Kenmore 11173029711 bottom-mount refrigerator Parts

For most households, yes: a bottom-mount (bottom freezer) refrigerator like Kenmore model 11173029711 is “better” because the fresh-food section sits at eye and waist level, so you reach everyday items more easily while the freezer stays in lower pull-out drawers. See the owner's manual for your model’s features and setup details, and use Sears PartsDirect to look up parts by model number.

Bottom-mount designs usually fit the way people cook and snack day to day.

• You access fresh foods (produce, dairy, drinks) more often than frozen items.
• Less bending for refrigerator shelves and crisper drawers.
• Freezer drawers help organize bulky frozen foods.
• Adjustable refrigerator shelving helps match storage to your routine.
• Leveling and door adjustment help the doors seal and look aligned.

A bottom-mount is not the best fit for every kitchen or budget.

• If you use the freezer more than the refrigerator, a top-freezer can feel more convenient.
• If you want the lowest upfront cost, top-freezer models are often simpler.
• If you need maximum freezer visibility at a glance, an upright freezer or side-by-side layout can be easier.

A refrigerator that matches how you store food helps reduce door-open time, which supports steadier temperatures and energy savings. On model 11173029711, keeping the cabinet level and the doors aligned also helps the gasket seal consistently.

• Level the refrigerator using the front leveling legs; turning clockwise lowers the front, counterclockwise raises it.
• If doors look uneven, adjust the middle hinge screw nut with the provided wrench.
• Avoid washing cold glass shelves with warm water to prevent breakage.

Last updated: February 2026

The most common problems we see on Kenmore refrigerators (including model 11173029711) are cooling issues, ice maker and water dispenser problems, water leaks, frost buildup, doors not sealing or closing correctly, and unusual noises. Many are caused by airflow restrictions, water supply issues, or door and drain problems; our owner's manual helps you pinpoint the symptom and the right fix.

• Not cooling or warm temperatures: blocked air vents, dirty condenser coils, evaporator fan issues, or defrost problems
• Ice maker not making ice: ice maker turned off, new install cooldown time, low water pressure, kinked supply line, shutoff valve closed
• Water leaking or puddles: clogged/iced defrost drain, loose water line connections, cracked drain pan
• Frost buildup: door left ajar, bad door seal, frequent openings, defrost system trouble
• Noisy operation: normal defrost water dripping, cabinet vibration, high-efficiency compressor sounds
• Doors pop open or won’t close: food packages blocking, bins/shelves out of position

• Set temps to typical targets: 37°F fresh food, 0°F freezer.
• Make sure interior vents are not blocked by food containers.
• Clean condenser coils and confirm the unit has airflow around it.
• For ice maker issues, confirm the ice maker is ON and allow up to 24 hours after installation/connection for ice production.
• Inspect the water line behind the refrigerator for kinks and verify the shutoff valve is fully open.

Cooling, ice, and leak symptoms often share the same root causes: restricted airflow, poor door sealing, or reduced water flow. Fixing those basics early helps protect food quality and prevents repeat icing and leaking.

For model-specific troubleshooting steps and operating details, use the Kenmore 111 model bottom freezer refrigerator error codes guide, and order replacement parts by model number through Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

On a Kenmore 11173029711 bottom-mount refrigerator, the “bottom part” most people mean is the compressor area (the sealed system components are typically located at the lower rear). We recommend using the owner's manual to match the name to the exact area you’re pointing to.

Depending on where you’re looking, the bottom section can refer to different components:

• Compressor: pumps refrigerant through the sealed system (often at the bottom back)
• Condenser fan and condenser coils: remove heat from the refrigerant (usually near the compressor)
• Drain pan: catches defrost water so it can evaporate (typically underneath)
• Leveling legs/rollers: help level the cabinet and align doors
• Freezer drawer assembly: the bottom compartment on a bottom-mount design

Use this to name what you’re seeing.

Using the right name helps you troubleshoot faster and order the correct replacement part. For example, a “buzzing at the bottom back” points to the compressor area, while “water under the fridge” often points to the drain system or drain pan.

We recommend these basics before inspecting the lower rear area:

• Unplug the refrigerator before removing any lower rear access cover
• Avoid reaching into the bottom back area; sharp edges and electrical parts are common
• Allow at least 2 inches of clearance between the back of the refrigerator and the wall for airflow
• If you need to move the unit, leveling and door alignment steps are outlined in the owner's manual

If you’re shopping for replacement parts by model number, start with the parts list for Kenmore 11173029711, or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

Most Kenmore refrigerators average 10 to 15 years of service life with normal household use. For a Kenmore bottom-mount refrigerator like model 11173029711, consistent maintenance (airflow, clean seals, and timely repairs) is what most often determines whether you land closer to 10 years or closer to 15.

Refrigerator lifespan varies by usage and environment, but these ranges are reliable for planning:

• 10 to 15 years: typical for most modern refrigerators
• 15 to 20 years: common when maintenance is consistent and the unit has good ventilation
• Under 10 years: more likely with poor airflow, dirty condenser area, frequent door opening, or warm installation locations (garage, tight alcove)

These steps reduce compressor run time, prevent overheating, and help temperatures stay stable:

• Keep airflow clearance behind the refrigerator; many units need about 2 inches from the back wall for ventilation (your owner's manual covers installation spacing).
• Keep door gaskets clean and sealing; fix gaps early to prevent constant running.
• Avoid overpacking; blocked vents reduce cooling performance.
• Use correct water supply conditions for ice maker and dispenser systems; many refrigerators require 30 to 125 psi water pressure (also covered in the owner's manual).
• Address new noises, warming, or frost buildup quickly instead of running it “until it quits.”

A refrigerator that is near end-of-average lifespan often shows subtle symptoms first (longer run times, warmer fresh-food temps, doors not closing cleanly). Catching those early can prevent food spoilage and reduce energy waste.

For DIY troubleshooting help on this model family, we recommend checking Kenmore 111 model bottom freezer refrigerator error codes. For parts lookup by model number, start with the parts list for 11173029711 and search more broadly on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026