Owner’s manual
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How many cubic feet is my Kenmore refrigerator model 79551839412?
Kenmore refrigerator model 79551839412 is a side-by-side in the 795.5183* series; the exact cubic-foot capacity is printed on the refrigerator’s rating label and is also listed in the specifications information in the 79551839412 owner's manual. Use the rating label for the most precise number for your unit.
Where to find the exact capacity (fastest options)
- Look inside the fresh food section on a side wall near the crisper drawers
- Check the inside wall near the top hinge area (some units place the label there)
- Review the specifications/features pages in the 79551839412 owner's manual
- Match the full model format shown in the manual (795.5183* with a color suffix)
What “cubic feet” means on a refrigerator
Cubic feet is the total interior storage volume (refrigerator plus freezer). It helps when you are comparing refrigerator sizes, planning shelf and bin organization, and estimating how much frozen storage you will have.
| Term you may see | What it refers to | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Total capacity (cu. ft.) | Fridge + freezer combined | Best for comparing overall size |
| Refrigerator capacity | Fresh food section only | Helps plan groceries and shelves |
| Freezer capacity | Freezer section only | Helps plan frozen-food storage |
Typical side-by-side capacity range (for context)
Most full-size side-by-side refrigerators fall in this range:
- 22 to 26 cu. ft. total capacity is most common
- 20 to 22 cu. ft. is a smaller full-size footprint
- 26+ cu. ft. is a larger, higher-capacity design
Why it matters
Knowing the correct capacity helps you compare replacement refrigerators accurately and can also guide accessory choices such as water filtration and storage bins.
Related maintenance item
If you are also planning routine upkeep, this model commonly uses a replaceable water filter such as the Kenmore refrigerator water filter 9490 ADQ73613402.
Last updated: February 2026
How to read Kenmore model numbers?
Kenmore model numbers tell us the product family and the exact version so we can match the right parts and documentation. For Kenmore refrigerator model 79551839412, the 795 prefix identifies the manufacturing source, and the remaining digits narrow it down to the specific side-by-side configuration and revision.
Where to find the model number on a refrigerator
Most Kenmore side-by-side refrigerators place the model and serial label in one of these spots:
- Inside the fresh food compartment on a side wall
- On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment near the light
- Behind the crisper drawers (on the liner wall)
- On the cabinet frame near the door hinge area
For diagrams and label locations specific to this series, use the 79551839412 owner's manual.
How the Kenmore model number is structured
Kenmore model numbers are usually read in sections.
- Prefix (first 3 digits): identifies the manufacturing source (example: 795)
- Core model digits: identify the platform and major design
- Suffix digits: identify variations such as color, feature package, or production revision
Quick example (your model)
| Section | Example | What it does for parts lookup |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer prefix | 795 | Points us to the correct parts system and design family |
| Model/platform | 518394 | Narrows to the correct side-by-side platform |
| Variation/revision | 12 | Helps match the exact version of parts and assemblies |
Why it matters when ordering parts
Using the full model number prevents mismatches, especially for parts that change between revisions.
Common examples on side-by-side refrigerators include:
- Water filter and filter head variations
- Dispenser components and motors
- Electronic control boards and display parts
- Door gaskets and door assemblies
- Water inlet valve and water tube fittings
If you are replacing a water filter on this model, match by model number first, then confirm the part; a common filter option listed for this model is the Kenmore refrigerator water filter 9490 ADQ73613402.
Extra tip: use the full number exactly as printed
Enter all digits exactly as shown on the label (no spaces). If your label includes a dot format (for example, 795.5183xxx), use the full number shown on the tag for the most accurate match.
Why it matters
Kenmore model numbers are the fastest way to ensure we pull the correct Kenmore parts diagrams, compatible replacement parts, and the right troubleshooting information for your exact refrigerator.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most common problems with Kenmore refrigerators?
The most common problems we see on Kenmore refrigerators like model 79551839412 are weak or no cooling, water leaks, ice maker or dispenser failures, frost buildup from defrost trouble, and unusual noises. These issues usually trace back to airflow, temperature settings, or water supply components.
