Kenmore 79551026012 refrigerator Parts

For Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 79551026012, we clean the condenser coils by unplugging the refrigerator, pulling it out for access, then vacuuming and brushing dust off the coil area and nearby fan intake so airflow stays strong and cooling stays efficient. Use the steps in the 79551026012 owner's manual for your exact access points.

What you need

• Coil brush (long, soft bristles)
• Vacuum with crevice tool and brush attachment
• Flashlight
• Work gloves
• Optional: nut driver or screwdriver (for a rear access cover, if equipped)

Step-by-step: cleaning the condenser coils

1. Unplug power (or switch off the breaker).
2. Shut off the water supply if you need to move the refrigerator far enough to strain the water line.
3. Pull the refrigerator straight out to avoid damaging flooring and the water tubing.
4. Locate the coils:
   • Many side-by-side units have coils under the front toe grille.
   • Some have coils behind a lower rear access panel.
5. Vacuum loose dust first, then use the coil brush to loosen packed lint and pet hair.
6. Vacuum again to remove what the brush loosened (including around the condenser fan area).
7. Reinstall any covers, push the refrigerator back, restore power, and confirm it starts cooling.

How often to clean (typical)

Home situation	Cleaning interval
No pets, low dust	Every 6 to 12 months
Pets or heavy dust	Every 3 to 6 months
Coils visibly clogged	Clean now, then recheck in 30 days

Why it matters

Dirty condenser coils trap heat. When heat cannot leave the system efficiently, the compressor runs longer, temperatures drift, and energy use goes up. Keeping the coil area clean helps protect major components like the compressor and condenser fan.

When coil cleaning is not enough

If the refrigerator still runs warm after cleaning, we check these common airflow and cooling items:

• Condenser fan running and not obstructed
• Door gaskets sealing (no warm air leaks)
• Freezer vents not blocked by food packages
• Frost buildup on the evaporator cover (possible defrost issue)
• Temperature settings returned to normal after cleaning

Last updated: February 2026

Kenmore model numbers are read left to right: the first 3 digits are the manufacturer prefix, the middle digits identify the product series, and the final digits show the specific version. For your Kenmore refrigerator model 79551026012, the 795 prefix is the key identifier to match the correct parts and manual.

Where to find the model number on a refrigerator

We typically see the model and serial tag in one of these spots:

• Inside the fresh food compartment on a side wall
• On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment near the light
• On the door jamb (hinge side) when you open the refrigerator door
• Behind the toe grille (lower front kick plate)
• On the back panel near the power cord

For diagrams and exact label locations used on this model family, use the 79551026012 owner's manual.

How to decode a Kenmore model number (quick guide)

Most Kenmore model numbers follow this pattern:

Section of model number	What it tells you	Example using 79551026012
First 3 digits	Manufacturer prefix	795
Next digits	Series and design family	51026
Last digits	Version, color, engineering changes	012

Common Kenmore manufacturer prefixes you may see

• 110: Whirlpool-built laundry products (common on washers and dryers)
• 253: Frigidaire/Electrolux-built refrigerators (common on top freezer and some French door)
• 795: LG-built refrigerators (common on many Kenmore side-by-side and bottom freezer)

Why it matters

The manufacturer prefix controls which parts catalog and service information applies. Even small version changes at the end of the model number can affect fit for items like a door gasket, water inlet valve, or dispenser components.

Parts examples for Kenmore 79551026012

If you are ordering parts, match by full model number and then confirm the part ID:

• Refrigerator door gasket 4987JJ1010M (helps prevent warm air leaks and frost)
• Refrigerator water inlet valve 5221JA2006D (feeds water to the dispenser and ice maker)
• Refrigerator thermistor 6500JB2002T (temperature sensing for control)

Last updated: February 2026

On Kenmore model 79551026012, the dispenser drip tray typically lifts out from the bottom of the dispenser recess. We remove it to clean spills, stop water from overflowing onto the floor, or replace a cracked tray.

Quick removal steps

• Remove any cup, ice, or debris from the dispenser area.
• Grip the drip tray at the front edge.
• Lift the front edge up slightly to release it from the retaining tabs.
• Pull the tray straight out toward you.
• Wash with warm water and mild dish soap; dry fully before reinstalling.

If the tray will not come out

• Check for sticky residue (syrup, juice) gluing the tray in place; warm water on a cloth helps loosen it.
• Look for an inner grille insert; lift the grille out first if present.
• Pull gently but firmly; twisting can crack the plastic.
• If the tray area is iced up, turn off the dispenser and let the area thaw for 10 to 15 minutes.
• If the tray is broken or missing, use the exploded-view diagrams in the 79551026012 owner’s manual to identify the correct dispenser trim and tray style.

Reinstall tips

What to do	What you should feel/see
Align the back edge first	Tray sits flat in the recess
Press down at the front	Tabs click or seat securely
Test with a small cup of water	No rocking, no gaps

Why it matters

A properly seated drip tray helps keep water from the dispenser contained, which reduces puddles on the floor and helps prevent moisture damage around the dispenser opening.

Last updated: February 2026

Most Kenmore side-by-side refrigerators are about 33 inches to 36 inches wide; for your Kenmore 79551026012, the exact cabinet width is listed in the 79551026012 owner's manual.

