How to tell if a Kenmore refrigerator compressor is bad?
If your Kenmore 79578403804 bottom-mount refrigerator is warm and the compressor either never runs, runs almost constantly, or repeatedly clicks on and off, the compressor system may be failing. First rule out common causes like dirty condenser coils, doors not sealing, or a fan problem using the 79578403804 owner's manual.
Quick symptoms that point to a compressor problem
Look for a pattern of these signs together (one symptom alone is not enough):
- Refrigerator and freezer temperatures keep rising even after 24 hours of run time
- Compressor is very hot to the touch and you hear repeated clicking (start attempt then stop)
- Compressor is silent most of the time and cooling never starts
- You hear the unit running but airflow inside is weak or missing (often a fan issue instead)
- Cooling is inconsistent: it gets cold briefly, then warms back up
Checks we recommend before blaming the compressor
Many “bad compressor” complaints are caused by airflow, sealing, or defrost issues.
- Clean the condenser coils; dirty coils make the compressor run much longer and cool poorly
- Confirm doors close fully and the gasket seals all the way around
- Listen for the fans: you should typically hear airflow from the evaporator area and air movement at the condenser area
- Check the door switch; if the light stays on, it can add heat and affect cooling (see lg refrigerator door switch 6600JB1010A)
- Look for heavy frost on the freezer back wall; that points more to a defrost problem than a compressor
What “normal” compressor run time sounds like
Modern, high-efficiency refrigerators often run longer than older models. The manual notes that warm room temperatures, frequent door openings, adding food, and dirty condenser coils can all increase run time.
| What you notice | Often normal | More likely a problem |
|---|---|---|
| Runs a lot on hot days | Yes | No |
| Runs a lot after loading groceries | Yes | No |
| Runs a lot and temps still rise | No | Yes |
| Clicking every few minutes with no cooling | No | Yes |
Why it matters
A compressor is the heart of the sealed cooling system. If the real issue is a door seal, dirty coils, or a failed fan motor, fixing that first restores cooling faster and avoids unnecessary sealed-system work.
Parts and next steps
If you confirm a sealing or door-switch issue, you can order model-matched parts from the parts list for Kenmore 79578403804, or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What model Kenmore fridge do I have?
If you’re on the parts page for Kenmore model 79578403804, that’s the model number you have. On the refrigerator itself, you can confirm it on the model/serial label inside the fresh food compartment (often on a side wall or near the crisper area) or behind the base grille; match it to the number shown in the 79578403804 owner's manual.
Where to find the model number label
Look in these common spots on Kenmore bottom-mount refrigerators:
- Inside the refrigerator section on the left or right 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 base grille (kick plate) at the bottom front
- On an inside frame edge near the door opening
How to read what you find
Kenmore model numbers are typically a longer number string. For this refrigerator family, the manual shows the series as 795.7840_ (the last digit can vary by color). Use these tips:
- Write down the full model number exactly as printed
- Record the serial number too (it helps with parts lookups)
- If you see a dot (example: 795.7840…), include it when comparing
- If the label is worn, take a clear photo and zoom in to confirm characters
Quick check: page model vs. label model
| What you see | What it means | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Label says 79578403804 | Exact match | Use this model for parts and diagrams |
| Label starts with 795.7840 or 795.7841 | Same model family | Use the full number on the label for best accuracy |
| Label is missing or unreadable | Model not confirmed | Use the 79578403804 owner's manual to compare features and layout |
Why it matters
Using the exact model number ensures you get the right Kenmore refrigerator parts (door switch, door gasket, sensors, drawer rails) and the correct procedures for maintenance and troubleshooting.
If you need to order parts after you confirm the model, you can use the parts list for this model or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What size is Kenmore refrigerator model 79578403804?
Kenmore refrigerator model 79578403804 is a bottom-freezer refrigerator; the exact exterior dimensions (width, depth, height) are listed in the 79578403804 owner's manual. If you are measuring for a tight space, we recommend confirming dimensions with doors on and then again with doors removed (if needed for moving).