Common symptoms and likely causes
- Not cooling or warm temps: dirty condenser area, blocked airflow, fan problems, or heavy frost on the evaporator
- Food freezing in the refrigerator section: items placed near an air vent, controls set too cold, or operation in a cold location
- Water leaking or puddles: clogged defrost drain, loose water line connection, or a leaking inlet valve
- Ice maker not making ice: restricted water supply, clogged filter, inlet valve issue, or ice blockage
- Dispenser issues: chute door not closing, ice clumping, or auger drive problems
Quick checks we recommend first
- Set targets to 37°F (refrigerator) and 0°F (freezer), then allow 24 hours to stabilize.
- Keep packages away from air vents to prevent freezing and airflow blockage.
- Check door sealing with the paper test; resistance should be consistent around the gasket.
- Look for frost on the freezer back panel; heavy frost points to a defrost or airflow problem.
- If water is slow, replace the filter and confirm household water pressure is steady.
Parts that commonly come up on this model
| Symptom | What to inspect | Example part |
|---|---|---|
| Slow water or no water | Filter, supply line, valve | Refrigerator water filter 9490 ADQ73613402 |
| Leaks at the back/bottom | Water connections, valve | Refrigerator water inlet valve AJU34125555 |
| Ice door not sealing | Chute door movement | Refrigerator dispenser ice chute door motor EAU59551204 |
Why it matters
Cooling and ice maker complaints often share the same root causes: restricted airflow or restricted water flow. Fixing the underlying cause first helps prevent repeat failures and protects the sealed system.
For model-specific control settings and troubleshooting tables, use the 79551839412 owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
What does er if mean on a Kenmore refrigerator?
On Kenmore refrigerator model 79551839412, the ER IF code points to an ice fan (ice room fan) airflow problem. Most often, the fan is blocked by ice buildup, the fan motor is failing, or the wiring/control is not powering the fan correctly. See the 79551839412 owner's manual troubleshooting section for model-specific checks.
What to check first (fast, no parts swapping)
- Power reset: Unplug the refrigerator for 5 minutes, then restore power.
- Ice blockage: Remove the ice bin and look for frost or ice around the ice room air passages.
- Door closure: Make sure the freezer door closes fully and the gasket seals evenly.
- Airflow: Confirm vents are not blocked by food packages.
- Fan sound: Listen near the ice maker area for a small fan running when the unit is cooling.
Common causes and what they mean
| Likely cause | What you may notice | Typical fix |
|---|---|---|
| Ice buildup blocking the fan | ER IF comes and goes; reduced ice production | Defrost the ice room area; improve door sealing and airflow |
| Ice fan motor issue | No fan sound; warm ice room | Replace the ice fan motor (model-specific part varies) |
| Control or wiring issue | Code returns quickly after reset | Inspect connectors; service diagnosis may be needed |
| Dispenser/ice door not sealing | Frost near dispenser chute | Check chute door operation and sealing |
If you need to access the ice room area
We recommend following the disassembly steps and safety notes in the 79551839412 owner's manual. In many side-by-side designs, you remove the ice bin and interior covers to inspect the fan area for ice and damaged wiring.
Why it matters
When the ice fan cannot move cold air, the ice maker compartment warms up. That reduces ice production and can cause repeated error codes, frost buildup, and temperature swings.
Related DIY help
- How to disassemble a Kenmore refrigerator dispenser
- How to prevent water dispenser and ice maker problems
Last updated: February 2026
What's the average lifespan of a Kenmore refrigerator?
Most Kenmore refrigerators average 10 to 15 years of service life; for the Kenmore 79551839412 side-by-side, you can reach the high end of that range by keeping airflow and temperatures stable and staying on top of routine maintenance listed in the 79551839412 owner's manual.
Typical lifespan and what changes it
A refrigerator’s life is mostly determined by how hard the sealed system and fans have to work day to day.
