Kenmore 25357398601 refrigerator Parts

On Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 25357398601, the model number is printed on the serial plate located inside the refrigerator (fresh food) compartment. Open the refrigerator door and look along the interior walls near the top area for the label that lists both the model and serial numbers.

Where to look (quick checklist)

• Inside the refrigerator section (not the freezer)
• On the interior side wall near the top front
• Near the crisper area side wall on some builds
• On a white or silver serial plate with multiple lines of text
• The label typically shows Model Number: 253... and a Serial Number

What the label looks like

The serial plate is a printed identification label. It usually includes:

• Model number (starts with 253 on this Kenmore platform)
• Serial number
• Electrical ratings (volts/amps)
• Sometimes the manufacturing date code

Item on label	What it’s used for	When you need it
Model number	Identifies the exact refrigerator design	Ordering parts, checking fitment
Serial number	Identifies the production run	Service history, technician diagnostics

Tips for reading and caring for the serial plate

• Use a flashlight and read it straight on to avoid glare.
• Write the model and serial numbers down exactly as shown.
• Clean the label gently with soap and water only (avoid solvents).

Why it matters

We use the model number to match the correct Kenmore parts and diagrams for 25357398601, including items like the water filter, door bins, gaskets, and ice maker components. Using the serial plate info helps prevent ordering the wrong part.

For the official identification and recording instructions, see the 25357398601 owner's manual.

Last updated: February 2026

Kenmore model numbers tell us who built the appliance and which design family it belongs to; for Kenmore refrigerator model 25357398601, the first three digits (253) identify the manufacturer group, and the remaining digits identify the specific series and feature variations we use to match the correct parts and manuals.

Where to find the model number on a Kenmore refrigerator

We use the full model number (not just the first few digits) because small digit changes can mean different shelves, gaskets, or ice maker parts.

• Check the rating label inside the fresh food compartment (often on a side wall)
• Check the door frame area near the hinges
• Check behind the toe grille or lower front kickplate area
• Check the back of the cabinet near the power cord
• Write down the full model number and serial number exactly as shown

How to interpret the digits (what they usually mean)

Kenmore numbers are typically structured as a prefix + model identifier + variation digits.

Section	Example (25357398601)	What we use it for
Manufacturer prefix	253	Identifies the manufacturer group behind the Kenmore brand
Model identifier	573986	Identifies the platform/series
Variation digits	01	Identifies version, finish, or feature package

Why the full model number matters when ordering parts

Using the complete model number helps us avoid mismatches, especially for common replacement items.

• Water filters can vary by housing style and connection
• Door gaskets differ by door size and color
• Ice maker and dispenser parts can change by revision
• Light bulbs and covers can differ by socket and lens style

If you are replacing the water filter on this model, the manual calls out Kenmore replacement cartridge 46 9910, which matches the refrigerator water filter WFCB.

Helpful references for this model

• Use the 25357398601 owner's manual to confirm the exact location of the rating label and model-specific details.

Why it matters

Reading the model number correctly is the fastest way to get the right Kenmore 253 side-by-side refrigerator parts the first time, especially for fit-critical items like gaskets, bins, and ice maker components.

Last updated: February 2026

Yes. On the Kenmore 25357398601 side-by-side refrigerator, we can replace many everyday parts ourselves (like a light bulb, door bins, and some gaskets) with basic tools and careful safety steps. For sealed-system or high-voltage repairs, we use a qualified technician.

What you can usually replace yourself

These repairs are typically DIY-friendly because they involve simple fasteners and low risk when the refrigerator is unplugged:

• Light bulb and light cover (use an appliance bulb of the same wattage)
• Door bins and drawers (for example, a broken bin or crisper pan)
• Door gaskets if the door is not sealing well
• Water filter replacement and flushing after install
• Ice container removal and cleaning

Repairs we treat as pro-only

Some repairs can create electrical or refrigerant hazards, or require specialized tools and EPA-compliant handling:

• Sealed cooling system work (compressor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant lines)
• Refrigerant-related components such as a filter dryer replacement
• Complex electrical diagnosis beyond basic checks

Safety steps we follow before any repair

The manual for this model is clear about electrical safety and servicing basics. Use these steps every time:

• Unplug the refrigerator (turning controls to “0” does not remove power)
• Wear gloves when replacing a light bulb to protect against broken glass
• Keep flammables away from the appliance area
• Avoid contact with moving parts on the automatic ice maker
• If removing doors to move the unit, follow the door-removal procedure exactly

Quick DIY examples for this model

Task	Typical difficulty	Parts you might use
Replace interior light bulb	Easy	Refrigerator light bulb 316538904
Replace water filter	Easy	Genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter WFCB
Fix a leaking/loose door seal	Medium	Refrigerator freezer gasket 241786014

Why it matters

DIY repairs on your Kenmore 25357398601 can restore cooling performance, reduce leaks, and prevent food spoilage. Doing the right safety steps first also protects the compressor and helps avoid electrical shock.

For model-specific procedures (like door removal, light bulb replacement, and filter location), use the 25357398601 owner's manual and the 25357398601 installation guide.

