How to read Kenmore model numbers?
Kenmore model numbers are structured so the first 3 digits identify the original manufacturer, and the remaining digits narrow down the exact product series and feature set. For your Kenmore Elite electric range model 79041013800, the 790 prefix is the key manufacturer identifier.
What each section of a Kenmore model number means
Most Kenmore model numbers follow this pattern:
- First 3 digits (prefix): manufacturer code (who built it for Kenmore)
- Next digits: base design or series (the core platform)
- Last digits: variation details (finish, feature package, revision)
For this range, the manual also shows the model format as 790. followed by additional digits, which matches your full model number 79041013800. Use the full number when ordering parts or checking wiring diagrams in the documentation.
Where to find the model and serial number on this range
On Kenmore ranges like 79041013800, the model and serial number are printed on the serial plate.
Common places to check:
- Around the oven door frame (open the oven door and look along the frame)
- On the lower front frame area near the storage or broil drawer opening
- On a label visible when the drawer is pulled out
For the exact location illustration and the “Product Record” section, use the 79041013800 owner’s manual.
Why the full model number matters for parts
Even small digit changes can mean different electrical parts, control boards, or surface elements. When you use the full model number, we can match parts like a terminal block, oven temperature sensor, or control panel correctly.
| What you’re doing | What to use | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Ordering replacement parts | Full model number (79041013800) | Prevents wrong-fit parts |
| Looking up diagrams or troubleshooting | Manual for the exact model | Matches your control layout |
| Scheduling service | Model and serial number | Confirms production details |
Last updated: January 2026
What year did the Kenmore Elite come out?
Kenmore Elite was introduced in the late 1990s as a premium Kenmore line. For your specific Kenmore Elite electric range model 79041013800, the most accurate “year” is the unit’s manufacture date from the serial number on the serial plate; our 79041013800 owner's manual shows where to find that label.
How to find the date for model 79041013800
Use the serial plate on the range, then record the serial number for decoding.
- Look for the serial plate (model and serial printed together)
- Check common locations: oven frame area, storage or broil drawer area, or behind the control area (varies by build)
- Write down the full serial number exactly as shown
- Use the serial number format to determine the manufacture week and year (format varies by supplier)
- If you are ordering parts like a control panel, sensor, or element, match parts to 79041013800 to avoid fit issues
Where the serial plate is located
The documentation for this range explains that the model and serial number are printed on the serial plate and illustrates its location. Use the diagram in the 79041013800 owner's manual to spot it quickly.
Quick reference
| What you need | Where to get it | What it tells you |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Serial plate | Confirms you have 79041013800 |
| Serial number | Serial plate | Lets you determine the build date |
| Purchase date | Receipt (if available) | Helps estimate age if serial decoding is unclear |
Why it matters
Kenmore Elite is a long-running product line, so “Kenmore Elite” alone does not identify the year. The serial number date is what helps you choose correct replacement parts and troubleshoot issues accurately (for example, oven temperature problems often point to the frigidaire range oven temperature sensor 316217002).
Last updated: January 2026
Does a Kenmore Elite have a reset button?
The Kenmore Elite electric range model 79041013800 does not use a dedicated “reset button” like some washers do. Most “reset” situations are handled by turning the control(s) OFF and restoring power to clear a temporary control glitch; use the steps in the 79041013800 owner's manual for your exact control panel.
How to reset the range safely (basic power reset)
- Turn all surface burners and oven functions to OFF.
- If the oven is running a timed or programmed cycle, cancel it and confirm the display is idle.
- Unplug the range, or switch the range breaker OFF.
- Wait 2 to 5 minutes.
- Restore power and set the clock if needed.
What a reset will and will not fix
| Symptom | Reset may help | Usually needs troubleshooting/parts |
|---|---|---|
| Display frozen or unresponsive | Yes | If it returns quickly, suspect a control issue |
| Oven not heating correctly | Sometimes | Often a sensor, element, or control problem |
| Surface element not heating | Sometimes | Often an element, relay board, or wiring issue |
| Temperature calibration seems “off” | No | Use the oven temperature adjustment feature |
Important model-specific note about “resetting” settings
On this model, oven temperature calibration changes are stored in memory and a power outage will not reset them. If baking temps seem consistently high or low, follow the oven temperature adjustment procedure in the 79041013800 owner's manual.
If the problem keeps coming back
A repeating need to “reset” usually points to an underlying electrical or control problem. Check these common causes:
- Loose or overheated power connections at the cord/terminal area
- Damaged wiring or a failing wire harness
- A failing oven temperature sensor (can cause erratic heating)
- A failing control or relay board (can cause intermittent operation)
If you suspect a temperature-sensing issue, the frigidaire range oven temperature sensor 316217002 is a common part involved in oven heating accuracy on this platform.
Why it matters
A range that needs frequent resets can indicate an intermittent electrical connection or a control problem. Addressing the root cause helps prevent nuisance shutdowns, uneven cooking, and potential overheating at wiring connections.
Last updated: January 2026
Is Kenmore Elite high end?
Yes. Kenmore Elite is Kenmore’s premium line, and the Kenmore Elite electric range model 79041013800 is built to deliver higher-end cooking performance and features than standard Kenmore models, including electronic oven controls and advanced cooking modes described in the 79041013800 owner’s manual.
What “high end” means for this Kenmore Elite range
Kenmore Elite typically focuses on performance, convenience features, and upgraded styling compared with entry and mid-tier ranges.
Common “premium” traits you’ll see in this class of electric range include:
- Electronic oven control with multiple cooking functions (Bake, Broil, Clean, and Convection on some models)
- Self-cleaning capability
- Ceramic glass cooktop with radiant elements
- More precise temperature management and settings
- Higher overall fit and finish than basic models
How to place Kenmore Elite in the Kenmore lineup
Kenmore has multiple tiers; Elite is positioned above standard Kenmore.
| Kenmore tier | Typical positioning | What you usually get |
|---|---|---|
| Kenmore | Mainstream | Core cooking functions, fewer upgrades |
| Kenmore Elite | Premium | More features, stronger performance focus |
| Kenmore PRO | Pro-style | Pro look and heavier-duty feature set |
Why it matters
If you are comparing parts, features, or repair decisions, “Elite” usually means more electronic controls and feature-driven components. For example, issues like inaccurate baking temperatures often point to control and sensing components such as the frigidaire range oven temperature sensor 316217002, not just a basic knob or switch.
Quick tip for owners
After installation or service, we recommend verifying basic oven operation (Bake, Broil, Clean, and Convection if equipped) using the functional checks outlined in the installation instructions and the Use and Care information in your manual.
Last updated: January 2026




