What is the bottom part of a refrigerator called?
On a Kenmore bottom-mount refrigerator model 79579004901, the bottom area is commonly called the machine compartment (or compressor compartment). It houses the cooling-system components like the compressor, condenser fan, condenser coils, and a drain pan that helps manage defrost water.
What you will typically find in the bottom section
These parts work together to remove heat and keep the refrigerator and freezer cold:
- Compressor: pumps refrigerant through the sealed system
- Condenser coils: release heat to the room air
- Condenser fan: moves air across the coils and compressor
- Drain pan: catches defrost water so it can evaporate
- Wiring and controls: power and control circuits for cooling components
For component locations and access panels specific to your unit, use the 79579004901 owner’s manual.
Common names you may hear (and what they mean)
| Term people use | What it usually refers to | Where it is |
|---|---|---|
| Machine compartment | The enclosed area holding cooling hardware | Bottom rear (most common) |
| Compressor compartment | Area around the compressor and related parts | Bottom rear |
| Toe grille (kick plate) | The front lower cover that lets air flow | Bottom front |
| Base pan | The metal/plastic base supporting components | Under the cabinet |
Why it matters
Knowing the correct name helps when ordering parts and troubleshooting issues like warm temperatures, unusual noises, or water under the refrigerator. For example, a failed condenser fan motor can cause poor cooling, and a clogged drain system can cause leaks.
Parts in this model that relate to the bottom section
If you are diagnosing a cooling or leak issue, these model-matched parts are commonly involved:
- Refrigerator compressor TCA35931726
- Refrigerator condenser fan motor EAU61644105
- Refrigerator drain tube 5251JA3003D
Last updated: January 2026
How to find model number on Kenmore?
On a Kenmore refrigerator, we typically find the model number on a rating label inside the fresh food compartment or freezer, often on a side wall, door frame, or behind the lower crisper drawer. For Kenmore model 79579004901, the label is usually inside the refrigerator section.
Common places to check first
- Inside the refrigerator compartment on the left or right side wall
- On the door frame (around the gasket area) when you open the refrigerator door
- Behind or just above the lower crisper drawers (you may need to slide drawers out)
- Inside the freezer compartment on a side wall
- Behind the lower front kick plate or toe grille (near the floor)
What the label looks like
The rating label is usually a white or silver sticker/plate that includes:
| What you may see | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Model number (example: 79579004901) | Ensures you get the correct Kenmore parts |
| Serial number | Helps date the unit and confirm production run |
| Electrical ratings (V/Hz/A) | Useful for diagnosing power and compressor issues |
Tips to make it easier
- Use a flashlight and look along the cabinet walls near the front opening.
- If the label is behind crispers, remove food, then slide the drawers out fully.
- Wipe condensation or dust off the sticker so the numbers are readable.
- Write the model number exactly as shown (all digits), then match it when ordering parts.
Why it matters
Kenmore refrigerators share similar designs across many series, so the model number is what ensures the right fit for parts like a door switch, gasket, or water inlet valve. The 79579004901 owner’s manual also references the correct identification and care information for your specific unit.
Last updated: January 2026
Why is my Kenmore refrigerator leaking underneath?
Water under a Kenmore 79579004901 bottom-mount refrigerator is usually caused by a clogged or frozen defrost drain that overflows into the cabinet and then drips to the floor. Less often, the drain pan is out of position or cracked, or a water supply connection is leaking.
Quick checks we recommend first
- Look for a sheet of ice or standing water on the freezer floor; this strongly points to a blocked defrost drain.
- Check the front leveling; a refrigerator that tilts forward can let water spill out instead of flowing to the drain pan.
- Inspect the water line connection (if you have an ice maker or water dispenser) for slow drips.
- Confirm the doors close fully; warm air intrusion can increase frost and overwhelm the drain.
- Look for water trails from the back of the unit down to the floor.
Clear a clogged or frozen defrost drain
Use the steps in the 79579004901 owner’s manual for safe access and panel removal. In general, this is the most effective approach:
- Unplug the refrigerator.
- Remove freezer contents and the lower bin to access the rear interior panel.
- Melt any ice around the drain trough using warm water (not boiling) and towels.
- Flush the drain hole with warm water until it flows freely to the drain pan.
- If the drain tube is restricted, replace it with the correct part for this model, such as the refrigerator drain tube 5251JA3003D.
If the leak is from the water system
A leak that appears only when the ice maker fills or when you dispense water often points to the inlet valve or a loose fitting.
| Symptom | Most likely area | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Leak happens intermittently, often after ice maker cycles | Water inlet valve or tubing | Inspect fittings; test/replace the refrigerator water inlet valve assembly AJU55759303 |
| Constant slow drip at back/bottom | Supply line connection | Tighten compression fitting; replace damaged tubing |
| Water inside fresh food section near vents | Defrost drain or airflow issue | Clear drain; check for frost buildup |
Why it matters
Leaks can damage flooring and also lead to ice buildup around the evaporator area, which can reduce cooling performance and increase run time.
Last updated: January 2026
What size is Kenmore refrigerator model 79579004901?
Kenmore refrigerator model 79579004901 is a bottom-mount refrigerator; the exact exterior dimensions (width, height, and depth) and required clearances are listed in the specifications section of the 79579004901 owner's manual. Use those published measurements when planning a cutout, delivery path, or replacement.
What “size” usually means for this refrigerator
When customers ask for size, they typically need one or more of these measurements:
- Overall width (side to side at the cabinet)
- Overall height (floor to top of cabinet or hinge cover)
- Overall depth (front to back; often listed with and without handles)
- Door swing and drawer clearance (space to fully open doors and freezer drawer)
- Capacity (cubic feet, if you are comparing storage volume)
How to measure your unit so it matches the manual
Measure in inches and compare to the manual’s spec table.
- Measure width at the widest point of the cabinet (not the wall opening)
- Measure height from the floor to the top; include the hinge cover if installed
- Measure depth two ways: cabinet only, then to the front of the handles
- Add clearance for door swing and the freezer drawer to pull out fully
Planning clearances (typical guidance)
Use the manual’s clearance requirements first; these general rules help avoid fit problems.
| Area | What to allow | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Sides | Space for airflow and door opening | Prevents rubbing and heat buildup |
| Top | Space above cabinet | Helps ventilation and leveling |
| Back | Space for cord and water line | Prevents kinks and vibration noise |
Why it matters
Using the published dimensions for 79579004901 prevents delivery surprises, cabinet interference, and airflow restrictions that can reduce cooling performance.
Last updated: January 2026





