I have a bottom mount Kenmore Fridge model C978-66792-2. It only has 3 months left on the 10 warranty for the compressor (parts only). About 10 days ago, I noticed that the fridge was running constantly. There is no frost build up inside the freezer. I used an air gun underneath to blow out any dust. Surprisingly, there was a fair bit, despite vacuuming once in a while. I removed the back cover and vacuumed all the accessible parts as best I could but that didn't solve the problem. The compressor was quite hot to the touch. So I requested a service call from Sears. The person who came to diagnose the problem said I would need an evaporator. He quickly came to this conclusion after removing the bottom plate inside the fridge part and looking at the evaporator coils. He pointed out that only half of the first row of coil had frost on it and the other half had none at all. The second row of coil had no frost whatsoever. He thus concluded that the evaporator had a leak and would need to be replaced. I am not aware that he used a gauge and tested the freon. I'm told he should have put one on the line tap valve to test the pressure. I am also told that having to replace the evaporator is not that common. I am wondering if the experts can give me advice on how to proceed. Does the diagnosis sound correct? Should I, can I insist that they change the compressor or at least test the pressure of the freon, perhaps top it up and see if it leaks? (I would have to cover the labor portion.) Or does this sound like the end of the road for the fridge...a real shame, cause it is still like new, inside and out. They've given me an estimate of $140 for the part and $300 for the labor and shop supplies. If I add the taxes I'm gonna drop $500 if I agree to this. Should I just forget and spend $1500 to $2000 on a new fridge. I'll also mention in case it's important, that we had a two hour power outage a couple of days before I noticed the fridge running constantly. Just a coincidence?Any help is appreciated. Thank you.Mrs Clo
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