Choose Product
Identify Problem
03
Find Solutions

Kenmore Central air conditioner - home's humidity is too high

When a Kenmore central air conditioner is not removing humidity, start with the air filter, the most likely cause. A clogged Kenmore air filter restricts airflow, can cause the evaporator coil to frost over, and keeps the system from dehumidifying your home effectively. Replace the filter as directed, usually at least twice a year and more often with pets, dust, or construction nearby. Next, inspect the condenser coils for dirt and debris. Dirty coils cannot release heat efficiently, so the compressor may run continuously while the house remains humid. If your house is humid with the AC running, a defective temperature control thermostat may be shutting the system off too soon, preventing a long enough cooling cycle to remove moisture. A faulty thermistor can send incorrect temperature information to the control board and cause similar air conditioner dehumidifying problems. The control board is less common and should be tested only after these likely causes are checked. Turn off power before inspecting parts, and leave 240V electrical testing or repairs to a qualified HVAC technician. Enter your Kenmore model number to find the exact replacement air filter, thermostat, thermistor, or control board for your central air conditioner.

01 - Kenmore Central Air Conditioner Air Filter

If the air filter is clogged, air cannot flow properly through the air conditioner. This greatly reduces the cooling capacity of the air conditioner. In addition, if the air filter is clogged, the evaporator coils will frost over. Check and replace the air filter at least twice a year, more often in dusty/dirty environments or if there is a pet in the home.
Enter model number to search for the required part specific to your product
Highly Likely

02 - Clogged Air Filter

If the air filter is clogged, air cannot flow properly through the home's venting system. This greatly reduces the cooling capacity of the air conditioner. In addition, if the air filter is clogged, the evaporator coils will frost over and not be able to remove moisture from the air. The air filter should be checked and replaced at least twice a year, more often in dusty/dirty environments. Refer to owner's manual for guidance.
Highly Likely

03 - Condenser Coils are Dirty

The condenser coils dissipate the heat as the refrigerant passes through the coils. If the condenser coils are dirty, they won’t be able to dissipate the heat as effectively. As debris builds up on the coils, the air conditioner will become less efficient, causing the air conditioner to work harder to cool down. If the coils are significantly dirty, the air conditioner will not be able to remove the moisture from the air and maintain the proper temperature, resulting in the compressor running continuously in an attempt to cool the room. Check the condenser coils to determine if they are dirty. Refer to owner's manual for cleaning instructions.
Highly Likely

04 - Kenmore Central Air Conditioner Temperature Control Thermostat

The temperature control thermostat is a sensor which monitors the temperature of the air and activates a switch to provide power to the fan and compressor when the air temperature drops below a set point. If the thermostat isn’t working properly, the air conditioner may not stay running long enough to remove the moisture in the air and cool properly. To determine if the temperature control thermostat is defective, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the thermostat does not have continuity, or is shutting off too soon, replace it. (Note: Some thermostats may also control a heater and, as a result, will have three... terminals. Refer to your air conditioner’s wiring diagram for more information.)
Common

05 - Kenmore Central Air Conditioner Thermistor

The thermistor is a sensor connected to the control board that detects the temperature of the air. The resistance value of the thermistor changes in conjunction with the air temperature. If the air temperature rises, the resistance value will decrease. To determine if the thermistor is at fault, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the thermistor does not have continuity, or if the resistance of the thermistor does not change with a change in temperature, replace the thermistor. (To find specific temperature and resistance values, try checking your user’s manual.)
Less Common

06 - Kenmore Central Air Conditioner Control Board

The main control board regulates the voltage to the compressor and the fan motor. If the control board fails, some components will not function properly or will not work at all. Control boards are often misdiagnosed; make sure to check more commonly defective parts first before replacing the control board.
Less Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore central air conditioner not removing humidity?
Can a clogged air filter make my air conditioner freeze up or stop dehumidifying?
How do I test a Kenmore AC thermostat or thermistor when my home humidity is too high?
What should I check before replacing the AC control board?
How do I find the correct Kenmore central air conditioner replacement part?

Shop by Kenmore Central Air Conditioner Parts