What is the top part of a refrigerator called?
On a Kenmore 10670102000 top-mount refrigerator, the top compartment is the freezer. It’s designed to keep foods frozen and it also supplies cold air that circulates down into the fresh food (refrigerator) section.
What the freezer does in a top-mount design
In a top-mount refrigerator like model 10670102000, we rely on the freezer section for both freezing and overall cooling performance.
- Keeps food at freezing temperatures for long-term storage
- Sends cold air through vents to help cool the refrigerator section
- Helps control moisture and odor movement between compartments
- Often houses the ice maker (if your model is equipped)
Freezer vs. refrigerator section: quick comparison
| Compartment | Location | Main purpose | Common issues when airflow is blocked |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freezer | Top | Freezes food; provides cold air | Warm refrigerator section; frost or moisture problems |
| Refrigerator section | Bottom | Keeps food cold (not frozen) | Temperature swings; food spoiling faster |
Why airflow matters (and what to avoid)
Your manual explains that cool air moves through vents between the freezer and refrigerator sections. If packages block vents, airflow is reduced and temperature and moisture problems can follow.
- Keep items away from freezer vents and the top vent into the refrigerator section
- Avoid overpacking either compartment
- Wrap foods tightly to reduce odor transfer between sections
- If doors look uneven, follow the door alignment steps in the owner's manual
Why it matters
When the freezer can’t circulate air properly, the refrigerator section is usually the first place you notice trouble (warmer temps, excess moisture, or odors). Keeping vents clear helps both compartments hold steady temperatures.
Last updated: February 2026
Who made Kenmore 10670102000?
Kenmore model 10670102000 was manufactured for Sears by Whirlpool. The “106” prefix is the key identifier that ties this Kenmore top-mount refrigerator to Whirlpool production; you will often see Whirlpool-sourced components (like the ice maker and defrost parts) used on this model.
How to confirm it on your refrigerator
You can verify the model and prefix directly from the appliance ID tag, then match it to the model documentation.
- Check the model tag inside the fresh food compartment (often on a side wall or ceiling)
- Confirm the model number is 10670102000 (the first three digits matter)
- Record the serial number too; it helps when selecting compatible parts
- Use the parts list for this model to match exact part IDs before ordering
- Reference the wiring/parts diagrams in the owner's manual when diagnosing issues
What the manufacturer code means (quick guide)
Kenmore model numbers commonly use a 3-digit prefix to indicate the original manufacturer.
| Model prefix | Manufacturer | What it helps with |
|---|---|---|
| 106 | Whirlpool | Parts compatibility, service procedures, common design features |
| Other prefixes | Varies by model | Use the prefix to narrow down the correct parts family |
Why it matters when buying parts
Knowing Whirlpool built this Kenmore 106 refrigerator helps you choose the right replacement parts and troubleshooting approach. For example, common service items on this model include the defrost timer, door gaskets, and ice maker components.
If you are replacing an ice maker or troubleshooting ice production, using the exact part ID is critical; a compatible option listed for this model is the ice maker assembly - refrigerator ice maker by whirlpool 4317943.
Last updated: February 2026
What causes a Coldspot 10670102000 to stop cooling?
A Kenmore Coldspot 10670102000 top-mount refrigerator usually stops cooling because cold air cannot circulate properly (blocked vents, frequent door openings, warm food load), the temperature controls are set incorrectly, or a defrost problem causes frost buildup that restricts airflow. Use the owner's manual troubleshooting checks first.
Quick checks we recommend first
- Make sure air vents in both compartments are not blocked by food packages.
- Reduce door openings and confirm the doors close fully.
- If you recently added a large amount of food, allow several hours for temperatures to recover.
- Adjust the refrigerator and freezer controls one setting at a time, then wait for temperatures to stabilize.
- If the unit was newly installed or recently moved, allow up to 24 hours to cool completely.
Common causes and what to look for
| Symptom | Most likely cause | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer is warm and fridge is warm | Airflow issue or control setting | Clear vents, verify door seal, adjust controls |
| Freezer is cold but fridge is warm | Air not moving from freezer to fridge | Clear vents, check for frost blocking airflow |
| Cooling is weak and frost builds up | Defrost system issue | Check/replace the refrigerator defrost timer W10822278 or the refrigerator defrost bi-metal WP4387503 |
| Clicking/humming and no cooling | Start components or compressor issue | Check start components; if needed, a sealed-system repair may be required |
Why it matters
This model relies on steady airflow between the freezer and fresh food section. When vents are blocked or frost builds up, the freezer may still feel cold while the refrigerator warms, and the compressor can run longer than normal.
Parts that commonly relate to “not cooling” on this model
If your checks point to a defrost or cooling-system problem, these model-matched parts are commonly involved:
- Refrigerator defrost timer W10822278 (controls defrost cycling)
- Refrigerator defrost bi-metal WP4387503 (senses coil temperature during defrost)
- Upright freezer run capacitor WPW10662129 (supports compressor starting and running)
- Refrigerator compressor W10309988 (sealed-system component)
Last updated: February 2026





