How to tell if a Kenmore refrigerator compressor is bad?
A bad compressor on Kenmore model 79571603014 usually shows up as poor or no cooling along with abnormal running behavior (constant running, repeated clicking, or no compressor sound). Because some clicking and longer run times can be normal, we confirm by checking temperatures, airflow, and the start components before replacing the compressor.
What you can check first (safe, no tools)
- Verify the fridge and freezer temperatures are actually rising (food softening, ice melting).
- Listen for repeated clicking every few minutes; that often points to a start issue, not always a failed compressor.
- Note whether the unit runs “a lot”; modern high-efficiency compressors can run longer and still be normal.
- Check for strong airflow inside; a failed evaporator fan can mimic compressor problems.
- Make sure doors seal fully; warm air leaks can cause long run times and warm temps.
Normal sounds vs. warning signs
Your manual explains that clicking from the control and longer run times can be normal, and you may also hear refrigerant flow and fan noise. Use this quick comparison from what we see most often; confirm normal sound descriptions in the owner's manual.
| What you notice | Often normal | Often a problem |
|---|---|---|
| Occasional clicking as cooling cycles | Yes | No |
| Runs longer than an older fridge | Yes | No |
| Repeated click, hum, then stops | No | Yes (start relay/overload or compressor) |
| Warm fridge and freezer with little/no airflow | No | Yes (fan/defrost/airflow issue) |
| Warm temps and compressor never seems to start | No | Yes (control, relay, compressor) |
Parts that commonly get blamed (and what to check)
Before replacing a sealed-system part, we rule out the common “no-start” and airflow causes:
- Start device: A failed start relay can prevent the compressor from starting; see refrigerator compressor start relay EBG60663230.
- Compressor: If start components test good and cooling is still lost, the compressor itself may be the cause; see refrigerator compressor TCA38091801.
- Air movement: If the compressor runs but cooling is weak, check the evaporator fan; see lg refrigerator evaporator fan motor 4681JB1027C.
- Condenser area: Dirty or blocked condenser coils can reduce cooling and increase run time.
Why it matters
Replacing a compressor is a major repair; checking the start relay, airflow (evaporator fan), door sealing, and condenser cleanliness first prevents unnecessary parts replacement and gets cooling restored faster.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the common problems with Kenmore Elite refrigerators?
Common problems we see on Kenmore Elite refrigerators like model 79571603014 include warm temperatures from blocked airflow, doors not sealing or not closing fully, heavy compressor run time after frequent door openings or warm rooms, and ice maker or water issues. Use the owner's manual troubleshooting and care sections to pinpoint the cause.
Most common symptoms and what usually causes them
- Refrigerator or freezer too warm: air vents blocked by food, frequent door openings, large warm food loads
- Moisture, frost, or temperature swings: restricted airflow between sections (vents blocked)
- Doors will not close completely: unit not level, food packages blocking, bins or shelves out of position
- Compressor runs a lot: warm room, frequent openings, recently plugged in (can take up to 24 hours to fully cool)
- Poor cooling efficiency: dirty condenser area (reduces heat transfer and makes the compressor work harder)
Quick checks we recommend first (fast, no parts)
- Confirm air vents are not blocked in either section.
- Push doors firmly shut; verify shelves, pans, and door bins are fully seated.
- Level the refrigerator so doors close naturally.
- Clean dust from the condenser area and rear cover area.
- If the unit was just restarted, allow up to 24 hours for temperatures to stabilize.
When a part is commonly involved
If the basics check out, these model-relevant parts are often involved in common complaints:
| Symptom | Common part area | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Warm temps, weak airflow | Evaporator fan system | Lg refrigerator evaporator fan motor 4681JB1027C |
| Lights or door-closed sensing issues | Door switch | Refrigerator door switch 6600JB1010A |
| Ice maker not producing | Ice maker assembly | Ice maker assembly (AEQ72909602) - refrigerator ice maker part by lg AEQ72909602 |
Why it matters
Airflow and door sealing drive temperature stability and humidity control. When vents are blocked or doors do not seal, the refrigerator runs longer, temperatures drift, and you can see frost, condensation, or food spoilage.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the DH error on a Kenmore refrigerator?
