Where is the model number on a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
On Kenmore model 10641562801 side-by-side refrigerators, the model number is printed on the appliance identification label (the same label that lists the serial number). You typically find this label inside the fresh food compartment on a side wall or near the ceiling; confirm the exact location in the 10641562801 owner's manual.
- Inside the refrigerator (fresh food section) on the left or right interior wall
- Inside the refrigerator near the top (ceiling area) behind the light housing area
- On the door frame (the vertical face you see when the door is open)
- Behind the base grille area (less common, but worth a quick look)
- On the back exterior panel (least convenient, but possible)
The label usually includes both the model and serial information. Use this quick guide:
| Item on label | What it’s used for | Example format |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Matching parts and diagrams | 10641562801 |
| Serial number | Date/production tracking | Letters plus numbers |
- Write the model number exactly as shown, including all digits
- Take a clear photo of the label before ordering parts
- If the label is smudged, wipe gently with a damp cloth and dry it
- Use the model number (not the serial) when searching for parts like a thermostat, control, or ice maker
Kenmore side-by-side refrigerators often have similar-looking doors, shelves, and controls across multiple model families. Using the exact model number ensures we match the correct parts, such as the refrigerator temperature control WP2315562 or the ice maker W11700559, and helps avoid returns.
Last updated: February 2026
How do I read my Kenmore refrigerator model number?
Your Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model number is printed on the model and serial tag; for model 10641562801, you will typically find that tag inside the fresh food compartment or freezer area on an interior wall, or behind the base grille. Use the full number exactly as shown when ordering parts or checking specs in the 10641562801 owner's manual.
Check these common locations on Kenmore 106 series side-by-side refrigerators:
- Inside the refrigerator compartment on a side wall
- Inside the freezer compartment on a side wall
- On the wall behind the lower crisper drawers (refrigerator side)
- Behind or near the base grille (kick plate) at the bottom front
- Along the door frame area (open the door and look around the perimeter)
Model numbers must match exactly; even one digit can change the door gasket, control, or ice maker fit.
- Copy the full model number (example: 10641562801) and the serial number
- Write it down or take a clear photo of the tag
- Use the model number first when searching; then confirm the part number/part ID
- If your tag is worn, clean it gently with a damp cloth and dry it
| What you’re looking at | Example | What it’s used for |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 10641562801 | Identifies the exact refrigerator version |
| Part ID | WP2323198 | Identifies a specific replacement part |
| Part number | 2188175 | Manufacturer number tied to that part |
If you’re troubleshooting cooling or defrost issues after identifying your model, the Kenmore 106 model refrigerator error codes guide helps you narrow down likely causes.
Using the exact model number ensures you get compatible Kenmore parts such as an ice maker, door gasket, temperature control, or defrost heater. It also helps you follow the correct procedures and diagrams in the manual.
Last updated: February 2026
Can I replace fridge parts myself?
Yes. On the Kenmore 10641562801 side-by-side refrigerator, we can safely replace many user-serviceable parts ourselves (bins, shelves, light switch, door gaskets, and some ice maker components) as long as we disconnect power first and reinstall all panels before running the fridge again. For sealed-system repairs (refrigerant, compressor, evaporator), use a professional.
Here is a practical way to decide what to tackle.
| Repair type | Examples on model 10641562801 | DIY-friendly? | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interior and door hardware | Shelf, bins, crisper/meat pans, door cam | Yes | Low electrical risk; mostly mechanical fit-up |
| Basic electrical switches and controls | Light switch, temperature control | Often | Requires careful wiring and safe power-off work |
| Defrost and airflow components | Defrost heater, bi-metal thermostat, evaporator fan blade | Sometimes | Access can be involved; mistakes can cause icing or warm temps |
| Sealed cooling system | Compressor, evaporator, refrigerant lines | No | Specialized tools, refrigerant handling, and high-voltage components |
The manual’s safety guidance is clear: disconnect power before servicing and replace all parts and panels before operating.
- Unplug the refrigerator (or switch off the breaker) before starting.
