• Kenmore refrigerators require a connection into a grounded three-prong electrical outlet.Michael Hitoshi/Photodisc/Getty Images
  
  Since 1927, Sears began selling Kenmore appliances, from washing machines and ranges to refrigerators in 1977. By 2001, the Kenmore featured the energy-efficient Elite refrigerator models, which use as much energy as a 75-watt light bulb, exceeding the energy standards set by the Department of Energy by 15 percent. Know the electrical requirements of your Kenmore refrigerator, which allows you to operate your refrigerator safely and efficiently.
  
  

Power

• You should always keep your Kenmore refrigerator plugged into its own, separate electrical outlet. Your refrigerator uses the standard household 120 volts and 60 Hz AC with a 15-amp circuit. Following the recommended voltage rating keeps your refrigerator from overloading the household circuits, which can result in a fire.
  
  

Power Cord Adapter

• Make certain you use a three-prong plug to connect your Kenmore refrigerator into a three-prong grounded wall outlet. Using this grounded connection protects you from deadly electrical shocks if your refrigerator experiences a short circuit.
  
  Although not recommended because of possible safety hazards, you can use an adaptor plug with a two-prong wall outlet as a temporary connection only, if local codes allow it. An adaptor plug has three prongs on one side for your refrigerator power cord, and two prongs on the side you plug into the wall. The wall outlet must also be grounded properly--have it examined by a qualified electrician to be certain.
  
  

Extension Cords

• Another potential safety hazard involves the use of extension cords with refrigerators, which Kenmore does not recommend. If you must use an extension cord, only use a three-wire, UL-listed, grounding appliance extension cord, according to Kenmore. The power cord must have 120 volts and an electrical rating of at least 15 amps.
  
  

Light Bulbs

• You will find the appliance bulb for your Kenmore refrigerator located at the front center, above the fresh food compartment, and in the freezer compartment at the top right side or in the back, covered with a snap-out bulb shield. Replace these light bulbs only with the same type and size bulb.