Owner’s manual
Error Codes
How to clean the coils on a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
For Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10659597990, we clean the condenser coils by unplugging the refrigerator, then vacuuming dust off the coils either behind the base grille (front) or on the back of the cabinet, depending on your coil style. Use a vacuum with an extended attachment for best results.
- Unplug the refrigerator (or disconnect power).
- Find your coil location:
- Style 1: coils behind the base grille at the front.
- Style 2: coils on the back of the refrigerator.
- Clean based on the style:
- Behind base grille: remove the grille, then vacuum the coils.
- Back of refrigerator: pull the unit away from the wall, then vacuum the coils.
- Reassemble and restore normal setup:
- Reinstall the base grille (if removed).
- If you pulled it out, roll it back and leave about 1 inch between the cabinet back and the wall.
- Check that the refrigerator is level.
- Plug the refrigerator back in.
- Vacuum with a crevice tool or extended attachment
- Soft brush (coil brush works well)
- Soft cloth for nearby surfaces
- Mild detergent with warm water for exterior wipe-down
- Avoid abrasive pads and harsh cleaners near finished surfaces
Coils often need cleaning about every other month in normal homes. If you have pets, heavy dust, or a high-traffic kitchen, clean them more often.
| Home condition | Recommended coil cleaning |
|---|---|
| Low dust, no pets | Every 2 to 3 months |
| Average dust | Every other month |
| Pets or heavy dust | Monthly |
Dirty condenser coils reduce heat transfer, which makes the compressor work harder. Keeping coils clean helps maintain steady cooling and can reduce energy use and run time.
For coil location details and base grille removal guidance specific to this model, use the 10659597990 owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
How to read Kenmore model numbers?
Kenmore model numbers are read left to right; the first three digits identify the manufacturer (for example, 106 indicates a Whirlpool-built Kenmore), and the remaining digits identify the specific design and feature variations. For Kenmore refrigerator model 10659597990, the full model and serial label is inside the fresh food compartment.
For Kenmore side-by-side refrigerators like 10659597990, we look on the inside wall of the refrigerator compartment (fresh food section). This matches the location described in the 10659597990 owner's manual.
- Open the refrigerator (not the freezer) door
- Check the inside side wall near the crisper area or upper shelves
- Write down the full model number and serial number exactly as shown
- Record the purchase date for service and parts matching
Kenmore model numbers typically follow a pattern like this:
| Section | Example from 10659597990 | What it tells us |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer prefix | 106 | Who built the Kenmore appliance (Whirlpool-built) |
| Product/design series | 5959 | Platform or design family used for that refrigerator line |
| Feature/variation digits | 7990 | Specific configuration (options, revisions, color/package) |
Using the complete model number helps us match the correct parts list and avoid fit issues, especially on water and ice components.
- Door gaskets and shelves can vary by revision
- Ice maker and ice bin styles can differ across close model numbers
- Water system parts (valves, tubing, filter housings) must match the exact configuration
If you are troubleshooting ice production or water dispensing on this model, common match-critical parts include the refrigerator inlet valve W10408179 and the ice maker assembly 4317943.
Last updated: February 2026
How to replace an ice maker in a side by side refrigerator?
To replace the ice maker in your Kenmore 10659597990 side-by-side refrigerator, we shut off the ice maker and water supply, remove the ice bin or bucket for access, swap the ice maker assembly, then restore water and power and confirm ice production. Use the 10659597990 owner's manual for the exact access steps for your ice bin style.
- Unplug the refrigerator or switch off power at the breaker.
- Turn off the water supply valve feeding the refrigerator.
- Empty the ice bin or bucket so it is lighter and easier to handle.
- Protect the floor with a towel; a small amount of water can drip from the fill tube.
- Use a plastic utensil to clear any jammed ice in the ejector area (no metal tools).
Your model may use either a wire shut-off arm style or an ON/OFF switch style. The manual describes both:
| What you see in the freezer | What we do | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Wire shut-off arm | Lift arm until it clicks to OFF (up) | Stops ice production while you work |
| ON/OFF switch | Slide switch to OFF (right) | Prevents cycling during service |
For bin/bucket removal, follow the steps in the 10659597990 owner's manual (the bin must be pushed fully back in during reassembly or the dispenser may not work).
- Remove the ice maker mounting screws.
- Unplug the ice maker wiring harness connector.
- Transfer any brackets or the stripper (if present) from the old unit to the new one when they match.
- Install the replacement ice maker, reconnect the harness, and tighten mounting screws.
- Reinstall the bin or bucket and confirm it seats all the way.
If you are replacing the complete unit for this model, use the ice maker assembly 4317943.
- Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks at the rear connection.
- Restore power.
- Turn the ice maker back ON (arm down or switch ON).
