What is the top part of a fridge called?
On a Kenmore top-mount refrigerator like model 25360412618, the top compartment is the freezer compartment (often just called the freezer). It’s the section designed to keep foods frozen and typically houses the ice maker (if equipped); see the owner's manual for your exact feature layout.
- Maintains below-freezing temperatures for long-term food storage
- Helps keep ice cream and frozen foods solid
- Often contains the ice maker and ice bin (when installed)
- Works with the refrigerator temperature controls to balance cooling
- Shares airflow with the fresh food section through internal vents/ducting
| What people call it | What it means | Where it is on 25360412618 |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer | Freezing compartment | Top of the unit |
| Top freezer | Freezer-on-top design | Top of the unit |
| Freezer section | Same as freezer compartment | Top of the unit |
Knowing the correct name helps when you’re troubleshooting cooling issues (freezer cold but fridge warm, frost buildup, fan noise) or ordering the right parts for the correct compartment.
If the freezer is cold but the refrigerator section is warm, airflow is usually the issue. A common component involved is the evaporator fan; for this model, that’s the refrigerator evaporator fan motor 242077705.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the code 25360412618 on a Kenmore refrigerator?
The “25360412618” code is the model number for your Kenmore top-mount refrigerator, not an error code. We use it to match the correct parts list, diagrams, and service information for your exact refrigerator.
Your refrigerator’s model and serial tag is typically located inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment. The owner's manual also explains recording the model and serial number for reference.
- Look on the side wall or ceiling area inside the refrigerator section
- Write down both the model number and serial number
- Use the full model number (including any suffixes on the tag)
- Match the model number exactly when ordering parts
| Item you see | What it means | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| 25360412618 | Model number | Use it to find correct parts and instructions |
| Letters/numbers like “SY EF” | Error code | Troubleshoot the specific system indicated |
| Flashing lights or beeps | Status/alarm | Check temperature, door closure, and controls |
This Kenmore model family can show error codes related to cooling and airflow. If you’re seeing a code like SY EF / 5Y EF, it commonly points to an evaporator fan circuit issue (fan motor, wiring, or control). A good next step is to review the error-code list and the recommended checks in our Kenmore 111 model top freezer refrigerator error codes guide.
Common checks that often resolve fan-related codes:
- Make sure vents are not blocked by food packages
- Confirm the freezer door closes tightly and seals evenly
- Listen for the evaporator fan running when the compressor is on
- Inspect for heavy frost on the evaporator cover (defrost problem)
- If the fan is not running, consider replacing the refrigerator evaporator fan motor 242077705
Using the exact model number 25360412618 prevents ordering the wrong Kenmore parts (like a door gasket, light bulb, or evaporator fan motor) and helps you follow the correct temperature-control and setup steps for your refrigerator.
Last updated: February 2026
What water filter fits my Kenmore fridge?
For Kenmore model 25360412618, the correct water filter depends on how your refrigerator is plumbed and whether it uses an internal cartridge or an inline filter on the water supply line. We match the right filter by confirming your exact model identification and the filter style shown in the owner's manual.
Check these items first; they determine which replacement filter fits:
- Look for a filter housing inside the fresh food compartment (often upper right, upper left, or base grille area)
- Check behind the refrigerator for an inline filter installed on the 1/4-inch water line
- Read the part number on the old filter (if one is installed)
- Confirm your model number is 25360412618 (model tag is typically inside the refrigerator compartment)
- Verify you have a water supply connected; the installation guide specifies a cold water line and typical hookup parts
Many top-mount refrigerators filter water using an inline filter installed in the 1/4-inch supply line. If you see a small cylinder-shaped filter on the line behind the unit or under a cabinet, replace it with the same style and fittings (1/4-inch compression or push-to-connect, depending on your setup).
| Item to match | What to look for | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Tubing size | 1/4-inch OD copper or equivalent | Prevents leaks and flow restriction |
| Connection type | Compression vs push-to-connect | Ensures the filter installs securely |
| Flow direction | Arrow on filter body | Keeps filtration working correctly |
If you find a twist-in or push-in cartridge inside the refrigerator, the safest match is the exact cartridge number printed on the old filter or listed for your model in the owner's manual. Cartridge filters are not interchangeable across Kenmore families even when they look similar.
