Sears Kenmore refrigerators

51 reports to CPSC, the latest made Jun 16, 2022. A report isn’t a recall.

Watch it to hear when CPSC publishes new reports about it. CPSC’s own search

Watch and the shortlist are kept with a free account, on every device. Your watch list. CPSC’s own search is on saferproducts.gov.

At a glance

From SaferProducts.gov, released Oct 25, 2026.

51reports to CPSC
Jun 16, 2022the latest report was made
May 12, 2011the earliest
49with the company’s comments

Brand: Sears Kenmore
Maker: Sears Holdings Management CorporationMakers, importers or sellers, as the reports name them
Product: RefrigeratorsCPSC’s product type: Refrigerators (code 276), in Kitchen: Appliances

Other ways the reports write the brand (15)

“Sears Kenmore Elite”, “Sears”, “Sears Kenmore Elite Trio”, “Sears Kenmore Trio Elite Refrigerator”, “SEAR, Kenmore elite”, “SEARS”, “SEARS Kenmore Elite”, “Sears Kenmore Elite Trio Model 795.77549600”, “Sears Kenmore Elite Trio Refrigerator”, “Sears Kenmore Elite bottom freezer refrigerator”, “Sears Kenmore Elite/ Model #795.77542600”, “Sears, Kenmore”, “Sears, Kenmore Elite”, “Sears-Kenmore” and “Sears/Kenmore”

By month

1 report from July 2021 to June 2022; the most in June 2022, 1. 50 earlier reports, since May 2011, are in the table.

The numbers, as a table

Reports to CPSC by the month each was made, newest first
Month	Reports
June 2022	1
February 2020	1
January 2017	2
September 2016	1
September 2015	1
December 2014	1
October 2014	3
September 2014	1
August 2014	1
April 2014	1
February 2014	2
January 2014	1
December 2013	1
November 2013	1
August 2013	2
July 2013	1
June 2013	2
January 2013	2
October 2012	1
September 2012	2
August 2012	1
July 2012	1
May 2012	1
April 2012	1
March 2012	2
January 2012	2
December 2011	3
September 2011	3
August 2011	3
July 2011	2
May 2011	4

How badly anyone was hurt

Seen by a doctor or nurse 1 CPSC: Injury, Seen by Medical Professional
First aid 1 CPSC: Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
Hurt, no treatment 5 CPSC: Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received
No one hurt 40 CPSC: Incident, No Injury
Not said 4 CPSC: Unspecified

As each report says it, in short words; CPSC’s own words are under each.

The reports, as CPSC published them

Reports people made to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. CPSC publishes each one after sending it to the company named, and doesn’t guarantee they’re accurate. A report isn’t a recall.

Each report is the words of the person who made it, as CPSC published them. The company’s comments, where CPSC published any, are set apart as the company’s own.

CPSC, SaferProducts.gov public database export. Released Oct 25, 2026. Updated daily.

No one hurt
Made Jun 16, 2022, sent to the company Jun 30, 2022, published by CPSC Jul 15, 2022

The product, in the report: PURCHASED at Sear. it is a Kenmore elite refrigerator model: 795.51823.410 date of manufacture 09/2016 SERIES 609MRFP16307 Canada. 2 doors Inverter compressor LINEAR Manufactured By LG COMPANY Model: FLB075LANA AE11EMM R143A 0-220V 53HZ LINEAR COMPRESSOR

NEVERA Kenmore elite COMPRADA EN SEAR MOTOR LG COMPRESOR DAÑADO DEFECTUOSO DE FABRICA. DEJO DE ENFRIAR DE MOMENTO EL COMPRESOR PRENDE PERO NO ENFRÍA POR UN DEFECTO DE UNA PIENSA INTERNA FABRICADA DE FABRICA CON MALA CALIDAD.

Model
795.51823.410
UPC
MEZ48184204-15
Serial number
609MRFP16307
Bought from
SEAR
Bought
Jan 1, 2017, about then
Where
Puerto Rico: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unknown
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
Brand SEAR, Kenmore elite, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

CPSC report 20220616-BFAEB-2147355563. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Feb 16, 2020, sent to the company Mar 10, 2020, published by CPSC Mar 24, 2020

The product, in the report: Sears Kenmore Elite model 106.51143110

Freezer door 120V wires broken and exposed conductors due to fatigue. Freezer door opening and closing flexes the wires until the insulation fails and then the conductors short out. This could cause a fire. Short tripped breaker.

Model
Elite 106.51143110
Serial number
HR12994994
Bought from
Sears
Bought
Feb 1, 2012, about then
Where
BLACKSBURG, Virginia: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 60, Female
The reporter’s relation to them
My Spouse
As this report names them
Brand Sears, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

CPSC report 20200216-2D468-2147374804. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Jan 23, 2017, sent to the company Apr 13, 2017, published by CPSC Apr 27, 2017

The product, in the report: Two Door Refrigerator

Attorney Gen & FTC referred this caller to CPSC after his 3 year old son woke him up after a bad dream and while attending to his child he realized that his one story house was filled with smoke.
The caller began walking the house to find what could be on fire then realized that his refrigerator had flames coming out of the bottom of it. He disconnected the refrigerator which extinguished the flames then opened the windows and doors to rid his home of smoke.
He remained up for hours then returned to bed and when he awoke later he plugged the refrigerator back in but it immediately began throwing flames from the wiring in the bottom as well as shooting sparks from the same location.
The caller is reporting this product as a fire and burn hazard.
There are no injuries
The caller has contacted the manufacturer and he was referred to CPSC.

Model
FFHS26112B4
Serial number
4A23811631
Bought from
Sears, Florida
Bought
Nov 15, 2013, about then
Where
Lantana, Florida: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unspecified
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(4/13/2017) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling (800) 479-6351.

CPSC report 20170123-AE719-1625737. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Jan 9, 2017, sent to the company Feb 3, 2017, published by CPSC Feb 24, 2017

The product, in the report: Kenmore refrigerstor

Refrigerator was making a noise like from the compressor. A knocking noise intermittently. I moved it from the wall and noticed my floor had a rectangular burn e mark where it had been getting extremely hot.

Where
Unspecified: Unspecified
Who was involved
Unspecified
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(2/3/2017) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-479-6351.

CPSC report 20170107-8F42C-2147408406. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Sep 9, 2016, sent to the company Sep 19, 2016, published by CPSC Oct 3, 2016

The product, in the report: Sears Kenmore Model 795.77542600 Elite Household Refrigerator.

We have the Sears Kenmore Mod. 795.77542600. We have had the same problem with the interior light getting so hot that it melted the plastic cover and actually made the inside of the Refrigerator warm. I had to unplug the light fixture . This is certainly a fire hazard and far from acceptable performance as “LG” would have you believe. I guess LG is actually the manufacturer of the product.

Model
795.77542600
Serial number
607kr00830
Bought from
Sears
Bought
Sep 15, 2007, about then
Where
Unspecified: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 68, Male
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(9/19/2016) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-479-6351.

CPSC report 20160909-D5F5E-2147414339. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
Seen by a doctor or nurse
Made Sep 5, 2015, sent to the company Sep 15, 2015, published by CPSC Sep 29, 2015

The product, in the report: Sears Kenmore elite Trio refrigerator with bottom mount freezer model number 795.77546600, serial number 608KR00389

I purchased my Kenmore Elite Trio Refrigerator (model number 795.77546600, serial number 608KR00389) about 7 years ago. I had called the Sears parts service center in the morning to replace the small Allen screws that hold the bottom mounted freezer handle in place. I had removed the handle to clean the surface of the freezer door and the handle itself, and was hoping the new screws would close the small gap between the handle and the door where the two pieces connect, as my daughters shirt had caught on this the week before and ripped. As I went to reattach the handle, it slipped slightly in my hand, and the next thing I knew, there was blood all over my kitchen floor. The ends of this handle where it tapers to meet the door are actually sharper than the knives in my home, and this handle barely touched me but went through my hand like butter. I now have a 2” gash across the base of my thumb where the handle sliced my hand open. I would be happy to send photos of the gash, my daughters ripped shirt, and the ends of this handle that have been doing the damage.