Last updated: February 2026

Most Kenmore refrigerators, including model 25357398601, typically last 10 to 15 years. With consistent maintenance (cleaning coils, keeping door gaskets sealing, and fixing cooling or ice maker issues early), it’s common to reach the upper end of that range.

Typical lifespan ranges (what to expect)

• Average: 10 to 15 years
• Often achievable with good care: 15 years
• Shortened lifespan is common when: condenser coils stay dirty, doors don’t seal, or airflow is blocked

Condition	What you’ll usually see	Impact on lifespan
Coils kept clean	Steadier temps, fewer long run times	Longer
Door seals tight	Less frost, less compressor strain	Longer
Poor airflow or heavy frost	Warm fridge, noisy running	Shorter
Water/ice issues ignored	Leaks, clogs, dispenser problems	Shorter

Maintenance that extends life the most

We recommend focusing on the items that reduce compressor workload and prevent moisture problems:

• Vacuum and brush condenser coils regularly (dust buildup makes the compressor run hotter and longer).
• Check door closing and sealing; replace worn gaskets when you feel cold air leaking.
• Keep vents inside the fresh food and freezer sections clear (don’t pack items tightly against air returns).
• Replace the water filter on schedule if your unit uses one; a restricted filter can reduce dispenser flow.
• If ice clumps or jams, empty and loosen cubes as described in the 25357398601 owner’s manual (avoid sharp tools that can damage the bin and mechanism).

Parts that commonly affect longevity

These parts do not define the refrigerator’s lifespan by themselves, but they often drive service calls when they wear out:

• Refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat 5303918214 (helps prevent heavy frost that blocks airflow)
• Refrigerator freezer gasket 241786014 (prevents warm air leaks and frost buildup)
• Genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter WFCB (supports consistent water flow to the dispenser and ice maker)

Why it matters

A refrigerator usually “dies early” from heat and run time: dirty coils, air leaks, and frost buildup force longer compressor cycles. Keeping the sealed system and airflow healthy is the most reliable way to hit the normal 10 to 15-year lifespan.

Last updated: February 2026

In the Kenmore 25357398601 side-by-side refrigerator, the most commonly replaced parts are the ones that wear out from normal use or get stressed by heat, moisture, and airflow: water filters, door gaskets, light bulbs, ice maker components, and defrost parts. Our 25357398601 owner's manual also highlights routine care items like condenser coil cleaning and light bulb replacement.

Most common replacement parts (and what they affect)

• Water filter: improves taste and flow; a clogged filter can slow the dispenser and reduce ice production (example: refrigerator water filter WFCB).
• Door gaskets (seals): prevent warm air leaks that cause frost, sweating, and long run times (examples: refrigerator gasket 241786013, refrigerator freezer gasket 241786014).
• Light bulbs: burn out over time; the manual outlines safe bulb replacement steps (example: refrigerator light bulb 316538904).
• Defrost components: help prevent frost buildup on the evaporator; failures can cause warm temps and poor airflow (example: refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat 5303918214).
• Ice maker parts: wear from cycling and mineral buildup; issues show up as no ice, small cubes, or jams (example: ice maker mold 241798231).

Quick troubleshooting: what symptom points to what part

Symptom	Most likely part area	What to check first
Water dispenses slowly	Water filter, supply	Replace filter; confirm strong house water pressure
Frost on freezer wall, weak cooling	Defrost system, airflow	Look for heavy frost; listen for fan operation
Doors not closing tightly, moisture on gasket	Door gasket, leveling	Inspect gasket for gaps; level cabinet so doors close
Lights out but unit cools	Light bulb, door switch	Replace bulb; check if switch is stuck

Why it matters

Replacing high-wear parts early (filters, gaskets, bulbs) helps your Kenmore 25357398601 maintain stable temperatures, reduce compressor run time, and prevent secondary problems like frost buildup and water leaks.

Last updated: February 2026

For Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 25357398601, the exact exterior dimensions and required installation clearances are listed in the 25357398601 owner's manual and the 25357398601 installation guide. For planning purposes, most 32-inch-class side-by-side refrigerators are roughly 32–36 inches wide, about 65–70 inches tall, and about 28–34 inches deep including doors and handles.

What to measure for the right fit

Measure your space and compare it to the specs in the manual:

• Opening width at the top, middle, and bottom
• Opening height from floor to the lowest overhead cabinet or trim
• Depth from the back wall to the front edge of counters (include baseboards)
• Door swing clearance so doors open fully without hitting a wall
• Ventilation clearance behind, above, and at the sides (per the guide)

Quick planning ranges (not model-specific)

Dimension you’re planning for	Typical side-by-side range	Notes
Width	32–36 in.	Cabinet width, not trim kits
Height	65–70 in.	Can vary with hinges and leveling legs
Depth (installed)	28–34 in.	Includes doors and handles

Tips that prevent installation surprises

• Add extra depth if the refrigerator will sit proud of the cabinets.
• Account for water line routing if you use the ice maker or dispenser.
• Confirm whether your flooring change (tile, LVP) affects final height.
• If doors must be removed for delivery, follow the steps in the guide.

Why it matters

Using the manual’s dimensions and clearance requirements helps prevent delivery-day fit issues, protects airflow for proper cooling, and reduces the chance of door seal problems.

Last updated: February 2026