What model is my Kenmore gas range?
Your Kenmore gas range model number is printed on the appliance identification plate. On model 79078853602, that plate is located on the right side of the oven front frame inside the storage or warmer drawer compartment (check the bottom area of that compartment). See the owner's manual for the exact label location diagram.
Where to look on Kenmore 79078853602
Pull the storage drawer (or warmer drawer) out and look for the ID plate:
- On the right side of the oven front frame
- Inside the storage/warmer drawer compartment
- Near the bottom of the compartment (often easiest with a flashlight)
- The label shows both Model No. 790.7885* (color digit varies) and the serial number
What the model number looks like
Kenmore ranges in this series typically show the model in this format:
| What you see on the label | What it means |
|---|---|
| 790.7885* | Base model family (the * is the color code) |
| Serial No. | Unique identifier for your specific range |
Why it matters
We use the model number to match the correct Kenmore gas range parts and diagrams. Even small differences (like the color code digit) can affect which burner parts, oven igniter, or control components fit.
Tips to make the label easier to read
- Use a flashlight and take a photo, then zoom in
- Wipe grease or dust off the plate with a dry cloth
- Write down both the model and serial numbers for future parts ordering
Last updated: February 2026
How to take the top off a Kenmore gas range?
On the Kenmore 79078853602 gas range, removing the cooktop (top) starts with lifting off the grates and burner caps, then removing any burner-head fasteners so the cooktop can lift or hinge up (depending on the design). Use the steps in the installation guide for safe access points and hardware locations.
Before you start (safety and prep)
- Turn all burner knobs to OFF and let the range cool completely.
- Shut off the gas supply at the range shutoff valve.
- Unplug the range or switch OFF the circuit breaker.
- Protect the countertop and cooktop surface with a towel or cardboard.
- Keep screws organized by location so reassembly is straightforward.
Basic cooktop removal steps
- Remove the burner grates.
- Lift off the burner caps.
- Remove the burner heads if your version uses screws or retainers (some lift off; others are secured).
- Look for screws at the front lip, under burner heads, or along the sides that secure the cooktop.
- Lift the cooktop from the front corners. If it is a hinged style, raise it and support it; if it is a lift-off style, lift and slide as needed to clear tabs.
What you may need to remove (common by design)
| What you see | What it usually means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Burner heads held down | Cooktop is fastened through burner area | Remove burner-head screws, then lift cooktop |
| Cooktop will not lift at the front | Front lip screws or clips are still installed | Check under front edge and around burner openings |
| Cooktop lifts but feels tethered | Igniter wiring or gas tubing limits movement | Lift slowly and do not pull on wires |
Why it matters
Removing the top correctly prevents cracked porcelain, stripped screws, and damaged igniter wiring. It also gives you proper access for cleaning spills, servicing burner parts, or diagnosing ignition problems.
Last updated: February 2026
How long should a Kenmore gas stove last?
A Kenmore gas range like model 79078853602 typically lasts 15 years with normal household use. Consistent cleaning, correct burner setup, and fixing ignition or temperature issues early are the biggest factors in getting the full lifespan.
Typical lifespan and what affects it
Most gas ranges reach the 15-year mark when these basics are handled:
- Keep surface burner heads and caps seated correctly and free of spills
- Clean the oven cavity and keep the door sealing tightly
- Avoid slamming the oven door or storage drawer
- Address weak ignition, gas odor, or uneven heating right away
- Use the correct bulb type and avoid touching halogen bulbs with bare fingers
Quick maintenance checklist (high impact)
- Monthly: Lift grates and wipe around burners; clear clogged burner ports with a soft brush
- Every few months: Check the oven door seal for gaps or tears
- As needed: Replace a burned-out oven light with the correct part, such as the range oven light bulb 316538904
- When baking seems “off”: Test oven temperature accuracy; a failing sensor is a common cause, such as the frigidaire range oven temperature sensor 316490000
Common “wear” items vs. “repair” items
| Item type | Examples on this model | What you’ll notice |
|---|---|---|
| Wear/consumable | Light bulb | Oven light won’t turn on |
| Performance control | Oven temperature sensor | Overbakes, underbakes, temp swings |
| Ignition/heating | Bake igniter | Oven won’t heat or heats slowly |
Why it matters
A gas range can keep running for years, but small issues (like a weak igniter or inaccurate temperature sensing) make the oven work harder, increase heat time, and accelerate wear on components.