Using the wrong filter can reduce water flow to the ice maker or dispenser, cause leaks at the fittings, and leave taste and odor issues unresolved. Matching by model number and filter style prevents repeat replacements.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the most expensive part to replace on a refrigerator?
On a Kenmore top-mount refrigerator like model 25360412618, the most expensive single part to replace is typically the compressor because it is part of the sealed cooling system and the repair is labor-intensive. Other high-cost repairs often involve sealed-system components or electronic controls.
These repairs usually cost the most because they involve sealed-system work, specialized tools, or longer labor time:
- Compressor replacement (common top-cost item)
- Sealed-system repairs (refrigerant leak diagnosis and repair)
- Evaporator or condenser replacement (sealed-system components)
- Control or interface issues (varies by design)
- Door replacement (large assembly, shipping and labor)
For this model, the Refrigerator compressor 240550946 is one of the higher-priced parts on the parts list.
Actual totals vary by labor and whether sealed-system work is required.
| Repair type | Why it gets expensive | Typical parts cost range |
|---|---|---|
| Compressor / sealed system | Specialized labor, refrigerant handling, longer repair time | $$ to $$ |
| Major assemblies (doors) | Large assemblies, alignment, hardware transfer | $ to $$ |
| Fans, heaters, thermostats | More straightforward access and replacement | $ to $ |
We use these checkpoints to make a practical decision before investing in a major repair:
- Confirm the symptom (warm fridge, warm freezer, clicking, no cooling)
- Check for airflow issues first (frost buildup, fan not running)
- Verify temperature settings and operating conditions
- Consider the unit’s age and overall condition (shelves, gaskets, drawers)
- Price the part and compare to the value of the refrigerator
If you are troubleshooting cooling or fan noise first, our how to fix your evaporator cooling fan guide can help you rule out common, lower-cost causes.
A compressor is the heart of the cooling system; when it fails, the refrigerator cannot maintain safe food temperatures. Because sealed-system repairs are complex, the total cost is often driven as much by labor as by the part itself.
For model-specific operating and care guidance (including temperature control and maintenance tips), use the owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most common problems with Kenmore refrigerators?
The most common problems we see on Kenmore top-mount refrigerators like model 25360412618 are temperature issues (too warm or freezing), door sealing and closing problems, moisture or frost buildup, odors, and interior light failures. Our owner's manual covers model-specific checks and adjustments.
- Not cooling or too warm: door left ajar, frequent openings, controls set too warm, blocked air vents
- Food freezing in fresh food section: fresh food control set too cold
- Moisture or frost inside: humidity, door slightly open, uncovered containers
- Door will not close: refrigerator not level, bins or drawers out of position
- Odors: spills, uncovered strong-odor foods
- Light not working: bulb burned out or power issue
- Make sure both doors close fully; level the cabinet so it does not rock.
- Set controls to a normal mid-range; allow 24 hours for temperatures to stabilize.
- Keep interior vents clear; do not pack food tightly against airflow paths.
- Open doors less often and for shorter times to reduce warm air and humidity.
- Clean spills and cover foods to prevent odors.
| Symptom | Most likely cause | What to do first |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh food too warm | Door slightly open; setting too warm | Reseat door, adjust control, wait 24 hours |
| Freezer warm but fridge OK | Freezer control too warm | Set freezer colder, wait 24 hours |
| Fridge warm but freezer OK | Fresh food control too warm | Set fresh food colder, wait 24 hours |
| Moisture on inside walls | Humidity; frequent openings | Reduce openings; cover containers |
- Airflow and noise issues: refrigerator evaporator fan motor 242077705
- Warm air leaks and sweating: refrigerator door gasket (white) 242193206
Stable temperatures and a tight door seal protect food quality, reduce frost and moisture, and prevent the compressor and fans from running longer than necessary.
Last updated: February 2026