- Use nonflammable cleaner when cleaning compartments.
- Keep doors supported during any hinge or door work; do not rely on door magnets.
- Reinstall covers, shields, and panels before restoring power.
- Use the correct bulb type and wattage if you are replacing lights.
For model-specific procedures like door removal, alignment, and bin/shelf removal, use the 10641562801 owner's manual.
These are common, straightforward fixes for this Kenmore refrigerator when the symptom matches.
- Door not closing smoothly: refrigerator door cam (black) WP2182179
- Light stays off or does not turn off: refrigerator light switch W11384469
- Drawer cracked or missing: refrigerator crisper pan WP2188656 or refrigerator meat pan WP2188664
- Door seal torn or leaking air: refrigerator door gasket 2159083 (match color and location)
Choosing the right DIY level prevents repeat failures and food-temperature problems. Simple mechanical and interior parts restore usability quickly, while sealed-system work affects cooling performance and safety.
Last updated: February 2026
How can I tell how many cubic feet my Kenmore refrigerator is?
For Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10641562801, the most reliable way to confirm cubic feet is to check the model and capacity information on the refrigerator’s rating plate inside the cabinet; it’s typically listed as total volume (cu. ft.). Use the 10641562801 owner's manual to help locate labels and identify your unit.
- Check the rating plate inside the fresh food section (commonly on a side wall, ceiling area, or behind/under a crisper drawer).
- Look for wording such as “Total volume,” “Total capacity,” or “Cu. Ft.”
- If the label is hard to read, take a photo and zoom in; capacity is usually near the model and serial.
- If shelves and drawers block the label, remove the crisper pan temporarily (handle carefully to avoid cracking).
- If you are comparing sizes for storage planning, use a measured estimate (below) and then confirm on the rating plate.
If the rating plate is missing or unreadable, we use an internal-volume estimate:
- Measure usable interior height, width, and depth (in inches) for each compartment.
- Multiply to get cubic inches.
- Divide by 1,728 to convert to cubic feet.
| What you measure | Formula | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator section | H × W × D ÷ 1,728 | Subtract obvious unusable space (ducts, large housings) for a closer estimate |
| Freezer section | H × W × D ÷ 1,728 | Include only usable cavity space |
| Total capacity | Fridge cu. ft. + Freezer cu. ft. | Rating plate total is the final authority |
Knowing cubic feet helps us match the right Kenmore replacement parts and accessories (bins, shelves, pans) and helps you plan food storage and airflow so temperatures stay stable.
Last updated: February 2026
How to clean the drip pan on a Kenmore refrigerator?
On Kenmore model 10641562801, we clean the drip (defrost) pan by safely unplugging the refrigerator, accessing the pan near the bottom, emptying any water, then washing and drying it before reinstalling. The steps align with the cleaning and moving guidance in the 10641562801 owner's manual.
- Unplug the refrigerator (or disconnect power) before servicing.
- Protect the floor; pull the refrigerator straight out, not side-to-side.
- Use only mild detergent and warm water; avoid abrasive or flammable cleaners.
- Have towels ready; the pan can contain dirty water.
- If your unit has an ice maker, avoid stressing the water line while moving the refrigerator.
- Disconnect power to the refrigerator.
- Remove the base grille at the bottom front (this is the most common access point on side-by-side designs).
- Locate the drip pan on the bottom frame area.
- Slide the pan out carefully and keep it level.
- Empty the pan into a sink or drain.
- Wash with warm water and a mild detergent; rinse well.
- Deodorize if needed: wipe with a baking soda and warm water mix, then rinse.
- Dry completely, reinstall the pan, reinstall the base grille, and restore power.
- Clogged defrost drain can overflow into the pan and cause odor.
- Door gasket leaks can add moisture and increase defrost water.
- Frequent door opening raises humidity and increases water in the pan.