Model
Elite Trio 795.77546600
Serial number
608KR00389
Bought from
Sears
Bought
Jan 1, 2009, about then
Where
Clermont, United States: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 40, Female
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand Sears, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Injury, Seen by Medical Professional

The company’s comments, in its own words

(9/15/2015) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20150905-33190-2147428683. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
Not said
Made Dec 8, 2014, sent to the company Dec 16, 2014, published by CPSC Jan 2, 2015

The product, in the report: Sears Kenmore Elite Trio Refrigerator

Sears Kenmore Elite refrigerator interior light stays on and melted plastic cover and almost caught fire. Luckily I caught it - bad electric burning smell and top shelves warm. This could have started a house fire - luckily I was home and able to turn off the fridge at the fuse box. Sears apparently has a recall but I was not notified.

Model
Kenmore Elite Trio
Serial number
795-77546600
Bought from
Sears
Where
Danville, California: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unspecified
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore Elite Trio, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Unspecified

The company’s comments, in its own words

(12/16/2014) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20141207-49B78-2147438130. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Oct 27, 2014, sent to the company Nov 4, 2014, published by CPSC Nov 21, 2014

The product, in the report: Regarding: Kenmore Refrigerator Model 795.77314600, Serial 608MRRH09486, Manufactured Date 2006.08. Side by Side with Bottom Refrigerator in Bisque

Regarding: Kenmore Refrigerator Model 795.77314600, Serial 608MRRH09486, Manufactured Date 2006.08.
On October 21, 2014 I opened by Kenmore Side by Side Bottom Refrigerator to find a fire hazard. I opened the door and hazy smoke and an acrid smell confronted me. I then notice that the digital display and lamp (bulb) unit on top were melting off the top off the refrigerator. I immediately unplugged the refrigerator to be sure that the unit would not start a fire. I called Sears and after first telling me to remove the bulb and that they would send a replacement if I requested it. I was unsatisfied with this answer and spoke to another individual in the Customer Solutions area. She informed me that a service call would not be available until November 13 (the earliest). I waited on hold (at least 20 minutes) as she made the appointment to this other department located in North Carolina while she is located in Texas. I called again the next day and got the same responses, however, it was revealed that the refrigerator was on a “Newsflash” but not a recall. I got a [REDACTED], and was told that she send several message to put my repair date sooner. She stated that someone would be available on October 27 between 1-5pm to look at the refrigerator.
Today, October 27, I called to confirm the appointment, and to my surprise there is none scheduled. At this point, I disappointed with the treatment of the employees of Sears as well as the lack of dignity and respect they show me as a consumer. More than that, I believe this product should be recalled for the fire hazard that it is. If I had not opened the refrigerator at that time, my family and I would have gone to bed without realizing there was a problem and potentially suffered physical, emotional and personal property damage. It seems that Sears will not accept the responsibility for the defective product and the potential damage that it may cause and will not replace the refrigerator.
I am hoping this issue can help myself and others to get a replacement for the defective appliance. We should not bear the cost of faulty workmanship and inferior materials. At this point, I have no refrigerator and I am waiting for the supervisor ([REDACTED]) of the Customer Solutions area to call me back. She has the luxury of a 24 hour window, while I have a cooler filled with food and 3 more weeks to wait for a repairman.
My family has purchased several appliances through Sears, but in the future, we will seek out a company that is dignified where their consumer is concerned. Any assistance with regard to this problem would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Model
795.77314600
Serial number
608MRRH09486
Bought from
Sears
Bought
Oct 1, 2006, about then
Where
New Castle, Pennsylvania: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 52, Female
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand Sears-Kenmore, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(11/4/2014) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20141027-8F4E8-2147439560. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Oct 13, 2014, sent to the company Oct 21, 2014, published by CPSC Nov 4, 2014

The product, in the report: Sears Kenmore Trio Elite Refrigerator Model #: 795.77552600 Serial #: 602KR00071 Color: White

Refrigerator light remains on when doors are closed resulting in overheating of the light assembly sufficient to melt the plastic cover and frame, scorch the light sockets and melt the refrigerator’s plastic ceiling above the light fixture recess.

Model
Model #: 795.77552600
Serial number
Serial #: 602KR00071
Bought
Aug 1, 2007, about then
Where
Berwyn, Pennsylvania: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unspecified
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore Trio Elite Refrigerator, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(10/21/2014) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20141013-B735C-2147440110. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Oct 13, 2014, sent to the company Oct 23, 2014, published by CPSC Nov 6, 2014

The product, in the report: This product appears to be made for SEARS by LG. It is branded as a SEARS Kenmore Elite refrigerator. The unit has French doors and a freezer drawer in the bottom; stainless steel front with gray painted sides. Manufactured June 2006 (exact day estimated in this website form).

Upon searching for some replacement parts the Sears Kenmore Elite refrigerator that I own I found numerous other complaints about this product (apparently made for SEARS by LG). The model number is: 795.77553600 and the serial number for my unit is: 606KR00318. My original issue that caused me to start researching included broken rollers for vegetable and meat drawer, and broken latches for the drawer assemblies, which cannot be replaced without buying the entire drawer--two of them, about $40 each--OUCH. However, among the other complaints I found there was the safety related issue regarding the light housing melting (causing other consequences such as food spoiling for some consumers). I learned about this issue and after examining my light bulb housing I found that this issue applies to my unit. My light bulb housing is melted and warped like the other units that I have read about. My understanding from reading is that this issue is caused by a bad controller board causing lights (there are two bulbs in this unit) to stay on and melt the light housing components.

Model
795.77553600
Serial number
606KR00318
Where
Waynesville, North Carolina: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unknown
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
Brand SEARS Kenmore Elite, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(10/23/2014) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20141013-E7577-2147440133. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
Not said
Made Sep 1, 2014, sent to the company Sep 9, 2014, published by CPSC Sep 23, 2014

The product, in the report: Sears Kenmore Elite Trio Refrigerator with bottom freezer. Model 795.77549600 Serial Num 704KR00)97 Purchased 2007 Has side by side upper doors for frog and lower drawer freezer.

I have seen many postings online regarding this same product.
Interior lights either stay on even when door closed causing excessive heat, burning of material, and spooling of food. Alternately, the lights may fail to turn on when door open. I have had both problems with this refrigerator. The first problem I “resolved by removing the bulb that would always stay on. The second problem continues and I no longer have lights within the appliance. Quickly pressing and releasing the door switches for the lights occasionally cause the lights to flicker on but they go back out shortly thereafter.
First problem happened about two years ago. Second problem began a few days ago. I have not called Sears (the seller of the product) due to expecting little cost or excessive cost for something that is obviously a product faulty design and evidenced by the number of same complaints that can be found online.

Model
795.77549600
UPC
?
Serial number
704KR00097
Bought from
Sears
Bought
Jul 4, 2007
Where
Mansura, Louisiana: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unspecified
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore Elite Trio Model 795.77549600, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Unspecified

The company’s comments, in its own words

(9/9/2014) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20140901-7B5CF-2147441335. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Aug 19, 2014, sent to the company Aug 27, 2014, published by CPSC Sep 11, 2014

The product, in the report: Sears Kenmore Elite Refrigerator model number 795.77573600

I opened the door on my Sears Kenmore Elite refrigerator ( model number795.77573600) and found the lights had been burning when the door was closed. This caused the light cover to melt and fall off. I was lucky it had only been a few hours and I was able to unscrew the bulbs and stop the plastic from melting and save the food. This is a fire hazard. If I had been out of town it could have set my home on fire. I have called Sears and they were no help. This needs to be under a recall. Please warn others of the fire risk before someone is killed because of this product.

Model
Sears Kenmore Elite model 795.77573600
Serial number
605KRO1948
Bought from
Sears, Georgia
Bought
Aug 31, 2006
Where
Palmetto, Georgia: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 63, Male
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore Elite, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(8/27/2014) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20140819-1C7FD-2147441797. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Apr 18, 2014, sent to the company Apr 28, 2014, published by CPSC May 12, 2014

The product, in the report: Kenmore Elite side by side refrigerator, white.

