Where is the model number on a KitchenAid fridge?
On a KitchenAid refrigerator like model KTRA22ELSS01, the model number is printed on the model and serial tag inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment, most often on a side wall near the top, on the ceiling, or around the crisper area. Check the tag first before ordering parts or scheduling service.
Common places to look (fast checklist)
- Inside the refrigerator compartment on the left or right interior wall
- On the ceiling of the refrigerator compartment near the light housing
- Around the crisper drawer frame or side trim
- Along the door liner edge (open the door and look around the inner perimeter)
- Behind the toe grille or lower front kickplate (less common)
What the tag looks like and what to write down
The label usually lists both a model number and a serial number.
| What to record | Example format | Why you need it |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | KTRA22ELSS01 | Ensures parts match your exact refrigerator configuration |
| Serial number | Letters and numbers | Helps identify production series and compatible revisions |
Why it matters
KitchenAid refrigerators can use different door gaskets, ice maker parts, or electrical components depending on the exact model. Using the correct model number helps us match the right replacement part the first time.
Next step if you are ordering a common part
Once you confirm the model number, you can match parts such as the ice maker assembly - refrigerator ice maker by whirlpool 4317943 to your KTRA22ELSS01 parts list.
Last updated: February 2026
Do all KitchenAid refrigerators have an air filter?
No. Not all KitchenAid refrigerators use an air filter; it depends on the design and features of your specific model. For the KitchenAid KTRA22ELSS01 top-mount refrigerator, the best way to confirm is to check whether your fresh food compartment has an air filter housing or cover and whether an air filter is listed in the parts for your model.
How to tell if your KTRA22ELSS01 has an air filter
Look for these common signs inside the refrigerator (fresh food) section:
- A small vented cover or grille on the rear wall near the top
- A twist-lock or snap-in filter holder labeled for an air filter
- A slot behind a small access door near the upper back wall
- An “air filter” indicator light or reset option on the control area (if equipped)
If none of these are present, your model is typically built without an air filter.
What to do if you do not have an air filter
You can still control odors and keep airflow strong with routine care:
- Keep uncovered foods sealed in containers
- Clean spills promptly (especially dairy and meat juices)
- Replace baking soda regularly if you use it for odor control
- Avoid blocking air vents with tall items or overpacked shelves
- Keep door gaskets clean so warm, humid air does not enter
For step-by-step odor control tips, use our guide: how to get rid of refrigerator smells.
Why it matters
Air filters help reduce food odors by circulating air through a filter media, but they are not required for safe cooling. What matters most for temperature stability is good airflow, tight door seals, and a working evaporator fan.
Quick comparison
| Feature | Models with air filter | Models without air filter |
|---|---|---|
| Odor control | Better between cleanings | Relies more on cleaning and food storage |
| Maintenance | Filter replacement needed | No filter to replace |
| Common location | Rear wall near top (fresh food) | No housing present |
Last updated: February 2026
How to get KitchenAid replacement parts?
You can get replacement parts for your KitchenAid KTRA22ELSS01 top-mount refrigerator by matching your model number to the parts list, then ordering the exact part you need (for example an ice maker, door gasket, or water inlet valve) from the model’s parts catalog.
How we recommend ordering parts for model KTRA22ELSS01
- Confirm the full model number on the refrigerator’s model tag: KTRA22ELSS01.
- Identify the system you’re repairing (ice maker, water dispenser, cooling, door seal, lighting).
- Use the parts list for this model to find the exact match by part name and part ID.
- Order the part and compare it to the original when it arrives (mounting points, connectors, tubing size).
- Install with power disconnected; shut off the water supply for any water-line repair.
Common replacement parts customers order for this model
| Repair need | Example part on this model | What it fixes |
|---|---|---|
| No ice or poor ice production | Ice maker assembly - refrigerator ice maker by whirlpool 4317943 | Replaces the complete ice maker assembly |
| Water won’t dispense or ice maker won’t fill | Refrigerator inlet valve WPW10498990 | Restores water flow control into the refrigerator |
| Interior light stays off or won’t turn off | Refrigerator light switch W11384469 | Fixes door-activated light operation |
| Warm fridge, noisy fan, weak airflow | Evaporator motor WPW10189703 | Restores cold-air circulation |
Choosing the right part the first time
- Match by model number first (KTRA22ELSS01), then by part ID.
- If multiple similar parts appear (for example, inlet valves), choose the one listed for your exact symptom and location.
- For water parts, inspect for cracks, kinks, or mineral buildup before ordering.
Why it matters
Using the exact part listed for KTRA22ELSS01 helps ensure proper fit, correct electrical connections, and reliable cooling and water/ice performance.
Last updated: February 2026
Why is my KitchenAid refrigerator leaking water from the water dispenser?
A KitchenAid KTRA22ELSS01 water dispenser usually drips or leaks because air is trapped in the water line after a filter change, the water inlet valve is seeping, or the dispenser system is not sealing fully. Purging the system and checking for slow valve seepage typically stops the leak.
Quick checks that fix most dispenser leaks
- Dispense water for 2 to 3 minutes total (in short bursts) to purge air and stabilize flow.
- If you recently changed the filter, flush it thoroughly; trapped air can cause dripping and sputtering.
- Inspect the dispenser area for cracks, a loose trim piece, or a misaligned actuator.
- Check the water line connection behind the refrigerator for moisture or mineral tracks.
- Confirm household water pressure is steady; low pressure can cause weak shutoff and dripping.
Parts to consider if purging does not stop the drip
If the dispenser continues to drip after purging, the most common cause is a water inlet valve that is not closing tightly.
- For KTRA22ELSS01, check the refrigerator inlet valve WPW10498990 first.
- If your unit uses the alternate valve configuration, compare it to the refrigerator inlet valve WP2188785.
- If you see leaking or kinks in the tubing, inspect the refrigerator water tube W10823511.
Inlet valve comparison (what to look for)
| What you observe | Most likely issue | What we do next |
|---|---|---|
| Slow drip from dispenser even when not used | Valve seeping internally | Test/replace inlet valve |
| Drip happens right after filter change | Air in lines or filter not flushed | Purge water, re-seat filter |
| Water under/behind refrigerator | Loose fitting or damaged tube | Inspect/replace water tube |
Why it matters
A small dispenser drip can turn into puddles, ice buildup in the dispenser area, or intermittent ice maker and water performance issues. Fixing the root cause also helps protect the valve, tubing, and fittings from ongoing stress.
Helpful DIY guidance
For step-by-step help on flushing after a filter change, follow how to replace the water filter in a KitchenAid refrigerator. For valve troubleshooting, use how to diagnose a faulty refrigerator water inlet valve.
Last updated: February 2026





