Kenmore 10657026601 side-by-side refrigerator Parts

On Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10657026601, the water filter is located in the base grille below the freezer compartment door. You remove it by pressing the eject button and pulling the filter straight out by the filter cap (no need to remove the base grille). See the 10657026601 owner's manual for the exact steps and illustrations.

How to find and remove the filter (base grille style)

• Open both refrigerator doors so you can access the base grille area.
• Look at the base grille below the freezer door for the filter cap.
• Press the eject button next to the filter.
• Pull the filter straight out by the cap (avoid twisting the cap).
• Expect a small amount of water to spill from the old filter.
• Turn the cap counterclockwise to remove it from the old filter; keep the cap for the replacement filter.

Reset the filter status light after replacement

Many Kenmore 106 models use a filter status light that needs to be reset after you change the filter.

What you see	What it means	What to do
Good (green)	Filter is OK	No action needed
Order	Filter is getting used up	Plan to replace soon
Replace (red)	Filter needs replacement	Replace filter, then reset

• Press and hold RESET for about 2 seconds until the status returns to Good (green).

Which replacement filter fits this model

For this model, a common replacement is the genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1. Always move the existing filter cap to the new filter so it locks in correctly.

Why it matters

Knowing the filter location helps you restore water flow and ice production quickly. A clogged or incorrectly installed filter can reduce dispenser flow and contribute to ice maker fill problems.

Last updated: February 2026

On Kenmore model 10657026601 side-by-side refrigerators, the SY EF code points to a problem in the evaporator fan circuit (the fan that moves cold air through the freezer and refrigerator). It is most often caused by ice buildup, a blocked fan blade, a failed fan motor, or a wiring/connection issue.

What to check first (fast, no parts)

• Power-cycle the refrigerator: unplug for 5 minutes, then plug back in.
• Listen for the evaporator fan in the freezer (a steady fan sound when the door switch is held closed).
• Check for frost or ice blocking airflow at the rear freezer panel.
• Make sure vents are not blocked by food packages.
• Confirm the freezer door closes tightly and the gasket seals all the way around.

Step-by-step troubleshooting

1. Unplug the refrigerator.
2. Open the freezer and inspect for heavy frost on the back wall; heavy frost usually means a defrost problem.
3. If you hear clicking or rubbing, check whether the fan blade is hitting ice.
4. If the fan never runs, inspect the fan wiring connector for a loose fit or corrosion.
5. If the fan runs intermittently or is noisy, the motor or blade is typically the fix.

Parts that commonly solve SY EF symptoms

Symptom	Most likely area	Example part for 10657026601
No fan sound, warm freezer	Evaporator fan motor	Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315549
Fan runs but rattles or hits ice	Fan blade or ice buildup	Refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2169142
Heavy frost, fan blocked by ice	Defrost system	Refrigerator heater WP2323198 and refrigerator defrost bi-metal WPW10225581

Why it matters

When the evaporator fan cannot move air, temperatures rise, ice production drops, and food can thaw. Fixing the airflow issue quickly prevents bigger cooling problems and repeat error codes.

For model-specific access points and troubleshooting guidance, follow the 10657026601 owner's manual.

Last updated: February 2026

If you are on this parts page, your refrigerator model is Kenmore 10657026601. To confirm on the appliance itself, match the full model number from the ID label inside the fresh food section or on the door frame, then use that exact number to look up the correct parts and manual.

Where to find the model number label

On Kenmore side-by-side refrigerators like 10657026601, we typically see the model/serial label in one of these spots:

• Inside the fresh food compartment on a side wall
• On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment
• Behind or near the crisper drawers
• On the door frame (open the door and check the inner frame)
• Behind the lower kick plate or toe grille

For model-specific diagrams and label references, use the 10657026601 owner's manual.

How to read a Kenmore model number (quick guide)

Kenmore model numbers often start with a 3-digit prefix that points to the original manufacturer family. For example, 106 is commonly associated with Whirlpool-built Kenmore refrigerators, which helps when you are matching parts like a water filter, ice maker, or inlet valve.