On the morning of April 18, 2014, I was awakened by a burning odor. I woke my wife, and we began looking for the source. The odor was stronger as we went downstairs, and overwhelming in the kitchen. The burning smell was strongest near the fridge, so I pulled it out and unplugged it. I removed the cardboard cover at the lower back, and after inspection with a flashlight found a square white connection on the compressor still smoldering. The fumes were enough to nauseate my wife.

Model
52202100
Serial number
sl4442954
Bought from
Sears, North Carolina
Bought
Jan 4, 2002, about then
Where
Kernersville, North Carolina: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Female
The reporter’s relation to them
My Spouse
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(4/29/2014) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20140418-16A8A-2147445326. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Feb 19, 2014, sent to the company Feb 27, 2014, published by CPSC Mar 14, 2014

The product, in the report: The product is a Sear’s refrigerator that was already in my home when I moved here in 1999. It began to catch on fire in the back of it but stop once I unplugged it.

My refrigerator start smoking and burning on 02/06/2014 I unplugged it and it stop

Model
25367800793
Serial number
BA85024993
Where
Camp Springs, Maryland: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 52, Male
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand SEARS, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(2/27/2014) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20140211-B2321-2147447345. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Feb 10, 2014, sent to the company Feb 19, 2014, published by CPSC Mar 6, 2014

The product, in the report: Sears Kenmore Elite 3 door refrigerator. Bottom freezer, ice maker, external water delivery.

Refrigerator bulbs stayed on when doors closed. Melting plastic cover and scorching bulbs and sockets. Do to the burnt plastic smell I caught problem before it could start a fire.

Model
Sears Kenmore Elite/ Model #795.77542600
Serial number
603KR00739
Bought from
K-Mart, Arizona
Bought
Sep 21, 2008
Where
Unspecified: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 63, Male
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore Elite/ Model #795.77542600, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(2/19/2014) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20140210-772FD-2147447396. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Jan 23, 2014, sent to the company Mar 7, 2014, published by CPSC Mar 24, 2014

The product, in the report: Refrigerator

(11/18/13) Caller stated that the refrigerator light stays on whether the door is closed or not which caused the plastic casing around the bulb to melt. The heat has caused spoiling of food products and she has had to moved containers out of the refrigerator with mittens because of the heat.
11/19/13 The manufacturer was contacted and she was informed that a repair kit would be ordered that she would receive within 7 days, however, she was told in December that the repair kits were being back ordered and it is safe to use the unit. She feels that the manufacturer is not doing enough to make sure that a house fire is prevented or the safety issue addressed. This refrigerator is a fire hazard and should be reported.
The product is not part of a recall.
Please also note that the manufacturer still has not completed the repair work as promised. This is a serious safety issue and a recall should be issued. To tell consumers that a repair kit will be done and then to have a repair kit that is on backorder for 3 plus months is an indicator that they are not taking this safety issue seriously!

Model
795.77553600
Serial number
630kr00623
Bought from
Sears, Idaho
Bought
Aug 4, 2007, about then
Where
Salmon, Idaho: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Female
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(3/7/2014) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20140123-3307D-1383442. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
Not said
Made Dec 3, 2013, sent to the company Dec 11, 2013, published by CPSC Dec 26, 2013

The product, in the report: This is the Sears Kenmore Elite French door fridge, model #795.77542600, manufacture date 07/2006.

Please note: Two incidents occurred. This description is for both; the first occurred in 2011 or 2012 and the most recent occurred early 2013.
Interior lights inside refrigerator stayed on overnight, despite the doors being firmly closed. Plastic housing over the lightbulbs melted. Food and medicine inside fridge -- on top shelf, second to the top shelf, and all top door shelves -- was warm to the touch, so we had to dispose of it. This issue happened more than once, and after the second occurrence, the plastic housing over the lights was melted and scorched. It hung down (drooped because it was melted and deformed) to the point that it could not be reattached, which necessitated that the entire light fixture be removed from the fridge. We removed it also because we were afraid of a fire occurring. Judging by the scorch marks on the plastic housing, I believe that is a legitimate concern. We currently have no light and no light fixture in the fridge.

Model
Kenmore Elite model #795.77542600
Serial number
607KR00977
Bought from
Sears, Illinois
Bought
Oct 7, 2006, about then
Where
Aurora, Illinois: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unspecified
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore Elite, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Unspecified

The company’s comments, in its own words

(12/11/2013) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20131203-A4E75-2147449366. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Nov 25, 2013, sent to the company Dec 4, 2013, published by CPSC Dec 18, 2013

The product, in the report: Kenmore 3 door, bottom-freezer refrigerator

The two (2) light bulbs in the refrigerator section stayed on with the door closed. The bulbs generated enough heat to blacken the bulb sockets and melt the entire light and temperature console until it finally fell from the ceiling of the refrigerator. The smell of burning plastic was evident.

Model
795.77314600
Serial number
610MRTT09345
Bought from
Sears
Bought
Oct 1, 2007
Where
Indianapolis, Indiana: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 60, Male
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(12/4/2013) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20131125-697B0-2147449593. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Aug 25, 2013, sent to the company Sep 3, 2013, published by CPSC Sep 17, 2013

The product, in the report: We included that in our description; Refrigerator

We Purchased a Kenmore Elite Refrigerator Model # 795.77546600 around 2008. It was made for Sears by LG.
We have had many service calls on this refrigerator. The latest one was because the ice maker stopped working. When the Sears tech arrived we asked him why the light diffuser was melting. He took it apart and found that the bulbs didn’t turn off when we closed the doors. The inside roof of the refrigerator was melted thru to the insulation. He looked it up and found a “flash” or a recall on this. He said that it was so badly damaged that it was beyond repair. He showed us the holes where a sensor should have been installed to correct this problem. He said it could have caused a fire and disconnected the whole light assembly. That model has a history of melting and catching fire.
Two days later Sears called and said that they would allow $500 towards a new refrigerator. She also said we should go to LG if we were no satisfied with that offer. We were not pleased with that call.
We contacted LG and they said that they make that model for Sears and that from that point on it is all up to Sears to take care of it.
Our contention is that Sears should have contacted us about the recall in a timely manner so we could have had it fixed on one of the many service calls. If we were notified we would still have our working refrigerator and not this broken unrepairable one. We contend that Sears is at fault and liable for this situation and should replace this appliance with a comparable one.
It would be financially devastating for us to spend that kind of money to replace something that thru no fault of ours was damaged by Sears carelessness.
Please feel free to contact us if you need any additional information, pictures or the Sears tech’s no

Model
795.77546600
Bought from
Sears, South Carolina
Bought
Feb 1, 2008
Where
Manning, South Carolina: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unspecified
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore Elite, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(9/3/2013) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505. (9/4/2013) LG Electronics, USA: LG manufactures this refrigerator to meet or exceed all relevant standards including UL250. LG’s state of the art quality system meets the LG(61)-F0-4047 quality standard. Our process not only rigorously tests to insure the quality of product leaving our factory, but we also carefully monitor how our products perform in use. LG takes very seriously the concerns of our customers and uses such feedback on an on-going basis to evaluate and improve our products. Consumers desiring more information about their refrigerators should either visit our web site at http://www.lg.com/us/index.jsp or call our toll free number: 1-800-243-0000.

CPSC report 20130825-CA68E-2147452695. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Aug 12, 2013, sent to the company Sep 5, 2013, published by CPSC Sep 19, 2013

The product, in the report: Sears Roebuck Kenmore Elite refrigerator, White French doors, freezer on bottom. Other info below. Some of the numbers we called for repair, [REDACTED]

While at home my wife and I could smell something burning. We traced it to the kitchen. We opened the refrigerator door and smoke came out. We unpluged the refrigerator right away. We traced the trouble to the light assembly, it was so hot we could not touch it. lt had started to melt the plastic above the light assembly and the light lens a little bit. We diconnected the light assembly and removed it. We tried to contact Sears. At first they said they would send someone out to check it, but never did. After awhile we just gave up trying to contact them. This incident occurred around July 2012.

