Where is the model number on a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
On Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10656839603, the model number is printed on the appliance identification label (the same label that lists the serial number). We use that model number to match the correct parts list, diagrams, and repair instructions for your exact refrigerator.
We typically find the model and serial label in one of these spots:
- Inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment on a side wall near the top
- On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment near the light housing
- Behind the crisper drawers on an interior wall
- Along the door frame (hinge side) when the refrigerator door is open
- On the back exterior panel (less common for day-to-day access)
For model-specific illustrations and wording, use the 10656839603 owner's manual.
The label usually shows both a model number and a serial number. To avoid ordering the wrong Kenmore parts, we recommend:
- Copy the model number exactly as printed (including all digits)
- Take a clear photo before you close the door
- Write down the serial number too (helpful for production variations)
- Use the model number when searching diagrams for items like the water filter, ice maker, or evaporator fan motor
| What you see | What it’s used for | Example for this refrigerator |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Identifies the exact design and parts breakdown | 10656839603 |
| Serial number | Identifies the specific unit built | Varies by unit |
Kenmore side-by-side refrigerators can look similar across multiple model series, but parts like the water filter cap, inlet valve, and electronic control can differ. Using the exact model number helps us match the correct replacement part the first time.
If you are ordering a water filter for this model, the parts list for 10656839603 commonly includes the genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1, and you can also search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How many cubic feet is my Kenmore refrigerator by model number?
Your Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10656839603 has its exact capacity (cubic feet) listed in the product specifications section of the owner's manual. The model number identifies the correct spec sheet, so you get the precise fresh food and freezer volume for your exact configuration.
- Check the specifications pages in the owner's manual (best source for exact capacity).
- Look for the rating plate inside the refrigerator compartment (often on a side wall or near the crisper area); it commonly lists model and serial, and may list capacity.
- If you are comparing similar Kenmore 106-series units, use the model number to avoid mixing up close variants with different shelf and bin layouts.
- If you are ordering parts tied to capacity related features (like filtration or storage), match by model first, then choose the part.
Capacity is not just “outside size”; it is affected by internal design details such as insulation thickness, evaporator cover shape, and bin and shelf geometry. That is why we rely on the model-specific spec listing in the owner's manual instead of guessing.
Most side-by-side refrigerators in this style typically fall into these ranges:
| Refrigerator type | Typical total capacity range |
|---|---|
| Side-by-side refrigerator | 20 to 26 cu. ft. |
| Compact/top-freezer (comparison) | 10 to 18 cu. ft. |
Knowing the correct cubic feet helps when you are planning kitchen space, comparing energy use, and choosing model-matched replacements such as the genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1. For ordering additional parts by model number, we also support searching through Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How to read a Kenmore model number?
Kenmore model numbers are read in sections: the first 3 digits identify the manufacturing source, and the remaining digits identify the specific product design and feature variations. For your Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10656839603, the 106 prefix is the key identifier we use to match the correct parts list and specifications in the owner's manual.
On most Kenmore side-by-side refrigerators, the model and serial tag is typically located in one of these spots:
- Inside the fresh food compartment on a side wall
- Along the ceiling of the fresh food compartment near the light
- On the door frame behind the crisper drawers
- On the exterior back panel (less common)
Kenmore model numbers usually follow a predictable pattern. Here is the practical way we read them when identifying parts.
- Prefix (first 3 digits): manufacturing source identifier (example: 106)
- Core digits: the base platform or design family
- Suffix digits: feature, color, or production variation
| Section | Example from 10656839603 | What it tells us |
|---|---|---|
| Prefix | 106 | Manufacturing source identifier used for parts matching |
| Remaining digits | 56839603 | The specific design and variation for this refrigerator |
Small digit changes can mean different shelves, water filters, ice makers, or control components. Using the complete model number helps ensure the part fits your exact Kenmore refrigerator.
