Has your KitchenAid refrigerator been acting up lately? Resetting your appliance can help resolve various issues, from temperature control problems to error codes and unresponsive display panels. Resetting returns settings to their factory defaults and reboots your refrigerator’s operating system, often fixing small glitches in just a few quick minutes.
Read on to learn when and how to master the reset process for any KitchenAid refrigerator easily. With a few simple steps, your fridge will return to chilling and freezing in optimum order.
When to Reset Your KitchenAid Refrigerator
Resetting is recommended if your KitchenAid fridge is:
– Displaying error codes or malfunction lights
– Not responding to touchpad controls
– Experiencing unusual temperature fluctuations
– Not cooling properly or freezing items
– Making odd noises or seems to be breaking down
– Having issues with a water dispenser or ice maker
Resetting often clears up these common operation problems. However, it is NOT a cure-all solution. Refrain from resetting multiple times in a row. And never reset a refrigerator with standing water or serious mechanical issues present.
Before Initiating a Reset
Prior to resetting your KitchenAid refrigerator, follow these steps:
– Remove all food from fridge and freezer compartments
– Make sure the appliance is plugged in and power is connected
– Locate your refrigerator’s model number sticker
– Clear any standing water and ice buildup inside
– Give the reset 24 hours to take full effect before assessing issues
How to Reset a KitchenAid Refrigerator
1. Find the Reset Button
Most KitchenAid fridges have a reset button located near the control panel or behind the user interface. Check your owner’s manual to locate it. The reset button is usually recessed and needs to be pressed for 3+ seconds.
If there is no button, try holding the alarm and lock buttons simultaneously for 10 seconds to reset.
2. Press and Hold Reset
Once located, press and firmly hold the reset button for 5-10 seconds, waiting for the control panel to power off and restart.
Keep holding even after the initial beep until the lights flash and a second tone sounds. This confirms the reset is successful.
3. Enter the Model Number
After resetting, the refrigerator will prompt you to enter the model number listed on your sticker.
Carefully input the sequence using the touchpad or dispense water for the correct numbers. This syncs the settings properly.
4. Program Temperature
With the model number entered, use the display to program your desired fridge and freezer temperatures, usually around 37°F and 0°F, respectively.
Let temperatures stabilize for a full day before making any further adjustments.
5. Retry Resetting
If issues remain after the first reset attempt, wait one minute, then repeat steps 1-4 up to 2 more times. Allow the fridge to power cycle between resets.
Too many consecutive resets can overload the system. Still not working after 3 resets? Contact KitchenAid customer service.
When to Call for Service Instead
While effective for minor glitches, resetting is NOT recommended:
– If water leakage is present
– For persistent error code alerts
– With unusual smells inside
– For consistent heavy frost buildup
– If the refrigerator will not turn on
In these scenarios, an underlying issue needs professional repair. Resetting further can cause harm. Unplug the fridge and schedule service immediately.
Troubleshooting Common Reset Problems
– Lights on, but fridge not cooling – Compressor may have failed after reset. Try giving it a few hours to restart. If still not cooling, professional repair is needed.
– Touchpad not responding – Hold the reset button for 20 seconds to override display malfunction and fully reset.
– Error codes return right after resetting – This indicates a specific component failure requiring technician diagnosis. Note the code and contact KitchenAid support.
– Fridge keeps resetting itself – There may be an electrical short triggering continuous reset. Unplug and have the wiring inspected.
Resetting a KitchenAid Refrigerator FAQs
1. How long does the reset process take?
Expect a KitchenAid fridge reset to take 1-2 minutes, followed by 24 hours for temperatures to restabilize fully. The whole process can span 1-2 days.
2. Will resetting delete my temperature settings?
Yes, resetting clears any custom temps and resets to the factory defaults, which then must be reprogrammed.
3. Does resetting affect fridge lights and water dispensers?
No, the interior lights and water dispenser will still function during a reset. The cooling system and control panel are only affected.
4. How many times can I reset my KitchenAid refrigerator?
It’s best to limit resets to no more than 3 times in a short span to avoid potential harm. If issues persist after 3 resets, a repairman should inspect.
5. Should I unplug before resetting?
You do not need to unplug the appliance when resetting a KitchenAid fridge. The reset process is designed to work with the refrigerator powered on.
6. Why does my KitchenAid refrigerator trip the GFCI outlet after resetting?
If the fridge trips the outlet’s ground fault circuit interrupter after a reset, there is likely a shortage in need of repair. Contact KitchenAid to diagnose the specific issue. Don’t keep resetting.
Resetting a KitchenAid refrigerator is an easy DIY method to restore optimal performance and fix many minor operating problems. Locate the reset button for your model, press and hold firmly for 5-10 seconds until the lights restart, enter your model number when prompted, then set your temperature preferences. Within a few minutes, you can have your fridge back in working order without the hassle and cost of a service call for small issues. Just be aware that persistent problems require a certified technician’s expertise. With this simple resetting process, you can try realigning your KitchenAid first yourself and save your food from spoiling!
FAQ
Here are some commonly asked questions about resetting a KitchenAid refrigerator:
1. Why does my KitchenAid refrigerator need to be reset?
Common reasons to reset a KitchenAid fridge include an unresponsive display panel, error codes appearing, temperature control problems, condenser issues, strange noises, icemaker malfunction, and other glitches. Resetting often resolves small operation issues.
2. How do I reset my KitchenAid refrigerator?
To reset, locate the reset button near the control panel and firmly press and hold for 5-10 seconds until the lights shut off and restart. You may need to enter your model number next.
3. Where is the reset button on my KitchenAid refrigerator?
The reset button is usually above the display near the top grille, but the location varies by model. Check your owner’s manual for the exact reset button placement. It may be unlabeled.
4. What gets reset when you reset a KitchenAid refrigerator?
Resetting will return all customized settings, like temperature, dispense modes, alarms, etc., to their default factory programming. The display will reset, and the fridge will restart.
5. How long should I wait after resetting my KitchenAid refrigerator?
Allow a full 24 hours after resetting for the refrigerator to stabilize temperatures again before assessing performance or making further adjustments.