Typical widths you will see

Side-by-side refrigerators commonly fall into these width groups:

• 32 3/4 in. to 33 in.: many standard-capacity models
• 35 3/4 in. to 36 in.: many larger-capacity models
• Counter-depth versions: often still 33 in. or 36 in., but with a shallower cabinet

Measure it the right way (so it fits)

Use a tape measure and check both the refrigerator and the opening.

• Measure cabinet width (main box), not just the doors
• Measure with doors closed at the widest point
• Add clearance for door swing and handles
• Confirm space for airflow behind and above the unit
• Verify the water line and electrical outlet location

Quick fit checklist

What you’re checking	What to measure	Why it matters
Refrigerator width	Cabinet and door/handle area	Prevents rubbing and binding
Opening width	Wall-to-wall at front and back	Finds out-of-square openings
Clearance	Sides, top, and rear	Helps cooling performance

Why it matters

Width affects more than “will it slide in.” If the opening is tight, doors may not open fully, the ice maker water line can kink, and restricted airflow can cause warm temperatures and longer compressor run times.

If you are also troubleshooting dispenser or ice issues after a move, the how to prevent water dispenser and ice maker problems guide helps you check common pinch points and water supply setup.

Last updated: February 2026

The most common issues we see on Kenmore refrigerators like model 79551026012 are cooling problems, ice maker or dispenser failures, water leaks, unusual noise, and frost buildup. Many of these trace back to airflow restrictions, door sealing, or water-supply components; start with the checks in the 79551026012 owner's manual.

Common problems and what to check first

• Not cooling or warm temperatures: confirm settings, clear blocked vents, clean condenser area, and listen for fan operation.
• Ice maker not making ice: verify freezer temp is near 0°F, confirm water supply is on, and check for a frozen fill tube.
• Water dispenser slow or not dispensing: replace the filter (if equipped), purge air from lines, and check for kinked tubing.
• Water leaking: inspect water lines and fittings, check for a clogged defrost drain, and look for cracks in the reservoir.
• Noisy operation: identify whether noise is from the condenser fan area, evaporator fan area, or compressor compartment.
• Frost buildup: check door closure and gasket sealing; persistent frost points to a defrost or airflow issue.

Quick symptom-to-part match (model 79551026012)

Symptom	Most likely area	Example model-matched part to inspect
No water or weak water flow	Water supply and valve	Refrigerator water inlet valve 5221JA2006D
Leaks inside fresh food section	Reservoir and tubing	Refrigerator water tank MJM61904702
Leaks at connections	Push-to-connect fittings	Refrigerator water tube fitting 4932JA3002C
Rattling or buzzing near back/bottom	Condenser fan area	Refrigerator condenser fan 4681JB1029B
Door not sealing, moisture on edges	Door seal and alignment	Refrigerator door gasket 4987JJ1010M

Why it matters

Catching these problems early protects food safety, reduces energy use, and prevents secondary damage (like water damage from leaks or compressor strain from poor airflow).

Helpful DIY guidance

If your issue is tied to the dispenser (ice or water), we use the steps in how to disassemble a Kenmore refrigerator dispenser to safely access common wear parts and connectors.

Last updated: February 2026

Your Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 79551026012 has a total capacity of 21.9 cubic feet. For the exact breakdown between fresh food and freezer sections (if listed), check the specifications section in the 79551026012 owner's manual.

How to confirm the capacity on the appliance

We recommend matching the published capacity to the model and serial tag inside the refrigerator compartment.

• Open the fresh food door and look along the side wall or ceiling for the model/serial label
• Confirm the model number is 79551026012 (character-for-character)
• Check the “Specifications” or “Product information” section in the manual
• If you are comparing to another fridge, compare total capacity, not shelf space
• Remember that bins, ice maker, and internal ducting reduce usable storage space

Capacity quick reference

Item	Value
Model number	79551026012
Refrigerator type	Side-by-side
Total capacity	21.9 cu. ft.

Why it matters

Capacity affects how you shop for replacement shelves and bins, plan food storage, and set expectations for usable space. It also helps when comparing similar Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator models.

Last updated: February 2026

On a Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator like model 79551026012, the model number is printed on the model and serial tag, which is usually located inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment around the door opening (often on a side wall, ceiling area, or near the crisper section). Check the tag first before ordering parts.

Common places to check first

• Open the fresh food door and look along the cabinet frame near the door gasket
• Check the left and right interior side walls near the front edge
• Look near the top interior (ceiling area) where the light housing is located
• Check around the crisper drawer area and lower side walls
• If you do not see it inside, check the exterior back panel area near the bottom

What the tag looks like and what to write down

The tag typically lists both a model number and a serial number. For parts lookup and compatibility, we use the model number (for example, 79551026012).

Item on tag	What it’s used for	Example
Model number	Matching parts to your exact refrigerator	79551026012
Serial number	Production details, service reference	Varies

Why it matters

Kenmore refrigerators can look nearly identical across multiple model numbers, but parts like a water inlet valve, door gasket, or dispenser components can differ. Using the exact model number helps ensure the replacement part fits and functions correctly.

Helpful reference

For diagrams and model identification details, use the 79551026012 owner’s manual.

Last updated: February 2026