Where to find model number on Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
On a Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator like model 10656939600, the model number is printed on the appliance’s model and serial tag. You typically find that tag inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment after opening the refrigerator door; check the cabinet walls near the top or along the side.
Look for a sticker or metal tag in these spots:
- Inside the fresh food compartment on the left or right interior wall
- Near the top of the fresh food compartment (above the shelves)
- Around the crisper drawer area on an interior side wall
- Behind the base grille area (less common, but worth a quick check)
- On the hinge-side cabinet frame where the door closes
The tag usually lists both a model number and a serial number.
- Model number: identifies the exact design and parts for your refrigerator
- Serial number: identifies the production run and date code
- Write the model number exactly as shown (for example, 10656939600) to match parts correctly
| What you need | Example | Why we ask for it |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 10656939600 | Ensures the parts list matches your exact refrigerator |
| Serial number | Varies | Helps confirm version changes when troubleshooting |
Kenmore model numbers can look similar across different side-by-side refrigerators, but small design changes affect parts like the water filter, ice maker, door bins, and control components. Using the exact model number helps us match the right diagrams and replacement parts the first time.
For diagrams and model-specific details, use the owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
How to replace an ice maker in a side by side refrigerator?
To replace the ice maker in your Kenmore 10656939600 side-by-side refrigerator, we unplug the refrigerator first, shut off the water supply, remove the ice bin, then swap the ice maker assembly and restore power and water. Follow the exact access and screw locations in the owner's manual.
- Unplug the refrigerator or disconnect power before servicing.
- Turn off the household water shutoff valve feeding the refrigerator.
- Turn the ice maker OFF (switch or wire shutoff arm, depending on your setup).
- Empty the ice storage bin so you can work without spills.
- Protect the floor with towels; a small amount of water can drip from the fill tube.
- Power off: Unplug the refrigerator.
- Disable ice production: Lift the wire shutoff arm to OFF (up) or move the ice maker switch to OFF (right).
- Remove the ice storage bin: Lift the front of the bin and pull it out; set it aside.
- Access the ice maker: Remove the ice maker cover and mounting screws (locations vary by version).
- Disconnect wiring: Unplug the ice maker harness connector.
- Remove the ice maker: Lift the unit off the mounting points and pull it out.
- Install the new ice maker: Hang it on the mounts, reinstall screws, and reconnect the harness.
- Reinstall the bin: Push the bin in all the way (the dispenser will not work if it is not fully seated).
- Restore water and power: Turn the shutoff valve ON, check for leaks, then plug the refrigerator back in.
| Item | Normal expectation |
|---|---|
| First ice | Up to 24 hours |
| Full ice production | Up to 3 days |
| Leak check | Right after turning water back on |
- Confirm the ice maker is set to ON (arm down or switch ON).
- Make sure the ice bin is fully installed.
- Verify the water shutoff valve is ON and the supply line is not kinked.
- If the ice maker is not filling, test the water inlet valve; a common replacement is the refrigerator inlet valve W10408179.
Replacing an ice maker correctly prevents leaks, protects the dispenser from bin misalignment, and helps the new ice maker start producing on schedule (often within 24 hours).
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most common problems with Kenmore refrigerators?
The most common problems we see on Kenmore refrigerators like model 10656939600 are cooling issues, ice maker and water dispenser problems, water leaks, frost buildup, and door sealing problems. Many of these are caused by airflow restrictions, dirty condenser coils, or worn parts and can be fixed with basic checks and targeted part replacement.
- Not cooling or warm temperatures: dirty condenser coils, evaporator fan issues, blocked vents, or a failing compressor/start components
- Ice maker not making ice: water supply issue, clogged filter, faulty ice maker, or inlet valve problem
- Water dispenser slow or not working: clogged filter, air in the line after filter change, or inlet valve issue
- Water leaking: loose water line connections, clogged/iced drain, or dispenser/ice system leaks
- Excess frost or ice buildup: door not sealing, frequent door openings, or defrost system problems
- Noisy operation: fan motor noise, ice buildup contacting a fan, or vibration from the cabinet/lines
- Confirm the temperature settings and allow 24 hours for temperatures to stabilize after changes.
- Clean condenser coils and make sure airflow around the cabinet is clear.
- Check door gaskets for gaps and make sure doors close fully.
- If water flow is weak after a filter change, flush the water system (the manual notes the first glass may not be cool; discard it).
- Verify the refrigerator is connected to a cold water pipe (important for dispenser water temperature and performance).
| Problem area | Part that often fixes it | Example from this model’s parts |
|---|---|---|
| Poor water flow, bad ice production | Water filter | Genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1 |
| No water to dispenser/ice maker | Water inlet valve | Refrigerator inlet valve W10408179 |
| Frost buildup, warm temps | Defrost components | Refrigerator defrost bi-metal WPW10225581, refrigerator heater WP2323198 |
| Ice maker failure | Ice maker assembly | Refrigerator ice maker WPW10190965 |
Catching these issues early helps protect food temperatures, prevents water damage from leaks, and reduces strain on major components like the compressor.
- Use the owner's manual for troubleshooting steps (operation, temperature and moisture, ice and water) and care guidance.
- For display or diagnostic codes on Kenmore 106 models, use Kenmore 106 model refrigerator error codes.
Last updated: February 2026