Model
795.77552600
Serial number
608KR00109
Bought from
Sears Roebuck, Colorado
Bought
Nov 1, 2006, about then
Where
Colorado Springs, Colorado: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 74, Male
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore Elite bottom freezer refrigerator, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(9/5/2013) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20130812-BC879-1347864. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
Not said
Made Jul 4, 2013, sent to the company Jul 12, 2013, published by CPSC Jul 26, 2013

The product, in the report: Kenmore Elite Refrigerator Model 795.77563600 Stainless Steel Body, bottom freezer

Inside Lights of Refrigerator Stay ON
This is for model Kenmore Elite 795.77563600, Ser. # 703KR00024. We have this appliance for 7 years and this is the first time it happened. The inside top lights of the refrigerator stayed ON and melted the plastic cover. I removed the light bulbs to prevent further damage. The sockets and wiring started to turn brown, a sign of overheating. Food of course got hot inside and had to dispose.

Model
795.775636000
Serial number
703KR00024
Bought from
Great Outdoors, California
Bought
Apr 21, 2007, about then
Where
Rancho Santa Margarita, California: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unspecified
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
Brand Sears, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Unspecified

The company’s comments, in its own words

(7/12/2013) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505. (7/15/2013) LG Electronics, USA: LG manufactures this refrigerator to meet or exceed all relevant standards including UL250. LG’s state of the art quality system meets the LG(61)-F0-4047 quality standard. Our process not only rigorously tests to insure the quality of product leaving our factory, but we also carefully monitor how our products perform in use. LG takes very seriously the concerns of our customers and uses such feedback on an on-going basis to evaluate and improve our products. Consumers desiring more information about their refrigerators should either visit our web site at http://www.lg.com/us/index.jsp or call our toll free number: 1-800-243-0000.

CPSC report 20130704-51891-2147454535. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Jun 4, 2013, sent to the company Jun 12, 2013, published by CPSC Jun 27, 2013

The product, in the report: Kenmore Trio refrigerator black. double doors on top, bottom freezer.

My wife and I were away on vacation and my son was home. He got up in the morning and smelled something burning by the refrigerator. He opened the Kenmore Trio model 795.77309600 mfd 7/2007 refrigerator and smoke came from the compartment and the control unit at the top inside was dropped down hanging on the wires. The 2 bulbs and plastic casing was very hot and had melted a hole in the top of the refrigerator compartment. My son was able to get the 2 bulbs pulled out of the sockets. We found out that a recall was possibly in the works by looking on the internet, but we were never notified of the recall. This is a serious issue that could have caused an electrical fire or burned the house down if my son hadn’t been home. I have been trying to get Sears to fix the problem for 2 weeks, yet the part to fix the issue is on backorder. I have not resolved the issue how they will fix the damage as of yet.

Model
795.77309600
Serial number
708MRSS02782
Bought from
Sears, New Hampshire
Bought
Sep 7, 2007, about then
Where
Bath, New Hampshire: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 17, Male
The reporter’s relation to them
My Child
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(6/12/2013) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505. (6/18/2013) LG Electronics, USA: LG manufactures this refrigerator to meet or exceed all relevant standards including UL250. LG’s state of the art quality system meets the LG(61)-F0-4047 quality standard. Our process not only rigorously tests to insure the quality of product leaving our factory, but we also carefully monitor how our products perform in use. LG takes very seriously the concerns of our customers and uses such feedback on an on-going basis to evaluate and improve our products. Consumers desiring more information about their refrigerators should either visit our web site at http://www.lg.com/us/index.jsp or call our toll free number: 1-800-243-0000.

CPSC report 20130604-EAB4B-2147455503. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
Hurt, no treatment
Made Jun 1, 2013, sent to the company Jun 10, 2013, published by CPSC Jun 24, 2013

The product, in the report: Three door, white

We have a Sears Model 795.77542600 refrigerator Serial number 702KR0090. This morning my wife opened the door and when she reached into the refrigerator the light cover fell off and burned her arm. The lamps were very hot and appear to have been on for a long time. The light socket and cover are melted and look burned. I removed the light bulbs before a fire started. I contacted sears on line tech support and talked with a fellow who said that there is no recall on the unit and it is out of warranty by nearly a year. He tried very hard to sell me an extended warranty. I decided not to repair the refrigerator at this time. I’m just glad it didn’t catch on fire!

Model
795.77542600
Serial number
702KR00090
Bought from
Sears, Virginia
Bought
Mar 7, 2007, about then
Where
Beaverdam, Virginia: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 50, Female
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore Elite, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

The company’s comments, in its own words

(6/10/2013) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20130601-3E75C-2147455601. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Jan 30, 2013, sent to the company Feb 11, 2013, published by CPSC Feb 26, 2013

The product, in the report: Kenmore Elite refrigerator

Product info: Kenmore Elite refrigerator model 795.77543600 side by side doors, refreeze at bottom Serial number 610KR00127 Made in 2006 1-28-2013 about 4:20 pm, when my wife opened the frig doors, smoke got out from inside around the light bulb area. It was very hot in the upper section of the frig. She called me and we found the 2 light bulbs (60 W each) had been on for very long time in the frig even the doors were closed completely. I tried to push the 2 door switches to see if the light would go off but the lights were still on. So I pulled the power plug immediately and removed the 2 bulbs. Our inspection showed the transparent plastic cover for the bulbs was melt at one side. The corner of the cover stuck to the internal wall very tightly, the while body of the cover hanging in the air. I had to break the cover from the wall. The 2 bulb seats were baked to brown. Then I remembered in the morning that day, when I opened the frig door, I felt some kind heat from the up section of the frig. But I checked all the settings were normal. So I thought my hand sensor was wrong. I closed the doors of the frig. It almost caused a fire. It seems the light bulb switch in the frig was malfunctioning and it might be design flaws. When the switch is malfunctioning, it should shut off the lights, not keeps the lights on in the concealed area. That will cause fire.

Model
795.77543600
Serial number
610KR00127
Where
Unspecified: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Female
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(2/11/2013) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20130130-7DAB0-2147459312. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Jan 21, 2013, sent to the company Feb 5, 2013, published by CPSC Feb 20, 2013

The product, in the report: Sears refrigerator model 795.77552600. Serial no. 607kr00148 mfg date 2006.07

Light in refrigerator do not turn off and melted the plastic housing. It caused the out side top of refrigerator to become hot enough to cause a fire if a flammable had been stored on top. I called sears to report problem and was told they have no way to answer questions about my concerned.
Sears model 795.77552600

Model
795.77552600
Serial number
607kr00148
Bought from
Sears
Bought
Aug 1, 2007
Where
Lubbock, Texas: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unspecified
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
Brand Sears, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(2/5/2013) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505. (2/11/2013) LG Electronics, USA: LG manufactures the refrigerator to meet or exceed all relevant standards including UL250. LG’s state of the art quality system meets the LG(61)-F0-4047 quality standard. Our process not only rigorously tests to insure the quality of products leaving our factory, but we also carefully monitor how our products perform in use. LG takes very seriously the concerns of our customers and uses such feedback on an on-going basis to evaluate and improve our products. Consumers desiring more information about their refrigerators should either visit our web site at http://www.lg.com or call our toll free number: 1-800-243-0000.

CPSC report 20130121-48957-2147459659. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Oct 16, 2012, sent to the company Jan 4, 2013, published by CPSC Jan 18, 2013

The product, in the report: french door refrigerator

The light bulbs did not power off with the doors to the refrigerator closed. The consumer noticed that the light bulb covers were melted on both sides. The light bulbs caused the light fixture to melt and the refrigerator filled with a burning plastic odor. The consumer also noticed that the light housing has shiften down as well. Food on the top shelf near the light were warm and melted.
There are two light bulbs located one on each side of the refrigerator. The consumer removed both bulbs from the refrigerator. She is currently still using the refrigerator.
The firm has not been contacted but the consumer states that she will contact them.

