[Tapatio47]

I have a Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator/freezer that suddenly stopped freezing in the freezer section. The riefrigerator section does appear to be working OK at this time but a tad bit warmer than usual. The freezer is not cool at all - all ice has melted and all frozen foods are now thawed. We are older and cannot afford a new fridge so any help/assist on how to identify the problem & repair would be appreciated. Lights working - refridgerator working - I hear a humming sound as if it is on (perhaps a bit more quiet than usual) - But Freezer in meltdown status.

Kenmore 50542001

Thank you

[kayakcrzy]

The first thing that I want you to check is the fan running in the freezer? and if you look in the back of the freezer, at the back wall on the bottom, is there frost build up. If so, unplug the refrigerator, and take the back panel off, and defrost the coil, and put the panel back on, with just a few screws, because we will have to make some checks anyway. This will buy you about 3 days. I can be reached at my web site, at ApplianceEducator.com Tom

[Tapatio47]

Thank you for you response kayakcrzy.

No, the fan is not running and no, there was no frost build up. All ice has completed melted from the ice bin so even if there was frost build-up, when we noticed the puddle of water, the frost was gone. My wife tells me there was no frost, however.

Any other recommndations?

[denman]

Your full Model Number is 10650542001

Here is a link if you click on the defrost timer, it will bring up the timer. scroll down there is some help from users
Kenmore Parts for Models 10650542001

Sounds like you are stuck in a defrost cycle
You can turn the timer shaft on one side of the timer.
The end is sort of cammed, it only turns one way
Turn it and see if your compressor starts up
If it does mark the shaft and a spot on the timer body with a felt pen
Check it in a couple hours to see if it has moved
If it has not the timer needs replacing for sure

If the above works it is probably a good idea to replace the timer even if it moves

Let us know how you make out

[Tapatio47]

Hi thanks for everyone's input here

Had a repairman out - the relay compressor was bad and was replaced. Tech charged $75 for service call (1 mile away) and part/repair. Not sure if that was a good deal or not - but at least the refrigerator and freezer seemingly are both operational now. Thanks everyone again.