Common Kenmore prefixes

Prefix	Commonly associated with	What it helps with
106	Whirlpool-built Kenmore	Matching OEM-style parts and diagrams
253	Frigidaire-built Kenmore	Error code families and part styles
795	LG-built Kenmore	Control board and display conventions

Tips to avoid ordering the wrong part

Use the full model number exactly as printed (all digits, no spaces). Then verify the part category you are shopping for.

• Match the model number first, then shop parts
• Use the appliance ID label, not a sales receipt description
• If you are replacing a filter, confirm the filter style and housing
• If you are troubleshooting ice or water, check the shutoff valve and water line connection first
• Keep the serial number handy for service and age-related questions

Why it matters

Kenmore refrigerators share brand styling across many manufacturers. Using the exact model number (like 10657026601) ensures the correct fit for parts such as the refrigerator inlet valve W10408179 or the whirlpool refrigerator ice maker assembly 2198597, and it keeps troubleshooting steps aligned with your control system.

Last updated: February 2026

Most Kenmore side-by-side refrigerators, including model 10657026601, are built to fit a standard 36-inch-wide opening; the exact cabinet width varies slightly by design, so we use the 10657026601 owner's manual to confirm the precise spec for your unit.

Typical width you should plan for

For Kenmore side-by-side models in this style, these are the common planning numbers used for kitchen fit checks:

• Nominal width: 36 in (most common)
• Actual cabinet width: typically just under 36 in
• Door swing clearance: plan extra space at the hinge side
• Ventilation clearance: allow space at the sides and top

Quick planning table

What you’re measuring	What to expect	Why it’s different
Cabinet (box) width	Typically just under 36 in	Manufacturers leave small tolerances
Overall width with doors	About the same as cabinet	Handles and trim can add a little
Space needed to open doors	More than the cabinet width	Door swing needs side clearance

Clearances that affect “how wide it needs to be”

Width is not only the cabinet measurement; installation clearances matter for airflow and door swing.

• Allow about 1/2 in on each side and at the top for ventilation (common guidance for this platform)
• If installed next to a fixed wall, leave about 2 in minimum on the hinge side so the door can swing open
• If your refrigerator has an ice maker, leave extra room behind for the water line connection

(These clearance guidelines are called out in the 10657026601 owner's manual.)

Why it matters

If the opening is tight, the refrigerator can run hotter (poor airflow), doors may not open fully, and drawers or bins can be harder to remove. Planning for both width and clearance prevents fit and performance problems.

Last updated: February 2026

Water leaking from underneath a Kenmore 10657026601 side-by-side refrigerator is usually caused by defrost water not draining correctly (a clogged or frozen defrost drain) or by a water supply connection that is seeping and dripping down to the floor. Use the 10657026601 owner's manual to confirm access points and water system steps for your exact configuration.

Quick checks we recommend first

• Look for a sheet of ice or heavy frost on the freezer floor; this points to a blocked defrost drain.
• Check the drain pan underneath for overflow, cracks, or being out of position.
• Inspect the 1/4-inch water line behind the refrigerator for kinks, rubbing, or wet spots.
• Check the compression nut and valve inlet connection for slow drips.
• If the leak happens near the dispenser area, watch for drips after dispensing (a few drops can be normal).

Most common causes and what to do

What you see	Most likely cause	What to do next
Water appears after a defrost cycle	Defrost drain clogged or frozen	Thaw the drain area with warm water; clear the drain hole/tube with a soft pipe cleaner.
Water shows up only when ice maker runs	Water line or inlet connection seeping	Tighten fittings carefully; do not overtighten; re-seat tubing and recheck.
Puddle near front, under dispenser side	Dispenser drip or air in water system	Hold the glass under the spout 2 to 3 seconds after dispensing; flush the system.
Water behind unit	Supply line leak or loose connection	Turn off the shutoff valve, dry everything, then restore water and watch for fresh drips.

Parts that commonly relate to leaks on this model

If you confirm the leak is tied to the water supply system (ice maker or dispenser), the inlet valve is a frequent culprit.

