Kenmore 11173049610 refrigerator Parts

On Kenmore model 11173049610, a bad compressor shows up as poor cooling with long run times, repeated clicking as it tries to start, or the compressor getting very hot. Before condemning it, we check airflow, condenser vent cleaning, and door sealing.

Symptoms that strongly point to a compressor or start problem

• Fridge and freezer both warm while the unit keeps trying to run
• Repeated click, buzz, then silence from the rear (failed start attempts)
• Compressor runs nearly nonstop but temperatures do not recover
• Compressor is unusually hot after running (use caution)
• No normal hum or vibration when cooling is needed

Checks to do first (common non-compressor causes)

Your model’s troubleshooting guidance notes that long run times can be normal after power is restored, heavy door opening, adding warm food, or in hot rooms; it also recommends vacuuming the condenser cover and vents without removing the rear panel.

• Allow recovery time: after a restart, cooling can take up to 24 hours.
• Confirm doors seal: doors must close fully; gaskets should seal all the way around.
• Clean condenser airflow: vacuum the condenser cover and vents (do not remove the panel).
• Check room temperature: avoid operation above 110°F.
• Verify fans run: a failed evaporator or condenser fan can mimic compressor failure.

What “normal” run time can look like

At about 70°F, the compressor commonly runs about 40% to 80% of the time; warmer conditions increase run time.

Observation	More likely cause	Next step
Runs a lot, temps slowly improve	Normal load or dirty vents	Reduce door openings, clean vents
Clicks repeatedly, no cooling	Start device or locked compressor	Have a tech test start and compressor
Runs steadily, both sections warm	Airflow issue or sealed system	Confirm fans and vents, then diagnose sealed system

Why it matters

Compressor replacement is a sealed-system repair; ruling out airflow and door-seal issues first prevents unnecessary downtime.

Use the 11173049610 owner's manual for model-specific troubleshooting tables. For parts by model, search on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

Your Kenmore refrigerator’s model number is printed on the identification label inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment. For Kenmore model 111.7304* units, the label is on the interior liner of the refrigerator compartment; use that model number to match the correct parts and documentation in our system.

Where to look for the model number label

Check these common spots in the refrigerator (fresh food) section:

• Side wall of the interior liner
• Upper interior liner near the ceiling
• Near or behind the crisper drawers (on the liner)
• Along the door opening frame (interior edge)

For model 11173049610, the 11173049610 owner's manual confirms the model and serial number are on an identification label located on the interior liner of the refrigerator compartment.

What to write down (and why)

Record these details exactly as shown on the label:

• Model number (example: 11173049610)
• Serial number
• Date of purchase (if available)

Why it matters

The model number controls the correct fit for parts like shelves, door bins, water filters, and ice maker components. Even small model differences can change mounting points, wiring connectors, and door hardware.

Quick check: model family vs. exact model

What you see	Example	What it means
Model family pattern	111.7304*	Same platform; color/version varies
Exact model number	11173049610	The precise match for parts and diagrams
Serial number	(varies)	Production run info; helpful for service

If you’re trying to match parts

Use the exact model number from the label to search the parts list for 11173049610 first. If you are shopping beyond this model page, search by the full model number on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

Bottom-freezer refrigerators like the Kenmore 11173049610 put fresh food at eye level, but the tradeoffs are higher purchase cost, more bending to reach frozen items, and freezer drawers that can be harder to organize. They can also be more prone to drain and defrost-related water issues if maintenance is neglected.

Common disadvantages (what owners notice most)

• More bending and lifting: you reach down for frozen foods, ice bins, and heavy items.
• Drawer organization challenges: deep lower drawers can hide smaller packages.
• Higher upfront cost: bottom-freezer designs often cost more than top-freezer models.
• Heavier freezer access: a loaded drawer can feel heavy, especially for kids or anyone with back or knee pain.
• More nuisance water problems when neglected: clogged drains or frost buildup can lead to leaks or puddles.

Bottom freezer vs top freezer: quick comparison

Feature	Bottom freezer	Top freezer
Fresh food access	Easier (eye level)	More bending
Freezer access	More bending	Easier
Organization	Drawer-based, can be deep	Shelf-based, often simpler
Typical cost	Higher	Lower
Common maintenance pain points	Drain/defrost, drawer rails	Door gaskets, frost from door left ajar

Tips to reduce the downsides

• Keep frequently used frozen items in the upper basket or top layer of the drawer.
• Avoid overloading the freezer drawer; it reduces airflow and makes the drawer harder to open.
• Level the refrigerator so doors and drawers seal correctly; poor leveling can cause warm spots and frost. The leveling steps for this model are in the owner's manual.
• If you see water under the refrigerator, address it quickly; drain and defrost issues get worse when ignored.

Why it matters

Most “bottom freezer complaints” are really about ergonomics and maintenance. If you stock the freezer heavily or access it many times a day, the bending and drawer weight become daily annoyances. If you stay on top of cleaning and leveling, you avoid many of the leak and frost problems.

For model-specific parts and diagrams for the Kenmore 11173049610, start with the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

On a Kenmore bottom-mount refrigerator like model 11173049610, the “bottom part” most people mean is the compressor area (the machinery compartment near the lower back). That section houses the compressor and other cooling components that keep the refrigerator and freezer cold.

What’s down there (common parts in the bottom area)

Depending on the exact design, the lower rear section typically includes:

• Compressor (pumps refrigerant through the sealed system)
• Condenser coil (releases heat from the refrigerant)
• Condenser fan (moves air across the condenser coil)
• Drain pan (catches defrost water so it can evaporate)
• Wiring and control components (power and control for cooling)

Safety note before you reach under the refrigerator

We recommend using extra caution around the bottom rear area.

• Unplug the refrigerator before inspecting anything underneath
• Avoid reaching into tight openings; sharp metal edges are common
• Do not attempt to disassemble or repair sealed-system components
• If you need to move the unit, protect the floor and keep it upright

For model-specific diagrams and component names, use the 11173049610 owner’s manual.

Quick terminology guide

What you call it	What it usually refers to	Where it is
Bottom part	Compressor compartment	Lower back of the cabinet
Bottom drawer	Freezer drawer	Front, bottom section
Bottom grille/kickplate	Toe grille/air intake cover	Front, very bottom

Why it matters

Knowing whether you mean the compressor compartment (cooling system) or the freezer drawer (storage area) helps you troubleshoot correctly, order the right replacement parts, and avoid unsafe repairs.

If you’re shopping for replacement parts by model number, start with the parts list for 11173049610, or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026