How to Reset Your Kenmore Elite Refrigerator to Factory Settings
When and Why You Might Need to Reset Your Kenmore Elite
A factory reset clears all custom settings and returns your Kenmore Elite refrigerator to the state it left the factory. You would do this if the control panel is unresponsive, the temperature won't hold steady no matter what you set it to, or you've changed so many settings that you want to start fresh. A reset does not erase error codes or fix mechanical problems—it only wipes the settings you've made through the touchscreen or buttons.
Before you reset, know that you will lose any custom temperature preferences, ice maker settings, water filter reminders, and any other adjustments you've programmed. Write down your preferred temperatures and any settings you want to keep, because you'll need to re-enter them after the reset completes.
Key Takeaways
- A factory reset returns all settings to their original state but does not fix mechanical failures or clear error codes from the control board.
- The reset method depends on your Kenmore Elite model—some use a dedicated reset button, others require a button combination held for several seconds.
- After a reset, the refrigerator will return to default temperatures (usually 37°F for the fridge, 0°F for the freezer) and you'll need to adjust them again.
- Unplug the refrigerator for 5 to 10 minutes if the control panel is completely frozen and won't respond to any button press.
- Check your model number on the inside wall of the fridge or in your manual before attempting a reset, because the steps vary between models.
Locate Your Model Number and Find the Right Reset Method
Your Kenmore Elite model number is printed on a sticker inside the refrigerator, usually on the upper left wall or on the back wall near the top. It typically starts with "795" or "796" followed by numbers. Write this down or take a photo, because different Kenmore Elite models reset differently.
Open your refrigerator manual and search for "reset" or "factory reset" in the index. The manual will show you the exact button combination or location of the reset button for your specific model. If you don't have the physical manual, you can find it online by searching "Kenmore Elite [your model number] manual PDF" or by visiting the Sears Parts Direct website and entering your model number.
Most Kenmore Elite refrigerators made in the last ten years use one of two methods: a dedicated reset button on the control panel, or a combination of buttons held together for 5 to 10 seconds. Do not guess—using the wrong method can lock the control panel or trigger an error state that requires a technician to clear.
Reset Using a Dedicated Reset Button
If your model has a reset button, it is usually located on the control panel itself, sometimes labeled "Reset" or "RST". On some models it is a small recessed button that requires a straightened paperclip or the tip of a ballpoint pen to press. Look for it near the bottom of the touchscreen or to the side of the main display.
Press and hold the reset button for 3 to 5 seconds until you see the display flash or hear a beep. The screen may go blank for a few seconds, then return to the startup screen. This is normal. Once the display stabilizes, the reset is complete and the refrigerator will be back to factory settings.
If pressing the button does nothing, the control panel may have lost power. Move to the next section and try an unplugging reset before attempting the button reset again.
Reset Using a Button Combination
Some Kenmore Elite models require you to hold two or three buttons at the same time for 5 to 10 seconds. Common combinations include holding the "Freezer" and "Refrigerator" temperature buttons together, or holding "Menu" and "Select" at the same time. Your manual will specify which buttons and how long to hold them.
Press all the required buttons at once and hold them without releasing. Count to 10 slowly while holding. You should see the display flash, go blank, or show a confirmation message. Once the screen returns to normal, the reset is done.
If the buttons do not respond at all, the control panel may have frozen. Proceed to the power-cycle reset section below before trying the button combination again.
Power-Cycle Reset When the Control Panel Is Frozen
If the touchscreen or buttons do not respond to any input, a power cycle can sometimes restore function. Locate the power cord at the back of the refrigerator or unplug it from the wall outlet. Leave it unplugged for 5 to 10 minutes. This drains any residual power from the control board and can clear a temporary freeze.
After 10 minutes, plug the refrigerator back in. The display should light up and show the startup sequence. Wait for it to fully boot—this can take 30 seconds to a minute. Once the display is responsive again, you can attempt the reset using your model's button method.
A power cycle is not the same as a factory reset. It restarts the control board but does not erase your settings. If you want to reset to factory settings after the power cycle, you still need to perform the button or button-combination reset described above.
What to Expect After the Reset Is Complete
After a successful reset, the refrigerator will return to its default temperature settings. Most Kenmore Elite models default to 37°F for the refrigerator compartment and 0°F for the freezer. The ice maker, if you have one, will be set to its default state (usually on). Any custom water filter reminders or scheduling features will be cleared.
The display may show a startup message or ask you to confirm the language and time. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup. Once setup is done, adjust the temperature settings back to your preference using the control panel buttons or touchscreen. Allow the refrigerator to run for at least 4 hours before loading it with food, so the compartments can reach the correct temperature.
If the control panel is still unresponsive after the reset, or if the refrigerator is not cooling properly, the problem is likely not a settings issue. Contact a Kenmore service technician or a local appliance repair company, because the control board or cooling system may need professional attention.
Troubleshooting: Reset Did Not Fix the Problem
If the refrigerator still won't cool, the display is still frozen, or error codes still appear after a reset, the issue is mechanical or electrical, not a settings problem. A reset only clears the settings you've made—it does not repair a faulty compressor, a broken thermostat, or a failed control board.
Check the error code displayed on the control panel. Write it down exactly as it appears. Search for "Kenmore Elite [your model number] error code [the code]" to see what that code means. Some codes indicate a sensor failure or a cooling system problem that requires a technician. Others may indicate a simple issue like a door left open or a clogged air vent that you can fix yourself.
If you cannot find information about the error code, or if there is no error code but the refrigerator still won't work, contact Sears Parts Direct or a local appliance repair service. Bring your model number and a description of what the refrigerator is doing (or not doing) when you call.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a reset erase my saved preferences or shopping lists?
A factory reset clears all custom settings you've made through the control panel, including temperature preferences, ice maker settings, and water filter reminders. If your model has a connected app or smart features, check your manual to see whether those are affected. Most Kenmore Elite models do not store shopping lists or notes on the refrigerator itself, so those would not be erased.
How long does a reset take?
The reset itself takes only a few seconds—you hold the button or button combination for 5 to 10 seconds, and the display will flash or go blank. The refrigerator then boots back up, which can take 30 seconds to a minute. After that, you can begin using it normally, though you should wait 4 hours before loading it with food so the compartments reach the correct temperature.
What if the reset button is stuck or won't press?
If the reset button is recessed and won't respond to a straightened paperclip, it may be jammed with debris. Try gently cleaning around the button with a dry cloth. If it still won't press, do not force it—you could damage the control panel. Instead, try the power-cycle method (unplug for 10 minutes) or the button-combination method if your model has one. If neither works, contact a technician.
Can I reset the refrigerator while it's plugged in?
Yes. Most Kenmore Elite models allow you to press the reset button or button combination while the refrigerator is running and plugged in. The reset will not damage the appliance or cause data loss beyond clearing your settings. However, if the control panel is completely unresponsive, you will need to unplug it for 10 minutes first to restore power to the board.
Do I need to reset the refrigerator after a power outage?
No. After a power outage, the refrigerator will restart automatically when power returns, and your settings will remain in place. You only need to reset if you want to clear your custom settings or if the control panel is frozen and not responding to input.