Kenmore Elite 79551079011 refrigerator Parts

To replace the water filter in your Kenmore Elite refrigerator model 79551079011, turn off the household water supply, remove the old cartridge by twisting it out, then install the new cartridge and flush 2.5 gallons through the dispenser to purge air and carbon fines. See the 79551079011 owner's manual for the exact filter style (Type 1 or Type 2) used in your unit.

Step-by-step: replace the filter

• Turn off the household water supply to the refrigerator.
• Place a cup or towel under the filter area; a small amount of water can spill.
• Remove the old filter:
  • Type 1: rotate the cartridge knob counterclockwise until it clicks out, then pull it out.
  • Type 2: grasp the handle and twist about 1/4 turn until it releases, then pull it out.
• Prep the new filter (remove packaging and any protective caps from the O-rings).
• Install the new filter:
  • Push the cartridge in until it stops, then twist until it snaps/locks in place.
  • Confirm it is secure; it should not wiggle side to side.
• Turn the household water supply back on.

Flush and reset (important)

After installation, we recommend these steps to restore normal water flow and clear the indicator:

Task	What to do	Why
Purge the system	Dispense 2.5 gallons (9.46 L) using 30 sec ON / 60 sec OFF cycles	Removes trapped air and loose carbon fines
Check for leaks	Inspect the filter area and nearby tubing while dispensing	Prevents hidden water damage
Reset the light	Press and hold Filter Reset for 3 seconds (when the reset icon is on)	Restores the filter reminder timer

Which replacement filter do I need?

For this model, the replacement is commonly listed as Kenmore refrigerator water filter 9990 5231JA2006E. Match the cartridge style and seating method to what you removed.

Why it matters

A correctly installed, purged filter helps prevent slow dispensing, sputtering, off-taste water, and small leaks around the cartridge housing. It also protects the water inlet valve and dispenser system from debris.

Last updated: February 2026

For Kenmore Elite refrigerator model 79551079011, the exact exterior dimensions (width, depth, height) are listed in the product specifications section of the 79551079011 owner's manual. This model is a side-by-side refrigerator, so it typically fits a 33-inch-wide opening, but the manual gives the precise measurements you should use.

How to get the exact dimensions for your space

Use the manual specs (not a “similar model” listing) before ordering trim kits, planning cabinetry, or moving the refrigerator.

• Check the overall width, height, and depth in the specifications section
• Confirm whether depth is listed with handles or without handles
• Measure your doorway and path; include turns and stair clearance
• Leave airflow clearance around the cabinet (rear and sides)
• If you are connecting water, plan slack in the water line so the unit can slide out for service

Typical size range for this style (planning guidance)

If you are rough-planning a replacement, most Kenmore 795 side-by-side units are close to these ranges:

Measurement	Typical range (side-by-side)	What to verify in the manual
Width	32 3/4 to 33 inches	Exact cabinet width and door swing clearance
Height	67 to 70 inches	Height to top of hinge cover
Depth	30 to 34 inches	With/without handles and doors

Why it matters

A refrigerator can “fit the opening” but still fail installation if the doors cannot swing fully, the unit cannot clear a doorway, or the water line is too tight. The manual also calls out water supply needs (for example, adequate water pressure for filtered models) that affect placement and hookup.

Last updated: February 2026

For Kenmore appliances, we read the model number as a “family code + specific build” identifier: the first 3 digits typically point to the manufacturer source, and the remaining digits narrow down the exact design, features, and production variation. For Kenmore Elite refrigerator model 79551079011, the 795 prefix identifies the model family used for this refrigerator line.

Where to find the model number on this refrigerator

On Kenmore Elite 79551079011, the model and serial number are printed on an identification label located on the right-hand side of the refrigerator compartment. This location is called out in the 79551079011 owner's manual.

Common places to check on other Kenmore appliances include:

• Inside the fresh food compartment (side wall or ceiling)
• On the door frame behind the crisper drawers
• On the back panel near the power cord
• On a side panel near the bottom front (behind the base grille)

How to break down a Kenmore model number (quick guide)

Most Kenmore model numbers follow this pattern:

• Prefix (first 3 digits): manufacturer source code
• Middle digits: base model/platform
• Ending digits: feature package, color, revision, or production run

Example breakdown

Section	What it usually means	Example (generic)
First 3 digits	Manufacturer source code	795.xxx…
Next digits	Base model/platform	5107…
Last digits	Variation/revision	…9011

Why it matters

Using the full model number (all digits) is the fastest way to match the correct parts and diagrams. Even small ending-number differences can change items like the water filter style, door hardware, or dispenser components.

