Who makes elite refrigerators?
Kenmore Elite refrigerators are sold under the Kenmore brand; the actual manufacturer varies by model and production run. For Kenmore Elite model 10644432600, the 106 prefix is commonly associated with Whirlpool-built Kenmore units, and your 10644432600 owner's manual is the best reference for model-specific details.
How to identify who built your Kenmore Elite 10644432600
We use a few reliable identifiers to narrow down the manufacturer:
- Check the model number prefix: 106 is widely used on Whirlpool-manufactured Kenmore refrigerators
- Look at the model and serial label inside the fresh food compartment (inside wall)
- Match replacement parts used on the unit (water filter, ice maker, inlet valve)
- Compare the product data sheet and parts list in the manual
- Use the exact model number when ordering parts to avoid fit issues
Quick guide: brand vs. manufacturer
| What you see | What it means | Example for this unit |
|---|---|---|
| Kenmore Elite | Retail brand name | Kenmore Elite |
| Model number prefix | Often indicates the builder | 10644432600 (commonly Whirlpool-built) |
| Parts compatibility | Confirms the platform | Water filter 9030 style (example: genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1) |
Why it matters
Knowing who built the refrigerator helps us match the correct parts and troubleshooting steps. Even within Kenmore Elite, different manufacturers use different ice maker designs, water filter housings, and control systems.
Last updated: January 2026
What are the common problems with Kenmore Elite refrigerators?
Common problems on the Kenmore Elite 10644432600 side-by-side refrigerator include weak or no cooling, frost buildup, water or ice dispenser issues, and new or louder operating noises. Many fixes are basic maintenance (like cleaning coils) or replacing a failed part in the cooling, defrost, or water system.
Most common symptoms and what usually causes them
- Not cooling well: dirty condenser coils, blocked airflow, evaporator fan issue, or control problem
- Too much frost or ice: defrost system failure (heater, thermostat, or control), door left ajar, or worn door gasket
- Ice maker not making ice: water supply issue, clogged filter, or failed ice maker module
- Water dispenser slow or not dispensing: clogged filter, kinked water line, or inlet valve problem
- Noises (buzzing, pulsating, rattling): normal operation changes, or a component like the water valve cycling during ice maker fill
Quick checks we recommend first (before replacing parts)
- Confirm power and controls are on; then allow 24 hours after a new install or major temperature change for full cooling.
- Make sure doors close fully and vents inside both compartments are not blocked by food packages.
- Clean condenser coils and verify the condenser fan area is clear of dust and pet hair.
- If the unit seems to run constantly, consider room temperature, frequent door openings, and large warm food loads (all increase run time).
- If you hear buzzing during ice maker fill, that is commonly the water valve opening and can be normal.
Parts that commonly solve these problems on model 10644432600
| Symptom | Common part to check | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Slow water, bad taste/odor | Water filter | Refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1 |
| No ice or intermittent ice | Ice maker assembly | Refrigerator ice maker assembly 2198597 |
| Frost buildup, warm temps | Defrost thermostat | Refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat WPW10225581 |
| No water to dispenser/ice maker | Water inlet valve | Refrigerator inlet valve W10247725 |
Why it matters
Cooling, defrost, and water-delivery problems can overlap. A clogged filter can reduce ice production, and a defrost failure can block airflow and look like a cooling problem. Using the troubleshooting steps in the 10644432600 owner’s manual helps you pinpoint the right system before you buy parts.
Last updated: January 2026
How many cubic feet is the Kenmore Elite refrigerator?
For Kenmore Elite model 10644432600, the installation guide shows this refrigerator was produced in two capacity classes: 23 cu ft or 25 cu ft (the guide also lists these as 654 L and 694 L). Use the model-size table in the installation guide to match your exact cabinet size.
How to tell whether yours is 23 or 25 cu ft
The easiest way is to compare your unit’s height and overall size to the installation guide tables.
- Check the height and width in the installation guide “Model Size” and “Opening Dimensions” tables
- Measure with the leveling legs at the minimum height (as shown in the guide)
- If your leveling legs are extended farther, add about 3/4 inch to the listed height
- Confirm your full model number from the label inside the fresh food compartment
- If you are shopping parts like a water filter, match by model number and the part ID
Quick size comparison (from the installation guide)
| Model size class | Approx. capacity | Typical height shown (A) | Standard cabinet opening height |
|---|---|---|---|
| 23 ft class | 23 cu ft (654 L) | 64 7/8 in | 69 in |
| 25 ft class | 25 cu ft (694 L) | 67 3/4 in | 72 in |
Why it matters
Capacity affects how much food you can store, but it also ties directly to fit and clearance. Using the correct size class helps you confirm cabinet opening height, door swing clearance, and installation requirements before moving the refrigerator or planning a kitchen update.
If you are also replacing filtration parts, this model commonly uses the genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1, which corresponds to the manual’s replacement filter ordering info.
Last updated: January 2026
Why is my Kenmore Elite side by side fridge not cooling?
If your Kenmore Elite 10644432600 side-by-side refrigerator is not cooling, the most common causes are the cooling being turned Off at the controls, a recent installation that needs a full 24 hours to stabilize, or an airflow problem (doors left open, blocked vents, or a failed fan). See the 10644432600 owner's manual for control settings and troubleshooting steps.
Quick checks we recommend first
- Confirm the unit has power (outlet works and breaker is not tripped).
- Make sure cooling is turned On (the refrigerator will not cool when set to Off).
- If it was just installed or restarted, allow 24 hours to cool completely.
- Verify the doors are sealing and not being left open.
- Check that interior air vents are not blocked by food packages.
- Listen for the evaporator fan in the freezer; it should run when cooling is on.
Temperature settings that work for this model
The factory recommended mid-settings for this refrigerator are:
| Compartment | Recommended set point | Normal set point range |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer | 0°F (-18°C) | -6°F to 6°F (-21°C to -14°C) |
| Refrigerator | 37°F (3°C) | 32°F to 46°F (0°C to 8°C) |
Why this matters: setting the controls colder does not cool faster; it can mask the real issue (like poor airflow or a defrost problem).
If it has power but still will not cool
These are the most likely repair paths on a side-by-side like model 10644432600:
- Evaporator fan issue: if the fan is not moving air, the refrigerator section warms up first.
- Defrost system problem: frost buildup on the evaporator can block airflow; a common suspect is the refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat WPW10225581.
- Compressor or start components: the compressor may not be running or may be cycling incorrectly.
- Airflow control problem: a stuck damper can limit cold air to the fresh food section.
What “normal” sounds can tell you
Some noises are expected and help confirm systems are operating:
| Sound | What it usually indicates |
|---|---|
| Buzzing | Water valve opening to fill the ice maker |
| Pulsating | Fans/compressor adjusting for performance |
Why it matters: if you never hear fan or compressor activity and temperatures rise, focus on power, controls, and the cooling system.
Last updated: January 2026





