Owner’s manual
Error Codes
Can I replace my fridge shelves?
Yes. On the Kenmore 11173022711 bottom-mount refrigerator, shelves are designed to be removable and adjustable, so replacing a broken glass shelf, shelf frame, or door bin is a normal repair. Use the model number to match the correct shelf style and mounting hooks.
How to remove and reinstall a shelf (model-specific)
We follow the shelf steps in the 11173022711 owner's manual.
- Unload the shelf first; do not move shelves with food or containers on them.
- Lift the front of the shelf up with one hand.
- Push up on the back of the shelf with your other hand to release the hooks from the slots.
- Pull the shelf out.
- To reinstall: angle the front slightly up, engage the rear hooks in the slots, then lower the front into place.
- Confirm the shelf is level side-to-side so it cannot tip or spill.
Safety and handling tips (especially for glass shelves)
- Unplug the refrigerator before removing shelves for cleaning or service.
- Glass shelves are heavy; use two hands and keep the shelf close to your body.
- Do not wash a cold glass shelf with warm water; sudden temperature change can crack the glass.
- Avoid bumping the shelf edges on the liner or door opening.
What to check before ordering a replacement shelf
Because shelf designs vary by position, we recommend verifying these details in the 11173022711 owner's manual before you order:
| What to verify | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Shelf location (top, middle, over crisper) | Mounting points and width can differ |
| Shelf type (glass vs wire) | Weight, trim, and supports vary |
| Frame/trim vs glass insert only | Some shelves replace as an assembly |
| Door bin vs interior shelf | Different attachment styles |
Why it matters
A correctly fitted shelf keeps food stable, prevents spills, and helps airflow stay consistent so the refrigerator cools evenly. A shelf that is not level or not fully seated can fall and break, and it can damage interior parts.
For replacement parts, start with the parts list for model 11173022711; for broader model searches and ordering, use Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How to tell if a Kenmore refrigerator compressor is bad?
A failing compressor in your Kenmore 11173022711 bottom-mount refrigerator typically shows up as both sections warming up, repeated clicking as it tries to start, or the unit running a lot with little temperature recovery. Before blaming the compressor, we check airflow, condenser vent blockage, and door sealing.
Quick symptoms checklist
- Refrigerator and freezer both warm
- Repeated clicking every few minutes (start attempt then shutoff)
- Compressor area gets very hot after running (use caution)
- Compressor stays mostly silent while fans run
- Temperatures do not improve after 24 hours of normal operation
Rule out common look-alikes first
The owner's manual notes that a clogged condenser or back cover can cause long run times; vacuum the condenser cover and vents using an attachment (do not remove the panel). Also confirm proper clearance and room temperature.
What to check in order
- Doors close fully; gaskets seal all the way around
- Condenser cover and vents are clean and unobstructed
- Room temperature stays between 55°F and 110°F
- After first install or moving, allow up to 24 hours to stabilize
What “normal” can look like
At about 70°F room temperature, compressor run time around 40% to 80% is normal; warmer conditions increase run time. Long run time alone does not prove compressor failure.
| Observation | More likely cause | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| Runs a lot, temps slowly improve | Dirty vents, warm room, frequent door openings | Clean vents, reduce door openings |
| Clicks repeatedly, no cooling | Start device/overload issue or locked compressor | Have a technician test start circuit/amperage |
| Fans run, both sections warm | Sealed system or compressor problem | Professional sealed-system diagnosis |
Why it matters
Compressor and sealed-system repairs are major; confirming airflow, installation conditions, and door sealing prevents unnecessary repairs and often restores cooling faster.
Parts and next steps
Use the model-based parts list for 11173022711 to match the correct cooling and control components; for broader model searches, use Sears PartsDirect. For diagnostic codes that can point to cooling-system issues, see Kenmore 111 model bottom freezer refrigerator error codes.
Last updated: February 2026
How to tell what model Kenmore refrigerator?
To tell what Kenmore refrigerator model you have, we look for the model/serial label inside the fresh food compartment first; on Kenmore model 11173022711 it’s typically on an interior wall or near the crisper area. Once you have the full model number, you can match the correct parts list and documentation.
Where to find the model number label
Check these common locations in this order:
- Inside the refrigerator section on the left or right side wall
- On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment
- Behind or beside the crisper drawers (you may need to slide a drawer out)
- Along the door frame area (open the door and look around the perimeter)
- Behind the lower kick plate or toe grille (front bottom)
What the model number looks like for this Kenmore
For this bottom-mount platform, the Use & Care Guide lists the series as 111.7302* (the asterisk indicates a color/finish code). Use the full number from the label for parts lookup.
| What you see | What it means | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| 111.7302* | Model series (family) | Use it to confirm you are in the right manual family |
| 11173022711 | Full model number | Use it to select exact parts and diagrams |
| Serial number | Production identifier | Keep it for service history and part compatibility checks |
Tips to avoid mix-ups when ordering parts
Small differences in the model number can change shelves, door bins, ice maker parts, and electronic controls.
- Copy the model number exactly as printed (include all digits)
- Use the full model number, not just the “111.7302” series
- If the label is worn, take a clear photo and zoom in to read it
- Match the model number to the 11173022711 owner's manual to confirm you have the right documentation
Why it matters
Kenmore refrigerators share similar styling across multiple series, but internal parts (like the evaporator fan, door gaskets, and water system components) vary by exact model. Using the correct model number prevents wrong-part returns and speeds up troubleshooting.
If you need to search beyond the parts list you are viewing, we use the model number to search by appliance on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the bottom part of a refrigerator called?
The “bottom part” of a refrigerator is usually the machine compartment (the service area underneath or at the lower rear). That compartment typically houses key cooling components like the compressor, condenser fan, and condenser coils on a Kenmore bottom-mount refrigerator such as model 11173022711.
What you will find in the bottom area
Depending on the exact design, the lower rear or bottom area commonly includes:
- Compressor (the pump that circulates refrigerant)
- Condenser coils (release heat from the sealed system)
- Condenser fan (moves air across the coils and compressor)
- Drain pan (catches defrost water so it can evaporate)
- Access cover or toe grille (panel that shields components)
Safety notes before you reach under the refrigerator
We follow the safety guidance in the owner's manual for this model. The bottom back area can have sharp edges and electrical components.
- Unplug the refrigerator before inspecting the bottom area
- Do not put hands or fingers under the bottom rear while it is plugged in
- Use a flashlight; avoid reaching blindly around sheet metal
- If you smell gas, ventilate the area immediately and do not touch the plug
- Use a qualified service person for sealed-system or electrical repairs
Quick identification guide
| What you notice | Most likely name | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Black, football-sized canister | Compressor | Pressurizes refrigerant to create cooling |
| Warm tubing or radiator-like grid | Condenser coils | Dumps heat to the room |
| Small fan near compressor | Condenser fan | Prevents overheating and improves efficiency |
| Shallow plastic tray | Drain pan | Collects defrost water |
Why it matters
Knowing the correct name helps you troubleshoot symptoms like overheating, loud humming, or poor cooling. It also helps you match the right diagrams and replacement items when you search parts for Kenmore model 11173022711.
If you are ordering parts, start with the parts list for your model; for broader model searches and ordering, use Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
