Can I replace fridge parts myself?
Yes. On your Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10651759711, you can replace many common, non-sealed-system parts yourself (shelves, door bins, light switch, ice maker, and some water system parts) as long as you disconnect power first and follow the safety steps in the owner's manual. For sealed-system repairs (compressor and refrigerant work), we recommend professional service.
What you can usually replace yourself
These repairs are typically straightforward with basic hand tools and careful handling:
- Shelves, drawers, and door bins (remove and snap back in place)
- Door rails and shelf rails (snap-on or drop-in styles)
- Light switch (door-activated switch)
- Ice maker assembly (if your unit is equipped)
- Water inlet valve or water tube (if you can access the rear and shut off water)
Repairs that should be handled by a professional
Some repairs involve higher risk (electrical, refrigerant, or specialized tools):
- Sealed cooling system work (refrigerant lines, leak repair)
- Compressor replacement
- Any repair requiring brazing, vacuum evacuation, or refrigerant charging
Safety checklist before you start
The manual’s safety guidance is the right baseline for DIY work. Use this checklist every time:
- Unplug the refrigerator (disconnect power before servicing)
- Shut off the household water supply if working on the ice maker or water dispenser
- Use a grounded 3-prong outlet when restoring power (no adapters or extension cords)
- Use nonflammable cleaner when cleaning interior parts
- Use two people for heavy parts or door handling
Common DIY parts for this model (examples)
If symptoms match, these model-compatible parts are common DIY replacements:
| Symptom | Likely area | Example part for 10651759711 |
|---|---|---|
| No ice or small cubes | Ice maker or water supply | Refrigerator ice maker assembly WPW10300022 |
| No water dispensing or slow fill | Water valve | Refrigerator water inlet valve WPW10179146 |
| Warm fridge section, noisy fan | Evaporator fan | Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315549 |
| Interior light stays off/on incorrectly | Door switch | Refrigerator light switch W11384469 |
Why it matters
DIY replacement of accessible parts can restore cooling, ice production, and dispenser performance quickly while avoiding unnecessary downtime. Following the manual’s power and water safety steps also prevents shocks, leaks, and broken glass shelves.
Last updated: February 2026
How wide is a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
For Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10651759711, plan on a 36-inch cabinet cutout width for installation; that is the standard opening width called out for this model family in the 10651759711 owner's manual. The refrigerator cabinet itself is typically close to 36 inches wide, with handles and door swing clearance adding more space needs.
What “width” means for installation
When customers ask about width, we see three different measurements used:
- Cabinet cutout width: the opening between cabinets (this model family calls for 36 in).
- Refrigerator case width: the box width without extra clearance.
- Overall space needed: case width plus ventilation gaps and room for doors to open.
Space and clearance you should allow
The manual guidance for this Kenmore 106.5175* model family includes these common installation clearances:
- 1/2 in of space on each side and at the top for ventilation
- 2 in of space behind the refrigerator
- Extra space behind if you have an ice maker water line connected
- At least 2 in on the wall side (depending on your setup) so doors can swing open
Quick planning table
| Measurement you’re planning for | Typical value for this model family | Why you need it |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinet cutout width | 36 in | Fits the refrigerator into the opening |
| Side/top ventilation gap | 1/2 in | Helps airflow and cooling performance |
| Rear clearance | 2 in | Room for airflow and water line |
Why it matters
If the opening is too tight, doors may not open fully, crispers may be harder to remove, and restricted airflow can cause warm temperatures or longer run times. Planning for the cutout width plus clearances prevents fit and cooling problems.
Ordering parts while you measure
If you are adjusting fit (door swing, bins, or dispenser area), you can look up replacement parts for model 10651759711 from the parts list, or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the main 5 parts of a refrigerator?
The main five parts that make a refrigerator cool are the compressor, condenser, expansion device, evaporator, and temperature control (thermostat/thermistor). On Kenmore model 10651759711, these systems work together to move refrigerant, remove heat, and keep both compartments at safe temperatures.
The 5 core parts and what they do
- Compressor: pumps refrigerant through the sealed system and drives the cooling cycle.
- Condenser: releases heat from the refrigerant to the room air (often through condenser coils).
- Expansion device (capillary tube or valve): drops refrigerant pressure so it can absorb heat.
- Evaporator: absorbs heat inside the freezer and refrigerator sections.
- Temperature control (thermostat/thermistor + control board): senses temperature and cycles cooling on and off.
Common supporting parts you will also hear about
These are not part of the “core five,” but they are frequent service items and strongly affect performance:
- Evaporator fan motor: circulates cold air through the freezer and into the fresh food section.
- Evaporator fan blade: moves air across the evaporator coil.
- Water inlet valve: supplies water to the ice maker and dispenser.
- Ice maker assembly: produces ice when the freezer is cold enough and water supply is correct.
- Door bins and rails: help organize and keep airflow paths clear.
Quick “what fails” comparison
| System area | What you notice | Example part on this model |
|---|---|---|
| Air circulation | Warm fridge, freezer OK, weak airflow | Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315549 |
| Ice and water | No ice, no water, slow fill | Refrigerator water inlet valve WPW10179146 |
| Ice production | Ice maker not cycling or not harvesting | Refrigerator ice maker assembly WPW10300022 |
Why it matters
When you know the core five parts, troubleshooting gets faster: cooling problems usually trace back to the sealed system (compressor, condenser, evaporator, expansion device) or to temperature sensing and airflow. For model-specific feature locations and care steps, use the 10651759711 owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most common problems with Kenmore refrigerators?
The most common problems we see on Kenmore refrigerators like model 10651759711 are warm temperatures (not cooling), water leaks or dispenser drips, ice maker failures, and unusual fan noises. These issues usually come from airflow restrictions, defrost frost buildup, or water supply problems; use the troubleshooting charts in the 10651759711 owner's manual.
Common problems and the usual cause
- Not cooling or uneven temps: dirty condenser coils, blocked vents, evaporator fan not moving air
- Frost buildup on freezer back wall: defrost system not clearing ice, which blocks airflow
- Water leaking or dripping at dispenser: air in lines after filter change, filter seated wrong, low water pressure
- No ice or slow ice: clogged filter, frozen fill tube, weak water supply, failed ice maker
- Noises (rattling, scraping, buzzing): fan blade hitting ice, worn fan motor, items vibrating
Quick checks we recommend first
- After installation or moving, allow 24 hours for full cooling.
- Confirm vents are not blocked by food packages.
- Listen for a steady evaporator fan sound from the freezer area.
- Check for heavy frost; if present, defrost and then monitor for return.
- For dispenser drips, hold the glass under the chute 2 to 3 seconds after releasing the lever.
Parts that commonly solve these symptoms on 10651759711
| Symptom | Part to check | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Warm temps, weak airflow | Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315549 | Circulates cold air |
| Scraping or rattling near fan | Refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2169142 | Reduces vibration and contact |
| No water or no ice fill | Refrigerator water inlet valve WPW10179146 | Controls water flow |
| Ice maker not producing | Refrigerator ice maker assembly WPW10300022 | Cycles ice production |
Why it matters
Airflow and water supply problems often affect multiple symptoms at once; fixing the root cause prevents food spoilage, repeat icing, and ongoing leaks.
If you are ordering parts, use the model-specific parts list for 10651759711, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026





