Where is the model number on a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
On Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 25357188600, the model number is printed on the serial plate inside the refrigerator compartment. Open the fresh food (refrigerator) door and look for the label on an interior wall; record the model and serial for parts and service.
Where to look (fast checklist)
- Open the refrigerator (fresh food) door
- Check the inside walls near the top front area
- Look along the side wall near the crisper area
- Check near the ceiling light housing area
- Find the serial plate label that lists Model Number and Serial Number
What the label looks like
The serial plate typically includes:
- Model number (for this unit, it starts with 253)
- Serial number
- Purchase date field (sometimes blank)
| Item on label | What it’s used for |
|---|---|
| Model number | Matching the correct parts list and diagrams |
| Serial number | Identifying production details for the unit |
Cleaning and handling tips
To keep the label readable:
- Wipe gently with soap and water only
- Avoid abrasive pads or strong cleaners
- Do not scrape the label
Why it matters
Using the exact model number prevents ordering the wrong Kenmore refrigerator parts (like a water filter, ice maker, or door gasket) and helps ensure diagrams and troubleshooting steps match your exact configuration.
For a diagram-style reference and model-specific details, use the 25357188600 owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
What's the size of a side-by-side refrigerator?
Most side-by-side refrigerators are about 30 to 36 inches wide, 67 to 70 inches tall, and 29 to 35 inches deep. For your Kenmore 25357188600, use the exact cabinet and door-swing measurements in the owner's manual when planning a tight fit.
Typical size ranges (what to plan for)
- Width: 30 to 36 in.
- Height: 67 to 70 in.
- Depth (cabinet): 29 to 35 in.
- Depth with handles: often 1 to 3 in. deeper than cabinet depth
- Door swing clearance: plan extra space so doors and bins open fully
Installation clearances you should leave
Your Kenmore 25357188600 needs airflow and connection space around the cabinet. The installation guidance calls for:
- Sides and top: 3/8 in.
- Back: 1 in.
- Next to a wall: leave at least 1/2 in. at the hinge side so the door can swing open
| What you’re measuring | What to include | Why it changes |
|---|---|---|
| Width | cabinet, plus clearance | clearance prevents rubbing and improves airflow |
| Height | cabinet, plus clearance | leveling feet and uneven floors affect fit |
| Depth | cabinet vs. handles vs. door open | handles and door swing can block walkways |
How to measure your space correctly
- Measure the opening width, height, and depth in at least 2 places.
- Confirm you have a grounded outlet and (if used) a water supply line location.
- Plan a path for delivery; side-by-sides are heavy and should be moved from the cabinet sides, not by the handles.
Why it matters
A side-by-side that is even slightly oversized can cause poor door sealing, restricted airflow, and harder access to drawers and freezer baskets. Leaving the recommended clearances helps the compressor cool properly and keeps the refrigerator running efficiently.
Last updated: February 2026
How do I reset a Kenmore refrigerator?
For your Kenmore 25357188600 side-by-side refrigerator, the most reliable reset is a power reset: unplug the cord (or switch the breaker off) for 5 minutes, then restore power and allow 8 to 12 hours of closed-door run time for normal cooling to return. See the 25357188600 owner's manual for control and dispenser reset steps.
Quick reset options (what to try first)
- Power reset (best for control glitches): unplug for 5 minutes, then plug back in.
- Breaker reset: turn the refrigerator circuit breaker off, wait 5 minutes, then turn it on.
- Turn cooling off at the controls (not a full power reset): set the freezer and fresh food controls to 0 to stop the compressor; to fully shut down the refrigerator, unplug it.
- After any reset: keep doors closed and wait for temperatures to stabilize (cooling changes can take 24 hours to fully settle).
Resetting the water filter light (if your dispenser has it)
After replacing the filter cartridge, reset the filter status light at the dispenser:
- Press and hold Filter Reset until the indicator lights flash (about 10 to 15 seconds).
- Flush water for 3 minutes to purge air and condition the filter system.
If you are replacing the filter, the correct part for this model is the genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter WFCB.
