What is the bottom part of a refrigerator called?
The bottom part of a refrigerator is commonly called the machine compartment (or compressor compartment). On Kenmore model 79571304012, this lower area typically houses the compressor and condenser-side components that remove heat, plus a drain pan underneath.
Common names you may hear
- Machine compartment (most common service term)
- Compressor compartment
- Lower rear service area
- Base pan area (the metal pan that supports components)
- Toe grille or kick plate (the front cover at the bottom)
What’s usually located down there
In most bottom-mount refrigerators like Kenmore 79571304012, the lower section contains cooling and airflow parts that support refrigeration.
- Compressor (pumps refrigerant through the sealed system)
- Condenser fan motor (moves air across condenser area)
- Condenser coils (release heat)
- Drain pan (catches defrost water so it can evaporate)
- Water inlet valve and tubing (if the unit has an ice maker or dispenser)
Example parts for this model (when troubleshooting)
| Symptom | Bottom-area part to check | Example part for 79571304012 |
|---|---|---|
| No ice or slow ice production | Water supply into ice maker | Refrigerator water inlet valve assembly AJU55759303 |
| Warm temps, poor cooling | Condenser airflow | Refrigerator condenser fan motor EAU61644105 |
| Clicking, not cooling | Sealed system start or compressor area | Refrigerator compressor TCA35931726 |
Why it matters
Knowing the correct name helps you troubleshoot faster and order the right part. For example, water leaks often trace to the drain pan or drain tube, while warm temperatures often trace to condenser airflow in the machine compartment.
Where to find the exact layout for your unit
For the component locations and access steps specific to Kenmore 79571304012, use the diagrams and service information in the 79571304012 owner’s manual.
Last updated: January 2026
Why is my Kenmore refrigerator leaking underneath?
On Kenmore refrigerator model 79571304012, leaking underneath is usually caused by a clogged or frozen defrost drain that overflows into the base, or by water supply tubing/valve leaks for the ice maker and dispenser. Start by clearing the drain path and then check the inlet valve and drain tube for seepage.
Most common causes (and what to check first)
- Defrost drain clogged or frozen: Water from defrost cannot reach the drain pan and spills under the cabinet.
- Drain tube restricted: Sludge or ice blocks the tube and backs water up.
- Water inlet valve leaking: Slow drips can run down and pool underneath.
- Ice maker fill area leaking: Misaligned fill stream or a cracked tube can drip behind the freezer wall.
- Door gasket not sealing: Excess frost leads to heavy defrost water and overflow.
Quick troubleshooting steps
- Unplug the refrigerator and pull it out enough to inspect underneath.
- Look for clear water vs. oily residue:
- Clear water points to defrost drain or water supply.
- Oily residue suggests a spill or food leak, not a sealed-system issue.
- Check the drain pan for cracks and confirm it is seated correctly.
- Clear the defrost drain (inside the fresh food section): flush with warm water until it drains freely.
- Inspect water connections at the back: tubing, fittings, and the valve body for mineral tracks or wetness.
Parts that commonly solve “leaking underneath”
| Symptom you see | Most likely area | Part to consider for 79571304012 |
|---|---|---|
| Water after defrost cycle, ice buildup near drain | Defrost drain path | Refrigerator drain tube 5251JA3003D |
| Slow drip at back near water line | Water supply/valve | Refrigerator water inlet valve assembly AJU55759303 |
| Heavy frost, moisture around door edges | Door seal | Refrigerator door gasket assembly ADX73350925 |
Why it matters
Water under a bottom-mount refrigerator can damage flooring and can also lead to ice buildup in the freezer compartment. Fixing the drain or water supply leak early prevents repeat leaks and helps the refrigerator cool efficiently.
Reference for model-specific access points
Use the 79571304012 manual for the exact drain location, panel removal steps, and any model-specific notes on the drain pan and water line routing.
Last updated: January 2026
What size is Kenmore refrigerator model 79571304012?
Kenmore bottom-mount refrigerator model 79571304012 is a full-size unit; the exact exterior dimensions (width, height, depth) and total capacity are listed in the specifications section of the 79571304012 owner's manual. Use those specs to confirm cabinet opening, door swing, and ventilation clearances before installation.
What “size” usually means for a refrigerator
When customers ask for size, they typically need one or more of these measurements:
- Exterior width, height, depth (to fit the opening)
- Depth with doors and handles (to avoid sticking out past cabinets)
- Door swing clearance (space to fully open doors)
- Capacity in cubic feet (storage volume)
- Delivery path clearance (doorways, hallways, turns)
How to measure your space (quick checklist)
Measure the opening and the delivery path before ordering parts or planning a move.
- Measure width at top, middle, and bottom
- Measure height at left and right sides
- Measure depth from back wall to cabinet front edge
- Add space for water line and power cord behind the unit
- Plan for airflow clearance above and behind the refrigerator
Typical reference ranges (helps you sanity-check)
Most Kenmore bottom-mount refrigerators in this class fall into these ranges; confirm your exact specs in the manual.
| Spec | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Width | 30 to 36 in |
| Height | 66 to 71 in |
| Depth (cabinet) | 29 to 34 in |
| Capacity | 20 to 26 cu. ft. |
Why it matters
Correct sizing prevents doors from hitting walls, drawers from binding, and airflow restrictions that can raise temperatures and strain the compressor.
If doors do not close after moving
A sagging door can change clearances and sealing.
- Check that the refrigerator is level
- Inspect hinge areas for wear
- Replace worn hinge hardware if needed, such as the refrigerator door hinge bushing 4984JJ3003A
Last updated: January 2026