- Prevents ordering the wrong door bin, crisper pan, or gasket
- Helps match the correct water filter style and cap
- Ensures electrical parts (controls, motors, harnesses) match the wiring design
Once we confirm the full model number, we can match common replacement parts accurately, such as:
- Genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1 (filter replacement)
- Refrigerator ice maker WPW10190961 (ice production issues)
- Refrigerator temperature control WP2315562 (temperature regulation)
If you are ordering parts beyond the list for model 10656839603, we use the same full model number to search across our catalog on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How to replace an ice maker in a side by side refrigerator?
To replace the ice maker in your Kenmore 10656839603 side-by-side refrigerator, we shut off the ice maker and water supply, unplug the unit, remove the ice bin and mounting screws, swap the wiring harness to the new assembly, then restore power and water and allow time for ice production.
- Slide the ice maker control to OFF (right).
- Turn off the household water supply to the refrigerator.
- Unplug the refrigerator.
- Remove and empty the ice storage bin from the freezer door.
- Set towels under the fill tube area to catch drips.
- Remove the ice bin.
- Remove the ice maker mounting screws; support the ice maker as the last screw comes out.
- Disconnect the wiring harness connector (release the locking tab, pull straight out).
- Check the fill tube area; thaw any ice blockage with warm air if needed.
- Install the new ice maker, tighten screws, and reconnect the harness.
- Plug the refrigerator back in, turn water on, then switch the ice maker to ON (left).
| After install | Normal expectation | What we do |
|---|---|---|
| No ice right away | Startup time | Allow 24 hours for first batch |
| Early ice looks cloudy | System flushing | Discard first 3 batches |
| Cubes stick together | Normal | Break apart by hand |
Correct mounting, a fully seated harness connection, and a clear fill tube prevent leaks and intermittent ice production; they also help the freezer maintain consistent temperatures for reliable cube size.
- Replacement assembly: refrigerator ice maker WPW10190961
- Switch location and normal ice timing: 10656839603 owner's manual
- Prevention tips: how to prevent water dispenser and ice maker problems
You can order parts from the model parts list, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most common problems with Kenmore refrigerators?
The most common problems we see on Kenmore refrigerators like model 10656839603 are not cooling or inconsistent temperatures, water leaks, ice maker or dispenser failures, and unusual noises. Start with airflow, control settings, and basic inspections; then use the 10656839603 owner's manual for model-specific troubleshooting.
- Not cooling or warm temps: dirty condenser coils, blocked vents, evaporator fan not running, defrost ice buildup
- Frost buildup in freezer: door not sealing, defrost thermostat or adaptive defrost control issues
- Water leaking or puddles: clogged defrost drain, loose water line, cracked filter housing or cap
- Ice maker not making ice: shutoff arm position, low water pressure, failed inlet valve or ice maker
- Noisy operation: normal sounds, fan blade hitting ice, worn evaporator fan motor
- Confirm vents are not blocked and allow space around items for circulation
- Verify temperature controls were not bumped and give 24 hours for changes to stabilize
- Inspect door gaskets for gaps and make sure doors close smoothly
- Listen for scraping or ticking that changes when you open the freezer door (often fan and ice contact)
- Check water supply: valve fully open, tubing not kinked, filter not overdue
| Symptom | Part to check | Example part |
|---|---|---|
| Warm temps, weak airflow | Evaporator fan motor or blade | Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315549, refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2169142 |
| Frost buildup, intermittent cooling | Defrost thermostat or control | Refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat WPW10225581, refrigerator electronic control 4388932 |
| Ice maker not working | Ice maker or inlet valve | Refrigerator ice maker WPW10190961, refrigerator inlet valve W10822681 |
Most cooling, leak, and ice complaints trace back to airflow, defrost performance, or water supply. Fixing the root cause protects food temperatures, prevents repeat icing, and reduces recurring puddles.
You can order replacement parts from the parts list for model 10656839603, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026