For model-specific care, cleaning guidance, and safe operating instructions, follow the owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
What does warm and hold do?
On your Kenmore 79078853602 gas range, Warm & Hold keeps cooked food warm by maintaining the oven at 170°F. You can use it by itself or have it turn on automatically after a Timed Bake or Delay Start; it runs up to 3 hours, then shuts the oven off.
How Warm & Hold works
Warm & Hold is designed for holding baked foods at serving temperature, not for cooking or reheating.
- Maintains the oven temperature at 170°F
- Can be used as a standalone warming mode
- Can be set to start automatically after Timed Bake or Delay Start finishes
- Shuts the oven OFF automatically after 3 hours
- Can be turned ON/OFF without canceling other cooking functions
For the exact button names and display prompts for this model, follow the steps in the owner's manual.
Quick steps to turn it on and off
Use these steps when you want to keep food warm right away.
- Place food in the oven.
- Press the Warm & Hold pad (the display typically shows "HLd").
- Press Start to begin.
- To stop Warm & Hold at any time, press the Warm & Hold pad again or Cancel/Stop (depending on your control panel labeling).
Warm & Hold vs. Bake: what to use
| Feature | What it does | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Warm & Hold | Holds at 170°F for up to 3 hours | Keeping cooked casseroles, rolls, and baked dishes warm |
| Bake | Cooks at your set temperature | Cooking and browning foods |
| Timed Bake + Warm & Hold | Cooks, then automatically holds warm | Serving meals when timing is tight |
Why it matters
Using Warm & Hold helps keep food ready to serve without overcooking it at normal baking temperatures. It also prevents the oven from staying on indefinitely by shutting off automatically after 3 hours.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the parts on a gas stove called?
On the Kenmore 79078853602 gas range, the main gas stove parts are the surface burner system (burner heads, caps, grates, igniters), the control knobs/valves, and the oven system (electronic control, racks, door, light, and vent). For the full feature list and diagrams, use the owner's manual.
Common gas stove part names (cooktop)
- Control knobs and burner valves
- Surface burner heads
- Surface burner caps
- Burner grates (and center grate on some models)
- Igniter/electrode (spark igniter)
- Orifice holder (where gas is metered into the burner)
Common gas range part names (oven and drawer)
- Electronic oven control (clock/timer and temperature controls)
- Oven vent (do not block it)
- Oven racks
- Oven door, door handle, and door latch (self-clean models)
- Oven light and light shield/lens
- Warmer drawer or storage drawer (varies by configuration)
How these parts work together
| Area | What you see | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Cooktop burner | Cap + head + igniter + grate | Mixes gas and air, ignites flame, supports cookware |
| Gas delivery | Orifice holder + regulator | Meters and stabilizes gas flow for consistent flame |
| Oven | Control + sensor/igniter/valve (as equipped) | Regulates temperature and maintains baking performance |
Why it matters
Using the correct names helps you match the right replacement part and troubleshoot faster. For example, a burner that clicks but will not light often points to a dirty burner head/cap alignment issue, while inaccurate oven temperatures often involve the temperature sensor.
Parts customers commonly replace on this model
- Range surface burner head 316212400 (burner will not light evenly, weak flame)
- Frigidaire range oven temperature sensor 316490000 (oven temperature seems off)
- Range oven light bulb 316538904 (oven light out)
Last updated: February 2026