Tips when using your model number to get the right parts

• Copy the model number exactly as printed (include all digits)
• Use the model number first, then confirm the part by name and diagram location
• If you are ordering water system parts, match the filter type and fittings carefully
• Keep the serial number handy; it can help confirm production variation

Last updated: February 2026

The exact cubic-foot capacity for Kenmore Elite model 79551079011 is listed on the model’s specification information in the 79551079011 owner's manual. This Use & Care Guide covers multiple 795.5107 and 795.5108 variations, so we use the manual’s model-specific specs section to match your exact capacity.

How to find the capacity for model 79551079011

Use these quick checks to get the right number the first time:

• Look in the 79551079011 owner's manual for the “Specifications” or “Product dimensions/capacity” section.
• Check the model and serial label location noted in the manual (right-hand side of the refrigerator compartment).
• Compare your full model number exactly as printed; small suffix differences can change capacity.
• If you are measuring cabinet space, use the manual’s external dimensions, not the cubic-foot rating.
• If you are shopping parts (like shelves or bins), match by model number first, then by part diagram.

Typical capacity range (helpful for planning)

Most Kenmore side-by-side refrigerators in this style commonly fall into a mid-to-high 20s cubic-foot range, but the only accurate value for 79551079011 is the one tied to your exact model label and manual.

What you need	Best source	Why
Cubic feet (total capacity)	79551079011 owner's manual	Model-specific rating used for comparisons
Fit in your kitchen opening	Manual dimensions + your tape measure	Doors and clearances matter more than cubic feet
Water/ice performance expectations	Manual + water pressure requirements	Water pressure affects dispenser and icemaker fill

Why it matters

Cubic feet helps compare storage volume, but it does not tell you whether the refrigerator will fit your space or whether drawers and door bins meet your needs. For installation planning, the manual’s dimensions and clearance guidance are more important than capacity.

Last updated: February 2026

Most Kenmore Elite refrigerators, including model 79551079011, last 10 to 15 years with normal household use. Regular maintenance (good airflow, clean condenser area, tight door seals, and a working water system) keeps temperatures stable and reduces compressor run time, which helps the refrigerator reach its full service life.

Typical lifespan ranges (what to expect)

Refrigerator life varies by design and how hard the sealed system has to work.

Refrigerator type	Typical lifespan	Notes
Side-by-side (like Kenmore Elite 79551079011)	10 to 15 years	Dispenser and ice system add wear points
Top freezer	12 to 18 years	Simpler design often lasts longer
French door	10 to 15 years	More doors and features mean more components

Maintenance that extends life

These steps reduce heat load and prevent common failures.

• Keep the doors closing and sealing fully; clean the gasket and remove food packages that block closure.
• Maintain steady temperatures; avoid frequent long door openings and overloading warm groceries.
• Replace the water filter on schedule to protect the dispenser and valve; use the refrigerator water filter 9990 5231JA2006E.
• Confirm the refrigerator is level and stable to reduce vibration and rattling.
• Follow the care and operating guidance in the 79551079011 owner's manual.

Signs you are nearing end-of-life (repair vs. replace clues)

A single symptom does not always mean the refrigerator is “done”, but patterns matter.

• Compressor seems to run most of the day even when the kitchen is not hot.
• Temperatures swing (food freezing in fresh food section or soft ice cream in freezer).
• Repeated water leaks, dispenser issues, or ice maker problems.
• Unusual vibration or rattling that returns after leveling.
• Multiple repairs needed within a short time.

Why it matters

A refrigerator that runs excessively wastes energy and stresses the compressor. The Kenmore Elite use and care guidance notes that modern units can run 40% to 80% of the time under normal conditions, and more in warm conditions or after loading groceries; keeping airflow and seals in good shape helps keep run time in that normal range.

Last updated: February 2026

If the ice maker on your Kenmore Elite 79551079011 is not making ice, the most common causes are the icemaker power switch being OFF, the freezer not being cold enough for icemaker operation, or a water supply issue (filter restriction, kinked line, or a failing inlet valve). Confirm the basics first using the 79551079011 owner's manual.

Quick checks that fix most “no ice” problems

• Make sure the icemaker power switch is set to ON (I).
• Confirm the freezer is cold enough; the icemaker starts operating once it reaches 15°F (-9°C) or below.
• If this is a new install or the unit was recently moved, allow 24 hours to begin making ice and up to 72 hours for full production.
• Verify all doors close completely; ice dispensing and some functions can be affected by doors left open.
• If the dispenser is locked, unlock the controls (per the manual).

Water supply and filter problems (very common)

A restricted water supply can stop ice production even if the refrigerator otherwise seems normal.

• Replace a clogged filter and purge air from the line after replacement.
• Check the supply line behind the refrigerator for kinks or crushing.
• If water flow to the icemaker is weak or intermittent, test the inlet valve.

