How to tell if a Kenmore refrigerator compressor is bad?
If your Kenmore refrigerator model 59679243016 is warm in both sections, runs for long periods, or repeatedly clicks or buzzes without cooling, the compressor may be failing. Rule out airflow and door-seal problems first because they create the same “no-cool” symptoms.
Quick symptoms that point to a compressor problem
- Fridge and freezer both warm while the unit seems to be running
- Repeated clicking every few minutes (often a failed start attempt)
- No steady compressor hum or vibration when cooling should be on
- Compressor shell gets very hot after start attempts (use caution)
- Abnormal frost pattern (little to no frost on the evaporator) along with poor cooling
Checks to do first (often not the compressor)
- Clean condenser coils; confirm the condenser fan runs
- Confirm doors close fully and gaskets seal all the way around
- Listen for the evaporator fan in the freezer; no airflow mimics sealed-system failure
- Make sure vents between compartments are not blocked by food
- Unplug 5 minutes, restart, then listen for a normal start and run cycle
What the sound and heat usually mean
| What you notice | Most common cause | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Click, then silence; repeats | Start device/overload issue or locked compressor | Verify fans and coils first; then sealed-system diagnosis |
| Runs constantly; weak cooling | Airflow issue, low refrigerant, inefficient compressor | Check frost pattern and airflow |
| Very hot compressor; poor cooling | Dirty coils, failed condenser fan, or failing compressor | Clean coils; confirm condenser fan operation |
Parts that can contribute to “compressor-like” symptoms
- Door not sealing: inspect and replace the gasket if torn or warped (see refrigerator door gasket, left (gray) W10830055).
- No condenser airflow: a failed fan motor can cause overheating and poor cooling (see refrigerator condenser fan motor W11613295).
Why it matters
A bad seal or failed fan can overheat the compressor and keep it running nonstop. Fixing those issues first prevents unnecessary sealed-system work.
You can order replacement parts for Kenmore 59679243016 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How to tell what model Kenmore refrigerator?
To tell what model Kenmore refrigerator you have, we look for the model number on the appliance’s ID label. On most Kenmore refrigerators, it’s inside the fresh food compartment (side wall, ceiling area, or behind a crisper drawer) or on a label behind the lower kick plate. Once you find it, match it exactly when ordering parts for model 59679243016 on this page or through Sears PartsDirect.
Where to look for the model number label
Check these common spots first:
- Inside the refrigerator section on the left or right side wall
- On the ceiling area inside the fresh food compartment
- Behind or under a crisper drawer (you may need to slide the drawer out)
- Behind the bottom front kick plate or toe grille
- On the cabinet frame near the door hinge area (less common)
What the model number looks like (and why it matters)
Kenmore model numbers are typically a long string of numbers (sometimes with a dot or prefix on other styles). For parts lookup, the exact characters matter because small differences can change the door gasket, water filter, rails, or electrical switches that fit.
Quick check table
| What you find | What to do next | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| A full model number (example: 59679243016) | Use that exact number to match parts | Ensures correct fit and compatibility |
| Only a partial number | Keep looking for the full label | Partial numbers often match multiple builds |
| Label is worn or missing | Check behind the kick plate and inside near drawers | Secondary labels are sometimes placed there |
If you’re ordering parts after you find the model number
Once you confirm the model, use the parts list for your exact refrigerator. For example, common maintenance parts for this model include the refrigerator water filter EDR4RXD1.
- Replace the water filter on schedule to protect water flow and taste
- If the door doesn’t seal, check for gaps and consider replacing the gasket
- If the interior light stays off or won’t turn off, a door switch may be the cause
Why it matters
Using the exact Kenmore model number prevents wrong-part returns and helps you get the right fit for key systems like the water dispenser, ice maker supply, door sealing, and drawer hardware.
Last updated: February 2026
Is a top mount or bottom mount fridge better?
A bottom-mount refrigerator like Kenmore 59679243016 is better when you want fresh-food items at eye level and more organized freezer storage; a top-mount is better when you want the simplest layout and typically the lowest energy use and purchase cost.
Quick comparison
| Feature | Top-mount (freezer on top) | Bottom-mount (freezer on bottom) |
|---|---|---|
| Everyday access | Freezer is easiest to reach | Refrigerator section is easiest to reach |
| Organization | Usually simpler shelving | Often more drawers, bins, pull-out freezer baskets |
| Energy use (typical) | Often slightly lower | Often slightly higher |
| Best for | Budget, basic storage | Frequent fresh-food use, better freezer organization |
How to choose for your kitchen
- If you cook often and use fresh foods daily, bottom-mount usually feels more convenient.
- If you use the freezer more than the refrigerator, top-mount can be more comfortable.
- If you want fewer moving parts and a simpler layout, top-mount is often the straightforward pick.
- If you like pull-out freezer storage and easier sorting, bottom-mount is the better match.
- If door sealing and temperature stability matter in your space, focus on fit, leveling, and gasket condition.
Why it matters
The “better” style is the one that matches how you reach for food every day. Bottom-mount designs reduce bending for fresh-food access, while top-mount designs often trade premium organization for simplicity and efficiency.
Parts that support performance (Kenmore 59679243016)
Even the best layout will disappoint if airflow, sealing, or water quality is off. These common parts help keep a bottom-mount running the way it should:
- Refrigerator water filter EDR4RXD1 to help maintain water and ice quality.
- Refrigerator door gasket (white) W11396037 if you see gaps, sweating, or temperature swings.
- Refrigerator condenser fan motor W11613295 if the unit runs hot, runs constantly, or struggles to cool.
Ordering the right parts
We list model-matched replacement parts for Kenmore 59679243016 on this page; you can also search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What's the average lifespan of a Kenmore refrigerator?
Most Kenmore refrigerators, including bottom-mount models like 59679243016, typically last 12 to 15 years with normal household use. Regular maintenance and quick fixes (especially airflow and sealing issues) help you reach the high end of that range.
Typical lifespan and what to expect
Here is what we see most often for modern full-size refrigerators:
| Condition | Typical service life | What usually drives replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Normal use, basic upkeep | 12 to 15 years | Wear on fans, seals, defrost system |
| Excellent upkeep | 15 to 18 years | Major sealed-system repair cost |
| Poor upkeep (dirty coils, bad seals) | 8 to 12 years | Compressor strain, warm temps, icing |
Maintenance that adds years (and prevents expensive failures)
These steps matter most on a Kenmore bottom-mount refrigerator:
- Clean condenser coils and the area around the condenser fan so heat can leave the cabinet.
- Keep door gaskets clean and sealing tightly; warm air leaks force longer run times.
- Leave space for airflow around the refrigerator and avoid blocking interior vents.
- Replace the water filter on schedule to keep dispenser flow strong and reduce strain on the water system.
- Fix frost buildup, unusual noises, or temperature swings early before they cascade into bigger problems.
Parts that commonly affect longevity on this model
If performance is slipping, these parts are frequent contributors and are available for Kenmore 59679243016:
- Refrigerator condenser fan motor W11613295 (poor heat removal, long run times)
- Refrigerator door gasket (white) W11396037 (air leaks, moisture, frosting)
- Refrigerator water filter EDR4RXD1 (low water flow, dispenser issues)
Why it matters
A refrigerator that runs hotter, longer, or with air leaks uses more energy and puts extra load on the compressor and cooling system. Simple upkeep (coils, airflow, seals, filters) is the most reliable way to extend service life and avoid a premature replacement.
You can order replacement parts for Kenmore 59679243016 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026





