How to read Kenmore model numbers?
Kenmore model numbers are read left to right: the first 3 digits identify the manufacturer code, and the remaining digits identify the specific product design and version. For your Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 36358047890, the 363 prefix is the key piece we use to match the correct parts list and diagrams.
On most Kenmore side-by-side refrigerators, we find the model/serial tag in one of these spots:
- Inside the fresh food compartment on a side wall
- On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment near the light
- Behind the crisper drawers (on the liner wall)
- On the door frame when you open the refrigerator door
- On the back of the cabinet (less common for daily access)
Kenmore model numbers typically follow this pattern:
| Section | Example from your model | What it tells us |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer prefix | 363 | Who built the appliance for Kenmore |
| Base model + variation | 58047890 | The platform, features, and revision used to select parts |
Small differences in the full model number can change the correct ice maker, water valve, or defrost parts. We recommend:
- Use the entire model number, not just the first 6 to 8 digits
- Match every digit exactly (including any trailing zeros)
- If the tag is worn, take a clear photo and zoom in to confirm characters
- Cross-check the part by description and location on the refrigerator
- When troubleshooting water or ice issues, start with the most common wear parts (valves, switches, and ice maker components)
If you are working on ice or water problems on this model, the water valve WR57X10033 is one of the common parts involved in filling the ice maker and supplying the dispenser.
Kenmore used multiple manufacturers over the years, so the 3-digit prefix is what keeps you in the right parts family. Using the full model number (like 36358047890) prevents mismatches in critical systems such as the defrost circuit, lighting, and ice maker fill system.
Last updated: February 2026
Where is the model number on a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
On a Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator like model 36358047890, the model number is printed on the appliance identification label, most often inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment along the side wall near the top, or around the door frame.
Look for a white or silver sticker or plate that lists MODEL and SERIAL.
- Inside the refrigerator section on the left or right side wall
- On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment (near the light)
- On the door frame (hinge side) when you open the refrigerator door
- Behind the crisper drawers (on the side wall above the drawer rails)
- On the back exterior panel near the power cord entry
We recommend copying the model number exactly as shown (letters, numbers, and any dashes).
| What to find | Why it matters | Example format |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Ensures correct parts diagrams and fit | 36358047890 |
| Serial number | Helps match production run and revisions | Mix of letters and numbers |
| Brand | Confirms parts family | Kenmore |
If the sticker is worn or covered, these steps usually help.
- Wipe gently with warm water and a drop of dish soap; dry fully
- Use a flashlight at an angle to make faint printing stand out
- Take a close-up photo and zoom in
- Check both doors and the cabinet frame; labels vary by build
Using the exact model number (for example, 36358047890) prevents ordering the wrong refrigerator parts, especially for assemblies that look similar, such as an ice maker kit, water inlet valve, or light components.
If you are already troubleshooting a related issue, our DIY guide on common refrigerator ice maker problems and solutions can help you narrow down what to check next.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the average lifespan of a Kenmore refrigerator?
Most Kenmore refrigerators average 10 to 15 years of service life. For a Kenmore side-by-side like model 36358047890, consistent maintenance (airflow, clean coils, good door sealing) and quick fixes for cooling or ice maker issues are what most often determine whether it lands closer to 10 years or pushes beyond 15.
| Refrigerator type | Typical lifespan | What shortens life fastest |
|---|---|---|
| Side-by-side (like 36358047890) | 10 to 15 years | Dirty condenser coils, poor airflow, weak door seals |
| Top freezer | 12 to 18 years | Overloading, blocked vents |
| French door | 9 to 14 years | Heavy use of ice maker and dispenser, airflow restrictions |
- Clean condenser coils regularly (dust and pet hair make the compressor work harder).
- Keep space around the cabinet for ventilation; avoid pushing the refrigerator tight to the wall.
- Set temps correctly: 37°F for fresh food and 0°F for freezer.
- Keep door gaskets clean and sealing; warm air leaks cause long run times and frost.
- Do not block interior air vents with food packages.
- Address water and ice issues early; a leaking valve or slow fill can create bigger problems.
When cooling performance drops, these parts are frequent suspects on side-by-sides:
- Capacitor WR55X24064 (helps the compressor start and run efficiently)
- Fan motor WR60X187 (moves air across the condenser; poor airflow raises temperatures)
- Water valve WR57X10033 (can leak or fail to fill the ice maker properly)
A refrigerator that runs longer than normal to hold temperature uses more energy and puts extra wear on the sealed system (compressor and refrigerant loop). Simple upkeep and timely replacement of airflow and electrical-start components often prevents the “warm fridge, cold freezer” or “not cooling” spiral.
Related DIY help: how to prevent water dispenser and ice maker problems
Last updated: February 2026
Can you still get parts for Kenmore refrigerators?
Yes. We still support Kenmore refrigerator parts, and for Kenmore model 36358047890 you can replace common wear items (like light bulbs, water valves, and defrost parts) as well as larger components when needed. Matching the part to your exact model number is the key to proper fit and function.
