How do I know what model Kenmore refrigerator I have?
For a Kenmore refrigerator, the model number is printed on the appliance ID label; once you find it, match that number exactly when looking up parts and instructions. For this parts page, the correct model format is 111.7302* (your full model adds the color digits, such as 11173029712).
Check these common locations first (we see these most often on Kenmore bottom-mount units):
- Inside the fresh food compartment on a side wall
- On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment
- Behind or beside a crisper drawer (you may need to slide the drawer out)
- Behind the lower kick plate or toe grille at the front
If you want the exact label location and the model format used for this series, use the 11173029712 owner's manual.
Kenmore model numbers are easiest to use when you copy them character-for-character.
- Use the full model number (including all digits) when ordering parts
- If your label shows a dot (example: 111.7302), keep it when searching
- The asterisk in 111.7302* means “additional digits,” usually the color code
- Record the serial number too; it helps confirm production details for service and compatibility
| What you see on the label | What it means | What to use when searching |
|---|---|---|
| 111.7302* | Model family shown in the manual | Your full model from the label |
| 11173029712 | Full model for this page | 11173029712 |
Using the exact Kenmore model number prevents wrong-part returns and speeds up troubleshooting for issues like door closing problems, water line setup, and error codes.
Once you have the model number, use the parts list for Kenmore 11173029712; if you are searching other Kenmore models in your home, we also support model lookups on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How to tell cubic feet of Kenmore refrigerator by model number?
For Kenmore model 11173029712, the most reliable way to get cubic feet is to look up the capacity in the specifications section of the 11173029712 owner's manual. If you need a quick estimate, we calculate interior volume by measuring usable interior height, width, and depth and converting cubic inches to cubic feet.
- Check the manual specs for model 11173029712 (this is the exact capacity for your refrigerator).
- Look for a rating label inside the fresh food section; some refrigerators list capacity there.
- Estimate by measuring the usable interior space (good for comparisons, not exact).
- Use the model number prefix as a clue only when you already know the manufacturer family; Kenmore prefixes (like 111, 253, 106, 795) identify who built it, not the exact cubic feet.
- Empty enough space to measure the usable interior (do not include door bins if you are estimating shelf space).
- Measure height x width x depth in inches.
- Multiply the three numbers to get cubic inches.
- Divide by 1,728 to convert to cubic feet.
| Measurement | Example (in.) |
|---|---|
| Height | 60 |
| Width | 28 |
| Depth | 18 |
| Estimated capacity | (60×28×18) ÷ 1,728 = 17.5 cu. ft. |
Kenmore model numbers often indicate a series and manufacturer family, but capacity varies within the same family due to cabinet depth, insulation thickness, and how the freezer drawer is designed. For an accurate number for 11173029712, the manual specification is the correct reference.
If you are matching shelves, bins, or drawers to the right size, use the model number 11173029712 when searching parts. We list model-specific parts and diagrams when available, and you can also search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the common problems with Kenmore Elite refrigerators?
Common problems we see with Kenmore Elite refrigerators, including Kenmore model 11173029712 bottom-mount units, are weak or uneven cooling, frost buildup, water leaks, ice maker issues, and unusual noises. These symptoms usually trace to airflow, door sealing, defrost drainage, or water supply; use the 11173029712 owner's manual for model-specific checks.
- Not cooling well: dirty condenser coils, blocked vents, evaporator fan trouble, or heavy frost from a defrost issue.
- Frost buildup: door left ajar, worn door gasket, or defrost system failure restricting airflow.
- Water leaking/puddles: clogged or iced defrost drain, drain tube routing issue, or water line connection seepage.
- Ice maker not making ice: can take up to 24 hours after install, ice maker turned off, shutoff valve closed, kinked tubing, or low water pressure.
- Noises: defrost water dripping can be normal; a pulsating or high-pitched sound can be normal for an efficient compressor; vibration happens when the cabinet touches a wall.
- Confirm doors close fully and food packages are not blocking them.
- Keep interior air vents clear so cold air can circulate.
- After installation, run the refrigerator 2 to 3 hours before loading food.
- For ice and water issues, verify the supply valve is on and the tubing is not kinked.
- Reduce rattles by ensuring the sides and back cannot vibrate against cabinets or the wall.
| Symptom | Likely cause | First action |
|---|---|---|
| Warm fridge, freezer OK | Airflow restriction | Clear vents; check for frost |
| Frost behind freezer panel | Defrost or door seal issue | Inspect gasket; look for heavy ice |
| No ice | Off, no water, kinked line | Turn on; open valve; straighten tubing |
| Rattling/buzzing | Vibration or normal run sounds | Pull unit slightly forward; level it |
Most cooling and ice-making complaints start as airflow or water-supply problems. Fixing a blocked vent, poor door seal, or kinked line early prevents temperature swings and repeat icing.
For diagnostic codes on Kenmore 111 refrigerators, use Kenmore 111 model bottom freezer refrigerator error codes. You can also search parts by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026