Model
795.77553600
Serial number
704kr00608
Bought from
Sears, Alaska
Bought
Jul 1, 2007, about then
Where
Anchorage, Alaska: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Female
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(1/4/2013) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20121016-5DEA4-1278759. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Sep 11, 2012, sent to the company Sep 19, 2012, published by CPSC Oct 3, 2012

The product, in the report: Sears Kenmore Trio Elite Refrigerator Model #: 795.77552600 Serial #: 602KR00072 Color: White

Sears Kenmore Trio Elite Refrigerator Model # 795.77552600 Serial # 602KR00072
First incident, May, 2011. Second incident, 10 Aug 2012.
Refrigerator light remains on when doors are closed resulting in overheating of the light assembly sufficient to melt the plastic cover and frame, scorch the light sockets and melt the refrigerator’s plastic ceiling above the light fixture recess. Food on closest shelf heated (hot to the touch), sufficient to melt 16 oz. of margarine within its container.
First incident had to replace: Plastic Lamp cover, part # 3550JJ1070B Case, part # 3110JJ1014A Socket assembly, part # 6621JK2002D Cover t/v, part # 3550JL1016A
Second incident, same parts will have to be replaced.

Model
795.77552600
Serial number
602KR00072
Bought from
Sears
Bought
Jul 4, 2006
Where
Puyallup, Washington: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unknown
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore Trio Elite Refrigerator, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(9/19/2012) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20120911-6C0FC-2147463836. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Sep 6, 2012, sent to the company Sep 14, 2012, published by CPSC Sep 28, 2012

The product, in the report: Sears Kenmore Elite Refrigerator

Opened refrigerator door and smelled burning plastic. Noticed that the fridge lights were HOT and that the clear plastic shroud surrounding the lights was MELTED. Molten plastic was dripping down onto food items. I checked, and the lights would stay on even when the door-closed-sensors were depressed.
I suspect this could have caused a fire if left much longer.
Sears Kenmore Elite refigerator, model 795.77563600

Model
795.77563600
Serial number
608KR00470
Bought from
Sears
Bought
Oct 1, 2006, about then
Where
Lyndeborough, New Hampshire: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unspecified
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore Elite, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(9/14/2012) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505. (9/17/2012) LG Electronics, USA: LG manufactures this refrigerator to meet or exceed all relevant standards including UL250. LG’s state of the art quality system meets the LG(61)-F0-4047 quality standard. Our process not only rigorously tests to insure the quality of product leaving our factory, but we also carefully monitor how our products perform in use. LG takes very seriously the concerns of our customers and uses such feedback on an on-going basis to evaluate and improve our products. Consumers desiring more information about their refrigerators should either visit our web site at http://www.lg.com/us/index.jsp or call our toll free number: 1-800-243-0000.

CPSC report 20120906-EE380-2147464000. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Aug 16, 2012, sent to the company Aug 24, 2012, published by CPSC Sep 10, 2012

The product, in the report: Sears Elite TRIO 3 door refrigerator; stainless steel, 6 years old, model number 795.77573600, serial #605kr01753.

When I opened my refrigerator this morning while making coffee, I was greeted with the overwhelming smell of burnt plastic. I looked up and saw that the plastic and rubber light housing surrounding the interior lights had melted and were hanging. I pushed in the switches on the doors to turn off the lights, but the did not shut off. I then had a hard time unscrewing the light bulbs as they were extremely hot. After googling this product, I learned that this is not an uncommon occurrence. To say that I’m unhappy is an understatement. Had I not been home, there is a very real possibility that this could have resulted in a fire if left undetected.
I’m even more angry to learn that Sears has not issued a recall notice about this product b/c it is apparently a fairly typical issue with this brand/type of refrigerator. The unit is just 6 years old!

Model
795.77573600
UPC
Don’t Know
Serial number
605kr01753
Bought from
Sears, North Carolina
Bought
Jul 29, 2006
Where
Fayetteville, North Carolina: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Male
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore Elite Trio Refrigerator, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(8/24/2012) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20120816-CFD00-2147464694. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
First aid
Made Jul 13, 2012, sent to the company Sep 20, 2012, published by CPSC Oct 4, 2012

The product, in the report: Trio Refrigerator

Refrigerator being reported was purchased in 2006.
Callers opened their refrigerator door the evening of July 12th, 2012 and felt warmth, noticed that the butter had melted and all food items near the light were warm.
They then noticed that all plastic around the light was melted, they removed the light bulbs.
Caller burned her index finger of her right hand, her husband burned his index finger and right thumb although they were using a towel while removing the bulbs.
The lights had been remaining lit when door was closed and callers report that it may well have started a fire.
They have not contacted the manufacturer but do intend to contact them after this call has ended.
They had no safety problems with the refrigerator before this time.

Model
795.77249600
Serial number
610MRKU02269
Bought from
Sears, Oregon
Bought
Oct 6, 2006
Where
Warrenton, Oregon: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 68, Female
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional

The company’s comments, in its own words

(9/20/2012) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20120713-559A8-1259352. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made May 21, 2012, sent to the company May 29, 2012, published by CPSC Jun 12, 2012

The product, in the report: Sears Kenmore Elite Refrigerator Model 795.77544600

I own a Sears Kenmore Elite three door refrigerator model number 795.775446500. On two occasions I smelled plastic burning and discovered that the light fixture inside had over heated and melted. Upon further checking I determined that the door switches are failing to shut the light fixture off when the doors are closed. The first time this happened I simply ordered the part, replaced the light fixture, and everything functioned properly. This time I caught the problem before any damage occurred. My safety concern is this product has a faulty design or part. Had I not detected the malfunction in its early state this overheating of the plastic light fixture by the failure of the bulbs to shut off when the doors are closed could have resulted in a residential fire, personal injury, and or death. I have researched this issue and have determined that this is problematic of this model and needs to be addressed in a recall.

Model
795.77544600
Serial number
603KR00071
Bought from
Sears, New Jersey
Bought
Jul 1, 2006, about then
Where
Wharton, New Jersey: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 63, Male
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore Elite, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(5/29/2012) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20120520-DFC60-2147467406. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
Hurt, no treatment
Made Apr 11, 2012, sent to the company Apr 19, 2012, published by CPSC May 3, 2012

The product, in the report: Product: Kenmore Refrigerator, S/S 24CF&OVR Model Number: 10652522100 Serial Number: SL4929402

On a Friday night, January 27, 2012, prior to going to sleep, my wife smelled a very foul odor similar to burning plastic and other toxic chemicals coming from downstairs. In the process of trying to figure out what was burning and where the odor was coming from, she forgot to open up all the doors and windows in the house and nearly collapsed. Had I not arrived there just on time to do so, she would have collapsed and possibly died, and this communication with anyone would have been completely different. I was then able to quickly isolate the source of the problem - it was coming from behind our Kenmore refrigerator purchased in 2001 - and quickly disconnected the refrigerator.
Initially, I almost dismissed the problem as being a fluke, a technical malfunction due to the age of the refrigerator. However, after going online to figure out the extent of the problem, I realized, to my surprise, that my wife and I were not alone and that this life-and-death issue is a problem that Whirlpool and Sears have been aware of for quite some time, and that the age of the refrigerator had nothing to do with this malfunction since many such complaints had been lodged before from individuals who only had their refrigerator ranging anywhere from a couple of years or more. Some even had their houses burned down as a result of that.
Needless to say, had we fallen asleep prior to detecting this burning odor, we would have died in our sleep without ever knowing we were living with a ticking time bomb waiting to explode. There is absolutely no reason for Whirlpool not to alert the public about this problem since they come from all walks of life. The catastrophic effect this could have on the elderly and, particularly, young families with infants, babies, and young children who are most susceptible to being victimized by such callous criminal negligence on the part of Whilrpool is immeasurable.
Here is a link to just one of the sites that I visited which exactly replicate the experience I have had:
http://www.complaintsboard.com/complaints/kenmore-refrigerator-hoffman-estates-illinois-c48843.html
My first instinct was to contact an attorney who specializes in class-action lawsuits in order to bring some attention to this issue since this is much more than just a “customer service,” limited warranty, or “technical support” issue. This is a LIFE AND DEATH ISSUE which must be addressed immediately so that more families do not fall victim to this cover-up. It’s no longer just about us. We have children and grandchildren that we are also concerned about and so is the case with thousands, if not millions, of other families. At the very least, customers should be notified that such life and death issue exists instead of trying to bury it or sweep it under the rug.
With respect to our own situation, and as corroborated by hundreds of complaints on the internet, the Sears service technician determined the following:
1. The spontaneous combustion was due to a “burnt compressor start relay” - Part Number 8201786. This defective part is obviously used in several refrigerator models manufactured by Whirlpool and is certainly not confined to a specific model or year.
WHY this is happening is critical for everyone to know. Otherwise, asking to have the problem repaired will only postpone the inevitable and we may not turn out to be so lucky to be alive, or with a house intact, the next time around. As well, fixing and selling the refrigerator to someone else would be criminal on our part since we are already aware of this life-threatening issue. We do have a conscience and a sense of social responsibility, and so should Whirlpool. How long is it going to take to fully resolve this matter once and for all?
After reviewing the hundreds of comments made online on these various sites, and seeing the run-around and frustration that these individuals had experienced, my first inclination was to contact the relevant media, consumer agencies, governmental and legal entities in order to bring some attention and light to this issue. Something needs to be done about this.

