What is the bottom compartment of a fridge called?
On the Kenmore 59672213200 bottom-mount refrigerator, the “bottom compartment” usually refers to the freezer compartment (the lower food-storage section). If you mean the hidden area underneath the cabinet that holds cooling parts, that area is commonly called the machine compartment.
Quick names people use (and what they mean)
- Freezer compartment: the bottom drawer/section where frozen food is stored
- Machine compartment: the service area under or behind the unit that houses major cooling components
- Toe grille / kick plate area: the lower front cover area (often used for airflow access)
- Drain pan area: the space where the defrost water pan sits (typically near the bottom)
What you will find in the “machine compartment”
The machine compartment is where many core refrigeration components live. Depending on the exact configuration, it commonly includes:
- Compressor
- Condenser coil(s)
- Condenser fan (if equipped)
- Start components (relay/overload/capacitor)
- Drain pan
| If you mean this… | Common name | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Bottom food drawer/section | Freezer compartment | Stores frozen food and maintains freezer temps |
| Hidden service area under/behind cabinet | Machine compartment | Runs the sealed system and rejects heat |
| Lower front cover area | Toe grille / kick plate | Helps ventilation and access for cleaning |
Why it matters
Using the right term helps you find the correct instructions and parts faster. For example, “freezer compartment” issues often involve airflow, door sealing, or frost; “machine compartment” issues often involve heat rejection, noise, or cooling performance.
Helpful next steps for this model
- Use the 59672213200 owner’s manual to match the term to the exact section names used for your refrigerator.
- If you are troubleshooting cooling or unusual noise, check whether the refrigerator is level and has proper ventilation clearance.
- If you are diagnosing an ice issue in the bottom-mount setup, the refrigerator ice maker D7824706Q is a common related component.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the advantage of a bottom mount fridge?
A bottom-mount refrigerator like Kenmore model 59672213200 keeps the fresh-food section at eye and waist level, so you reach everyday items with less bending. The freezer stays below, which is convenient for bulk storage and helps keep frequently used foods easiest to access.
Key benefits you will notice day to day
- Less bending for fresh food: produce, drinks, and leftovers are easier to grab.
- Better organization for daily use: the refrigerator compartment is the primary “work zone.”
- Freezer capacity and access: the lower freezer is designed for larger frozen items and longer-term storage.
- Improved comfort: helpful if you have back, knee, or joint discomfort.
- Good airflow habits: keeping shelves organized supports steady cooling performance.
How to get the most out of the design
Use these setup and loading habits to keep temperatures stable and energy use reasonable:
- Allow about 24 hours after changes for temperatures to stabilize.
- Avoid overcrowding shelves; blocked airflow can make the refrigerator run longer.
- Let hot foods cool before loading them.
- Do not use foil, wax paper, or paper towels as shelf liners; they restrict airflow.
- Leave clearance around the top and sides (commonly about 1 inch) for ventilation.
For model-specific control locations and operating guidance, follow the 59672213200 owner's manual.
Bottom-mount vs top-freezer: quick comparison
| Feature | Bottom-mount refrigerator | Top-freezer refrigerator |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh-food access | Higher, easier reach | Lower, more bending |
| Freezer access | Lower drawer/door | Higher, easier reach |
| Best for | Daily fresh-food use | Frequent freezer use |
Why it matters
Most households open the refrigerator section far more than the freezer. With a bottom-mount layout, we keep the most-used foods in the most ergonomic spot, which improves convenience and can reduce strain during everyday cooking.
Last updated: January 2026
Why is my Kenmore refrigerator leaking underneath?
On Kenmore refrigerator model 59672213200, leaking underneath is usually caused by defrost water missing the drain path (a clogged/iced defrost drain) or a water-supply connection that is seeping. Start by checking the drain area inside the freezer and the water line connection behind the unit using the steps in the 59672213200 owner's manual.
Most common causes (and what to check first)
- Defrost drain clogged or frozen: Water backs up during defrost and can run down into the base.
- Drain pan shifted or cracked: Defrost water is not captured and ends up on the floor.
- Water line connection leaking: A slow drip can track under the cabinet.
- Plastic water tubing: This model’s guidance notes plastic tubing is less durable and can contribute to leaks; copper is preferred.
- Door not sealing or unit not level: Excess frost and defrost water can increase, and water can spill outside the pan.
Quick diagnostic steps
- Unplug the refrigerator and pull it out enough to inspect the floor and rear lower area.
- Look for the leak pattern:
- Clear water near the back: often water line or valve area.
- Water after heavy frost: often a defrost drain issue.
- Inspect the drain pan underneath for cracks, overflow marks, or misalignment.
- Check the water supply line and fittings for moisture; tighten gently if loose.
- Clear the defrost drain (typical method): melt visible ice with warm air, then flush the drain with warm water until it flows freely into the pan.
What you’ll likely do based on what you find
| What you see | Most likely cause | Typical fix |
|---|---|---|
| Ice buildup and water inside freezer bottom | Defrost drain frozen/clogged | Thaw and flush drain; clear debris |
| Water only when ice maker is on | Water line seep or ice maker fill issue | Inspect fittings; check tubing condition |
| Pan is wet but not centered | Drain pan shifted | Reposition pan |
| Pan is cracked | Drain pan failure | Replace drain pan |
Why it matters
Leaks underneath can lead to floor damage and can also point to airflow, leveling, or defrost drainage problems that reduce cooling performance over time.
Related DIY help
Last updated: January 2026





