Where is the model number on a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
On Kenmore model 10656726602 side-by-side refrigerators, the model number is printed on the appliance identification label (the same label that lists the serial number). You typically find this label inside the fresh food compartment on a side wall or near the ceiling.
Common places to check first
Look for a paper or foil label in these spots:
- Inside the refrigerator section on the left or right interior wall
- Inside the refrigerator section near the top (ceiling area)
- Behind the crisper drawers on the side wall
- Along the door frame area when the refrigerator door is open
- Behind the base grille area (less common, but worth a quick check)
If you see a serial number, the model number is usually on that same label.
What the label looks like and what to copy
The ID label normally includes both a model number and a serial number.
| Item on the label | What it’s used for | Why you need it |
|---|---|---|
| Model number (10656726602) | Identifies the exact refrigerator design | Ensures diagrams and parts match your unit |
| Serial number | Identifies production run details | Helps confirm correct revisions and compatible parts |
Why it matters
Kenmore 106 model refrigerators can look similar across multiple model numbers, but parts like the water filter, ice maker, door gasket, and water inlet valve can vary by revision. Using the exact model number prevents ordering the wrong part and saves time on troubleshooting.
Next step once you find it
After you locate the model number, use it to confirm the correct documentation and parts:
- Match your unit to the diagrams in the 10656726602 owner's manual
- If you are servicing the water system, confirm the correct filter style (this model commonly uses genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1)
Last updated: February 2026
How many cubic feet is my Kenmore refrigerator by model number?
Your Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10656726602 has a specific cubic-foot capacity listed in the product specifications section of the owner's manual. The most reliable confirmation is the model and serial rating label inside the fresh food compartment, which matches the exact configuration of your unit.
Where to find the cubic-foot capacity (fastest options)
- Check the rating label inside the refrigerator section (often on a side wall or near the crisper area).
- Look up the specifications in the owner's manual.
- If the label is hard to read, clean it gently and use a flashlight to capture a clear photo.
- Use the model number 10656726602 when comparing parts and specs to avoid mix-ups with similar Kenmore 106 models.
What “cubic feet” means and why it can vary
Cubic feet is the total interior storage volume (fresh food plus freezer). On some refrigerators, published capacity can differ slightly depending on how it is measured (total volume vs. usable space after shelves, bins, and the ice maker are installed).
Typical capacity range (for context)
Most Kenmore side-by-side refrigerators in this style commonly fall in this range:
| Refrigerator type | Typical total capacity range |
|---|---|
| Side-by-side refrigerator | About 20 to 26 cu. ft. |
Why it matters
Knowing the correct cubic-foot capacity helps when you are comparing refrigerator sizes, planning kitchen space, and choosing compatible accessories such as a water filter. For this model, the manual also references the base grille water filter replacement as part number 9030, which corresponds to genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1.
Last updated: February 2026
How to tell if a Kenmore refrigerator compressor is bad?
A bad compressor on your Kenmore 10656726602 side-by-side refrigerator usually shows up as poor cooling with the unit running a lot, repeated clicking as it tries to start, or unusual compressor noises that do not match the normal “pulsating/high-pitched” operating sounds described in the owner's manual.
Quick checks we recommend first (before blaming the compressor)
- Confirm the refrigerator has power and the outlet works (test with a lamp).
- Make sure the temperature controls are turned on and set correctly.
- If it was just installed or moved, allow a full 24 hours to cool.
- Check whether doors are being opened often or left ajar (this can make it run “too much”).
- Listen for normal sounds: buzzing at ice maker fill, refrigerant gurgling, and fan airflow.
Symptoms that point more strongly to a compressor problem
These signs are more consistent with a compressor that is failing to start, failing under load, or not pumping efficiently:
- Fridge and freezer both warm while the unit seems to run constantly
- Repeated clicking every few minutes (start device overload cycling)
- Compressor is very hot to the touch after repeated start attempts
- No steady “running” sound from the compressor even though lights and fans work
- Cooling is weak even after cleaning airflow paths and confirming door seals
What to listen for: normal vs. concerning
| Sound/behavior | Often normal | Often concerning |
|---|---|---|
| Short buzzing during ice maker fill | Yes | No |
| Pulsating/high-pitched sound that changes | Yes (efficiency adjustments) | No |
| Repeated click, then silence, then click again | No | Yes |
| Runs longer in warm room or after loading groceries | Yes | No |
Why it matters
A compressor diagnosis affects cost and repair approach. Many “no cool” complaints are actually caused by airflow, control settings, or a defrost issue, so ruling out the basics prevents replacing major sealed-system parts unnecessarily.
