How to tell if a Kenmore refrigerator compressor is bad?
A bad compressor in your Kenmore refrigerator model 59679212010 usually shows up as poor cooling even though the unit keeps trying to run, repeated clicking as it attempts to start, or a compressor that is extremely hot to the touch after running. Before condemning the compressor, we rule out common start and airflow problems.
Quick symptoms checklist
- Refrigerator and freezer are warm but interior lights and controls work
- You hear a repeated click every few minutes (start attempt then shutoff)
- Compressor is very hot after it has been trying to run
- You do not hear the normal steady hum or you hear a brief hum then click
- Frost pattern looks abnormal (for example, heavy frost in one spot only)
What to check first (most common non-compressor causes)
- Power reset: Unplug for 5 minutes, then plug back in.
- Condenser airflow: Clean dust from the condenser area and confirm the condenser fan runs (if equipped).
- Evaporator airflow: If the freezer is cold but the fresh food section is warm, check the evaporator fan system. A failed fan motor can mimic compressor trouble.
- Defrost system: Heavy frost on the evaporator cover can block airflow and cause warm temps.
Helpful parts that relate to these checks for model 59679212010 include the refrigerator evaporator fan motor WPW10128551 and the refrigerator defrost heater WP12729128.
Simple observations vs. technician-level tests
| Check | What you can do | What it suggests |
|---|---|---|
| Clicking every few minutes | Listen near the back bottom | Start device/overload issue or locked compressor |
| Compressor temperature | Carefully touch the shell (it can burn) | Very hot often means it is struggling to start |
| Cooling performance | Verify freezer and fridge temps | Poor cooling points to sealed system or compressor |
| Electrical testing | Use a meter and amp clamp | Confirms winding condition and start current |
Why it matters
Replacing a compressor is a sealed-system repair; it is more involved than swapping common service parts. Checking airflow (fans), defrost, and controls first prevents unnecessary cost and downtime.
For additional Kenmore troubleshooting patterns (including display or fault code behavior on some Kenmore platforms), use our Kenmore 111 model bottom freezer refrigerator error codes guide.
Last updated: February 2026
How to tell what model Kenmore refrigerator?
To tell what model Kenmore refrigerator you have, we look for the model/serial tag on the cabinet (not on removable drawers or shelves). For Kenmore model 59679212010, the tag is typically inside the fresh food section on a side wall or ceiling, or near the bottom front behind the kick plate.
Where to look for the model number tag
Check these common locations first:
- Inside the refrigerator compartment on the left or right side wall
- On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment
- Behind or beside the crisper drawers (on the cabinet wall, not the drawer)
- Behind the lower front kick plate or toe grille
- On the hinge-side cabinet frame near the door opening
What the model number looks like (Kenmore)
Kenmore refrigerator model numbers are usually a long number string. Once you find it, match it exactly, including all digits.
| What to record | Example for this page | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 59679212010 | Ensures parts fit your exact refrigerator |
| Serial number | (varies) | Helps confirm production run and compatible revisions |
Tips to avoid common mistakes
These quick checks prevent ordering the wrong refrigerator parts:
- Write the model number exactly as shown; do not drop the last digits
- Use the cabinet tag; do not use numbers printed on bins, shelves, or drawers
- If the label is worn, take a clear photo and zoom in to read it
- If you see multiple numbers, the model number is usually labeled "Model" or "Model No."
Why it matters
Kenmore uses similar-looking designs across many series, and small model-number differences can change which door gasket, electronic control, or fan motor fits. Once you confirm your model, you can choose exact-match parts such as the refrigerator electronic control WPW10503278 or refrigerator evaporator fan motor WPW10128551.
Last updated: February 2026
Is it really necessary to change your refrigerator water filter every 6 months?
Yes. For a Kenmore bottom-mount refrigerator like model 59679212010, replacing the water filter about every 6 months keeps water flow strong and filtration effective; once a filter loads up with sediment and carbon fines, taste, odor, and ice quality can drop and the dispenser can slow.
When 6 months is the right rule (and when it is not)
Use the 6-month interval as your default, then adjust based on how your refrigerator is used.
- Heavy use (large household, lots of ice) often needs earlier replacement
- Hard water or lots of sediment can clog the filter sooner
- If the dispenser stream slows, the filter is commonly the first restriction
- If water tastes flat, metallic, or “off,” the carbon media is usually spent
- If you rarely use the dispenser, you can still replace on schedule to keep performance consistent
Quick signs your filter is due
These are the most common “real world” indicators we see on bottom-mount refrigerators:
- Noticeably slower water flow at the dispenser
- Smaller or hollow ice cubes
- New taste or odor in water or ice
- Cloudy water right after dispensing (often improves after flushing, but can signal a loaded filter)
- Filter indicator light (if your model has one) stays on after reset attempts
What to do after you replace the filter
A new filter needs a short flush to clear trapped air and loose carbon.
| Step | What to do | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Install | Seat the filter fully and lock it in place | Prevents leaks and bypassing |
| Flush | Dispense several gallons of water (or per your filter instructions) | Clears air and carbon fines |
| Ice | Discard the first bin or two of ice | Improves taste and clarity |
Why it matters
A timely filter change protects water taste and helps your dispenser and ice maker maintain normal flow. Waiting too long commonly leads to slow dispensing and poor ice production, which can look like a refrigerator problem when it is simply a restricted filter.
Helpful DIY guidance
For Kenmore filter styles and replacement basics, use our guide: how to replace the water filter in a Kenmore refrigerator.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most common problems with Kenmore refrigerators?
The most common problems we see on Kenmore refrigerators like model 59679212010 are cooling issues, ice maker and water dispenser troubles, water leaks, frost buildup, and unusual noises. Many of these trace back to airflow problems, a failing fan motor, a defrost system issue, or a worn door gasket.
Most common symptoms and what usually causes them
- Not cooling or warm fridge section: dirty condenser area, blocked vents, or a weak evaporator fan
- Freezer cold but fridge warm: restricted airflow, frost-packed evaporator cover, or evaporator fan not running
- Water leaking inside or onto the floor: clogged defrost drain, cracked drain pan, or water line/valve issues
- Heavy frost or ice buildup: defrost heater or defrost control problem, door not sealing
- Noisy operation: fan blade hitting ice, worn fan motor, or condenser fan issues
Quick checks we recommend before replacing parts
- Set temps to typical targets: 37°F fresh food, 0°F freezer.
- Make sure air vents are not blocked by food packages.
- Clean dust from the condenser area (unplug first).
- Listen for the evaporator fan in the freezer; it should run when the compressor is running.
- Inspect door gaskets for gaps, tears, or areas that do not grip paper when closed.
Parts that commonly relate to these problems (for model 59679212010)
| Problem | Common part involved | What it affects |
|---|---|---|
| Warm temps, weak airflow | Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WPW10128551 | Moves cold air through the compartments |
| Frost buildup, poor cooling | Refrigerator defrost heater WP12729128 | Melts frost off the evaporator |
| Door not sealing, moisture/frost | Gasket-fip W10830189 | Prevents warm air leaks into the cabinet |
| Clicking/hard starting | Refrigerator run capacitor WPW10662129 | Helps the compressor start and run |
Why it matters
Cooling, frost, and leak symptoms often get worse quickly in a bottom-mount refrigerator because airflow and defrost performance directly control both temperature stability and humidity. Catching a failing fan, heater, or gasket early helps protect food and reduces strain on the compressor.
For display errors or beeping patterns, use our Kenmore 111 model bottom freezer refrigerator error codes reference to narrow down the failure.
Last updated: February 2026