- Spills inside can run into the drain and create smells.
| Symptom | Most likely cause | What to do first |
|---|---|---|
| Sour/musty odor | Bacteria or food residue in pan | Clean pan; wipe nearby surfaces |
| Water on floor | Pan misaligned or drain issue | Reseat pan; check for drain blockage |
| Heavy frost then lots of water | Defrost system issue | Check defrost components like the refrigerator heater WP2323198 |
A clean drip pan helps prevent odors and reduces the chance of overflow that can lead to puddles under the refrigerator. It also makes it easier to spot defrost drain problems early.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most commonly replaced parts in a refrigerator?
In a Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator like model 10641562801, the most commonly replaced parts are the ones that wear from daily use (door sealing, temperature control, defrost heating, lighting, and ice making) plus storage bins and drawers that crack over time. See the 10641562801 owner's manual for your exact feature set.
- Door gaskets and door closing parts: reduce warm air leaks and frost buildup
- Temperature control and thermostats: restore stable fresh food and freezer temps
- Defrost system parts: prevent heavy frost that blocks airflow
- Evaporator fan parts: keep cold air moving through both compartments
- Ice maker and dispenser-related parts: address no-ice, small cubes, or jams
- Lights and switches: fix interior lights that stay off or stay on
- Shelves, bins, and pans: replace cracked or broken storage components
These are common replacements we see for this model family:
| Symptom | Likely part area | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Frost buildup, warm fridge | Defrost system | Refrigerator heater WP2323198 |
| Temps drift too warm or too cold | Temperature control | Refrigerator temperature control WP2315562 |
| No ice or poor ice harvest | Ice maker | Ice maker W11700559 |
| Light not working or stuck on | Door/light switch | Refrigerator light switch W11384469 |
| Poor airflow, warm spots | Evaporator fan | Refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2169142 |
- Confirm the symptom (warm fridge vs. warm freezer vs. frost on back wall)
- Set controls to typical targets: 37°F fresh food, 0°F freezer
- Clean the condenser area; dusty coils can cause long run times and poor cooling
- Inspect door sealing with the paper test (paper should drag when pulled)
- If you have heavy frost, defrost issues are more likely than a sealed system problem
Replacing the right “high-wear” part first (gasket, defrost heater, temperature control, light switch, ice maker) restores performance faster and helps prevent secondary issues like frost blockage, warm temperatures, and excessive compressor run time.
Last updated: February 2026
What's the average lifespan of a Kenmore refrigerator?
Most Kenmore refrigerators average 10 to 15 years of service life; with consistent maintenance and timely repairs, many units can run longer. For your Kenmore 10641562801 side-by-side refrigerator, following the care and operating guidance in the 10641562801 owner's manual helps you get the full expected lifespan.
| Appliance type | Typical lifespan | What usually ends it first |
|---|---|---|
| Side-by-side refrigerator | 10 to 15 years | Sealed system or compressor issues |
| Top-freezer refrigerator | 12 to 18 years | Defrost or airflow problems |
| French door refrigerator | 10 to 15 years | Ice maker, electronics, airflow |
- Keep door gaskets sealing tightly; warm air leaks force longer run times.
- Allow proper airflow around the cabinet; blocked vents reduce cooling efficiency.
- Keep temperatures stable; avoid frequent door openings and long door holds.
- Don’t overload with warm groceries; allow several hours to pull temps back down.
- Address frost buildup early; defrost problems can strain the evaporator fan and cooling system.
These parts do not set the lifespan by themselves, but failures here often cause “it’s not cooling” complaints that shorten a refrigerator’s usable life if ignored.
- Refrigerator door gasket 2159083 (air leaks, moisture, temperature swings)
- Refrigerator electronic control 4388932 (cooling and defrost control issues)
- Refrigerator run capacitor WPW10662129 (hard starting, compressor not running)
- Refrigerator bi-metal thermostat WPW10225581 and refrigerator heater WP2323198 (defrost system problems)
A refrigerator that runs warmer than normal or runs constantly wears out key components faster. Simple habits like minimizing door openings and keeping the doors fully closed (as noted in the manual’s troubleshooting guidance) reduce moisture, frost, and run time, which directly supports longer life.
Last updated: February 2026