What “reset” fixes (and what it does not)
| Symptom | Reset helps? | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Display or dispenser acting odd | Yes | Do a power reset; then wait 24 hours for temps to stabilize |
| Not cooling after power event | Sometimes | Power reset; confirm controls are not set to 0 |
| Filter light on | Yes | Use the dispenser Filter Reset procedure |
| Warm temps right after restart | Normal | Allow 8 to 12 hours before loading food; adjust gradually |
Why it matters
A reset clears minor control-board glitches and restores normal operation after a power interruption. Waiting the full cool-down and stabilization periods prevents over-adjusting the temperature controls and helps protect food safety.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most common problems with Kenmore refrigerators?
The most common issues we see on Kenmore refrigerators like model 25357188600 are cooling problems, long run times, door sealing/closing problems, odors, water and ice maker troubles, and interior light failures. Many of these are caused by airflow restrictions, dirty condenser coils, or worn door gaskets; our owner's manual troubleshooting chart covers several of these symptoms.
Common problems and what usually causes them
- Not cooling or weak cooling: unit just restarted (needs time to cool), blocked vents, dirty condenser coils, or fan/compressor issues
- Runs too much/too long: frequent door openings, warm room conditions, dirty condenser, or a leaking door seal (gasket)
- Freezer too cold: freezer control set too cold (temperature needs time to stabilize after changes)
- Door will not close: refrigerator not level, cabinet touching a wall, or food/containers preventing closure
- Odors inside: interior needs cleaning or uncovered strong-smelling foods
- Light not working: burned-out bulb, stuck door switch, or power supply issue
Quick checks we recommend first (fast, no parts)
- Confirm controls are set correctly and give changes 24 hours to stabilize temperatures.
- Check door closure and seal: close both doors gently; make sure the cabinet is level and not pushed against a wall.
- Clean the condenser coils (a dirty condenser is a common cause of long run times).
- Reduce warm-air intrusion: open doors less often and for shorter periods.
- Address odors: clean the interior and tightly cover foods.
Parts that commonly solve these symptoms
If basic checks do not fix the problem, these model-compatible parts are often involved:
| Symptom | Common part to check/replace | Example part on this model page |
|---|---|---|
| Warm temps, long run time, frost issues | Defrost components | Refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat 5303918214, refrigerator defrost heater 242044113 |
| Poor airflow, warm refrigerator section | Evaporator fan components | Refrigerator evaporator fan blade 5308000010 |
| Water dispenser or ice maker not filling | Water supply valve | Refrigerator water inlet valve assembly 242252702 |
| Dim or no interior light | Light bulb | Refrigerator light bulb 316538904 |
| Door not sealing, moisture/frost | Door gasket | Refrigerator gasket 241786015 |
Why it matters
When airflow is restricted or the door seal leaks, the refrigerator runs longer to hold temperature. That increases energy use and can lead to temperature swings that affect food quality, ice production, and defrost performance.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the cubic foot of my Kenmore refrigerator model 25357188600?
Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 25357188600 has a total capacity in the mid-20 cubic-feet class; most units of this cabinet style are about 25 to 26 cu. ft. For the exact listed capacity for your specific build, use the specifications section in the owner's manual.
How to confirm the exact capacity for your unit
Use these model-specific sources; they match your exact configuration and feature package:
- Check the specifications section in the owner's manual
- Look at the serial plate inside the fresh food compartment (usually on a side wall)
- If your unit has a tech sheet packet, check behind the kick grille area
Typical capacity range for this refrigerator type
This helps set expectations when you are comparing similar Kenmore side-by-side models.
| Refrigerator style | Typical total capacity |
|---|---|
| Side-by-side (standard depth) | 22 to 26 cu. ft. |
| Side-by-side (larger cabinet) | 26 to 28 cu. ft. |
Why model-number digits are not a capacity code
Capacity is determined by cabinet and liner design, insulation thickness, and installed features (ice maker, dispenser, door bins). That is why we use the published specs in the manual or rating label instead of decoding digits.
Why it matters
Knowing cubic feet helps you compare storage space, choose bins and organizers, and set realistic expectations for how much food a side-by-side refrigerator can hold.
Last updated: February 2026





