Kenmore 25368823012 top-mount refrigerator Parts

Your Kenmore refrigerator’s model number is printed on the serial plate inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment. For Kenmore model 25368823012, the manual notes the serial plate is located inside the refrigerator compartment and the model number format begins with 253.; write down both the model and serial number for parts lookup and service records using the owner's manual.

Where to look for the model and serial plate

Check these common locations on a Kenmore top-mount refrigerator:

• Inside the refrigerator compartment on a side wall
• Inside the refrigerator compartment near the ceiling
• Behind or beside the crisper drawers (you may need to slide a drawer out)
• On the frame just inside the door opening (near the hinge side)

What to record (and why)

Write down the full model number and serial number exactly as shown; a single missing digit can pull up the wrong parts diagram.

• Model number: identifies the exact design and parts list
• Serial number: helps match production changes and revisions
• Purchase date: useful for maintenance history and warranty paperwork

Quick example for this model

Item	What it looks like	Why it matters
Model number	Starts with 253.	Gets you the correct Kenmore parts breakdown
Serial number	Letters and numbers	Helps confirm the correct version of the unit

Why it matters for parts and troubleshooting

Kenmore refrigerators are built in multiple series; the model number is what ties your unit to the correct shelves, door gaskets, fan motors, and defrost parts. Once you have the model number, you can match common repairs to exact parts such as a door seal or evaporator fan components.

If you are chasing a cooling or frost issue after identifying the model, our how to fix your evaporator cooling fan guide is a good next step.

Last updated: February 2026

On your Kenmore 25368823012 top-mount refrigerator, a bad compressor usually shows up as poor or no cooling along with unusual compressor behavior (repeated clicking, loud humming, or the compressor not running at all). Before condemning the compressor, we confirm airflow, power, and defrost-related issues using the checks in the owner's manual.

Quick symptoms that point toward a compressor problem

• Refrigerator and freezer both warm even though the unit has power
• Repeated clicking every few minutes (start attempt, then shutoff)
• Compressor is very hot to the touch after trying to run (use caution)
• Compressor is silent while interior lights work and fans may run
• Runs constantly but temperatures never recover

Rule out common look-alikes first (fast checks)

Unplug the refrigerator before inspecting any wiring or moving parts.

• Defrost cycle: A fully automatic defrost refrigerator can pause cooling during defrost for about 30 minutes; this can look like “not running” briefly.
• Power supply: Make sure the cord is fully seated in a grounded outlet; avoid using a GFCI outlet for this refrigerator.
• Airflow and heat: Verify the unit has installation clearance for air circulation (tight spaces can impair compressor cooling).
• Condenser fan and airflow: If your model has a condenser fan, you should hear airflow moving through the condenser area during operation.

What the noises can mean

The manual notes that some sounds are normal, so we separate “normal operation” from “failed start.”

Sound/behavior	Often normal	Often a problem
High-pitched hum or pulsating	Compressor running (modern high-efficiency)	If temps stay warm for hours
Clicking/snapping	Controls switching on/off	Repeating click with no cooling
Buzzing (ice maker models)	Water valve filling	Not related to compressor

When replacement is the likely fix

If the refrigerator has correct power, good airflow, and the fans are operating but both compartments stay warm and the compressor repeatedly fails to start, replacement becomes likely. For this model, the listed compressor is the refrigerator compressor 5304511982.

Why it matters

A weak or non-starting compressor cannot circulate refrigerant, so the evaporator cannot absorb heat; that means the refrigerator may run longer, warm up, and risk food spoilage.

Last updated: February 2026

A top-mount refrigerator is a classic refrigerator layout where the freezer compartment is on top and the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment is below. Your Kenmore 25368823012 uses this design to keep everyday refrigerated items at eye level while storing frozen foods above.

How a top-mount refrigerator is set up

In a top-mount design, cold air is produced at the evaporator and circulated to both sections; the freezer is the coldest zone and the refrigerator section is cooled by airflow and controls.

Common features you will see on many top-mount models:

• Freezer on top, refrigerator below
• Separate temperature controls (or a shared control system)
• Reversible doors on many models for left or right swing
• Adjustable front rollers or leveling screws to help the cabinet sit solidly

Installation basics that matter for this design

Top-mount refrigerators need space and leveling so the doors seal correctly and airflow stays consistent.

Recommended setup checks:

• Place the refrigerator near a grounded outlet; do not use an extension cord or adapter plug
• Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources (range, dishwasher)
• Level the cabinet so all four corners rest firmly on the floor
• Confirm the doors seal to the cabinet on all sides
• Allow installation clearances for airflow (typical guidance: about 3/8 inch at sides and top, and about 1 inch at the back)

For the model-specific checklist and clearance guidance, use the installation guide.

Quick comparison: top-mount vs. bottom-freezer

Feature	Top-mount refrigerator	Bottom-freezer refrigerator
Freezer location	Top	Bottom
Most-used section height	Refrigerator is mid to lower	Refrigerator is higher
Typical cost	Often lower	Often higher
Common service items	Door gaskets, fans, defrost parts	Similar, plus drawer/rail parts

Why it matters

Knowing you have a top-mount layout helps with everyday use and troubleshooting. For example, door alignment and a good door seal are critical for stable temperatures and to prevent frost buildup.

Last updated: February 2026

On a Kenmore 25368823012 top-mount refrigerator, the top section is the freezer compartment. It is designed to keep foods frozen, and it also helps the refrigerator run efficiently by circulating cold air down into the fresh food section (when vents are kept clear). See the owner's manual for your model’s compartment features and storage tips.

What the freezer compartment does

The freezer is more than just a storage box; it supports overall cooling performance.

• Freezes and stores food long-term at sub-freezing temperatures
• Helps deliver cold air to the refrigerator section through internal air passages
• Provides space for items that need steadier temperatures (best in the interior, not the door)
• Can be overloaded by too much warm food at once, which slows freezing

Freezer vs. refrigerator section (quick comparison)

Section	Location on this model type	Primary purpose	Common best practice
Freezer compartment	Top	Freeze and store frozen foods	Leave space between packages for airflow
Fresh food compartment	Bottom	Keep foods cold (not frozen)	Do not block upper rear air vents

Tips that prevent common “top section” problems

If the freezer is not performing well, these basics solve many complaints.

• Keep air vents clear; blocked vents reduce airflow and cooling
• Avoid packing items tightly; cold air must circulate to freeze quickly
• Do not load a lot of warm food at once; it raises temperatures temporarily
• Store temperature-sensitive frozen items (like ice cream) in the freezer interior, not the door
• Level the refrigerator so doors close tightly; poor sealing can cause warming and frost

Why it matters

When the freezer compartment is used correctly, your Kenmore 25368823012 maintains steadier temperatures, freezes food faster, and avoids issues like soft ice cream, frost buildup, and warm spots in the refrigerator section.

Last updated: February 2026