How do I reset a Kenmore refrigerator?
For Kenmore model 10653603202, the most reliable reset is a power reset: turn the refrigerator control to OFF, disconnect power, then restore power and set the controls back to your normal temperatures. This clears minor control glitches and restores normal operation.
- Turn the refrigerator control (thermostat or refrigerator/freezer control, depending on your unit) to OFF.
- Unplug the power cord from the outlet (or switch the circuit breaker OFF).
- Wait 5 minutes.
- Plug back in (or switch the breaker ON).
- Set the refrigerator and freezer controls back to the desired settings.
- Allow 30 minutes to confirm the unit is running; allow 24 hours for temperatures to fully stabilize.
Some Kenmore refrigerators with digital controls reset by turning the unit OFF and then ON again using the control panel. Use the exact control procedure shown in the owner's manual.
| Situation | Reset helps? | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Control panel glitch, odd behavior after a power flicker | Yes | Power reset, then recheck operation |
| Not cooling during an automatic defrost cycle | Sometimes | Wait 30 minutes, then recheck |
| Ice maker not producing yet after install | No | Wait up to 72 hours for full production |
| Repeated no-cool, warm freezer, or tripping breaker | No | Troubleshoot airflow, condenser fan, and sealed system components |
A reset restores the control to a known good state after a power interruption or minor electronic hiccup. It also forces you to confirm the basics (power, controls not set to OFF, and normal defrost timing) before replacing parts.
If the reset doesn’t help and you’re troubleshooting ice or water issues, these model-compatible parts are common suspects:
- Refrigerator inlet valve W10408179 (water supply to ice maker and dispenser)
- Refrigerator ice maker 2198597 (ice production assembly)
- Refrigerator water filter housing WP2186443 (filter mount and water routing)
Last updated: February 2026
What is the cubic foot of my Kenmore Elite refrigerator model 10653603202?
Your Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10653603202 is typically listed at about 21.9 cubic feet of total capacity. For the exact capacity as shipped (and any configuration notes), we recommend confirming it in the 10653603202 owner's manual.
Capacity can vary slightly by revision and how the manufacturer reports usable space. The most reliable places to check are:
- The specifications section in the 10653603202 owner's manual
- The model and serial label inside the fresh food compartment (often near the side wall)
- Any product record information you saved at purchase
Knowing the cubic feet helps when you are:
- Comparing replacement refrigerators or planning a kitchen remodel
- Choosing storage accessories (bins, pans, shelves) that fit your layout
- Estimating cooling load after frequent door openings or heavy stocking
Most Kenmore 106-series side-by-side refrigerators around 21.9 cu. ft. split capacity between the refrigerator and freezer sections.
| Section | Typical share of total | What that means for storage |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh food (refrigerator) | ~60% to 70% | More shelf and drawer space for daily items |
| Freezer | ~30% to 40% | Space for frozen foods plus ice storage |
If you are checking capacity as part of an install or re-install, proper clearance helps the refrigerator cool efficiently. Our installation guidance typically calls for clearance at the sides and top, plus extra room at the back if you have an ice maker water line. For the exact clearances for your setup, use the 10653603202 installation guide.
Last updated: February 2026
Where is the model number on a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
On Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10653603202, the model number is printed on the model and serial number label inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment, typically on an inside wall. Use that label when ordering parts or checking installation requirements in the owner's manual.
- Open the refrigerator (fresh food) door, not the freezer door
- Check the inside side walls first (eye level and mid-level)
- Look near the crisper area and the lower liner walls
- Check around the top interior trim near the light housing
- Wipe the area with a damp cloth; labels can be hard to read under residue
The label normally includes both identifiers you may need for parts and service.
| Item on label | What it’s used for |
|---|---|
| Model number | Matching the correct parts list for your exact refrigerator |
| Serial number | Identifying production details for service and compatibility |
| Purchase date (you record it) | Warranty paperwork and maintenance tracking |
We use the model number to match the correct Kenmore parts diagrams and compatible replacements. For example, if you are troubleshooting ice production or water dispensing, the model number helps confirm the right components, such as the refrigerator inlet valve W10408179 or refrigerator ice maker 2198597.
- Copy the model number exactly as printed (all digits)
- Take a clear photo of the label before ordering parts
- Use the model number when following spacing and location requirements in the installation guide
Last updated: February 2026
Which Kenmore refrigerators are made by Whirlpool?
Kenmore refrigerators made by Whirlpool are typically identified by the model number prefix; models that start with 106 are Whirlpool-built. Your Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10653603202 is in that Whirlpool-manufactured family; use the 10653603202 owner's manual to confirm features and service details for your exact unit.
Kenmore uses a prefix system where the first three digits of the model number point to the original manufacturer.
- 106: Whirlpool-built Kenmore refrigerators (common for side-by-side units)
- The remaining digits identify the specific design, features, and production run
- The prefix is most useful for parts compatibility and service-style troubleshooting
- Always match parts by the full model number, not just the prefix
Knowing the manufacturer family helps you choose the right style of replacement parts and follow the right troubleshooting approach (ice maker, water system, defrost system, and controls can vary by design).
| What you’re doing | Use the prefix for | Still required for accuracy |
|---|---|---|
| Ordering parts | Identifying the manufacturer family | Full model number 10653603202 and part ID/part number |
| Troubleshooting | Finding the right system layout (ice, water, defrost) | The procedures in the manual for your exact model |
| Comparing similar models | Spotting likely shared components | Visual match and model-specific diagrams |
If you are diagnosing common Whirlpool-built Kenmore issues, these model-matched parts are often involved:
- Ice production problems: refrigerator ice maker 2198597
- No water to dispenser or ice maker: refrigerator inlet valve W10408179
- Frost buildup or warm freezer: refrigerator defrost bi-metal WPW10225581 and refrigerator heater WP2323198
The “106” prefix quickly tells us your refrigerator follows Whirlpool-built Kenmore design patterns, which improves parts matching and speeds up troubleshooting. The full model number and the manual keep you aligned to the exact wiring, controls, and component locations.
Last updated: February 2026





