How to tell what model Kenmore refrigerator?
Your Kenmore refrigerator’s model number is printed on the serial plate inside the refrigerator compartment. For Kenmore model 25378979802, you will typically find it on an inside wall of the fresh food section; record both the model and serial number for parts lookup and service history (see the owner's manual).
Where to look for the model and serial plate
Check these common locations on top-mount Kenmore refrigerators:
- Inside the refrigerator compartment on a side wall
- On the wall behind the lower crisper drawer area
- Along the door frame when you open the refrigerator door
- Near the toe grille or kick plate area (less common, but worth checking)
What to write down (and why)
When you find the plate, copy the information exactly:
- Model number (example: 25378979802)
- Serial number
- Purchase date (helpful for your records)
Why it matters
The model number narrows your appliance to the correct parts diagrams and compatible replacement parts. The serial number helps identify production details that can affect fit, color, and revisions.
Quick ID checklist
| Item | What it does | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Identifies the exact refrigerator design | 25378979802 |
| Serial number | Identifies the specific unit built | (varies by unit) |
If the label is hard to read
- Wipe the plate gently with a damp cloth and mild dish soap; dry it
- Use a flashlight at an angle to make faint printing easier to see
- Take a close-up photo and zoom in
Last updated: February 2026
Who makes Kenmore refrigerator model 25378979802?
Kenmore is a brand name, and model 25378979802 is part of Kenmore’s 253 model prefix family, which is commonly associated with refrigerators built for Kenmore by Frigidaire/Electrolux. For model-specific identification details (model and serial plate location and how the model is recorded), use the owner's manual.
How to confirm the manufacturer on your exact unit
We recommend verifying using the model and serial information on the rating plate inside the fresh food compartment.
- Open the refrigerator door and look inside the refrigerator compartment for the serial plate
- Confirm the full model number is 25378979802
- Note the serial number and any additional codes on the plate
- Match those identifiers to the documentation and parts list for your unit
What the “253” prefix means
Kenmore model numbers often use a 3-digit prefix to indicate the manufacturing source.
| What you see | What it indicates | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Model starts with 253 | Commonly tied to Frigidaire/Electrolux-built Kenmore refrigerators | Helps you expect Frigidaire-style parts and layouts |
| Model/serial plate inside refrigerator compartment | Official identification point | Ensures you order the correct door gasket, shelf, or ice maker parts |
Why it matters when ordering parts
Knowing the manufacturing family helps you choose compatible replacement parts and troubleshoot correctly, especially for cooling, door sealing, and ice maker issues.
If you are replacing common wear items, match by model number first, then by the exact part listing. For example, door sealing issues often point to a worn gasket such as the refrigerator gasket 242193213.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the disadvantages of a top mount fridge?
Top-mount refrigerators like the Kenmore 25378979802 put the freezer on top and the fresh-food section below, so the biggest drawbacks are bending more to reach everyday items, fewer premium organization features, and fewer built-in dispenser options compared with many bottom-freezer designs.
Common disadvantages (what you notice day to day)
- More bending for fresh food: the refrigerator compartment is lower, so produce, deli items, and drinks often sit below waist height.
- Less “grab-and-go” organization: many top-mount models use simpler shelves and bins, so small items can get lost more easily.
- Fewer exterior features: top-mount units are less likely to include through-the-door water or ice.
- Freezer door storage can be less consistent: the manual notes some items (like ice cream) store better in the freezer interior than on the door because temperatures vary more on door shelves.
- Can feel tighter for wide platters: the fresh-food section may have less uninterrupted shelf width than some bottom-freezer layouts.
Quick comparison: top-mount vs bottom-freezer
| Feature | Top-mount (like 25378979802) | Bottom-freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh-food access | Lower, more bending | Higher, easier reach |
| Freezer access | Eye level | Lower drawer/basket |
| Typical organization | Simpler bins/shelves | Often more dividers/baskets |
| Dispenser options | Less common | More common |
Ways to reduce the downsides
- Keep most-used items on the upper refrigerator shelves to reduce bending.
- Avoid overpacking and do not block cold air vents; airflow helps temperatures stay even.
- Store temperature-sensitive frozen foods (ice cream, juice) in the freezer interior, not the door.
- Use the crisper humidity control (if equipped) to keep produce fresher longer.
Why it matters
Layout affects comfort and food quality. In a top-mount, smart loading and airflow management help prevent warm spots, reduce door-open time, and keep frozen foods from softening on the door.
For model-specific features and storage setup tips, follow the guidance in the owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
Can you still get parts for Kenmore refrigerators?
Yes. You can still get replacement parts for Kenmore refrigerators, including model 25378979802, by matching the model number to the correct parts list and ordering the exact components that fit your unit. Use the diagrams and part listings to avoid ordering the wrong door, gasket, or ice maker part.
Best way to find the right part for model 25378979802
- Confirm the full model number from the serial plate, then match it to the parts list.
- Use the exploded-view diagrams to identify the exact part name and location.
- Compare color and finish when ordering cosmetic parts (for example, black vs white door gasket).
- If you are replacing a functional part (fan blade, thermostat, ice maker component), match by part ID, not just description.
- Keep your Use and Care instructions handy for maintenance and access steps in the owner's manual.
Common Kenmore 25378979802 parts customers replace
Here are examples of parts available for this model that are commonly needed:
| What you are fixing | Part you may need | Example from this model’s parts list |
|---|---|---|
| Door not sealing, frost buildup, warm temps | Door gasket | Refrigerator gasket 242193213 or frigidaire refrigerator door gasket (black) 241872512 |
| Noisy airflow or weak cooling in fresh food section | Fan blade | Refrigerator evaporator fan blade 5308000010 |
| Ice maker not cycling properly | Ice maker drive component | Ice maker motor 241798231 |
| Interior light out | Light bulb | Refrigerator light bulb 316538904 |
Why it matters
Kenmore refrigerators often have multiple similar-looking versions within the same series. Using the exact 25378979802 model match helps ensure the part fits correctly, seals properly, and restores normal cooling performance without repeat repairs.
Last updated: February 2026
What size is a Kenmore refrigerator model 25378979802?
The Kenmore top-mount refrigerator model 25378979802 is a 32-inch class top-freezer style; the exact width, height, and depth vary by configuration (handles, hinges, and door style). For the precise dimensions and required clearances, use the measurements section in the installation guide.
How to confirm the exact dimensions (fast and accurate)
Use a tape measure and record both cabinet size and “installed” size.
- Width: measure the widest point across the cabinet and doors
- Height: floor to the top hinge cover area
- Depth (doors on): back of cabinet to the front of the doors
- Depth (doors off): back of cabinet to the front edge of the cabinet
- Add handle depth if your doors have protruding handles
- Check door swing space so bins and drawers clear nearby walls
Clearances you should plan for
Proper airflow and connection space matter as much as the cabinet dimensions.
- Sides and top clearance: 3/8 inch
- Back clearance: 1 inch
- Extra room for: power cord, water line loop (if equipped with an ice maker), and leveling access
| Measurement | What it tells you | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinet width/height/depth | Physical refrigerator size | Fit through doorways and into the opening |
| Installed footprint | Size plus clearances and swing | Prevents overheating and door interference |
Why it matters
If the opening is too tight, airflow is restricted and the refrigerator can run longer, cool unevenly, and build moisture. Correct spacing also helps the doors seal properly and makes leveling easier.
Last updated: February 2026





