Installation guide
Owner’s manual
Error Codes
How do I know what water filter my Kenmore refrigerator needs?
For Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10656596501, the correct replacement is the base-grille water filter Part #9020. Match your replacement to the filter type and location shown in the owner's manual, and keep the original filter cap because it must be reused on the new cartridge.
How to confirm you have the right filter
Use these quick checks to make sure you are buying the correct cartridge for your refrigerator:
- Confirm the model number is 10656596501 (from the product label inside the refrigerator).
- Verify the filter location: base grille below the freezer door.
- Look for the filter cap and eject button; this model uses an eject-style base grille filter.
- Replace the filter when the status light shows REPLACE (red) or when water flow drops.
- After installing the new filter, reset the filter status light by holding RESET for 2 seconds.
What to order for this model
The manual lists the replacement filter as Part #9020, which corresponds to the filter sold for this model on our parts list.
| What you’re checking | What it should be for 10656596501 | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Filter location | Base grille (below freezer door) | Confirms the correct style and fit |
| Replacement filter number | 9020 | Ensures proper filtration and sealing |
| Cap reuse | Reuse existing cap | The cap is part of the refrigerator and is required |
A common match on our parts list is the refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1, which is the correct replacement filter offering for this model.
Why it matters
Using the correct filter for 10656596501 prevents leaks at the O-rings, keeps water flow normal, and ensures the filter status system resets properly. Reusing the original cap is especially important because the cap locks the cartridge into the base grille housing.
Last updated: February 2026
How to replace an ice maker in a side by side refrigerator?
To replace the ice maker in your Kenmore 10656596501 side-by-side refrigerator, we disconnect power, remove the ice bin and any covers, swap the ice maker assembly, then restore power and water and turn ice production back on. Follow the step-by-step procedure in the owner's manual.
Before you start (safety and prep)
- Unplug the refrigerator or disconnect power before servicing.
- Turn the ice maker OFF (wire shutoff arm up) before you begin.
- If you will disconnect any water line, shut OFF the main water supply.
- Use a sturdy glass when dispensing ice or water (after the repair).
- Keep screws and small parts organized so reassembly is straightforward.
Basic replacement steps (typical for this model style)
- Turn the ice maker OFF by lifting the wire shutoff arm until it clicks.
- Remove the ice storage bin: pull the covering panel up from the bottom and slide it back, lift the front of the bin, then pull it out.
- Remove the ice maker mounting screws and unplug the ice maker wiring harness/connector.
- Install the replacement ice maker, reconnect the wiring, and reinstall mounting screws.
- Reinstall the bin by pushing it in all the way (the dispenser will not work if it is not fully seated).
- Turn the ice maker ON by lowering the wire shutoff arm.
- Restore power; allow about 24 hours for normal ice production.
Parts that commonly apply
If your ice maker is not producing ice or is physically damaged, the correct replacement for this model is typically the refrigerator ice maker WPW10190965.
| Symptom | What to check first | Part that often fixes it |
|---|---|---|
| No ice, but water dispenser works | Wire shutoff arm down (ON), bin seated fully | Ice maker assembly |
| Ice clumps or won’t dispense | Bin not fully inserted, ice jam | Ice bin/container |
| Slow or no fill into ice maker | Household water supply, inlet valve operation | Water inlet valve |
Why it matters
A properly installed ice maker and fully seated ice bin keep the dispenser mechanism aligned and prevent “no dispense” issues. Restoring power and turning the shutoff arm back ON are also required for the ice maker to restart.
Last updated: February 2026
How to replace water filter in Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
To replace the water filter in your Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10656596501, press the eject button in the base grille (below the freezer door), pull the old filter straight out, move the cap to the new filter, then push the new filter in until it fully seats and the eject button pops back out. See the owner's manual for diagrams and the exact reset steps.
Step-by-step: changing the base grille water filter
- Locate the filter in the base grille below the freezer compartment door.
- Press the eject button and pull straight out on the filter cap and filter.
- Turn the cap counterclockwise to remove it from the old filter (keep the cap).
- Unwrap the new filter and remove the protective cover from the O-rings.
- Install the cap on the new filter; align the cap ridge with the arrow on the filter, then turn until it snaps in place.
- Push the new filter into the opening until it is fully engaged (the eject button pops out).
- Pull gently on the cap to confirm the filter is locked in.
Tips to avoid leaks and fit issues
- Pull the filter straight out; avoid twisting the cap.
- Expect a small spill; keep a towel under the base grille.
- Make sure the cap is fully snapped onto the new filter before inserting.
- If the filter will not seat, remove it and re-check cap alignment and O-ring cover removal.
Reset the filter status light
After installing the new filter, press and hold the RESET button for 2 seconds to change the status from Replace (red) back to Good (green).
| Status light | Meaning | What we do |
|---|---|---|
| Green | Good | No action needed |
| Yellow | Order | Get a replacement filter ready |
| Red | Replace | Replace the filter now |
Which replacement filter fits this model?
For model 10656596501, the manual lists replacement filter part number 9020. On this page, that corresponds to genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1.
Why it matters
A properly installed water filter helps maintain water flow to the dispenser and ice maker, and it prevents nuisance issues like slow dispensing or reduced ice production when the filter becomes restricted.
Last updated: February 2026
Where to find model number on Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
On your Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10656596501, the model and serial number label is located on the inside wall of the refrigerator (fresh food) compartment. Open the fresh food door and look along the interior side wall for the rating label; record the model and serial for parts lookup and service.
Where to look (fast checklist)
- Open the refrigerator (fresh food) door, not the freezer door
- Check the inside side wall of the refrigerator compartment
- Look for a model and serial number label (often a white or silver sticker)
- Use a flashlight; the label can be partially hidden by shelves or bins
- Write down both the model number and serial number exactly as shown
What the label typically includes
| Item on label | What it’s used for | Why you need it |
|---|---|---|
| Model number (example: 10656596501) | Identifies the exact refrigerator design | Ensures you get the correct parts list and diagrams |
| Serial number | Identifies production run details | Helps match revisions and compatible replacement parts |
| Purchase date (your record) | Your own documentation | Useful for maintenance history |
Why it matters
Kenmore model numbers in the 106 series can look similar, but parts like a water filter, ice maker, or inlet valve can vary by exact model. Using the label information helps us match the correct replacement parts and installation details from the owner's manual.
Tip for parts matching
If you are shopping for common maintenance items, confirm the model number first, then match the part ID. For example, this model uses a refrigerator water filter listed as genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1.
Last updated: February 2026
