What water filter fits my Kenmore fridge?
For Kenmore refrigerator model 25368172800, the correct water filter depends on whether your unit is equipped with a built-in water filtration system (some versions use only a household water line for the ice maker). We recommend confirming the filter style and location shown in the 25368172800 owner's manual before ordering.
Use these quick checks to match the correct replacement:
- Look inside the fresh food compartment for a filter head or twist-in cartridge (often in the upper corner or grille area).
- Check for a filter status light or reset button (common on filtered systems).
- If you only have an ice maker water line connection and no cartridge housing, your model may not use a replaceable internal water filter.
- Write down any numbers printed on the old filter (model code and revision letters matter).
- Match by model number 25368172800 first, then confirm by the filter’s shape and connection type.
Your documentation focuses on connecting a ¼-inch household cold water line to the ice maker inlet valve and specifies 30 to 100 psi water pressure. That setup can work with or without a cartridge-style filter, depending on configuration. See the steps and requirements in the 25368172800 installation guide.
| What you see on the refrigerator | What it usually means | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Twist-in or push-in cartridge housing inside the fridge | Uses a replaceable water filter | Match the cartridge by model and the old filter markings |
| No cartridge housing; only a water line to the ice maker | May use no internal filter (optional inline filter can be added) | Consider an inline filter on the supply line if desired |
| Water dispenser in the door | Typically uses a filter | Identify the filter location and cartridge type |
Using the correct filter keeps water flow strong for the ice maker and prevents leaks from a mismatched seal or connector. It also helps avoid slow fill issues that can look like an ice maker problem.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the code Sy Ef on a Kenmore refrigerator?
On a Kenmore refrigerator, 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. On model 25368172800, start by checking for ice buildup or a blocked fan, then inspect wiring and the fan motor.
- Power reset: Unplug the refrigerator for 5 minutes, then plug it back in.
- Airflow blockage: Make sure packages are not blocking the air vents between freezer and fresh food sections.
- Ice buildup: Look for heavy frost on the freezer back wall; that often indicates a defrost problem that can stop the fan.
- Fan noise: When the compressor is running, you should typically hear the evaporator fan running in the freezer.
- Door switch: Press and hold the freezer door switch; many models only run the fan when the switch is closed.
| Likely cause | What you may notice | Typical fix |
|---|---|---|
| Evaporator fan issue (motor/blade) | Warm refrigerator section, freezer temps drift, little airflow | Clear ice/obstructions; replace failed fan components |
| Defrost system problem | Frost blanket on freezer back panel, fan hitting ice | Diagnose defrost heater, thermostat, or control |
| Wiring/connector problem | Intermittent code, fan works sometimes | Reseat connectors; repair damaged wiring |
| Control board sensing issue | Code persists even after fan checks | Further electrical diagnosis by a technician |
If you confirm the fan is obstructed or damaged, these model-compatible parts are commonly related:
- Refrigerator evaporator fan blade 5308000010 (fan blade damage, rubbing, or imbalance)
- Refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat 5303918202 (frost buildup from defrost issues can stop the fan)
The evaporator fan moves cold air from the freezer through the evaporator and into the refrigerator compartment. If the fan circuit fails, temperatures rise, food spoils faster, and the compressor can run longer than normal.
Follow the electrical and service safety steps (unplug before service, avoid extension cords) in the 25368172800 owner's manual.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the upper part of a fridge called?
On the Kenmore 25368172800 top-mount refrigerator, the upper section is typically called the freezer compartment. It’s the colder area designed to keep foods frozen, and it also helps drive overall cooling by circulating cold air down into the fresh food section (refrigerator). See the 25368172800 owner's manual for the exact compartment features on your unit.
In a top-mount design, the freezer is more than storage; it supports cooling performance for the whole appliance.
- Maintains freezing temperatures for long-term food storage
- Sends cold air to the refrigerator section through internal vents and an air damper
- Often houses the evaporator and evaporator fan that move cold air
- May include an automatic ice maker on some configurations
| Term | What it usually refers to | Where it is |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer compartment | The full upper frozen-food area | Top section |
| Freezer section | Same as freezer compartment | Top section |
| Freezer door | The exterior door that seals the freezer | Top door |
| Freezer shelves/bins | Storage components inside the freezer | Inside top section |
When customers say “the top of my fridge,” they might mean the freezer compartment, the freezer door, or a freezer airflow issue. Using the right term helps you match the correct troubleshooting steps and order the correct parts (like a door gasket, hinge bushing, or airflow components).
- Avoid overloading the freezer; too much warm food can raise temperatures
- Leave space between packages so cold air can circulate
- Keep vents clear between the freezer and refrigerator sections
- If you hear gurgling, humming, or clicking, many of those are normal operating sounds
- If temperatures are inconsistent, confirm control settings in the manual
Last updated: January 2026
How to replace a Kenmore 25368172800 water filter?
The Kenmore 25368172800 top-mount refrigerator typically uses a twist-in or push-in cartridge filter located in the fresh food section (often behind a small cover). To replace it, we remove the old filter, install the new one fully seated, then flush several gallons of water to clear air and carbon fines; see the 25368172800 owner's manual for the exact filter location and steps for your configuration.
- Turn the ice maker off (if equipped) and dispense water to relieve pressure.
- Open the filter cover (if your model has one).
- Remove the old filter (twist counterclockwise or press the release, depending on the housing).
- Install the new filter (push in until it clicks or twist clockwise until it stops).
- Dispense and discard water for several minutes (or a few gallons) to flush the new filter.
- Check for leaks around the filter head and confirm normal water flow.
A taped or broken filter cover is common on used refrigerators. We recommend:
- Carefully remove tape and adhesive residue so the cover can open without cracking.
- If the cover will not open, access the filter area from inside the fresh food compartment and look for a release tab.
- Do not pry hard on plastic; warm the area slightly with a hair dryer on low to reduce brittleness.
- If the cover or housing is broken, replace the damaged door or trim piece before forcing a new filter in.
| Symptom | What it usually means | What we do |
|---|---|---|
| Cloudy water for a short time | Carbon fines from the new filter | Flush more water |
| Slow flow | Air in the line or a partially seated filter | Re-seat filter, flush |
| Drips at the filter | O-ring not sealing | Remove and reinstall firmly |
A properly installed water filter helps protect the water system, improves taste and odor, and reduces the chance of leaks caused by a filter that is not fully seated.
Last updated: January 2026





