Installation guide
Owner’s manual
Error Codes
Where is the model number on a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
On Kenmore model 25356963602, the model number is printed on the serial plate inside the refrigerator (fresh food) compartment. Open the refrigerator door and look along the interior walls near the front opening for the label that lists both the model and serial numbers; see the owner's manual.
How to find the serial plate quickly
- Open the fresh food (refrigerator) door, not the freezer door
- Look for a paper or metallic label inside the compartment
- Check the side wall near the front frame (where the door gasket seals)
- Also check near the top interior area if you do not see it at eye level
- Use a flashlight; the print can be small
- Clean the label gently with soap and water only (avoid solvents)
What you should see on the label
The serial plate typically includes these fields:
| Label item | What it’s used for |
|---|---|
| Model number | Matching the correct parts list and diagrams |
| Serial number | Identifying production details for service and parts lookup |
| Electrical ratings | Confirming power requirements |
Why it matters
Using the exact model number (including every digit) ensures we match the right Kenmore refrigerator parts, such as a water filter, door gasket, ice maker components, or a water inlet valve. Even small model-number differences can change which parts fit.
Last updated: February 2026
What causes a side-by-side refrigerator to stop cooling?
A Kenmore 25356963602 side-by-side refrigerator usually stops cooling because power is interrupted, the controls are set incorrectly, airflow is blocked, the unit is in a normal defrost cycle, or heat cannot leave the cabinet due to dirty condenser coils. Use the troubleshooting chart in the owner's manual to narrow it down fast.
Quick checks we recommend first
- Confirm the refrigerator is plugged in firmly and the outlet has power (check the house fuse or circuit breaker).
- Make sure the freezer control is not set to OFF.
- Give the refrigerator time after a restart; cooling can take 8 to 12 hours to recover.
- Check that doors are closing fully and not being held open by food containers.
- Reduce door openings; warm air entering makes temperatures rise quickly.
Cooling problem vs. normal operation
| What you notice | Most likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| No lights, no fan, no compressor sound | Power issue | Restore power; reset breaker or replace fuse (15 amp time-delay) |
| Cooling stops for a short period, then returns | Automatic defrost cycle (about 30 minutes) | Normal; wait and recheck temps |
| Fridge runs a lot but still warm | Dirty condenser, door not sealing, frequent openings | Clean condenser; check door seal and door alignment |
| Freezer cold but fresh food warm | Airflow blocked between sections | Clear vents; avoid overpacking |
Parts that commonly relate to “not cooling” symptoms
These parts do not fix every no-cool, but they are common contributors depending on the symptom:
- If you see heavy frost or warm temps after defrosting: consider the refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat 5303918214.
- If you hear a fan noise change or weak airflow: inspect the refrigerator evaporator fan blade 5308000010.
Why it matters
A no-cool condition can spoil food quickly and can also make the compressor run longer than normal. Catching simple causes (controls, doors, condenser cleaning) often restores cooling without major repair.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most common problems with Kenmore refrigerators?
The most common problems we see on Kenmore refrigerators like model 25356963602 are warm temperatures or no cooling, long run times, ice maker or dispenser failures, moisture or frost buildup, door sealing issues, and unusual noises. Many quick checks are listed in the owner's manual.
Common symptoms and likely causes
- Not cooling or warm temps: dirty condenser coils, blocked vents, defrost system trouble, weak airflow
- Runs too much/too long: doors opened often, door slightly open, dirty condenser, hot room conditions
- Ice maker not making ice: shutoff arm up (OFF), ice maker switch OFF, water valve closed, freezer not cold enough
- Moisture between doors/outside cabinet: humid weather or door not fully closed
- Door will not close: refrigerator not level, cabinet interference, one door pops the other open
Quick checks we recommend first
- Make sure both doors close gently and completely; level the refrigerator if it rocks.
- After a temperature change or power interruption, allow 8 to 12 hours for temperatures to stabilize.
- Clean the condenser coils and keep interior air vents clear.
- For ice maker issues, confirm the household water valve is open and the ice maker is turned ON.
Parts to inspect when a check points to a failure
| Symptom | Part to check | Example part for 25356963602 |
|---|---|---|
| No water to ice maker/dispenser | Inlet valve | Refrigerator water inlet valve assembly 242252702 |
| Frost buildup, warming | Defrost thermostat | Refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat 5303918214 |
| Moisture, poor sealing, long run times | Door gasket | Refrigerator freezer gasket 241786014 |
| Bad taste or slow flow | Water filter | Genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter WF2CB |
Why it matters
A small issue like a door not sealing can trigger moisture, frost, longer run times, and warmer temperatures. Fixing the root cause early helps protect food temperatures and reduces compressor strain.
Last updated: February 2026
