Error Code: Refrigerator Difficulty: Easy
Problem: Open freezer thermistor circuit (253 series upright freezer code)
How to Fix Refrigerator Error
- UNPLUG freezer.
- Remove interior panel to access evaporator and thermistor.
- Locate freezer temperature sensor clipped to evaporator coil.
- Disconnect connector and test resistance (should read 5k-15k ohms).
- If reading OL (open circuit), replace thermistor.
- Ensure new sensor makes full contact with evaporator tubing.
- Secure with original clip or high-temp adhesive.
- Restore power and verify temperature display returns to normal within 10 minutes.
What to Check Next on This Kenmore Refrigerator
Kenmore Refrigerator Error OF: Use the code or symptom as the starting clue, then confirm what the refrigerator actually does before ordering parts.
- Unplug the refrigerator before touching wiring, fans, sensors, defrost parts, or control boards.
- Confirm both doors seal fully, the vents are open, the condenser area is clean, and temperatures have had time to stabilize.
- Check for frost buildup, fan noise, blocked air returns, warm spots, water-line issues, and loose sensor or harness connections.
- Note whether the symptom is warm fresh-food air, freezer thawing, ice-maker trouble, dispenser trouble, beeping, or display/control behavior.
- Replace a part only after the same symptom repeats and model-specific checks point to that part category.
If the issue returns after these checks, match replacement parts to the complete Kenmore refrigerator model number from the appliance tag. Kenmore models can be built by different manufacturers, so fit depends on the full model number.
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Recommended Replacement Part
When It’s Better to Replace Than Repair
Refrigerator repairs can become costly when sealed-system, control, defrost, fan, or ice-maker issues repeat.
Confirm width, height, depth, door swing, counter-depth needs, water line, and delivery path before ordering.
For repair parts, verify exact fit with the full refrigerator model number before buying; these links are general replacement-appliance shopping options.
- [OK]Water inlet valve, ice maker, or fan failures keep returning
- [OK]Defrost heater, thermostat, or sensor faults stack up
- [OK]Compressor or sealed-system repair is not economical
- [OK]Food-loss risk is becoming a pattern
Recommended Refrigerator Replacement Options
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
When It’s Better to Replace Than Repair
Refrigerator repairs can become costly when sealed-system, control, defrost, fan, or ice-maker issues repeat.
Confirm width, height, depth, door swing, counter-depth needs, water line, and delivery path before ordering.
For repair parts, verify exact fit with the full refrigerator model number before buying; these links are general replacement-appliance shopping options.
- [OK]Water inlet valve, ice maker, or fan failures keep returning
- [OK]Defrost heater, thermostat, or sensor faults stack up
- [OK]Compressor or sealed-system repair is not economical
- [OK]Food-loss risk is becoming a pattern
Recommended Refrigerator Replacement Options
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Still Not Working?
If the replacement part didn’t fix the issue, you may have a wiring problem or main board failure.
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Expert: Mike Sullivan
EPA Section 608 Certified Technician with 18+ years experience.
Read Editorial Standards →Browse all Kenmore error codes: Kenmore Error Codes
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