A Kenmore refrigerator in Canton stopped cooling and started leaking water onto the kitchen floor. Our diagnosis revealed a failed starter relay on the compressor — a common failure point on this model that prevents the cooling system from operating properly.
The Problem
The homeowner reported their refrigerator had completely stopped cooling, causing food spoilage concerns. Water was also leaking from the front of the unit, creating a mess on the kitchen floor. The refrigerator was running but not maintaining proper temperatures in either compartment.
Diagnosis
Testing revealed the compressor wasn’t starting despite power reaching the unit. The starter relay — a small electrical component that provides the initial power boost needed to start the compressor motor — had failed internally. When these relays fail, the compressor can’t engage, leaving the refrigerator unable to cool. The water leakage was melted ice from the freezer compartment draining through the normal defrost system.
The Repair
- Parts replaced: WPW10197428 — starter relay/overload protector
- Work performed: Removed old relay, installed new starter relay, tested compressor operation
- Result: Compressor started immediately, temperatures began dropping in both compartments
Is It Worth Repairing?
This Kenmore model 106.51754 is a reliable side-by-side unit that typically runs 15-20 years with proper maintenance. A failed starter relay is a relatively minor repair compared to compressor or sealed system failures. For a refrigerator this age, replacing the relay makes good economic sense.
Maintenance Tips for Kenmore Refrigerators
- Clean the condenser coils underneath every 6 months — dirty coils cause the compressor to work harder and can lead to relay failures
- Check door seals on side-by-side models regularly as they’re prone to warping at the center hinge point
- Replace the water filter every 6 months on models with dispensers to prevent flow restrictions that can stress the system
Appliance Repair in Canton, OH
Canton is in Stark County — an area we cover regularly from our base in Louisville, OH. We also serve Massillon, North Canton, and Alliance. Louisville Appliance Repair is owned and operated by Samuel Willhite, a master-certified technician with Bosch and Speed Queen factory authorizations. If your appliance needs service, schedule online or call (330) 693-9163. You can also find us on Google and read verified reviews from customers across Stark County and surrounding areas.
Louisville Appliance Repair serves Stark County and surrounding areas.
Schedule your repair online,
call (330) 693-9163,
or see our reviews on Google.