- Condenser cleanliness: dust buildup makes the compressor run hotter and longer
- Door seal condition: air leaks force longer run times and can cause frost issues
- Stable temperatures: frequent warm-ups stress the compressor and evaporator
- Water system upkeep: clogged filters can reduce dispenser flow and strain valves
- Fast fixes: addressing odd noises, warming, or leaks early prevents bigger failures
What to maintain on a schedule
Use this as a practical baseline for a Kenmore side-by-side like model 79551839412.
| Maintenance item | How often | What it helps prevent |
|---|---|---|
| Clean condenser area and ensure airflow | Every 6 to 12 months | Overheating, long run times |
| Check door gaskets for gaps and tearing | Every 6 months | Frost, temperature swings |
| Replace water filter | About every 6 months | Low water flow, bad taste/odor |
| Verify freezer and fresh food temps | Monthly | Food spoilage, ice maker issues |
If your unit uses the filter shown for this model, replacing the Kenmore refrigerator water filter 9490 ADQ73613402 on time also helps protect the water inlet valve and dispenser performance.
Why it matters
A refrigerator that runs efficiently cycles less, holds temperature better, and puts less wear on high-cost components like the compressor, evaporator, and condenser fan system.
Last updated: February 2026
Where is the model number on a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
On Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 79551839412, the model number is printed on the appliance identification label (the same label that lists the serial number). On this style of refrigerator, you typically find that label inside the fresh food compartment, along the side wall near the door opening.
Where to look first
Check these common label locations on Kenmore side-by-side refrigerators:
- Inside the refrigerator (fresh food) section on the left or right side wall
- Along the front frame (cabinet liner) near the door opening
- Near the top area of the fresh food compartment, behind bins or shelving edges
- On the ceiling area inside the fresh food compartment (less common)
If you do not see it right away, remove items from the top shelf and look along the vertical walls near the front edge.
What the label looks like (model vs. serial)
The ID label usually includes both the model number and serial number.
| Item on label | What it’s used for | Example format |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Ordering parts and matching diagrams | 79551839412 (may include a color suffix on some labels) |
| Serial number | Manufacturing date and production info | Letters plus numbers (varies by unit) |
For this series, the Use and Care Guide lists models as 795.5183* (the asterisk indicates a color number). Your full model on the label will match your unit’s exact configuration. See the 79551839412 owner’s manual for model-series identification details.
Why it matters
Using the exact model number ensures we match the correct Kenmore parts, such as a refrigerator water filter, water inlet valve, or temperature sensor. Even small model variations can change which parts fit.
Last updated: February 2026
Why has my Kenmore refrigerator stopped working?
If your Kenmore 79551839412 refrigerator stopped working, the fastest path to an answer is to confirm it has power, the controls are not locked, and the cooling system is able to start. The most common causes are a compressor problem, a failed control, or a cooling-system component issue.
Quick checks we recommend first
- Verify the outlet has power (test with a lamp) and reset the house breaker if tripped.
- Make sure the power cord is fully seated and not damaged.
- Confirm the control panel is responsive and not in Control Lock.
- Listen for the compressor and fans: a steady hum is normal; repeated clicking points to a start or compressor issue.
- Check for airflow blockage inside the freezer and refrigerator compartments.
- If the unit is completely dead (no lights, no display), focus on power supply and control issues first.
Use the model troubleshooting steps
Your model’s troubleshooting section walks through “no operation” and “not cooling” symptoms in a step-by-step order. Use the 79551839412 owner's manual to follow the checks in the troubleshooting guide before replacing parts.
Parts that commonly cause a “stopped working” symptom
Depending on what you observe (dead unit vs. running but not cooling), these parts are frequent suspects:
| Symptom you notice | What it often points to | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| No cooling, compressor won’t stay running | Compressor or sealed-system issue | Refrigerator compressor TCA38091801 |
| Runs but warms up over time | Poor heat removal at the back | Refrigerator condenser coil ACG73748502 |
| Intermittent cooling, odd temps | Sensor or control input problem | Refrigerator temperature sensor 6500JB2008Z |
Why it matters
A refrigerator that “stops working” can mean two very different failures: no power/control response, or a cooling-system failure. Separating those early prevents unnecessary part replacement and helps you decide when sealed-system service is the right next step.
Last updated: February 2026
