How wide is a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
The Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10657036602 is 35 5/8 inches wide (cabinet width). For installation, plan for additional space for ventilation and door swing as outlined in the 10657036602 owner's manual.
What “width” means for fit
Refrigerator width can be listed a few different ways; use the one that matches your situation.
- Cabinet width: the main box of the refrigerator (the key number for the opening)
- Overall width: can be wider if handles or trim extend past the cabinet
- Door swing clearance: extra side space needed so doors open fully
- Ventilation clearance: space around the cabinet to keep cooling efficient
Clearances to plan for (from the manual)
The manual’s installation guidance affects how wide the space needs to be even when the cabinet fits.
- Leave 1/2 inch on each side and at the top for ventilation
- If installed next to a fixed wall, leave 2 inches minimum on the wall side (depending on the model) for door swing
- If the refrigerator has an ice maker, leave extra space behind for the water line connection
| Measurement you need | Use this for | What to include |
|---|---|---|
| 35 5/8 in | Cabinet opening fit | Refrigerator cabinet only |
| Opening width | Installation planning | Cabinet width plus side clearances |
| Door clearance | Usability | Space to the wall/cabinet for door swing |
Why it matters
Using the correct width prevents delivery and installation problems. Even when the cabinet fits, missing the recommended side clearance can restrict door swing and reduce airflow, which can lead to warmer temperatures and longer compressor run time.
Last updated: January 2026
What are the most common issues with 10657036602?
The most common issues we see with the Kenmore 10657036602 side-by-side refrigerator involve cooling performance, ice maker and water dispenser problems, and frost buildup from defrost system faults. Many of these symptoms trace back to airflow, water supply, or a failed control or defrost component; use the 10657036602 owner's manual for model-specific checks.
Common symptoms and what they usually point to
- Not cooling or warm refrigerator section: evaporator airflow problem (fan motor, fan blade), dirty condenser, or temperature control issue
- Freezer cold but fridge warm: restricted airflow, iced-over evaporator, or evaporator fan not running
- No ice or small/hollow cubes: water supply restriction, inlet valve issue, or ice maker fault
- Water dispenser slow or not dispensing: clogged filter, kinked water tube, or inlet valve problem
- Frost buildup on back wall of freezer: defrost heater or defrost thermostat problem
- Clicking then no start: start components (run capacitor) or compressor circuit issue
Parts that commonly solve these problems (when diagnosis matches)
If your symptoms match, these model-compatible parts are often involved:
- Water and ice supply: genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1, refrigerator inlet valve W10408179, refrigerator water tube 8201597
- Ice production: refrigerator ice maker 2198597
- Frost and defrost: refrigerator heater WP2323198, refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat WPW10225581
- Airflow: refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315549, refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2169142
Quick checks before replacing parts
- Confirm controls are set correctly and vents are not blocked by food packages.
- Check door sealing and closing; warm air leaks can cause frost and poor cooling.
- For water and ice issues, verify the household shutoff valve is fully open and the supply line is not kinked.
- If water flow is weak, replace the filter first and purge air from the line.
Symptom-to-part guide
| Symptom | Most likely system | Common part examples for this model |
|---|---|---|
| No ice, no water | Water supply/valve | W10408179, 8201597 |
| Slow water flow | Filtration/supply | EDR3RXD1 |
| Frost buildup | Defrost system | WP2323198, WPW10225581 |
| Fridge warm, freezer OK | Airflow/evap fan | WP2315549, WP2169142 |
Why it matters
On a side-by-side refrigerator like the Kenmore 10657036602, the freezer evaporator provides the cold air for both sections. When airflow, defrost, or water supply is off, you can get warm temperatures, frost, leaks, or ice maker failures that worsen quickly.
Last updated: March 2026
What is the code Sy Ef on a Kenmore refrigerator?
On Kenmore model 10657036602, the SY EF (or 5Y EF) code points to a problem in the evaporator fan circuit, meaning the freezer evaporator fan is not running correctly or the control is not sensing it. This can be caused by a failed fan motor, wiring issue, or a control problem; use the 10657036602 owner's manual for model-specific checks.
What to check first (quick troubleshooting)
- Power reset: Unplug the refrigerator (or turn off the breaker) for 5 minutes, then restore power.
- Freezer airflow: Make sure vents are not blocked by food packages.
- Fan sound: Listen for the evaporator fan running when the doors are closed (the fan often pauses with the door open).
- Frost buildup: Heavy frost on the freezer back panel often indicates a defrost system issue that can stop airflow.
- Door seal: A leaking gasket can cause excess frost and airflow problems.
Parts commonly involved
If the code returns after a reset, these parts are commonly involved on side-by-side refrigerators like the Kenmore 106 series:
| Symptom you notice | Most likely area | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| No airflow in fresh food section, freezer still cold | Evaporator fan not moving air | Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315549 |
| Fan runs sometimes, then stops; intermittent cooling | Loose connection or harness issue | Wiring/connectors (inspect for damage) |
| Fan runs but airflow is weak; frost on back wall | Defrost system not clearing ice | Defrost components (heater, thermostat) |
Why it matters
The evaporator fan moves cold air from the freezer evaporator through the freezer and into the refrigerator section. When the fan circuit fails, temperatures rise, food can spoil, and frost can build up faster.
When to stop and get service
- The freezer back panel is packed with ice and returns quickly after defrosting.
- You hear grinding/squealing from the fan area.
- The refrigerator is warming above safe food temperatures.
Last updated: January 2026





