Kenmore Refrigerator Repair (Model 25378821890) – Canton, OH

A homeowner in Canton called about their Kenmore refrigerator making loud grinding noises and failing to cool properly. When we arrived, we found the defrost thermostat had failed, causing ice buildup that prevented proper airflow and strained the cooling system.

The Problem

The customer reported a persistent grinding noise coming from the freezer compartment, along with both the refrigerator and freezer sections losing their cooling capacity. Food was starting to spoil, and the noise was becoming increasingly disruptive throughout the day.

Diagnosis

The grinding noise pointed to the defrost system struggling against excessive ice buildup. Testing the defrost thermostat revealed it wasn’t opening at the proper temperature, meaning the defrost heater never activated to melt accumulated frost. This ice buildup blocked air circulation and forced the compressor to work harder, creating the grinding sound as components strained against the restricted airflow.

The Repair

• Parts replaced: 5303917954 — defrost thermostat
• Work performed: Removed old thermostat, cleared ice buildup, installed new thermostat, tested defrost cycle
• Result: Verified proper defrost operation and restored normal cooling temperatures

Is It Worth Repairing?

This model 25378821890 is a solid mid-range Kenmore that typically runs 10-15 years with proper maintenance. The defrost thermostat is a relatively inexpensive component failure that’s worth fixing on a refrigerator this age, especially since the compressor and other major systems are still functioning normally.

Maintenance Tips for Kenmore Refrigerators

• Clean the condenser coils every 6 months — Kenmore models are particularly sensitive to dust buildup on these coils
• Check door gaskets monthly by closing a dollar bill in the door; if it pulls out easily, the seal needs replacement
• Monitor for frost buildup in the freezer — excessive frost often indicates defrost system issues before complete failure

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.