- Normal production: many models make about 10 to 14 batches in 24 hours when set for maximum ice production (if equipped).
Correctly shutting off the ice maker and fully reinstalling the ice bin or bucket prevents dispenser issues, reduces the chance of leaks, and helps the new ice maker start producing ice normally.
Last updated: February 2026
How to tell if a Kenmore refrigerator compressor is bad?
On Kenmore model 10659597990, a bad compressor typically shows up as poor cooling (fresh food and freezer both warm) along with unusual compressor behavior such as repeated clicking/trying to start, running constantly with little cooling, or not running at all. Before condemning the compressor, we rule out airflow and dirty condenser coils.
- Confirm the refrigerator has power and the interior lights work.
- Listen for normal operating sounds; some clicking and refrigerant gurgling can be normal (see the 10659597990 owner's manual).
- Make sure the condenser coils are clean; dirty coils commonly cause warm temps and long run times.
- Verify the evaporator fan is moving air through the compartments.
- Check that doors seal fully and are not being held open by bins or shelves.
| What you notice | What it usually means |
|---|---|
| Fridge runs almost nonstop but temperatures stay warm | Compressor is running but not pumping efficiently, or heat is not being rejected at the condenser |
| Repeated clicking every few minutes and no steady hum | Start device/overload is tripping, or compressor is locked |
| Compressor is very hot to the touch and cooling is poor | Overheating under heavy load, restricted airflow, or failing compressor |
| Both sections warm and fans seem to run normally | Sealed system or compressor issue is more likely |
- Clean the condenser coils and reinstall the base grille or rear cover as applicable; the manual outlines coil-cleaning steps and clearances.
- Listen at the back: a steady hum suggests the compressor is running; repeated click-hum-click suggests a start or compressor issue.
- Check airflow: if the evaporator fan is not moving air, cooling can fail even with a good compressor.
- If you have ice maker or water issues at the same time, address those separately; they do not confirm a compressor failure.
A compressor diagnosis often leads to sealed-system service, but these parts are still useful references for this model:
- Refrigerator compressor W10309994 (the compressor itself)
- Refrigerator defrost timer 4388932 (defrost control issues can mimic cooling complaints)
Replacing a compressor is a major repair. Cleaning coils, confirming normal sounds, and verifying airflow helps avoid replacing expensive parts when the real cause is heat buildup, a fan problem, or a defrost-related cooling restriction.
Last updated: February 2026
How wide is a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
Kenmore side-by-side refrigerators are typically 36 inches wide, and Kenmore model 10659597990 is in the standard 36-inch class. For the exact “as-built” and “installed” width (including handles), confirm the dimensions section in the 10659597990 owner's manual.
Refrigerator width is commonly listed in a few different ways; measuring the wrong one is the #1 reason a fridge does not fit.
- Cabinet width: the metal case, doors closed
- Overall width: cabinet plus doors and handles
- Opening (cutout) width: your cabinet space wall-to-wall
- Door swing clearance: extra room so doors open fully
- Service clearance: room to pull the unit out for cleaning/repairs
The manual for this Kenmore side-by-side style calls out these common minimum clearances:
| Location | Minimum clearance |
|---|---|
| Each side and top (ventilation) | 1/2 in. |
| Next to a fixed wall (door swing) | 2 in. |
| Behind unit (water line, if used) | Extra space recommended |
Use a tape measure and check both the refrigerator and the cabinet opening.
- Measure the opening width at the front and back (walls can be out of square)
- Measure the refrigerator overall width at the widest point (often the handles)
- Confirm 2 in. wall-side clearance if the doors need to open past 90 degrees
- Plan for the water line if you use the ice maker or dispenser
A “36-inch” side-by-side can still bind on handles, trim, or a nearby wall. Planning for ventilation and door swing prevents poor cooling performance and makes future service easier.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the cubic foot of my Kenmore refrigerator model 10659597990?
The Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10659597990 has a total capacity of about 21.9 cubic feet. For the most accurate capacity and configuration details for your exact unit, confirm the specs in the 10659597990 owner's manual.
We recommend using the model and serial label and the manual so you are matching the correct version of the 106 series.
- Check the model and serial number label inside the fresh food compartment
- Match the full model number exactly: 10659597990
- Look for a “capacity,” “volume,” or “specifications” section in the manual
- If shelves, bins, or the ice system have been changed, usable space can feel smaller even when total cubic feet stays the same
Total capacity is a measurement of interior volume; usable space depends on features like the ice maker, air channels, and bin layout.
| Measurement | What it means | What affects it most |
|---|---|---|
| Total capacity (cu. ft.) | Overall interior volume | Cabinet size and design |
| Usable space | What you can actually store | Shelves, bins, ice maker, air ducts |
Knowing the cubic feet helps when you are comparing replacement refrigerators, planning food storage, or troubleshooting temperature issues related to overpacking and airflow.