Model
10652522100
Serial number
SL4929402
Bought from
Sears
Bought
Jan 1, 2002, about then
Where
Palmdale, California: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 56, Female
The reporter’s relation to them
My Spouse
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

The company’s comments, in its own words

(4/19/2012) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20120411-DC454-2147468496. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Mar 30, 2012, sent to the company Apr 9, 2012, published by CPSC Apr 23, 2012

The product, in the report: Sears Kenmore Elite trio Bottom Mount Freezer Refrigerator

Woke up this morning and thought I smelled a slight burning plastic smell. Made coffee and, upon retrieving cream from refrigerator, noticed that the cream was warm and the refrigerator did not seem to be cooling. Further investigation revealed that the interior lights were HOT and would not turn off. I contacted the Sears Service Dept and (after giving them an explicit description of the problem) was told that they could not be here for a repair/service call until Tuesday (4 days away!).
A friend came over to look at my refrigerator and discovered that the cover over the interior lights was fused (from the heat) to the housing unit and had to be pried down to allow access to the screws holding it in place (we could NOT remove the bulbs as they were stuck in the sockets). Once removed, the plug was disconnected and then it was observed that the interior of the unit casing had started bubbling/melting. A couple of more hours and my refrigerator would have been in flames.
Thank God this happened today and I was home. Otherwise, I would have come home to a house in flames or burned to the ground!
I subsequently contacted Sears - again! - and was placed on hold for over an hour without anyone coming on the line at any time to give me the status of my call. I finally hung up.
How many of these instances have occurred? How many more have to occur before something is done?
I have been an avid Sears/Kenmore customer - have owned nothing BUT Kenmore my entire adult life - but this experience (between the lack of customer service and the lack of a recall of the item - or notification) has me rethinking my allegiance to this company and their products.

Model
795.77549600
Serial number
607KR00256
Bought from
Sears
Bought
Jan 1, 2007, about then
Where
Arcadia, Florida: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unknown
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(4/9/2012) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20120330-3BFD1-2147468809. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Mar 14, 2012, sent to the company Apr 6, 2012, published by CPSC Apr 20, 2012

The product, in the report: SIde by side refrigerator

The consumer states that the appliance is in a rental property and the renter noticed a strong burning odor coming from the refrigerator. The renters unplugged the appliance from the outlet
The consumer went out to the home and noticed that after he removed the relay that it had started melting. The consumer replaced the refrigerator and placed the original one in a relative’s home.
The firm was contacted on 3/14/2012 and the consumer states that he was advised t contact their service department to have a technician come out. The consumer declined.
While doing some research online the consumer came across a recall (see Release #09-322). The recall listed a different brand refrigerator that experienced a similar hazard as he did.
The consumer states that he is happy to hear that no one was seriously injured. His concerns were that if the property was vacant there could have possibly been a fire.

Model
25353322300
Serial number
LA32747483
Bought from
Sears, Oregon
Where
Crestwell, Oregon: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unknown
The reporter’s relation to them
No Relationship
As this report names them
made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(4/9/2012) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20120314-A2A65-1237575. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Jan 30, 2012, sent to the company Feb 29, 2012, published by CPSC Mar 14, 2012

The product, in the report: side by side refrigerator with ice maker

The consumer was awaken out of his sleep at 3 am on 1/30/2012 due to a burning odor. While walking through out the home he noticed that the odor was becoming stronger when going in to the kitchen. He went into the kitchen and was able to detect that the odor was coming from the refrigerator.
The consumer removed the grate located at the bottom front of the refrigerator (used to cover the water filter) and noticed arcing and sparks began to fly.
The appliance was pulled out from the wall and unplugged from the outlet. When the plug was unplug the sparking and flames went out. There were no damages to the cord and it was not hot.
He contacted the retailer on 1/30/2012 and the representative (name unknown) informed him to contact the firm. When he contacted the firm no assistance was offered.
The consumer indicated that he may consider replacing the appliance instead of getting it repaired. The appliance is still currently in the unplug position.

Model
106.53542300
Serial number
ST2651259
Bought from
Sears
Bought
Jan 1, 2005, about then
Where
Trempealeau, Wisconsin: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Male
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(2/29/2012) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20120130-9F20E-1227626. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
Hurt, no treatment
Made Jan 11, 2012, sent to the company Jan 20, 2012, published by CPSC Feb 3, 2012

The product, in the report: Sears Kenmore Elite Trio bottom freezer refrigerator, black mirror glass

Sears Trio Refridgerator model 795.77729700, serial # 709KR00070 - lights are staying on inside causing housing to get very very hot, burned hand when touching housing, food inside getting warm, chemical/electrical smell inside, after searching online and contacting Sears, it appears there is already an issue with these refidgerators but apparently mine isn’t in the range...I can’t use lights inside my $2500.00 fridge, I would like Sears to correct this issue as this seems like a manufacturing defect across the board - I don’t need a fire inside my house that I just remodeled and don’t want my family placed at harm especially if Sears continued to sell these refridgerators after they knew about these problems

Model
795.77729700
Serial number
709KR00070
Bought from
Sears
Bought
Dec 13, 2007
Where
Massapequa Park, New York: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 49, Male
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore Elite Trio, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

The company’s comments, in its own words

(1/20/2012) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505. (1/23/2012) LG Electronics, USA: LG manufactures the refrigerator to meet or exceed all relevant standards including UL250. LG’s state of the art quality system meets the LG(61)-F0-4047 quality standard. Our process not only rigorously tests to insure the quality of products leaving our factory, but we also carefully monitor how our products perform in use. LG takes very seriously the concerns of our customers and uses such feedback on an on-going basis to evaluate and improve our products. Consumers desiring more information about their refrigerators should either visit our web site at http://www.lg.com or call our toll free number: 1-800-243-0000.

CPSC report 20120111-B65B0-2147471416. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
Hurt, no treatment
Made Dec 28, 2011, sent to the company Jan 6, 2012, published by CPSC Jan 23, 2012

The product, in the report: Stainless finish Kenmore Elite 22.4 cu ft TRIO French Door Bottom Freezer Refrigerator

My son smelled burning plastic in refrigerator. Researched model online. Saw that there were incidents where interior light would not go off causing melting and a potential fire hazard. Called Sears. They wanted to charge me for service call because it’s out of warranty, even though I told them it was a safety hazard. The repair rep asked ME if there was a recall on the refrigerator. I told them that THEY should know that, not me. They then transferred me to recall department. Evidently, there is a known safety issue with the interior lights on this model. They are sending me a replacement light kit. I then asked what I could do to prevent a fire! I was told to remove the light bulbs. My son got burnt trying to remove the bulbs because they were so hot and he was wearing gloves to protect his hands. Also most of the plastic inside the light housing was melted!!! Finally got it apart and removed the bulbs. Then I saw that the plastic refrigerator lining at the top of the refrigerator is bubbled and melted!!!! I’m lucky there was no fire!!! Waiting to see if Sears repairs or replaces my unit to my satisfaction. I will not accept them just changing out the light unit when the interior lining is now damaged.

