How to clean the coils on a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
For Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10656872602, we clean the condenser coils by safely pulling the refrigerator straight out, removing dust and lint from the coil area, then restoring airflow so the unit cools efficiently. Follow the safety and cleaning steps in the 10656872602 owner's manual.
- Unplug the refrigerator (or disconnect power at the breaker).
- Pull the refrigerator straight out to protect the floor (do not “walk” it).
- Remove the base grille (kick plate) if your model uses one.
- Use a coil brush and a vacuum with a crevice tool to loosen and remove dust.
- Vacuum the floor under the unit and the area behind it.
- Reinstall the base grille, push the refrigerator back, then plug it in.
| Item | Recommended | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Coil brush | Yes | Reaches between coil fins and packed lint |
| Vacuum (crevice tool) | Yes | Removes loosened dust without blowing it around |
| Mild detergent + warm water (wipe nearby surfaces) | Yes | Safe for general cleaning around the coil area |
| Abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals | No | Can damage finishes and plastics |
Dirty coils make the refrigerator run hotter and longer, which can reduce cooling performance and increase energy use. Keeping the coil area clean also helps protect key components like the compressor and condenser fan.
- Clean coils about every 6 months (more often with pets or heavy dust).
- Keep at least about 1/2 inch of clearance at the sides and top for ventilation; allow extra space at the back if you have an ice maker water line.
- If you notice warm temperatures after cleaning, confirm the controls are set correctly and the doors seal tightly.
If you need replacement parts while you are servicing the refrigerator, you can order model-matched parts from the list for 10656872602, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most common problems with Kenmore refrigerators?
The most common problems we see on Kenmore refrigerators like model 10656872602 are cooling issues, water leaks, ice maker or dispenser trouble, and unusual noises. These usually trace back to airflow restrictions, defrost system faults, water supply problems, or worn mechanical parts; the 10656872602 owner's manual helps confirm normal operation and care.
- Not cooling or warm temperatures: dirty condenser coils, evaporator fan not running, frost buildup from a defrost problem
- Water leaking or puddles: clogged defrost drain, loose water line connections, inlet valve seepage
- Ice maker not making ice: restricted water flow, frozen fill tube, failed ice maker module
- Water dispenser slow or tastes off: overdue filter change, air in the line after filter replacement
- Clicking, buzzing, or rattling: fan blade hitting ice, failing fan motor, compressor start components
- Confirm temperatures: set fresh food to about 37°F and freezer to about 0°F.
- Check door sealing: look for gaps, torn gasket areas, or doors not closing fully.
- Listen for fan operation: evaporator fan noise typically changes when doors open and close.
- Inspect for frost buildup: heavy frost on the freezer back panel points to a defrost airflow issue.
- Check water supply basics: the manual notes the refrigerator should be connected to a cold water pipe for proper dispenser performance.
| Problem area | Common fix | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Poor cooling, warm fridge | Restore airflow, repair evaporator fan | Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315549 |
| Frost buildup, warm temps | Repair defrost sensing | Refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat WPW10225581 |
| No ice or no water | Restore water flow into unit | Refrigerator inlet valve W10822681 |
| Bad tasting water, slow dispense | Replace filter and purge air | Genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1 |
Cooling and ice maker complaints often start as simple airflow or water-flow restrictions. Fixing those early helps protect food quality, reduces compressor run time, and prevents repeat icing or leaking.
You can order replacement parts for Kenmore 10656872602 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
Where is the model number on a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
On Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10656872602, the model number is printed on the appliance identification label (the same label that lists the serial number). You will typically find this label inside the fresh food compartment, around the door opening area. See the 10656872602 owner's manual for the exact label location callouts.
We recommend checking these spots in order (they are the most common on Kenmore side-by-side units):
- Inside the refrigerator compartment on the side wall near the front
- On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment near the light housing
- On the frame around the fresh food door opening (hinge side or latch side)
- Behind or just above the base grille area (less common, but possible)
- On the back exterior panel near the power cord entry (last resort)
The model number and serial number are usually on the same sticker or plate.
| What you see | What it means | What to write down |
|---|---|---|
| Model | Identifies the exact refrigerator design | Full model number (example: 10656872602) |
| Serial | Identifies your specific unit | Full serial number exactly as printed |
| Electrical ratings | Power requirements | Optional, but helpful for service |
We use the model number to match the correct Kenmore parts and diagrams for your exact refrigerator configuration. Even small model differences can change which parts fit, such as the refrigerator ice maker WPW10190961 or the refrigerator inlet valve W10822681.