• Refrigerator inlet valve W10408179: Controls water flow to the ice maker and dispenser; internal seepage or a weak seal can cause dripping.

Why it matters

Even a small leak can lead to ice buildup in the freezer, poor cooling airflow, and floor damage. Fixing the drain path or stopping a slow seep at the water line prevents repeat puddles and helps the refrigerator run efficiently.

Safety and shutoff tips

• Unplug the refrigerator or shut off power before working near wiring or fans.
• Turn the household water shutoff valve fully off before disconnecting any tubing.
• After any adjustment, turn water back on and watch connections for several minutes.

Last updated: February 2026

On Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10657026601, we clean the drain (defrost) pan by safely pulling the refrigerator straight out, emptying the pan, then washing and drying it before reinstalling. Always disconnect power first and use only mild, nonflammable cleaning products; see the 10657026601 owner's manual.

Steps to clean the drain (defrost) pan

• Unplug the refrigerator or disconnect power.
• Pull the refrigerator straight out to protect the floor (do not “walk” it).
• Locate the defrost pan near the bottom rear of the cabinet.
• Carefully slide the pan out and empty the water.
• Wash the pan with warm water and mild detergent; rinse and dry thoroughly.
• Slide the pan back in fully, then push the refrigerator straight back into place.
• Restore power.

What to use (and what to avoid)

Use gentle cleaners to protect plastic and finishes.

Use	Avoid
Warm water + mild dish detergent	Abrasive pads and scouring cleansers
Soft cloth or sponge	Flammable fluids
Baking soda solution for odors	Harsh sprays and petroleum-based cleaners

Why it matters

The drain pan catches defrost water. Keeping it clean helps prevent odors and reduces the chance of residue buildup that can contribute to smells or minor messes during normal defrost operation.

Related tip: don’t confuse the drain pan with the dispenser tray

Many Kenmore dispensers have a small removable tray at the bottom designed to catch small spills; it has no drain and can be removed and washed separately.

Last updated: February 2026

On Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10657026601, the drain line (defrost drain tube) is located at the back of the freezer compartment under the evaporator, where meltwater funnels into a drain hole and then runs through a tube to a drain pan underneath the cabinet. For diagrams and access steps, use the 10657026601 owner's manual.

How to find it (quick location guide)

Most 106-series Kenmore side-by-sides route defrost water the same way: from the freezer evaporator area down to a pan near the compressor.

• Look in the freezer, at the rear interior panel (evaporator cover)
• The drain hole is typically below the evaporator coil and above the freezer floor
• The drain tube runs down the back of the refrigerator cabinet
• The tube empties into the drain pan underneath (near the condenser/compressor area)
• Access often requires removing shelves/bins, then the rear freezer panel

Safe access steps (what we recommend)

1. Unplug the refrigerator.
2. Move food and ice bin out of the freezer.
3. Remove the rear freezer panel to expose the evaporator area.
4. Locate the drain trough and drain hole under the evaporator.
5. If you are clearing a clog, flush the drain with hot water (a turkey baster works well) and confirm water reaches the drain pan.

Common symptoms of a clogged drain line

A blocked defrost drain is one of the most common causes of water leaks in a side-by-side refrigerator.

Symptom	What it usually means	Where you see it
Water pooling on freezer floor	Drain hole or tube is iced/clogged	Bottom of freezer
Water under crisper drawers	Drain backed up and overflowed	Fresh food section
Ice sheet under bottom freezer bin	Slow drain, refreezing	Freezer floor
Musty odor near base	Standing water in drain pan	Under cabinet

Why it matters

The drain line carries defrost meltwater away from the evaporator. When it clogs, water has nowhere to go, so it overflows into the freezer or refrigerator section and can refreeze into thick ice.

Related parts that can be involved

If you keep getting ice buildup that leads to drain problems, the defrost system may need attention. For this model, common related components include the refrigerator defrost bi-metal WPW10225581 and the refrigerator heater WP2323198.

Last updated: February 2026