Model
795.77253601
Serial number
703MRTT14073
Bought from
Sears, Rhode Island
Bought
Apr 28, 2007
Where
Cranston, Rhode Island: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 26, Male
The reporter’s relation to them
My Child
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore Elite, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

The company’s comments, in its own words

(1/6/2012) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20111228-AC65C-2147471965. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Dec 28, 2011, sent to the company May 14, 2012, published by CPSC May 29, 2012

The product, in the report: Kenmore Elite Trio Refrigerator / Freezer

Problem involves a Sears Kenmore Elite TRIO Refrigerator Freezer purchased new 7/2006. Opened refrigerator door and smelled melting plastic and noticed food and containers on top shelf near interior light were bulging due to heat. Interior light enclosure was deformed due to melting. Appears to be problem that interior light was not turning off causing excessive heat build up and melting of plastic cover. Top interior of refrigerator above light bulb reflector/shield coating was blistered, light sockets are brown due to excessive heat and clear plastic insert was fused into opaque plastic interior light dome housing.

Model
795.77564600
Serial number
604KR01276
Bought from
Sears
Bought
Jul 15, 2006, about then
Where
Newark, Delaware: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unspecified
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
Brand Sears, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(5/14/2012) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20111228-F99CD-2147471945. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
Hurt, no treatment
Made Dec 1, 2011, sent to the company Dec 9, 2011, published by CPSC Dec 23, 2011

The product, in the report: Kenmore Elite Trio Frenchdoor Refrigerator. Model #795.77546600

We own a Kenmore Elite Trio side french door refrigerator. Model #: 795.7754660; Serial #: 608KR00033.
We have been having problems with the refrigerator light staying on when the door is closed. This has caused not only food to spoil but the plastic to melt inside the unit. When we contacted Sears about this they were NO HELP AT all. This has to be a fire hazard as when you do open the door the plastic is extremely HOT to the touch. We had a company come and replace the unit that the bulbs are screwed into but the plastic still gets hot and the light will still stay on while the door is shut. I believe that Sears just does not want to do anything about this.. but it is a BIG safetly concern in our home,

Model
795.77546600
Serial number
608KR00033
Bought from
Sears, Georgia
Bought
Nov 15, 2006
Where
Canton, Georgia: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 35, Female
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand Sears, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

The company’s comments, in its own words

(12/12/2011) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20111201-C2EED-2147472791. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Sep 14, 2011, sent to the company Oct 13, 2011, published by CPSC Oct 27, 2011

The product, in the report: side by side refrigerator with ice dispenser

The refrigerator comes with five glass shelves that sit on top of a plastic bracket that broke. The plastic bracket broke causing the two shelves at the top of the refrigerator to break and the .
The firm was contacted 5/2010 the firm was contacted and the consumer ordered the two shelves the brackets that are used to support the shelves are incased around the shelf.
On 9/5/2011 the top bracket the second shelf and the lower shelf over the vegetable bin bracket broke (not all within the same day). The firm was contacted that same very week and the consumer ordered the replacement shelves.
The consumer indicated that in the event someone is opening the refrigerator and the plastic bracket break causing a shelf to fall someone could be possibly injured.
The consumer was advised when she spoke with the firm that she was washing the shelves in hot water causing the plastic bracket to weakened and fail.
The consumer indicated that she only washed the shelf one time and with Luke warm water. No further information was provided.

Model
106.58153800
Serial number
HRW3715366
Bought from
Sears, Connecticut
Bought
Nov 3, 2008
Where
New Britain, Connecticut: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unspecified
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(10/13/2011) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20110914-834DE-1201453. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Sep 12, 2011, sent to the company Sep 20, 2011, published by CPSC Oct 4, 2011

The product, in the report: Side by Side Refrigerator

Sears Kenmore side by side refrigerator model 106-53562200 purchased new on 5/11/2002. Numerous problems just out of warranty with circuit boards going bad for ice maker and main unit not keeping cold. Today, 9/12/2011, daughter was home and called me in a panic saying there was a burning smell in the kitchen and great room at 9:30AM. I left work and headed home. Strong smell in house of electrical burning. Smell was coming from the back bottom of the refrigerator. Unit was plugged in to wall plug. Pushed refrigerator away from wall to gain access to back for a look. I removed the cardboard back access panel and the smell was strongest at the compressor. The fan motor was running but compressor was not. I unplugged the unit from the wall. Used my flash light and didn’t see anything out of the ordinary and nothing burned. I plugged the unit back into wall plug and within 5 seconds the white box (with 3 wires going to it) attached to the side of the compressor began to crackle / sizzle then sparked and glowed red then smoke came out of the top. I unplugged the unit, waited 5 minutes and did the process again with the same results. The refrigerator is unplugged for fear of fire. DTE appliance service contract (Home protection Plus) will be here 9/13 for a diagnosis and possible repair. I, through internet researce discovered that the Start Device pn 8201786 is now superceeded to pn 8201786 which is on back order status according to Sears Parts Direct site. I don’t trust this appliance anymore, it’s a danger and unreliable.

Model
106-53562200
Serial number
sm1635195
Bought from
Sears
Bought
May 11, 2002
Where
Rochester Hills, Michigan: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Female
The reporter’s relation to them
My Child
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(9/20/2011) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20110912-ADDFF-2147475395. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Sep 2, 2011, published by CPSC Sep 27, 2011

The product, in the report: Side by Side Refrigerator

On 8/15/2011 my refrigerator door, unexpectedly the right door fell off and onto my wife. Two days later Sears Technician inspected and found the bottom guide pin broken. Reported number [REDACTED] as “Door Fell Off/Safety Report Filed” but no action as to repair or to replace it. I temporary lift the door back up and we are using it with very caution.

Model
36350222000
Serial number
03828970
Bought from
Sears, California
Bought
Dec 1, 2000
Where
Orange, California: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Female
The reporter’s relation to them
My Spouse
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(9/13/2011) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20110902-69BB9-2147475684. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Aug 28, 2011, published by CPSC Sep 20, 2011

The product, in the report: Refrigerator, Tri Door, w/bottom freezer and ice and water dispenser on the left door

I have a Kenmore EliteTrio mfg by LG, that I bought in 2007, Model 795. 77564600. Two weeks ago, I noticed the smell of burnt plastic and electrical wires. After opening the food doors, the light housing was completely melted from its housing. Minuplating the door switches had no effect, so I burnt my hands unscrewing the bulbs out. One burst in my hands because of the heat and sprayed glass all over the referigator. I ordered the parts myself hoping that replacement parts would fix the problem. When the parts came in I had a refigerator repairman come out to insall them. After he did, the problem still existed, the lights stayed on. He said to order new switches for the doors and he would install them. After he left, I did some extensive research on the internet, and found out there are hundreds of complaints of this nature, and the main cause of this problem was a faulty realy in the computer board. I emailed “Sears Cares”, and wrote a letter to Sears Cares, with pictures and received no response whatsoever I hate to think what might have happened if I was on a long vaction,etc, and It would not have been discovered early. As a former Fire Chief, I find it incomprehensible that Sears has not addressed this FIRE HAZZARD!

Model
795. 77564600
Serial number
608KR00439
Bought from
Sears, North Carolina
Bought
Sep 10, 2007
Where
Sanford, North Carolina: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 75, Male
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand Sears, Kenmore Elite, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(9/6/2011) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505. (9/7/2011) LG Electronics, USA: LG manufactures the refrigerator to meet or exceed all relevant standards including UL250. LG’s state of the art quality system meets the LG(61)-F0-4047 quality standard. Our process not only rigorously tests to insure the quality of products leaving our factory, but we also carefully monitor how our products perform in use. LG takes very seriously the concerns of our customers and uses such feedback on an on-going basis to evaluate and improve our products. Consumers desiring more information about their refrigerators should either visit our web site at http://www.lg.com or call our toll free number: 1-800-243-0000.

CPSC report 20110828-C92E2-2147475859. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Aug 22, 2011, sent to the company Sep 19, 2011, published by CPSC Oct 3, 2011

The product, in the report: Refrigerator Freezer

Caller was away on vacation when a friend came in to take her trash out and found herself sloshing through water in the kitchen. Friend contacted caller who contacted a friend who is professional in these types of repairs. Professional found that the start relay had burned up in the refrigerator. Start relay was burned and scorched.

