What is the bottom part of a refrigerator called?
On a Kenmore bottom-mount refrigerator like model 79577314600, the “bottom part” most people mean is the base grille (the vented cover at the very bottom front). Behind that area, the compressor and other cooling components are typically located.
Common “bottom parts” and what they do
- Base grille: Covers the lower front opening and helps airflow.
- Compressor area: Houses the compressor and related electrical parts.
- Drain system: Routes defrost water down and out (a clogged drain can cause puddles).
- Leveling legs/screws: Let us level the cabinet so doors close properly.
Quick guide: which “bottom part” are you referring to?
| If you mean... | What it’s usually called | Where it is | Why you’d look for it |
|---|---|---|---|
| The vented cover at the very bottom front | Base grille | Front, bottom | Cleaning, access, leveling |
| The “motor” sound source | Compressor | Rear/bottom area | No cooling, clicking, overheating |
| Water pooling under/inside | Drain tube/drain path | Bottom rear/under evaporator area | Leaks, ice buildup |
How to remove the base grille (model 79577314600)
The owner's manual describes removing the base grille by grasping it with both hands and pulling it toward you; reinstall by aligning the clips and pushing until it snaps in.
- Unplug the refrigerator (recommended for safety).
- Grip the grille with both hands.
- Pull the grille straight toward you.
- After service/cleaning, align the clips and push until it snaps in.
Why it matters
Using the right name helps us match the correct Kenmore parts and instructions. For example, “base grille” is a removable cover, while “compressor” is a sealed-system component with very different troubleshooting steps.
Last updated: February 2026
What size is Kenmore refrigerator model 79577314600?
Kenmore refrigerator model 79577314600 is a bottom-freezer design (manual covers models 795.7730 and 795.7731). For exact exterior dimensions and capacity for your specific 79577314600, we use the specifications listed in the owner's manual.
What “size” usually means (and what to check)
When customers ask for refrigerator size, it typically refers to one or more of these:
- Overall width, depth, and height (fit in the opening)
- Total capacity (cu. ft.) (storage volume)
- Door swing clearance (space needed to open doors fully)
- Installation clearance (airflow space around the cabinet)
- Water line clearance (extra room behind unit if connected to water)
How to confirm the right measurements for your kitchen
We recommend measuring your space first, then matching the refrigerator’s published dimensions.
- Measure the opening width at the front and back.
- Measure height to the lowest cabinet or trim.
- Measure depth from the back wall to the front edge of counters.
- Add clearance for:
- door swing and handles
- airflow behind and above
- water line routing (if applicable)
Quick measurement checklist
| What to measure | Why it matters | What to include |
|---|---|---|
| Width | Fit between cabinets | base cabinet spacing, trim |
| Height | Fit under cabinets | hinges, leveling legs |
| Depth | Avoid sticking out too far | doors, handles, clearance |
Water line space (if you have an ice maker or dispenser)
The manual’s water line guidance calls for extra tubing so the refrigerator can be pulled out for service. That extra coil can require a bit more room behind the unit.
- Use 1/4-inch OD copper tubing
- Plan for extra tubing length so the unit can move out from the wall
- Verify your home water pressure is in the typical refrigerator range
Why it matters
Getting the correct size for the Kenmore 79577314600 prevents installation problems like doors hitting cabinets, poor airflow that affects cooling, and kinks in the water line that can stop ice and water.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the average lifespan of 79577314600?
The average lifespan of the Kenmore 79577314600 bottom-mount refrigerator is 13 years. You can often reach or exceed that with steady temperatures, clean condenser airflow, and quick fixes for door-seal or defrost-drain issues; see the maintenance and care guidance in the owner's manual.
Typical lifespan and what affects it
Most bottom-mount refrigerators last longest when the sealed system stays healthy and the unit can move air freely.
- Heat and airflow: Dusty condenser areas make the compressor run hotter and longer.
- Door sealing: Warm air leaks create frost, moisture, and longer run times.
- Defrost and drainage: A restricted drain can cause ice buildup and water leaks.
- Temperature settings: Over-cold settings increase run time and wear.
- Usage patterns: Frequent door openings and overpacking reduce airflow.
Quick checks that help you get the full 13 years
Use these simple checks a few times per year.
- Keep refrigerator at 37°F and freezer at 0°F.
- Confirm doors close on their own and the gasket seals all the way around.
- Clear vents inside the fresh-food and freezer compartments.
- Watch for water under crispers or in the freezer, which can point to a drain issue.
- Listen for unusual clicking or repeated start attempts from the compressor area.
Common wear items vs. major repairs
| Item type | Examples on this model | What you typically notice |
|---|---|---|
| Wear/maintenance parts | Door gasket, door switch, drawer rails | Warm spots, lights not working right, drawers not sliding |
| Cooling system/controls | Control board, sensors, compressor start components | Temperature swings, no-cool, repeated clicking |
If you are chasing temperature problems, a failed sensor or defrost component can mimic bigger issues; the parts list for this model includes items like the refrigerator defrost sensor assembly 6615JB2005C and the refrigerator defrost heater 5300JB1100J.
Why it matters
Knowing the expected 13-year lifespan helps you decide whether to invest in a repair (like a gasket or defrost fix) versus planning for replacement when a compressor or sealed-system issue appears.
Last updated: March 2026





