from the control board. Replace the ambient temperature sensor if resistance isn't between 5,000 and 40,000 ohms.
Defrost temperature sensor failure
The defrost temperature sensor monitors evaporator temperature. Unplug the refrigerator and check the temperature sensor wiring connected to the control board for damage and repair any broken wires. Measure the resistance through the defrost temperature sensor circuit from the control board. Replace the defrost temperature sensor if the resistance isn't between 5,000 and 40,000 ohms.
Control senses refrigerator door open for more than 1 hour
Unplug the refrigerator and check the wiring between the door switch and the control board. Reconnect any loose wires and repair any broken wires. If the wiring is okay, unplug the door switch wire harness from the control board. Check for continuity through the door switch with the plunger pushed in. If you don't measure continuity, replace the door switch.
Defrost heater failure
Measure the resistance through the defrost heater circuit from the control board. Replace the defrost heater if resistance isn't between 50 and 70 ohms.
Symptoms common to all refrigerators
Repair guides common to all refrigerators
If the temperature in your refrigerator doesn't match the temperature you set, the problem could be the temperature control board—a service technician can give you a definite diagnosis. If the board is at fault, follow these steps to replace it yourself.
Help your refrigerator run more efficiently by cleaning the condenser coils. It's easy and takes just a few minutes.
Replace the water valve that feeds water to the ice maker and water dispenser if it no longer controls the flow of water.
Articles and videos common to all refrigerators
If your refrigerator isn't cooling at the right temperature, the problem could be the thermistor. Here's how to check.
Follow the steps in this video to remove air from the water line connected to your refrigerator's water dispenser so the water dispenses smoothly.
Learn how to fix your refrigerator if it's displaying an Er If error code.