Model
106.52584202
Serial number
SM4432886
Bought from
Sears, Colorado
Bought
Oct 15, 2003, about then
Where
Gilbert, Arizona: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unspecified
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(9/19/2011) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20110822-87084-1198075. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Aug 18, 2011, published by CPSC Sep 9, 2011

The product, in the report: Kenmore Trio Elite French door refrigerator

I purchased a Kenmore Elite Trio Refrigerator from Sears. I recently started noticing the smell of burning wires coming from my fridge. After some investigation it appears the lights are staying on even though the door is closed. The food on the top shelf is getting so hot that I had to throw it out. The mayo looked like it cooked in the fridge. The light cover had been falling off and we kept putting it back on previously. Because of the burning smell we looked more closely and the light assembly is MELTED! THis is a huge fire hazard. I have unscrewed the two lights but I’m not sure if this will stop what ever issue there is. I can find nothing on a recall. My model # is 795.77573600

Model
795.77573600
Serial number
605KR01449
Bought from
Sears
Bought
Aug 1, 2008, about then
Where
Fremont, New Hampshire: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 46, Female
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(8/25/2011) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20110818-C6483-2147476137. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Jul 31, 2011, published by CPSC Aug 22, 2011

The product, in the report: Sears Kenmore Elite Trio Refrigerator Model 795.77549600

I own a Kenmore Elite Trio refrigerator Model 795.77549600. This morning I went down to the kitchen and smelled something burning like burning plastic. I opened the refrigerator door and immediately smelled buring plastic and now knew it was coming from inside the unit. Half awake I grabbed my container full of left over pizza located to the left of the light fixture only to find it extremely hot! I looked up at the lights and saw the plastic cover drooping. I touched it and it just fell out because it had melted and warped so badly. The lights were producing a lot of heat and I could see that the plastic housing holding the light bulbs had also melted. It was pliable like taffy. The lights did not shut off when the doors were shut and the amount of heat coming from them was astonishing. All of this damage had occurred in about a half an hour. My husband was the last one to open the unit to put away breastmilk for my 6 month old daughter. If that happened in a half and hour I shudder to think what could have happened in the night or while we were away on vacation! We have removed the light bulbs from the refrigerator for fear of our house burning down. This refrigerator should be recalled.

Model
795.77549600
Serial number
702KR00207
Bought from
Sears
Bought
Dec 30, 2006
Where
Reading, Massachusetts: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 39, Female
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore Elite, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(8/8/2011) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20110730-C1399-2147476703. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made Jul 10, 2011, published by CPSC Aug 1, 2011

The product, in the report: double door on top with auto water dispenser freezer drawer on bottom with ice maker

We purchased our fridge in the summer of 2006. Not only was it 3 weeks late and we had to live out of a cooler, but then the light unit caught on fire and burned out until we were able to unplug it and use oven mitts to take out the bulbs. We called sears and Kenmore but since we had the unit for about 20 months, they said we were out of warranty and would not do anything for us and even wanted to charge us to talk to someone on the phone. We saw the other people who had complained about this and heard it would be 500 to fix the problem and we don’t have that kind of money to spend on a fridge we paid over 2300 for less than 2 years before. My parents also had a Kenmore and had the same thing happen to their fridge. Neither appliance had been recalled so we had no options. We have been living with the same fridge with no light. Not too big of a deal, but we have had to watch it carefully to be sure that it doesn’t start burning again. I feel we were very lucky to catch the problem before it turned into a full fledge fire! I smelled something burning from upstairs and tracked it to the fridge.

Bought from
Sears
Bought
Jun 30, 2006, about then
Where
Goodyear, Arizona: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Age 28, Female
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(7/18/2011) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20110710-476E0-2147477354. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made May 20, 2011, published by CPSC Jun 1, 2011

The product, in the report: Sears Kenmore Elite Bottom Freezer Refrigerator Model 795.77543600

A Sears Kenmore Elite Refrigerator Model 795.77543600 that I installed about 2 years ago. The interior lights could not be turned off by the door switches and burned the plastic light sockets and housing. The lights generated enough heat to warm up the refrigerator and spoil the food. There was a burning smell in the refrigerator. I did a quick search on the internet and found this is a common problem. Sears apparently will not make this right since the warentee has expired. I believe this to be a safety issue as it may have caused a fire. A very poor design.

Model
Model 795.77543600
Serial number
607KR00244
Bought from
Sears, Maryland
Bought
Feb 28, 2007, about then
Where
Frederick, Maryland: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unspecified
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
Brand Sears Kenmore, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(5/31/2011) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505. (6/1/2011) LG Electronics, USA: LG manufactures the refrigerator to meet or exceed all relevant standards including UL250. LG’s state of the art quality system meets the LG(61)-F0-4047 quality standard. Our process not only rigorously tests to insure the quality of products leaving our factory, but we also carefully monitor how our products perform in use. LG takes very seriously the concerns of our customers and uses such feedback on an on-going basis to evaluate and improve our products. Consumers desiring more information about their refrigerator should either visit our web site at http://www.lg.com or call our toll free number: 1-800-243-0000.

CPSC report 20110520-E38E4-2147478975. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made May 17, 2011, published by CPSC Jun 8, 2011

The product, in the report: White Kenmore side by side refrigerator

On Sunday May 15th, 2011 my wife discovered smoke and a burning oder in our kitchen. After examination it was discovered that our kenmore side by side refrigerator had caught on fire.

Model
106.53532300
Serial number
0852413
Bought from
Sears, Pennsylvania
Bought
Aug 12, 2004
Where
New Kensington, Pennsylvania: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Female
The reporter’s relation to them
My Spouse
As this report names them
Brand Sears kenmore, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(5/25/2011) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20110517-1BE16-2147479089. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made May 17, 2011, published by CPSC Jun 9, 2011

The product, in the report: Kenmore elite side by side refrigerator with ice and water model # 10655604400 24 cf and ovr

Refrigerator purchased in 2004, in 2007 ice maker did not work, had to get service contract to have sears repair the ice maker. Cheaper that way. This was in Aug 2007. At that point they replaced motor and the water control cellunoid. Feb 2011, ice maker stopped working again. My husband who payed close attention to the repair guy, pulled the ice maker and found exactly the same problem with melted piece/connector on the circuit board. (exact same problem) just a little over 3 yrs each problem. Of course sears referrred me to their recall section to report the problem and refused to back up their merchandise even after it was explained that it appeared to be a flaw.

Model
10655604400
UPC
unknown
Serial number
unknown
Bought from
Sears, Maryland
Bought
Jun 12, 2004
Where
Bowie, Maryland: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Unspecified
The reporter’s relation to them
Unspecified
As this report names them
Brand Sears, Kenmore, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(5/25/2011) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20110517-7F257-2147479076. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov
No one hurt
Made May 12, 2011, published by CPSC Jun 3, 2011

The product, in the report: Kenmore Elite refrigerator/freezer.

The light bulbs in my refrigerator failed to turn off. The bulb housing melted and sagged, the roof of the refrigerator has bubbled, and the bulb sockets appear scorched. It appears the manufacturer is aware of this problem, but did not notify me.

Model
795.77253601
Serial number
705MRTT12193
Bought from
Sears, California
Bought
Jun 1, 2008, about then
Where
Fallbrook, California: Home/Apartment/Condominium
Who was involved
Male
The reporter’s relation to them
Self
As this report names them
Brand Sears/Kenmore, made or sold by Sears Holdings Management Corporation
How badly, in CPSC’s words
Incident, No Injury

The company’s comments, in its own words

(5/19/2011) Sears Holdings Management Corporation: Sears Holdings takes product safety issues very seriously. We investigate each CPSC database incident report. We encourage our customers to provide additional information about incidents to our Customer Care Network, by calling 800-549-4505.

CPSC report 20110512-3A5B4-2147479255. Submitter: Consumer Search for it on SaferProducts.gov

CPSC’s disclaimer

Disclaimer: CPSC does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the contents of the Publicly Available Consumer Product Safety Information Database on SaferProducts.gov, particularly with respect to information submitted by people outside of CPSC.

Word for word, from the disclaimer in CPSC’s export.

Sources

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, SaferProducts.gov public database export.

Released Oct 25, 2026 and checked Oct 25, 2026. Updated daily. Public domain (U.S. Government work). CPSC asks to be credited, and that no endorsement be implied.

Reports of harm are from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), on SaferProducts.gov. CPSC does not endorse Hearth Record.

Sears Kenmore refrigerators

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Sources

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