Helpful parts for this model:

• Kenmore refrigerator water filter 9990 5231JA2006E
• Refrigerator water inlet valve 5221JA2006D

What the symptoms usually mean

Symptom	Most likely cause	What to do first
No ice at all	Icemaker switch OFF or freezer too warm	Switch ON; verify freezer temp
Small/hollow cubes	Low water flow	Replace filter; check line
Ice clumps in bin	Infrequent use or humidity	Break up clumps; empty and dry bin
Buzzing sound	Icemaker valve energizing	Normal during fill; confirm water is connected

Why it matters

The icemaker depends on two things: cold enough freezer temperature and steady water flow. Fixing the simple items first (switch position, temperature, filter, and line condition) prevents unnecessary part replacement and gets ice production back faster.

Last updated: February 2026

Kenmore Elite refrigerator model 79551079011 is a Kenmore-branded unit that was manufactured for Sears by an outside appliance maker (Kenmore is a private-label brand). For this model series, the Use & Care Guide identifies Sears Brands Management Corporation as the brand owner and support contact. See the 79551079011 owner's manual for the model-series identification details.

What the manual tells you (and what it means)

The Use & Care Guide for the 795.5107xx / 795.5108xx model series lists:

• Kenmore Elite as the product branding
• Sears Brands Management Corporation as the brand owner/contact (Hoffman Estates, IL)
• A Kenmore manual part number (P/N MFL63729004)

This confirms the refrigerator is sold under the Kenmore name and supported through Sears, even though the physical manufacturing is done by a third-party manufacturer.

How to identify the actual manufacturer on your unit

For the most reliable identification, we use the refrigerator’s data label information:

• Open the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment
• Look for the identification label on the right-hand side of the compartment
• Record the model number and serial number
• Use those numbers when ordering parts or requesting service

The manual notes the label location so you can match your exact unit to the correct parts list and diagrams.

Why it matters when ordering parts

Kenmore model numbers often indicate the manufacturing source, and that affects which parts fit (water filter, ice maker components, control boards, hinges).

What you’re doing	What to use	Why it helps
Ordering replacement parts	Model 79551079011	Ensures correct fit for your exact platform
Confirming features and specs	79551079011 owner's manual	Matches your configuration and options
Fixing water/ice issues	Model + water system parts	Prevents wrong valve/filter selection

If you’re working on water or ice performance, a common maintenance step is replacing the correct filter for this model, such as the Kenmore refrigerator water filter 9990 5231JA2006E.

Why it matters

Knowing who “makes” a Kenmore refrigerator is less important than knowing the exact model and serial; those two identifiers control parts compatibility, wiring layouts, and service procedures for the 79551079011 platform.

Last updated: February 2026

Water leaking from a Kenmore Elite side-by-side refrigerator model 79551079011 is usually caused by a defrost drain problem, a loose or damaged water line connection, or a leak in the dispenser water circuit. We recommend checking the drain path first, then inspecting the water supply tubing and fittings using the steps in the 79551079011 owner's manual.

Most common leak sources to check

• Clogged defrost drain: Meltwater can back up and spill into the fresh food section or onto the floor.
• Water line connection at the door hinge: The manual notes water can spill when the freezer door water line is disconnected; a partially seated tube can also seep.
• Cracked or loose dispenser tubing/fittings: Look for drips behind the toe grille or under the left door.
• Water inlet valve seepage: A valve can weep slowly and create intermittent puddles.
• Drain pan overflow or misalignment: Water from defrost should land in the pan and evaporate.

Quick troubleshooting steps (in order)

1. Unplug the refrigerator and dry the area so you can confirm where fresh water appears.
2. Check inside for drain backup: look for water under crisper drawers or a sheet of ice on the freezer floor.
3. Inspect the water supply line and fittings at the back of the unit; tighten compression fittings and look for mineral tracks.
4. Inspect the freezer door water tube connection (top hinge area) for a tube that is not fully seated or has a nicked end.
5. If the leak appears only when dispensing water or making ice, test the valve and tubing; use the how to diagnose a faulty refrigerator water inlet valve guide.

Parts that commonly relate to water leaks on this model

Leak symptom	Likely area	Example part to inspect/replace
Puddle behind fridge	Supply connection or valve	Refrigerator water inlet valve 5221JA2006D
Slow drip at fittings	Door or cabinet tubing joint	Refrigerator water tube fitting 4932JA3002C
Leak after filter change	Filter not seated or cracked	Kenmore refrigerator water filter 9990 5231JA2006E

Why it matters

Even a small seep can damage flooring and can also reduce ice maker performance (low pressure from a partially blocked line or a weeping valve). Fixing the source early helps protect the refrigerator’s control components and keeps cooling airflow areas dry.

Last updated: February 2026