How wide is a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
Most Kenmore side-by-side refrigerators are about 36 inches wide, and Kenmore model 79551012010 is in that common 36-inch class. For the exact cabinet width and clearance needs (doors, handles, and airflow), we recommend confirming the dimensions in the 79551012010 owner's manual.
Typical width and what to plan for
For side-by-side refrigerators like the Kenmore 79551012010, these are the measurements customers most often need when fitting the unit into a kitchen opening:
- Cabinet width: typically about 36 in.
- Opening width: plan at least 36 in., often 36 1/2 in. to 37 in. for easier installation
- Depth and door swing: can require extra space beyond the cabinet depth
- Ventilation clearance: leave space for proper air circulation
- Water line routing: allow room behind the unit if it has an ice maker and water dispenser
Quick fit checklist (before you buy or move the fridge)
- Measure the opening width at the top, middle, and bottom
- Check for baseboards, trim, and countertop overhangs that reduce usable width
- Confirm the door swing path so doors clear walls and islands
- Verify you can get the refrigerator through doorways and hallways
- If connected to water, confirm you have room for the water line and shutoff
Common width ranges by refrigerator style
| Refrigerator style | Typical width range |
|---|---|
| Side-by-side | 33 to 36 in. |
| Top freezer | 28 to 33 in. |
| French door | 33 to 36 in. |
Why it matters
A refrigerator that is even 1/4 inch too wide can bind against cabinets, prevent leveling, or make door alignment difficult. Confirming the exact width and required clearances helps avoid installation issues and protects door seals and hinges.
Last updated: January 2026
What model Kenmore refrigerator do I have?
If you have a Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator like model 79551012010, your exact model number is printed on the appliance’s model and serial tag. Use that full number (all digits) when ordering parts, looking up diagrams, or checking feature and troubleshooting details in the 79551012010 owner's manual.
Where to find the model number tag
On Kenmore refrigerators, the model and serial tag is typically in one of these spots:
- Inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment on a side wall
- On the ceiling area inside the refrigerator compartment
- Behind or near the crisper drawers
- On the door frame when you open the refrigerator door
- Behind the lower kick plate or base grille area
How to read the number (and why it matters)
Kenmore model numbers often start with a 3-digit prefix that helps identify the manufacturing source and parts family. For example, 795 is a common Kenmore prefix used on many refrigerators in this series.
Why it matters
Using the full model number prevents ordering look-alike parts that do not fit, especially for items like a water inlet valve, electronic control board, door gasket, or ice maker components.
Quick checklist before you order parts
Use this checklist to make sure you capture the right information:
- Write down the full model number exactly as shown
- Record the serial number (helpful for production changes)
- Confirm the appliance type (side-by-side refrigerator)
- Match the part description to your symptom (leak, no ice, warm temps)
- Use the manual’s parts and feature references for your exact configuration
Common examples (format comparison)
| What you see | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| 79551012010 | Full model number | Use this for parts lookup and manuals |
| 795.5101xx or 795.5102xx | Model family format shown in documentation | Match your full tag number to the closest family |
| Serial number | Production identifier | Keep it for service and compatibility checks |
Related help for dispenser and water/ice issues
If you are identifying the model because of dispenser or ice problems, our DIY guide how to disassemble a Kenmore refrigerator dispenser helps you access common components safely.
Last updated: January 2026
Where is the water filter on a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
On Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 79551012010, the water filter is located inside the refrigerator compartment, in the filter receptacle area where you insert and quarter-turn the cartridge to lock it. Use the steps in the 79551012010 owner's manual to access it safely and avoid leaks.
How to find and access the filter
In this model, the filter installs into a dedicated receptacle (housing). When you remove the filter, you may need to reinstall the substitute cap to prevent leaking.
- Open the fresh food (refrigerator) door and locate the filter receptacle area.
- If a shelf blocks access, remove or reposition the shelf for clearance.
- Twist the filter a quarter turn to unlock, then pull it straight out.
- If you are not installing a new filter right away, reinstall the filter substitute cap to prevent water leaks.
- After installing a new filter, check the shelf area for leaks.
After you install a new filter (important)
The manual procedure for purging air and carbon fines helps protect the water valve, water tank, and dispenser.
- Turn on the household water supply.
- Dispense 2.5 gallons (9.46 L) to purge the system.
- Use an on/off pattern: 30 seconds ON, 60 seconds OFF.
- Recheck for leaks around the filter area.
Quick reference table
| Task | What to do | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Remove filter | Quarter-turn to unlock, pull down/out | Prevents housing damage |
| No filter installed | Reinstall substitute cap | Prevents leaks |
| Purge system | Dispense 2.5 gallons in cycles | Clears air and improves flow |
Why it matters
A partially installed filter or missing substitute cap can cause leaks in the filter housing area and can also lead to weak water flow at the dispenser. Proper purging also helps reduce sputtering and improves water taste.
Last updated: January 2026