How to measure your refrigerator correctly
Use a tape measure and record three numbers: width, depth, and height.
- Width: measure the cabinet at the widest point (usually hinge-to-hinge)
- Depth: measure from the back to the front of the doors/handles (note both)
- Height: measure floor to top of hinge cover (or top of cabinet if higher)
- Add space for door swing and drawer pull-out clearance
- Leave room behind the unit for airflow and the water line (if equipped)
Typical size range for this Kenmore 795 bottom-freezer style
Most Kenmore 795-series bottom-mount refrigerators are built to fit standard 33-inch class openings. Use this as a planning range, then confirm the exact spec in the manual.
| Measurement | Typical planning range | What can change it |
|---|---|---|
| Width | ~32 to 34 in. | hinge covers, door alignment |
| Depth | ~30 to 35 in. | handles, door thickness |
| Height | ~67 to 70 in. | leveling legs, hinge covers |
Why clearance matters (especially on bottom-freezer models)
Bottom-freezer drawers need forward clearance to open fully; tight side clearances can also cause door seals to rub and leak cold air. If you notice the door not closing firmly after installation, check the gasket and door alignment.
- If the door does not close easily, inspect the refrigerator door cam latch, right 4430JJ2005A and refrigerator door cam latch, left 4430JJ2005B
- If warm air leaks or frost builds up, inspect the door seal; this model uses a refrigerator door gasket ADX73350927
Quick moving tip (door removal)
If you need to get the refrigerator through a doorway, the manual includes steps for removing and reinstalling doors. That is often easier than forcing the unit through and risking hinge or gasket damage.
Last updated: February 2026
Why is my Kenmore refrigerator leaking water from the bottom?
Water leaking from the bottom of your Kenmore 79578403804 refrigerator is usually caused by defrost water missing the drain path (a clogged/iced defrost drain) or a water supply connection that is seeping and running down to the base area. Use the steps in the owner's manual to safely access and check the drain and water line areas.
Most common causes (and what to check first)
- Clogged or frozen defrost drain: Water backs up, then spills into the cabinet and eventually reaches the floor.
- Drain tube issue: A loose, split, or misrouted drain tube can let water drip underneath.
- Water line connection leak (if you have an icemaker or dispenser): A slow seep can track down the rear panel to the floor.
- Tubing vibrating against the cabinet: Movement can loosen fittings over time.
- Door not sealing well: Excess moisture can increase frost and defrost water, making drain problems show up more often.
Quick troubleshooting steps we recommend
- Unplug the refrigerator and protect the floor with towels.
- Look for ice or debris at the defrost drain opening (typically at the back of the fresh food compartment floor or behind the rear panel, depending on configuration). Melt ice with warm water and clear debris.
- Inspect the rear lower area for signs of dripping at the water line connection and fittings.
- Confirm the tubing is secured so it does not vibrate against the back of the refrigerator.
- If the leak appears to start inside the cabinet, clear the drain first before replacing parts.
Parts that commonly solve bottom leaks on this model
If you find the drain path is damaged or not directing water correctly, these model-matched parts are common fixes:
- Refrigerator drain tube 5251JA3003D
- If the leak is related to door closure and condensation: refrigerator door gasket ADX73350927
Symptom-to-cause guide
| What you see | Most likely cause | Best next step |
|---|---|---|
| Water under crisper area, then on floor | Defrost drain clogged/frozen | Clear drain with warm water; verify drain flow |
| Water starts at back bottom near wall | Water line connection seep | Tighten fittings; check tubing routing |
| Puddle appears after heavy frost | Door not sealing well | Inspect gasket contact; clean and warm-shape gasket |
Why it matters
Bottom leaks can lead to slippery floors and can also cause hidden moisture around the base, which increases odor and corrosion risk. Fixing the drain path or a small water line seep early prevents repeat puddles.
Last updated: February 2026