Parts that are commonly involved in “no cool” troubleshooting
If testing confirms a sealed-system or compressor failure, the compressor for this model is listed as refrigerator compressor W10309990. For other cooling-related symptoms, we often also check defrost and airflow components.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most common problems with Kenmore refrigerators?
The most common problems we see on Kenmore refrigerators like model 10656726602 are cooling issues, water leaks, ice maker or dispenser trouble, and unusual noises. Many of these come down to airflow restrictions, door seal problems, or water system components that need cleaning, adjustment, or replacement (see the 10656726602 owner's manual).
Most common symptoms and what usually causes them
- Not cooling or warm temperatures: dirty condenser coils, evaporator fan issues, heavy frost from a defrost problem, or controls set incorrectly
- Freezer too warm or low ice production: frequent door openings, heavy ice use, airflow blocked by food packages, or temperature settings needing adjustment
- Water leaking or puddles: clogged defrost drain, loose water line connections, or a seeping inlet valve
- Ice maker not working: water supply issue, inlet valve problem, or ice maker module failure
- Buzzing, rattling, pulsating noises: often normal sounds from the water valve, refrigerant flow, or fans and compressor adjusting during operation
Quick checks we recommend first
- Confirm power and controls: verify the outlet works and the controls are turned on.
- Give it time after setup: after a new installation, allow 24 hours to cool completely.
- Adjust temperatures correctly: on rotary or slide controls, move one setting at a time and recheck after temperatures stabilize.
- Listen to the noise type: buzzing during ice maker fill and intermittent fan or compressor sounds are commonly normal.
Parts that commonly solve these problems on 10656726602
If troubleshooting points to a failed component, these are common fixes for this model:
| Problem area | Common fix | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Water dispenser or ice maker not getting water | Replace a sticking or weak inlet valve | Refrigerator water inlet valve W10408179 |
| Bad tasting water or slow flow | Replace the water filter and purge air | Genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1 |
| Ice maker not producing ice | Replace the ice maker assembly | Refrigerator ice maker WPW10190965 |
| Frost buildup causing warm temps | Check defrost system components | Refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat WPW10225581 |
Why it matters
Cooling, ice, and leak complaints often share the same root causes: restricted airflow, incorrect temperature settings, or water supply problems. Catching these early helps protect food temperatures, reduces compressor run time, and prevents water damage.
Last updated: February 2026
What causes a side-by-side refrigerator to stop cooling?
For Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10656726602, a “stopped cooling” complaint is usually caused by a control set to OFF, blocked air vents that prevent airflow between compartments, or a cooling-system airflow problem (fans not moving air). Start with power and control checks, then airflow.
Quick checks we recommend first
- Confirm the refrigerator is plugged into a working 3-prong outlet (test the outlet with a lamp).
- Check the house fuse or reset the circuit breaker.
- Make sure the refrigerator control is not set to OFF.
- Allow a full 24 hours after a new installation or power loss for temperatures to stabilize.
- Inspect and clear blocked vents (packages, bins, or ice buildup can restrict airflow).
Airflow basics (why vents matter on this model)
This Kenmore design relies on air moving from the freezer to the fresh-food section and back again. If vents are blocked, the freezer may get cold while the refrigerator side warms up, or both sections can struggle to cool.
What to look for
| Symptom | Most likely area to check | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer cold, refrigerator warm | Air vents/damper area | Clear vents; avoid overpacking near vents |
| Both sections warm | Power, controls, compressor/fans | Verify controls on; listen for fan/compressor operation |
| Cooling is weak after moving/installation | Normal stabilization | Wait 24 hours before judging performance |
Parts that commonly relate to “not cooling” symptoms
If basic checks pass and airflow still seems poor, these model-compatible parts are often involved in cooling or cooling-related complaints:
- Refrigerator temperature control WP2315562 (if temperatures do not respond to control changes)
- Refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2169142 (if you do not feel airflow or hear the fan)
- Refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat WPW10225581 (if frost buildup blocks airflow over time)
Why it matters
A refrigerator can have a sealed-system that is working, but still “stop cooling” in the compartments if controls are off or airflow is blocked. Fixing the simple causes first prevents unnecessary part replacement and helps restore safe food temperatures faster.
For control locations, vent diagrams, and the correct factory control settings, use the owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026





