Can I run my Kenmore refrigerator without a water filter?
Yes. Your Kenmore 59679243010 bottom-mount refrigerator will still dispense water and make ice without a filter, but water quality typically drops and mineral or sediment buildup can shorten the life of water-system parts. For best performance, we recommend installing the correct filter.
What happens when you remove the filter
- Water is no longer filtered for taste, odor, and sediment.
- Ice cubes can turn cloudy or develop off-tastes.
- Small particles can collect in the dispenser tubing and ice maker fill path.
- Flow can change; you may notice slower dispensing if debris builds up.
- Some refrigerators need a bypass style insert to seal the filter housing.
Best practice for model 59679243010
For this model, the correct replacement is the genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR4RXD1. Replacing it on schedule is the simplest way to keep the dispenser and ice maker working reliably.
Quick comparison
| Option | Water/ice quality | Risk to dispenser/ice maker | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Run with no filter | Lowest | Higher | Temporary use only |
| Install correct filter | Best | Lowest | Everyday use |
If you must run it without a filter (temporary)
- Turn off the water supply before removing the filter to reduce leaking.
- After reinstalling the housing cap or filter, turn water back on and check for drips.
- Flush several gallons through the dispenser to clear air and loose particles.
- If the dispenser stops or the ice maker quits, reinstall a proper filter.
Why it matters
The water filter is not just about taste; it also helps protect the ice maker assembly and internal water lines from sediment that can cause clogs, leaks, and poor ice production.
To order the right replacement parts for Kenmore 59679243010, use the parts list for this model or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How to tell if a Kenmore refrigerator compressor is bad?
A failing compressor in your Kenmore refrigerator model 59679243010 typically shows up as both sections warming up even though the unit has power, often with repeated clicking start attempts or a compressor that runs but never pulls temperatures down. Use the checks below to separate compressor failure from airflow or start-component problems.
Signs that point toward a compressor problem
Look for a pattern (not just one symptom):
- Fridge and freezer both warm while lights and controls work
- Repeated click every few minutes (start attempt then shutoff)
- Compressor is very hot after repeated start attempts
- Compressor is mostly silent while fans may still run
- Runs constantly but cannot reach safe temperatures
Checks to do before blaming the compressor
These issues commonly mimic a “bad compressor” and are faster to rule out:
- Condenser fan operation: If the fan near the compressor is not running, the compressor can overheat and shut off; see refrigerator condenser fan motor W11613295.
- Start components: A weak capacitor can cause hard starting and clicking; see refrigerator run capacitor WPW10662129.
- Airflow and coils: Dirty condenser coils or blocked vents cause long run times and poor cooling.
- Frost pattern: Heavy frost/ice buildup on the evaporator can stop airflow and warm the refrigerator.
Quick decision guide
| What you observe | Most likely cause | Best next step |
|---|---|---|
| Clicks every few minutes, little compressor run | Start components or locked compressor | Test start circuit; then sealed-system diagnosis |
| Compressor runs steadily, both sections warm | Sealed-system restriction/leak or weak compressor | Check frost pattern and temperatures |
| Compressor overheats, back of unit very hot | Condenser airflow problem | Verify fan, clean coils |
Why it matters
Compressor and sealed-system repairs are among the highest-cost refrigerator fixes. Ruling out condenser fan, capacitor, and airflow problems first prevents replacing major parts when a simpler repair restores cooling.
You can order parts for model 59679243010 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How to tell what model Kenmore refrigerator?
Your Kenmore refrigerator’s model number is printed on the appliance’s rating label; once you find it, match it exactly (letters and numbers) when searching parts. For this page, the model number is 59679243010.
Where to look for the model number label
Check these common spots on Kenmore refrigerators:
- Inside the fresh food compartment on a side wall
- On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment
- Behind or beside a crisper drawer (you may need to slide the drawer out)
- Along the door frame (open the door and look around the perimeter)
- Behind the lower kick plate or toe grille at the front
What the model number looks like (and what to write down)
Copy the model number exactly as shown on the label.
- Include all digits and any letters
- Keep the same order and spacing
- Write down the serial number too (helpful for confirming production details)
- Take a clear photo of the label for reference
Quick check table
| What you see on the label | What it means | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Identifies the exact refrigerator design | Use it to select the correct parts list |
| Serial number | Identifies the individual unit | Keep it for service history and verification |
| Electrical ratings | Voltage/amps info | Useful when diagnosing power-related issues |
Why it matters
Kenmore refrigerators can look similar across multiple series, but parts like a water filter, ice maker assembly, or door gasket panel can vary by model. Using the exact model number helps us match the correct replacement part the first time.
After you find the model number: next best steps
- If your model matches 59679243010, use the parts list for this model to choose replacements
- For water and ice issues, start with the genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR4RXD1
- If you need help preventing dispenser or ice maker trouble, use how to prevent water dispenser and ice maker problems
- To search beyond the parts shown here, use your model number on Sears PartsDirect
Last updated: February 2026
What is the average lifespan of a Kenmore Elite refrigerator?
Most Kenmore Elite refrigerators typically last 10 to 15 years with normal household use and basic maintenance. For your Kenmore bottom-mount refrigerator model 59679243010, consistent cleaning, good airflow, and fixing small issues early are what most often determine whether it reaches the high end of that range.
Typical lifespan and what to expect
Here’s a practical way to think about refrigerator life:
- 0 to 5 years: Mostly minor issues (lights, switches, ice maker adjustments)
- 6 to 10 years: Wear items show up (fans, door sealing, ice maker performance)
- 10 to 15 years: Higher chance of major cooling-system repairs (compressor, sealed system)
- 15+ years: Many units still run, but repair costs and part availability become the deciding factors
Quick reference
| Refrigerator age | What we commonly see | Best next step |
|---|---|---|
| Under 8 years | Maintenance and small part fixes | Clean, inspect, replace wear parts |
| 8 to 12 years | More frequent service needs | Compare repair cost vs. value |
| 12+ years | Higher risk of major cooling failures | Prioritize only high-value repairs |
Maintenance that extends life (and prevents expensive failures)
These steps make the biggest difference on bottom-mount refrigerators like the Kenmore 59679243010:
- Keep condenser area clean so heat can escape properly
- Make sure doors close tightly and stay aligned
- Don’t overpack; allow airflow in both fresh food and freezer sections
- Replace the water filter on schedule if you use the dispenser or ice maker
- Address unusual noises early (often fan-related)
If you need a filter match for this model, use the genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR4RXD1.
Why it matters
A refrigerator can “run” while slowly losing efficiency. Poor airflow, a weak door seal, or a restricted filter can increase run time, raise temperatures, and put extra strain on the compressor, which is the most expensive component.
When replacement starts to make sense
We use this simple rule of thumb:
- If the refrigerator is over 10 years old and a repair involves the sealed system (compressor, refrigerant components), compare the repair cost to replacement value.
- If the issue is a common service part (like an ice maker), repairing is often worthwhile.
For parts and model-specific replacements, start with the parts list for model 59679243010, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026





