How many cubic feet is a Kenmore Elite refrigerator?
Kenmore Elite refrigerator capacity depends on the exact model number; “Kenmore Elite” covers multiple sizes. For your Kenmore 59652679200 side-by-side, the manual groups installation guidance by capacity and indicates this model is in the greater than 23 cu. ft. class, so it is typically in the 23 to 26 cu. ft. range. For the exact listed capacity, check the product specifications in the owner's manual.
How to identify the exact cubic feet for your Kenmore Elite
We match capacity to the specific model, not the “Elite” label. Use these quick checks:
- Confirm the full model number on the sticker inside the refrigerator compartment
- Look for a “Capacity” or “Specifications” section in the manual
- If you are measuring yourself, use interior dimensions (not exterior cabinet size)
- Ignore similar-looking models; a single digit change can mean a different size
Typical Kenmore Elite capacity ranges (what most customers see)
These are common ranges by style; your 59652679200 is a side-by-side.
| Refrigerator style | Typical capacity range |
|---|---|
| Side-by-side | 23 to 26 cu. ft. |
| French door | 25 to 30+ cu. ft. |
| Top freezer | 14 to 21 cu. ft. |
| Bottom freezer | 18 to 25 cu. ft. |
Why cubic feet matters
Capacity affects food storage, airflow needs, and fit. The manual’s installation guidance for this model family uses a greater than 23 cu. ft. category for clearance planning, which helps ensure proper ventilation and door operation.
Related maintenance that impacts usable space
If ice buildup or poor cooling reduces usable space, these are common causes to address:
- Door not sealing well (warm air intrusion)
- Overpacked shelves blocking vents
- Frost buildup from frequent door openings
- Water/ice system issues causing clumping in the bin
For dispenser and ice maker troubleshooting tips, use common refrigerator ice maker problems and solutions.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most common issues with 59652679200?
The most common issues we see on the Kenmore 59652679200 side-by-side refrigerator involve ice maker and water dispensing problems, warm temperatures from airflow or defrost trouble, and door sealing or lighting issues. Use the 59652679200 owner's manual to confirm control settings and model-specific checks.
Common symptoms and what they usually point to
- No ice or small cubes: water supply restriction, frozen fill tube, or a failing ice maker
- Water dispenser slow or not working: clogged filter path, kinked line, or a weak inlet valve
- Fridge warm but freezer cold (or vice versa): evaporator fan or airflow blockage, frost buildup from a defrost issue
- Frost/ice buildup on the back wall: defrost system problem (heater, timer/control)
- Door not sealing, moisture on gasket: gasket not seating, door alignment, or debris on the seal
- Lights not working: door/light switch or bulb failure
Quick checks we recommend first
- Verify temperatures; most side-by-sides run best around 37°F fresh food and 0°F freezer.
- Make sure vents are not blocked by food packages.
- Check for heavy frost on the freezer rear panel (a strong defrost clue).
- Confirm the shutoff arm or ice maker switch is on (if equipped).
- Inspect the door gaskets for gaps, tears, or hardened sections.
Parts that commonly solve these problems (when testing confirms failure)
| Symptom | Likely part to check | Example part on this model |
|---|---|---|
| No ice | Ice maker module/assembly | Refrigerator ice maker D7824706Q |
| No water/slow water | Water inlet valve | Refrigerator valve WP12544002 |
| Frost buildup, warm temps | Defrost control | Refrigerator defrost timer board WP12566102 |
| Lights stay off | Door/light switch | Refrigerator light switch W11396033 |
| Door leaks air | Door gasket | Gasket-ff W10840101 or refrigerator freezer door gasket W10133491 |
Why it matters
Ice maker, defrost, and airflow problems can quickly lead to spoiled food, ice buildup, and compressor overwork. Catching a weak valve, failing defrost control, or leaking gasket early helps the refrigerator cool evenly and run efficiently.
Last updated: March 2026
What is the code Sy Ef on a Kenmore refrigerator?
On Kenmore refrigerator model 59652679200, the display code SY EF points to a problem in the freezer-side cooling airflow system (most often the evaporator fan circuit or a related sensor/connection). We use the troubleshooting and temperature-check procedures in the 59652679200 owner's manual to verify cooling performance and guide the next checks.
What to check first (safe, no-tools steps)
- Power reset: unplug for 5 minutes, then restore power.
- Confirm actual temperatures with thermometers: freezer should be 0°F to 2°F, refrigerator should be 38°F to 40°F.
- Listen for airflow at the freezer vents after the unit has been running.
- Check for frost buildup on the freezer back wall (heavy frost often means airflow is being blocked).
- Make sure doors seal and close fully; warm air leaks create frost and airflow problems.
Quick diagnosis guide
| What you observe | What it usually means | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer warming and weak/no airflow | Evaporator fan not moving air | Check for ice blockage; then test fan circuit and door switch operation |
| Heavy frost on freezer rear panel | Defrost system not clearing frost | Inspect defrost components and wiring; clear frost to restore airflow temporarily |
| Temps normal after reset but code returns | Intermittent connection or failing component | Inspect harness plugs, fan motor, and control connections |
Parts that commonly relate to airflow and frost issues
These parts can be involved when airflow is restricted or frost is not being cleared:
- Refrigerator heater WP12049801 (defrost heater that melts frost off the evaporator)
- Refrigerator defrost timer board WP12566102 (controls defrost timing on applicable designs)
- Refrigerator light switch W11396033 (a failed door switch can affect fan operation on some designs)
Why it matters
When airflow through the evaporator area is reduced, the refrigerator can’t move cold air where it’s needed; temperatures rise, frost can build up faster, and the compressor may run longer than normal.
Last updated: February 2026





