Installation guide
Owner’s manual
Error Codes
Where to find Kenmore gas range model number?
On Kenmore gas range model 79072903011, the model and serial number plate is on the right-hand surface of the oven front frame. You can see it by opening the storage drawer, warmer drawer, or broiler drawer (depending on your configuration). See the owner's manual for the exact location illustration.
Quick steps to find the model tag
- Turn the oven off and let it cool.
- Pull out and open the bottom drawer (storage, warmer, or broiler drawer).
- Look at the front frame of the oven opening.
- Check the right-hand side of that frame for the identification plate.
- Write down the model number and serial number exactly as shown.
- Keep the numbers with your Use & Care Guide for future parts lookup.
What the identification plate tells you (and why it matters)
The identification plate is more than a label; it helps us match the correct Kenmore range parts and specifications.
| On the plate | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Model number | Ensures you get the correct igniter, sensor, burner parts, and hardware |
| Serial number | Helps confirm production details when parts vary by revision |
| Fuel and pressure info | Confirms the range setup for natural gas or L.P. conversion |
| Burner ratings | Helps when diagnosing weak flame or uneven heating |
Tips for ordering the right replacement part
- Match the model number first, then select the part.
- If you are replacing an oven ignition part, confirm whether you need a bake or broil igniter.
- Use the model number to cross-check common repairs like an oven not heating or delayed ignition.
If you are troubleshooting an oven that will not light, a common replacement is the tappan range oven burner igniter 316489403.
Last updated: February 2026
Where is the serial number on a gas range?
On the Kenmore gas range model 79072903011, the serial number is printed on the identification (serial) plate on the right-hand surface of the oven front frame. You can reach it by opening the storage drawer, warmer drawer, or broiler drawer (depending on your model configuration). See the installation guide for the exact access point and illustration.
How to find it (quick steps)
- Make sure the range is cool and the oven is off.
- Pull out and open the bottom drawer (storage, warmer, or broiler drawer).
- Look at the lower right area of the oven frame and the right-hand front frame surface.
- Find the label that lists model, serial, and often a lot number/letter.
- Write the numbers down exactly as shown (include any letters).
What the serial plate tells you (and why it matters)
The identification plate is more than a serial number label; it helps us match the correct parts and specifications for your exact build.
- Model and serial number (for correct parts lookup)
- Burner ratings (BTU information)
- Fuel type and gas pressure settings from the factory
- Certification and compliance markings
Common locations by drawer type
| Bottom drawer type | How you access the plate | What you are looking for |
|---|---|---|
| Storage drawer | Pull the drawer open | Label on the right-hand oven front frame |
| Warmer drawer | Pull the drawer open | Label near the lower right oven frame |
| Broiler drawer | Pull the drawer open | Label on the right-hand surface of the oven front frame |
If you are ordering parts
We use the model and serial information to help ensure fit. For example, ignition-related parts can vary by production run; having the serial number helps confirm the right replacement, such as the tappan range oven burner igniter 316489403.
Last updated: February 2026
How long should a Kenmore gas stove last?
A Kenmore gas range like model 79072903011 typically lasts 15 years with normal household use. Keeping burners clean, ensuring proper gas flame, and addressing ignition or temperature issues early helps you get the full expected lifespan.
Typical lifespan and what affects it
Most gas ranges reach their full service life when heat, ignition, and airflow stay consistent.
- Heavy daily cooking shortens lifespan faster than occasional use
- Spills and boil-overs can clog burner ports and stress igniters
- Poor flame quality (orange, lazy, or uneven) increases soot and heat stress
- Overheating from blocked vents or heavy grease buildup can damage wiring and controls
- Delayed repairs (especially ignition problems) often lead to bigger failures
Maintenance checklist (high impact)
Use these habits to keep your 79072903011 cooking evenly and lighting reliably.
- Clean surface burner caps and ports regularly; keep them dry before reassembly
- Wipe up spills quickly to prevent corrosion around igniters and orifice holders
- Confirm flames are mostly blue; a brief orange tint can happen from dust or coastal air
- Replace worn consumables promptly (for example, oven light bulbs)
- Follow the cleaning and care steps in the owner's manual
Common “wear” parts that can shorten range life
If the range is not heating, not igniting, or baking unevenly, these parts are frequent culprits.
| Symptom | Common cause | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Oven will not ignite or takes too long to light | Weak/hot-surface igniter | Tappan range oven burner igniter 316489403 |
| Oven temperature swings or bakes unevenly | Temperature sensor drifting out of spec | Frigidaire range oven temperature sensor 316490000 |
| Oven light out | Burned-out bulb | Appliance light bulb, 40-watt 316538904 |
Why it matters
A gas range can run for many years, but ignition and temperature accuracy usually determine whether it still feels dependable. Fixing a slow-igniting oven or inaccurate baking early reduces strain on the gas valve, wiring, and controls.
Last updated: February 2026
Are all stove igniters universal?
No. Stove igniters are not universal; the correct igniter for your Kenmore 79072903011 depends on whether you are fixing a surface burner spark electrode or an oven hot-surface (glow) igniter, plus the mounting and wire connector style.
What “igniter” means on model 79072903011
This range uses two different ignition types:
- Surface burners: electronic spark; turning a knob to LITE makes the igniters spark and the burner should light quickly once gas is present.
- Oven bake/broil: hot-surface igniter that glows; the gas valve opens after the igniter heats, so flame appears after a short delay.
- Normal operation note: if a surface knob stays on LITE, sparking can continue.
For model-specific operating and ignition checks, use the owner's manual.
Why “universal” igniters are hit-or-miss
“Universal” kits often require bracket swaps or wire splicing, which creates common fit and performance problems:
- Mounting holes do not line up; igniter sits too far from the burner
- Connector does not match; loose or overheated connection
- Wrong oven igniter electrical draw; delayed ignition or no ignition
- Misalignment; uneven flame or hard lighting
Parts that match common igniter problems
If you want to avoid universal-fit guesswork, these model-matched parts are commonly used for ignition issues:
| Symptom | Part to consider | Part role |
|---|---|---|
| Oven will not heat or lights slowly | Tappan range oven burner igniter 316489403 | Glows to ignite the oven burner |
| Broil will not light (if equipped) | Range oven igniter 5304506545 | Ignites the broil burner |
| Surface burners do not spark consistently | Range spark module 5304508269 | Sends spark to surface electrodes |
Why it matters
Using the correct igniter helps the gas light quickly and consistently. The wrong style or fit causes delayed ignition, nuisance clicking, and repeated no-heat problems.
Last updated: February 2026
