How to tell if a Kenmore refrigerator compressor is bad?
On Kenmore Elite refrigerator model 79551823411, a bad compressor typically shows up as little or no cooling even though the lights and controls work, often paired with repeated start attempts (clicking) or an unusually hot compressor area. Use the troubleshooting steps in the 79551823411 use & care manual to rule out simpler causes first.
Quick signs the compressor may be failing
Look for a consistent pattern of symptoms:
- Refrigerator and freezer temperatures rise and do not recover after 24 hours
- You hear a hum or buzz, then a click, repeating every few minutes
- The compressor area is very hot and cooling performance is poor
- The unit runs almost constantly but cannot reach set temperatures
- Breaker or outlet trips when the compressor tries to start
Rule out common look-alikes first (recommended checks)
These issues can mimic a “bad compressor” on model 79551823411:
- Dirty condenser coils causing overheating and weak cooling
- Condenser fan not running (warm cabinet sides, poor cooling)
- Evaporator fan not running (freezer cools unevenly; fresh food warms)
- Controls set incorrectly or Demo Mode enabled (cooling disabled)
- Heavy frost on the evaporator from a defrost problem
If you suspect a start problem, the first components we typically test are the compressor start and protection parts, including the refrigerator run capacitor EAE32501017.
What the symptoms usually mean
| What you observe | Most likely direction | What we check next |
|---|---|---|
| Clicks every few minutes, little or no cooling | Start circuit issue or locked compressor | Run capacitor, wiring, compressor amperage |
| Runs constantly but can’t reach temp | Airflow issue or sealed-system problem | Coils, fans, frost pattern |
| Very hot compressor, shuts off | Overheating or internal compressor issue | Coils, condenser fan, ventilation |
Why it matters
A compressor replacement is a major sealed-system repair. On model 79551823411, confirming airflow and start components first can prevent unnecessary compressor work and helps you target the right repair.
Last updated: January 2026
Is there a reset button on a Kenmore refrigerator?
Most Kenmore refrigerators, including model 79551823411, do not have one single, dedicated “reset” button for the whole unit. The most reliable reset is a power reset (unplugging briefly), and this model also has specific button-hold resets for features like the water filter indicator; see the 79551823411 use & care manual.
How to reset a Kenmore Elite 79551823411 refrigerator
- Power reset (main reset): Unplug the refrigerator (or switch the breaker off) for 5 minutes, then restore power.
- Wait for restart: Give the control board a minute or two to reboot.
- Allow temperatures to stabilize: After any reset or control change, allow 24 hours for temperatures to fully stabilize.
- Check for Demo Mode: If the display shows OFF and it is not cooling, Demo Mode may be on.
- Reset the water filter light (feature reset): After replacing the filter, press and hold Filter Reset for 3 seconds.
Common “reset” actions on this model (what they do)
| Reset action | What it affects | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Unplug for 5 minutes | Main control board reboot | Not cooling, odd display behavior, after power outage |
| Hold Filter Reset 3 seconds | Water filter indicator only | Filter light stays on after filter change |
| Hold Refrigerator Temp + Ultra Ice 5 seconds (door open) | Demo Mode on/off | Display shows OFF, no cooling |
Parts that can be involved if a reset does not help
If the refrigerator still will not cool, dispense, or respond correctly after a power reset, the issue is usually a component problem rather than a “reset” problem.
- If the display or cooling logic seems wrong, the electronic control can be involved: lg refrigerator electronic control board EBR78748202
- If water dispensing or ice production is weak after confirming settings, the water valve can be involved: refrigerator water inlet valve AJU34125552
- If you are replacing the filter and the light will not reset, confirm the correct filter type and installation: Kenmore refrigerator water filter 9490 ADQ73613402
Why it matters
A true power reset clears temporary control glitches, but it will not fix a failed compressor, fan motor, sensor, or control board. Knowing which “reset” applies (whole refrigerator vs. a feature like the filter light) helps you avoid unnecessary part swaps and downtime.
Last updated: January 2026
How do I find the model number on my 79551823411?
For Kenmore Elite refrigerator model 79551823411, the model and serial number are printed on an identification label inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment; it is located on the interior liner. Use the exact model number from that label when ordering parts or checking diagrams in the owner's manual.
Where to look (fastest method)
Open the refrigerator door and check these common label locations first:
- On the side wall (interior liner) of the refrigerator compartment
- Near the top front edge of the compartment opening
- Behind or beside the crisper drawers (still on the interior liner)
- Near the ceiling light area inside the fresh food section
What you should write down
Record both numbers exactly as shown on the label:
- Model number (for example, 795.5182 with a color suffix on some labels)
- Serial number
- Date of purchase (helpful for your records)
Model number format you may see
The Use & Care Guide lists this series as 795.5182* (the asterisk indicates a color number). Your parts page model is 79551823411, so match what is on your label as closely as possible.
| Where you see it | Example format | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Inside label | 795.5182* | Identifies the model family and color code |
| Parts lookup | 79551823411 | Ensures the correct part fit and diagrams |
Why it matters
Kenmore 795-series refrigerators can use different shelves, water fittings, and electronic controls depending on the exact model and serial range. Using the label information helps us match the correct parts the first time.
Last updated: March 2026