- Copy the model number exactly, including all digits
- Take a clear photo of the label before ordering
- If the label is worn, gently clean it with a damp cloth and dry it (do not scrub)
- Use the model number when selecting parts like the water filter (this model commonly uses filter part number 9030)
- If you are ordering beyond the parts list for this model, search by model number on Sears PartsDirect
Last updated: February 2026
How many cubic feet is my Kenmore refrigerator by model number?
The cubic-foot capacity for your Kenmore 10656872602 is listed in the specifications section of the 10656872602 owner's manual. The most reliable quick-check is the rating plate inside the fresh food compartment, which typically lists capacity and other key specs.
Use these options in order; they get you to the correct number without guessing.
- Check the rating plate (usually on an interior side wall near the crisper area or upper cabinet wall).
- Look in the specifications section of the 10656872602 owner's manual.
- If the label is missing or unreadable, match your model number (10656872602) to the spec listing in the manual.
- If you are comparing sizes for a replacement, measure your cabinet opening and note door-swing clearance.
Cubic feet is the refrigerator’s internal storage volume. Some sources list:
- Total capacity (refrigerator + freezer)
- Refrigerator compartment capacity only
- Freezer capacity only
That is why two numbers can both be “right” depending on what is being reported.
Most Kenmore side-by-side refrigerators in the 106 model family commonly fall in this general range:
| Item you may see listed | Typical range (side-by-side) |
|---|---|
| Total capacity | 20 to 26 cu. ft. |
| Refrigerator section | 13 to 17 cu. ft. |
| Freezer section | 6 to 9 cu. ft. |
Knowing the correct cubic feet helps us choose the right replacement parts and accessories (like a refrigerator water filter), confirm fit for shelves and bins, and plan for kitchen clearance when moving or replacing the unit.
If you are also checking filtration accessories for this model, the manual’s accessories section references a replacement water filter; the matching part on our parts list is the refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1. You can order model-specific parts from the parts list for 10656872602, or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What causes a side-by-side refrigerator to stop cooling?
On Kenmore model 10656872602, a no-cool condition is usually caused by loss of power, controls turned off or set wrong, or blocked airflow between the freezer and refrigerator sections. We check those first, then move to fan, defrost, and compressor-related causes.
- Verify the cord is plugged in and the outlet works.
- Make sure the controls are ON (this model uses a press-and-hold ON/OFF function).
- Confirm settings are at normal mid-settings; setting to coldest does not cool faster.
- Check vents in both sections; packages can block airflow.
- After a move, unplug, or new install, allow 24 hours to cool completely.
Cold air is made in the freezer and circulated to the fresh-food side. If the evaporator fan is not moving air, the refrigerator section warms up.
- Freezer cold but refrigerator warm: airflow or evaporator fan issue
- Weak or no air from vents: fan not running or vents blocked
Related parts for airflow problems include the refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315549 and refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2169142.
If the defrost system fails, frost can build up on the evaporator and restrict airflow.
- Heavy frost on the freezer back panel: defrost problem
- Temperatures drift and compressor cycles oddly: control issue
Common related parts include the refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat WPW10225581 and refrigerator temperature control WP2315562.
| What you notice | What it points to | First thing to check |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer OK, fridge warm | Airflow/fan | Vents, evaporator fan |
| Both sections warm | Power/control/compressor | Outlet, controls ON |
| Frosted freezer panel | Defrost failure | Defrost components |
This side-by-side design depends on steady airflow between compartments; when airflow is blocked or the unit is not actually running (power or controls), temperatures rise quickly.
For control operation and vent locations, use the owner's manual. To find and order model-matched parts, use the parts list for 10656872602 or search on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026