Last updated: February 2026
What temperature should a Kenmore freezer be set at?
For the Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10659597990, set the freezer to 0°F (-18°C) for normal household use. If you just installed the refrigerator, keep the controls at the factory mid-settings first, then fine-tune after temperatures stabilize (see the 10659597990 owner's manual).
Use these targets as your goal, then adjust the freezer control in small steps.
- Everyday use: 0°F (-18°C)
- If ice cream is too soft or food seems less frozen: adjust the freezer control slightly colder
- If items are freezing solid near vents or edges: adjust slightly warmer
- After changing a setting: wait 24 hours before judging results
- After adding a lot of food: expect several hours for temps to return to normal
Your manual explains that the freezer control changes freezer temperature:
- Settings left of mid-setting make the freezer less cold
- Settings right of mid-setting make the freezer colder
- Turning the freezer control to OFF stops cooling
| What you want | What to do | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Maintain safe frozen storage | Target 0°F | Best balance of food quality and safety |
| Improve freezing performance | Move control one step colder | No faster “instant cooling”; needs time |
| Reduce over-freezing | Move control one step warmer | Helps prevent spot-freezing |
Keeping the freezer at 0°F helps food stay safely frozen and reduces issues like soft ice cream, excessive frost, or temperature swings caused by frequent door openings.
Last updated: February 2026
What's the average lifespan of a Kenmore refrigerator?
Most Kenmore refrigerators average 10 to 15 years of service life. For a Kenmore 10659597990 side-by-side refrigerator, lifespan depends most on basic care like cleaning, stable temperatures, and keeping door seals tight; consistent maintenance helps many units reach the upper end of that range.
| Refrigerator type | Typical lifespan | What usually ends life first |
|---|---|---|
| Side-by-side (like model 10659597990) | 10 to 15 years | Sealed system wear, airflow issues, ice and water system leaks |
| Top freezer | 12 to 18 years | Thermostat/control issues, door seal problems |
| French door | 10 to 15 years | Ice maker and dispenser issues, fan and defrost problems |
These steps match the kind of routine care covered in the “Caring for your refrigerator” section of the 10659597990 owner's manual.
- Clean condenser coils regularly (dust buildup makes the compressor run hotter and longer).
- Keep freezer vents and the air diffuser path clear so cold air can circulate.
- Verify door gaskets seal all the way around; fix gaps before they cause frost and long run times.
- Replace water filters on schedule (restricted flow stresses the water inlet valve and ice maker).
- Keep temperatures steady: about 37°F fresh food and 0°F freezer.
- Address small issues early (slow ice production, warm spots, unusual noises).
Use these practical checkpoints to decide whether a repair is worth it on an older Kenmore refrigerator:
- Good repair candidates: ice maker not working, dispenser light out, door not closing smoothly.
- Borderline: repeated defrost icing, frequent temperature swings, recurring water leaks.
- Often not cost-effective: sealed system failures (compressor, refrigerant leak, evaporator restrictions).
- Ice production problems: ice maker assembly - refrigerator ice maker by whirlpool 4317943
- Water and ice feed issues: refrigerator inlet valve W10408179
- Defrost-related icing: refrigerator defrost bi-metal WPW10225581
A refrigerator that runs longer than normal to hold temperature uses more electricity and puts extra wear on the compressor and sealed refrigeration system. Simple airflow and sealing fixes often prevent the “slow decline” that shortens overall lifespan.
Last updated: February 2026
Where is the model number on a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
On Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10659597990, the model number is printed on the model and serial number label on the inside wall of the refrigerator compartment. Open the fresh food door and look along the interior side wall for the sticker-style label; it lists both the model and serial numbers.
- Open the refrigerator (fresh food) door, not the freezer door
- Check the inside wall near the front edge (eye level)
- Look behind or beside the crisper drawers area
- Check near the top interior side wall by the light housing
- Wipe the area with a damp cloth; labels can blend into the liner
The label typically includes the model number, serial number, and other identification details used for parts lookup and service.
| Label item | What it’s used for | Example for this unit |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Matching parts and diagrams | 10659597990 (often shown as 106.) |
| Serial number | Date/production tracking for service | Varies by unit |
| Purchase date (written by owner) | Warranty and records | Your entry |
We use the exact model number to match the correct Kenmore parts (like an ice maker assembly, water inlet valve, or door gasket) because similar-looking side-by-side refrigerators can use different components and mounting styles.
Record the model and serial number exactly as shown and keep it with your paperwork. The identification location and recording instructions are shown in the 10659597990 owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