On Kenmore refrigerator model 79571603014, a dH (defrost heater) error means the refrigerator is not completing defrost properly; the most common causes are a failed defrost heater circuit, a bad defrost sensor (thermistor), or a control issue. This can lead to frost buildup and weak cooling.
What you will notice when dH is happening
- Frost or solid ice on the evaporator cover or rear freezer panel
- Freezer temperature rising, then fresh food section warming later
- Fan noise changing (fan hitting ice) or reduced airflow from vents
- Longer run times and poor temperature recovery after door openings
- Water leaking during/after a manual defrost (ice melt overwhelms the drain)
Quick checks we recommend first (safe, no tools)
- Power reset: Unplug for 5 minutes, then restore power.
- Confirm doors seal and close: A leaking gasket can create excess frost that mimics a defrost failure.
- Look for heavy frost: If the freezer back wall is heavily frosted, the defrost system is the primary suspect.
- Check for airflow blockage: Make sure packages are not blocking return vents.
Diagnostic path (most effective)
If you are comfortable using a multimeter, we use this order because it finds the failure fastest:
- Defrost heater circuit: Check heater continuity (open circuit indicates a failed heater).
- Defrost sensor (thermistor): Check resistance at a known temperature (out-of-range indicates a bad sensor).
- Wiring/connectors: Look for loose plugs or corrosion at the evaporator harness.
- Control decision: If heater and sensor test good, the control may not be initiating or completing defrost.
| What failed | Typical symptom | What it causes |
|---|---|---|
| Defrost heater | Heavy frost returns quickly | Airflow restriction, warming temps |
| Defrost sensor | Defrost ends too soon or never starts | Repeated dH errors, icing |
| Control board | Intermittent or no defrost | Unstable temps, recurring error |
Parts that can be involved on this model
Depending on your test results, these model-related parts are commonly involved in cooling and defrost complaints:
- Refrigerator electronic control board EBR74796442
- Refrigerator evaporator fan motor 4681JB1027C (if airflow is weak after defrost issues)
For wiring diagrams, component locations, and the troubleshooting section, use the owner's manual.
Why this matters
A defrost failure does not just trigger an error; it gradually blocks airflow across the evaporator. Once airflow drops, both the freezer and fresh food sections can warm even though the compressor is running.
Last updated: February 2026
What model Kenmore refrigerator do I have?
If you have a Kenmore bottom-mount refrigerator, the model number is printed on the appliance identification label inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment; for Kenmore model 79571603014, the label is located on the right-hand side of the refrigerator compartment. Confirm the full model number before ordering parts or using troubleshooting steps in the owner's manual.
Where to find the model and serial label
We recommend checking these common spots first (in this order):
- Inside the refrigerator compartment on the right-hand side wall (most common for this Kenmore 795.7160 series)
- On the side wall near the front edge, where the door gasket meets the cabinet
- Near the top interior liner (close to the ceiling light area)
- Behind the base grille or kick plate area (less common, but worth checking)
What to write down (and why)
Record these details exactly as shown on the label:
- Model number (example format: 795.7160xxxx; your page model is 79571603014)
- Serial number (helps match production variations)
- Date of purchase (useful for maintenance history and reference)
Quick ID checklist
| Item on label | What it’s used for | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Correct parts lookup and diagrams | 79571603014 |
| Serial number | Version-specific fit confirmation | Varies |
| Date of purchase | Maintenance and service records | Varies |
Why it matters
Kenmore refrigerators often share similar styling across multiple model numbers, but parts like a door gasket, electronic control board, or ice maker assembly can differ by model and even by production run. Using the exact model number helps us match the right Kenmore parts the first time.
Last updated: February 2026





