What is a bottom mount refrigerator?
A bottom-mount refrigerator (like Kenmore model 79571099111) keeps the fresh-food compartment on top at eye level and places the freezer drawer on the bottom. This layout makes everyday refrigerated items easier to reach while still providing full freezer storage below.
How a bottom-mount design is laid out
- Top section: refrigerator (fresh food) compartment with shelves and door bins
- Bottom section: freezer compartment, usually a pull-out drawer
- Airflow: cold air is circulated between sections using fans and ducts
- Common features: water dispenser and ice maker on many models
Why people choose bottom-mount refrigerators
Bottom-mount units are popular because most households access fresh foods more often than frozen foods.
| Feature | Bottom-mount refrigerator | Top-freezer refrigerator |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh food access | Easier (higher) | Lower (requires more bending) |
| Freezer access | Lower (more bending) | Easier (higher) |
| Typical storage feel | Wide shelves, convenient daily use | Simple, often more basic |
What this means for parts and maintenance
The “bottom-mount” style mainly affects where certain parts live and how you service them.
- Water filtration and dispenser parts are typically in the fresh-food section; see the owner's manual for your model’s exact locations.
- If your refrigerator uses a cartridge-style filter, the matching replacement is often the genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter 9690 AGF80300801.
- Freezer drawer seals, rails, and ice-room components are more common wear points on bottom-mount designs.
- Cooling issues can involve airflow parts such as the evaporator fan motor, not just temperature settings.
Why it matters
Knowing your refrigerator is bottom-mount helps you identify the correct compartment (fresh food vs. freezer) when troubleshooting symptoms like warm temperatures, frost buildup, dispenser issues, or ice maker problems.
Last updated: January 2026
Why is my Kenmore refrigerator leaking underneath?
Water under a Kenmore 79571099111 bottom-mount refrigerator is usually caused by a defrost drain problem (clogged or frozen), a cracked or overflowing drain pan, or a water supply leak to the ice maker or dispenser. We focus on the drain system first because it is the most common source of “mystery” puddles.
Quick checks (fastest way to narrow it down)
- Confirm the liquid: water (clear) vs. sticky spill vs. oily residue.
- Look for ice or water on the freezer floor: often points to a defrost drain issue.
- Check the door gaskets for gaps that can cause excess frost and meltwater.
- Inspect the water line connection behind the refrigerator for drips.
- Note when it leaks: after defrost cycles, after dispensing water, or constantly.
Most common causes and what to do
| Symptom | Likely cause | What we recommend |
|---|---|---|
| Water appears every few days | Clogged/frozen defrost drain | Thaw and flush the drain with warm water; clear debris |
| Water only after using dispenser/ice maker | Water tubing or valve seep | Inspect tubing and fittings; check for slow drips |
| Water in drain pan but overflowing | Pan shifted, cracked, or heavy dust on condenser area | Re-seat pan; clean condenser area; replace pan if damaged |
Steps that fix many “leaking underneath” complaints
- Unplug the refrigerator.
- Remove items and check for ice buildup near the drain area.
- Melt ice with warm air (hair dryer on low, keep moving) and flush the drain with warm water.
- Pull the unit out and inspect the rear lower area for drips and wet insulation.
If the leak is tied to the water system, inspect the line and consider replacing damaged tubing such as refrigerator water tubing MJU62070602 or diagnosing the valve.
Why it matters
Leaks can lead to floor damage, recurring ice buildup, and poor cooling if airflow passages freeze. Fixing the root cause also helps prevent ice maker and dispenser problems.
For model-specific access points and diagrams, use the 79571099111 owner’s manual.
Last updated: January 2026
What water filter fits my Kenmore fridge?
For Kenmore refrigerator model 79571099111, the correct replacement is the refrigerator water filter 9690; on this model, that matches part ID AGF80300801 (manufacturer part number ADQ36006102). Using the exact match prevents leaks, poor sealing, and slow water flow.
Confirming you have the right filter
Check these identifiers before ordering:
- Verify the model tag shows 79571099111 (typically inside the fresh food section).
- Match the filter label or packaging to 9690.
- Match the part ID to AGF80300801 for the correct housing fit.
- Make sure the filter locks in fully and sits flush after installation.
- If you are running without a filter, use the correct bypass plug for the housing.
Helpful references:
- 79571099111 owner's manual
- Refrigerator water filter 9690 AGF80300801
- Refrigerator water filter bypass ABN73019101
Replacement basics (what we recommend)
To avoid air in the line and nuisance leaks:
- Install the new filter, then dispense water for several minutes to purge air.
- Discard the first few batches of ice after changing the filter.
- Check the filter head area for drips during the first 24 hours.
- Replace the filter every 6 months under normal use (sooner if flow slows).
Quick comparison
| Option | When to use it | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Filter installed (AGF80300801) | Everyday use | Filtered water and ice; normal flow when new |
| Bypass installed (ABN73019101) | Temporary use or troubleshooting | Unfiltered water; helps confirm a clogged filter issue |
Why it matters
The correct filter for Kenmore 79571099111 maintains proper water flow to the dispenser and ice maker, helps prevent leaks at the filter head, and supports better tasting water and ice.
For step-by-step help, use how to replace the water filter in a Kenmore refrigerator.
Last updated: January 2026





