How many cubic feet is my Kenmore refrigerator by model number?
Your Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10641173714 has a specific cubic-foot capacity, but the most reliable way to get the exact number is to read the capacity listed on the refrigerator’s rating label (typically inside the fresh food compartment). If you are troubleshooting cooling or airflow, we also recommend checking common 106-series diagnostics in our Kenmore 106 model refrigerator error codes.
Where to find the exact cubic feet (fastest methods)
- Look for the rating label inside the refrigerator section (often on a side wall near the crisper area or upper cabinet).
- Check the model and serial tag and look for a line that lists capacity or total volume.
- If the label is hard to read, take a clear photo and zoom in; capacity is usually printed near electrical ratings.
- If you are measuring for fit (cabinet opening), use exterior dimensions, not cubic feet.
What cubic feet means (and why it can be confusing)
Cubic feet is the refrigerator’s interior storage volume. It is not the same as the outside size, and it can vary based on:
- Shelf and bin design
- Ice maker and dispenser components
- Evaporator cover and airflow ducting
- Freezer-to-fridge split in a side-by-side layout
Quick reference: capacity vs. what you are trying to solve
| If you need… | Cubic feet helps with… | Better spec to use… |
|---|---|---|
| Replacing the refrigerator | Comparing storage size | Exterior height, width, depth |
| Food storage planning | Estimating usable space | Shelf layout and bin sizes |
| Cooling complaints | Not directly | Temperature readings and airflow checks |
| Door bin replacement | Not directly | Exact bin part match |
Why it matters
Knowing the correct cubic-foot capacity helps you compare refrigerators accurately and set expectations for usable storage. For model 10641173714, the rating label gives the exact capacity for your specific configuration (including ice maker and internal components).
Last updated: February 2026
How to tell if a Kenmore refrigerator compressor is bad?
A bad compressor in your Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10641173714 typically shows up as both sections warming up even though the unit has power, often with repeated clicking start attempts or nonstop running with little cooling. Before condemning the compressor, rule out airflow and defrost failures.
Fast checks that point toward a compressor problem
- Freezer and refrigerator are both warm after 12 to 24 hours of running
- Click-hum-click cycle every few minutes (start attempt then shutdown)
- Compressor runs continuously but temperatures barely drop
- Compressor is very hot to the touch after running (use caution)
- Little or no frost pattern on the evaporator (often indicates sealed-system trouble)
Rule out common look-alikes first
Many “bad compressor” symptoms are caused by parts that are easier to replace.
- Evaporator fan not moving air: If the fan is weak or stopped, cold air will not circulate; check the refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315549 and refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2169142.
- Defrost failure icing up the evaporator: A solid ice blanket behind the freezer rear panel blocks airflow; inspect the refrigerator heater WP2323198.
- Condenser area blocked: Clean dust and make sure there is space for airflow around the cabinet.
What you can safely do at home
- Listen at the compressor: steady hum suggests running; repeated clicking suggests a start problem.
- Check vent airflow: hold the freezer door switch; you should feel strong airflow.
- Confirm settings: freezer near 0°F, fresh food near 37°F; wait 24 hours after changes.
Symptom-to-likely-cause guide
| What you notice | More likely cause | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer cold, fridge warm | Evaporator fan/airflow | Cold not circulating |
| Heavy frost/ice buildup | Defrost system | Ice blocking airflow |
| Both warm + clicking | Start device or compressor | Compressor not staying on |
| Both warm + runs nonstop | Sealed system/compressor | Not producing cooling |
Why it matters
Compressor replacement is a major repair; checking the evaporator fan and defrost system first prevents unnecessary parts and helps you target the real failure.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most common problems with Kenmore refrigerators?
The most common problems we see on Kenmore refrigerators like model 10641173714 are cooling issues, water leaks, ice maker or dispenser trouble, and unusual noises. These usually trace back to airflow problems (fans or frost buildup), door sealing issues, or a clogged defrost drain.
Most common symptoms and what they usually mean
- Not cooling or warm temperatures: restricted airflow, dirty coils, evaporator fan not running, or a defrost system problem.
- Frost buildup on the back wall of the freezer: defrost heater or defrost control issue.
- Water under the refrigerator or in the fresh food section: clogged defrost drain or a door not sealing.
- Ice maker not making ice or slow ice production: water supply restriction, frozen fill tube, or dispenser-related issues.
- Buzzing, rattling, or grinding noises: evaporator fan blade hitting ice, worn fan motor, or items vibrating.
Quick checks we recommend before replacing parts
- Confirm settings: freezer around 0°F, refrigerator around 37°F.
- Listen for the evaporator fan (freezer fan): it should run when the compressor is running and the door switch is closed.
- Inspect door seals: look for gaps, tears, or areas that do not grip paper when the door is closed.
- Check for frost patterns: heavy frost suggests a defrost or airflow problem.
- Look for drain issues: if you see water pooling, clear ice and debris from the drain trough and tube.
Parts that commonly solve these problems (when symptoms match)
| Symptom | Common culprit | Example part for 10641173714 |
|---|---|---|
| Warm freezer/fridge, noisy freezer area | Evaporator fan motor or blade | Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315549, refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2169142 |
| Heavy frost, poor cooling after a few days | Defrost heater | Refrigerator heater WP2323198 |
| Moisture, warm spots, or doors not closing “tight” | Door gasket | Door gasket (black) 2159083 or door gasket (gray) W10136735 |
Why it matters
Most “not cooling” complaints are really airflow problems. If the evaporator fan cannot move cold air, or frost blocks the evaporator, temperatures rise and the compressor may run longer, increasing noise and energy use.
Helpful DIY references
- Kenmore 106 model refrigerator error codes
- How to fix your evaporator cooling fan
- How to fix a fridge door seal
Last updated: February 2026
Where is the model number on a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
On Kenmore side-by-side refrigerators like model 10641173714, the model number is printed on the appliance identification label. You will typically find that label inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment on a side wall near the top, or around the door opening.
Common places to check first
Look for a white or silver sticker that lists both MODEL and SERIAL.
- Inside the refrigerator section on the left or right interior wall
- On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment near the light housing
- On the frame around the refrigerator door opening (door jamb area)
- Behind the crisper drawers on the side wall (less common, but possible)
- On the back exterior panel near the bottom (backup location)
What the label looks like (and what to write down)
The label usually includes several fields. We recommend copying these exactly:
| Label field | What it means | Example format |
|---|---|---|
| Model | Identifies the exact design and parts list | 10641173714 |
| Serial | Identifies the production unit | Letters and numbers |
| Electrical | Helps with diagnosis | Volts/amps/Hz |
Why it matters
The model number is what we use to match the correct Kenmore refrigerator parts and diagrams for your exact build. Even small model changes can affect fit for items like a door gasket, evaporator fan motor, or defrost heater.
If you are already troubleshooting a cooling issue
If you are looking for the model tag because the refrigerator is warm, the most common cooling-airflow parts for this model family include the refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315549 and the refrigerator heater WP2323198. For step-by-step symptom checks, we also recommend our how to fix your evaporator cooling fan guide.
Last updated: February 2026





