Kenmore 11173025020 refrigerator Parts

A “bad compressor” on Kenmore model 11173025020 usually shows up as poor cooling with long run times, repeated start-clicks, or unusual heat at the compressor area. Before condemning the compressor, we rule out common causes like warm-room operation, door sealing issues, and a clogged condenser cover.

Quick checks before blaming the compressor

• Confirm the refrigerator has had up to 24 hours to cool after installation or a power outage.
• Check door closure: doors must shut fully and seal evenly.
• Reduce door openings and avoid loading hot food; both force longer compressor run time.
• Clean the condenser cover and vents with a vacuum attachment; do not remove the condenser area panel.
• Verify the room temperature is reasonable; the refrigerator should not be operated above 110°F.

Symptoms that point more strongly to a compressor or start system problem

These symptoms are meaningful when the basics above are already correct:

Symptom	What it often means	What to do next
Repeated clicking every few minutes with little or no cooling	Compressor start device/overload cycling, or compressor struggling to start	Unplug, let it cool 10 to 15 minutes, restore power; if it repeats, schedule service for electrical testing
Runs almost constantly but compartments stay warm	Sealed system issue, weak compressor, or airflow/heat rejection problem	Clean condenser cover/vents first; then have a tech check pressures and compressor performance
Compressor area extremely hot and cooling is poor	Heat not being rejected well, or compressor overworking	Improve airflow around cabinet, clean vents, confirm doors seal; then test compressor/start components
No compressor sound at all and no cooling	Control, start device, or compressor not running	Check power, settings, and listen for normal cycling noises; then electrical diagnosis is needed

Normal sounds that are not “bad compressor” signs

Kenmore refrigerators can make noises that sound alarming but are normal:

• Clicking when defrost starts/ends or controls cycle on/off
• Gurgling from refrigerant flow
• Whooshing from evaporator or condenser fan airflow
• Pulsating/high-pitched sound from a high-efficiency compressor design

Why it matters

Replacing a compressor is a major repair; many “compressor” complaints are actually caused by airflow restrictions, warm ambient conditions, or doors not sealing. Doing the quick checks first prevents unnecessary parts and downtime.

For model-specific operating and troubleshooting guidance, use the 11173025020 owner's manual. If you need to look up replacement parts by model number, start with the parts list for this model, or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

To tell what model Kenmore refrigerator you have, look for the model and serial number on the identification label inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment. For Kenmore model 11173025020, the Use & Care Guide notes the label is on the interior liner of the refrigerator compartment; confirm the full model number and any color suffix there, then match it to your parts list.

Where to find the model number label

Check these common label locations on Kenmore refrigerators (including bottom-mount styles like 11173025020):

• Inside the refrigerator compartment on the interior liner (most common)
• On a side wall near the crisper drawers
• On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment near the light housing
• On the door frame area (visible when the door is open)
• Occasionally behind the lower kick plate (varies by design)

What to write down (and why)

Record both the model and serial number exactly as shown on the label.

Item on label	What it tells us	Why it matters for parts and service
Model number	The exact refrigerator design family	Ensures the correct shelves, drawers, controls, and electrical parts fit
Color suffix (if shown)	The finish or color variant	Helps match cosmetic parts like handles and trim
Serial number	Production run details	Helps narrow down compatible revisions when designs change

Why it matters

Kenmore model numbers can look similar, but small differences (especially a color number or revision) can change which water filter, door bin, icemaker, or control board fits. Using the exact label information prevents ordering the wrong refrigerator parts.

Helpful references for this model family

• Use the 11173025020 owner's manual to confirm where the identification label is located and how the model number is formatted.
• If you need to search beyond the parts list for your exact model, use Sears PartsDirect and enter the full model number from the label.

Last updated: February 2026

The most common problems we see on Kenmore refrigerators like model 11173025020 are warm temperatures (not cooling), ice maker or water dispenser issues, food freezing in the fresh-food section, frost from frequent door openings, leaks, and unusual noises. Many are caused by airflow, settings, or water supply conditions.

Common problems and the most likely causes

• Fresh food or freezer too warm: recent install (allow up to 24 hours), doors opened often, hot room location, hot food added
• Ice maker not making ice: ice maker turned OFF, shutoff valve closed, kinked water line, low water pressure
• Food freezing in refrigerator section: items near an air vent, temperature set too cold, room temperature too low
• Frost or ice crystals: door opened frequently or left ajar, poor packaging
• Weak water flow at dispenser: low pressure, reverse osmosis reducing pressure, kinked supply tube

Quick checks we recommend first

• Wait 24 hours after installation or reconnecting the ice maker
• Reduce long door openings; confirm doors close and seal fully
• Adjust temperature one step at a time, then allow time to stabilize
• Keep the refrigerator in a normal environment (avoid very hot areas; do not operate above 110°F)
• Confirm water supply valve is open and the line is not kinked; target 30 psi or higher

Symptom-to-fix guide

Symptom	Most likely cause	Best first action
Refrigerator too warm	Door openings, hot location, recent install	Reduce openings; wait 24 hours; recheck settings
Ice maker not making ice	OFF switch, valve closed, low pressure	Turn ON; open valve; check kinks and pressure
Food freezing in fridge	Near vent, setting too cold	Move items; raise temp one step
Weak water flow	Kinked line, RO system, low pressure	Straighten line; confirm 30+ psi

Why it matters

Cooling and ice/water symptoms often come from conditions you can correct quickly (door habits, airflow, water pressure). Fixing those first helps protect food temperatures and prevents unnecessary part replacement.

For model-specific control locations and troubleshooting steps, use the 11173025020 owner's manual. For replacement parts, start with the parts list for model 11173025020 or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

On a Kenmore bottom-mount refrigerator like model 11173025020, the “bottom part” most people mean is the compressor area (the sealed-system components that pump refrigerant). Depending on what you are pointing to, the bottom can also include the condenser fan area, drain pan, and the leveling legs.

Common “bottom parts” and what they do

When someone says “the bottom of the fridge,” they are usually referring to one of these areas:

• Compressor compartment: houses the compressor and other sealed-system components that drive cooling.
• Condenser fan area: moves air across the condenser to remove heat.
• Drain pan: catches defrost water so it can evaporate.
• Leveling legs/rollers: keep the refrigerator stable and help doors align.
• Bottom hinge/door support area: supports door movement and alignment.

Quick identification guide

Use this to match what you see to the correct name.

What you notice at the bottom	Most likely name	Why you care
Warm air, humming, or a “motor” sound	Compressor area	Normal cooling operation; louder sounds can mean the unit is not level or is vibrating against a wall.
Fan-like sound from the rear/bottom	Condenser fan	Poor airflow here can reduce cooling and increase noise.
Water under the unit or in a tray	Drain pan / defrost drain system	A clogged drain can cause puddles and odors.
Doors look uneven or unit rocks	Leveling legs	Leveling improves performance and reduces vibration.

Why it matters

Using the right name helps you troubleshoot faster and order the correct replacement part. For example, the owner's manual for Kenmore 11173025020 includes leveling and door adjustment steps that can reduce vibration and rattling noises caused by an uneven floor.

Helpful next steps

• If the refrigerator rocks or vibrates, level it using the leveling legs; the manual’s leveling section is the best reference.
• If you hear rattling, check that the unit is not touching cabinets or the wall and that items are not vibrating on top.
• If you have cooling problems, make sure airflow around the bottom/rear is not blocked by dust buildup.
• If you need to find parts by model number, start with the model parts list, or search by model at Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026