- Use the full model number 36358047890 when shopping for parts.
- Compare the part ID on the listing to the part currently installed.
- Check for revisions: the same part name can have multiple versions.
- If your refrigerator has an ice maker or dispenser, verify whether the part is for that option.
- Replace mounting hardware or fittings if they are worn or stripped.
Here are examples of parts available for Kenmore 36358047890 that often solve everyday problems:
| Symptom | Part type to check | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| No ice or no water dispensing | Water inlet valve | Water valve WR57X10033 |
| Frost buildup, warm freezer, or defrost issues | Defrost thermostat or defrost control | Refrigerator defrost thermostat WR50X122 or refrigerator defrost control WR9X489 |
| Interior light out | Bulb or light switch | 40A15/22 40A15 or light switch WR23X37285 |
| Clicking, hard starting, or compressor won’t start | Start device | Refrigerator relay protector WR07X10055 |
Using the correct Kenmore model number helps us narrow parts by fit, electrical rating, and mounting style. That prevents repeat failures, leaks, and cooling problems caused by installing a similar looking but incompatible refrigerator part.
If you are working on water and ice issues, our guide on how to prevent water dispenser and ice maker problems helps you check supply pressure, frozen lines, and common maintenance steps before replacing parts.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most common problems with Kenmore refrigerators?
The most common problems we see on Kenmore refrigerators (including model 36358047890) are cooling failures, water leaks, ice maker and dispenser issues, and unusual noises. These usually trace back to airflow problems (dirty coils or a failed fan motor), defrost system faults, or water supply and valve problems.
- Not cooling or weak cooling: dirty condenser coils, blocked vents, failed evaporator or condenser fan, or a defrost problem
- Frost buildup on the back wall or in the freezer: defrost thermostat or defrost control issues
- Water under the refrigerator or inside the fresh food section: clogged defrost drain, cracked water line, or a leaking inlet valve
- Ice maker not making ice: water supply restriction, inlet valve failure, ice maker mechanism issue
- Buzzing, rattling, or clicking: fan blade hitting ice, failing fan motor, or compressor start components
- Confirm temperatures: set refrigerator to about 37°F and freezer to about 0°F.
- Check airflow: make sure vents are not blocked by food packages.
- Clean condenser coils: dust buildup can cause warm temps and long run times.
- Listen for fans: you should typically hear a fan running when the compressor is on.
- Inspect for leaks: look for water at the bottom of the freezer (often a drain issue) and behind the unit (often supply/valve).
| Problem area | What fails most often | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Water dispenser or ice maker not filling | Inlet valve sticking or not opening | Water valve WR57X10033 |
| Warm temps, poor airflow, noise | Condenser fan not running or noisy | Fan motor WR60X187 |
| Frost buildup, warm refrigerator section | Defrost thermostat not closing when cold | Refrigerator defrost thermostat WR50X122 |
| Lights not working | Bulb or door switch issue | Light switch WR23X37285 |
Cooling, defrost, and water systems all depend on steady airflow and correct timing. When one component fails, the refrigerator can run longer, warm up, leak, or stop making ice. Catching the symptom early helps prevent food spoilage and repeat breakdowns.
For dispenser and ice maker issues, we recommend following how to prevent water dispenser and ice maker problems. For water supply troubleshooting, how to diagnose a faulty refrigerator water inlet valve helps you confirm whether the valve is the root cause.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the cubic foot of my Kenmore refrigerator model 36358047890?
The total capacity (cubic feet) for Kenmore refrigerator model 36358047890 is listed on the refrigerator’s model and serial tag and is the only reliable way to match your exact unit. Most side-by-side refrigerators in this class are commonly 21 to 23 cu. ft. total.
Look for the rating label inside the fresh food compartment; it typically includes “Total capacity” or “Total cu. ft.”
- Check the inside side wall of the fresh food section first
- Also check behind the crisper drawers or on the ceiling near the light
- Write down the full model number and serial number before shopping
- If the label is worn, take a clear photo and zoom in to read the capacity line
- Measure the cabinet opening too (width, height, depth) so the replacement fits
Use this only as a sizing guide when comparing refrigerators; confirm the exact number on the tag for model 36358047890.
| Refrigerator type | Common total capacity range | What changes usable space most |
|---|---|---|
| Side-by-side | 21 to 23 cu. ft. | Ice maker, door bins, shelf layout |
| Top freezer | 14 to 20 cu. ft. | Freezer shelf/basket design |
| French door | 20 to 28 cu. ft. | Drawer configuration, ice system |
Cubic feet helps you compare storage volume, but fit and organization matter just as much. Ice storage and drawer hardware can reduce usable space even when the “total cu. ft.” rating is the same.
If you are trying to regain space or improve organization, these model-compatible parts are often involved:
- Refrigerator ice bucket WR30X10154 (ice storage volume and dispensing)
- Refrigerator slide assembly, left WR72X207 (crisper drawer alignment and smooth travel)
- Refrigerator crisper drawer WR32X1177 (fresh food storage capacity and layout)
Last updated: February 2026





