How to tell how old a Kenmore refrigerator is by serial number?
To tell how old your Kenmore refrigerator model 1068582780 is, we use the serial number (not the model number) to decode the manufacture date. On most Kenmore refrigerators, the serial tag includes letter and number codes that indicate the month and year it was built.
Where to find the serial number
Look for a rating label in one of these common spots:
- Inside the fresh food compartment on a side wall
- Along the ceiling of the refrigerator section
- Behind the crisper drawers
- On the cabinet frame near the door hinge area
How serial number dating typically works
Kenmore refrigerators are built by multiple manufacturers, so the serial format varies. A common pattern is:
- Letters at the beginning indicate the month and year
- Numbers that follow identify the production sequence
Quick decoding checklist
- Write down the entire serial number exactly as shown
- Note any prefix letters (often the key to the date)
- Compare the format to Kenmore 106-series dating charts
- Confirm by matching the refrigerator’s features and parts style (ice maker type, dispenser layout)
Helpful cross-checks (when the label is hard to decode)
If the serial code is unclear, we confirm age by comparing installed components that commonly change over production runs:
| What you check | What it tells you | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Ice maker style and mounting | Often tied to a production range | Refrigerator ice maker 4317943 |
| Door gasket profile | Design revisions over time | Refrigerator door gasket 2188404A |
| Dispenser and water system routing | Helps narrow generation | Refrigerator water tube W10823511 |
Why it matters
Knowing the manufacture date helps us match the right Kenmore parts, avoid ordering look-alike components, and plan repairs based on typical refrigerator lifespan and wear items (ice maker, inlet valve, door seals).
Last updated: February 2026
How to tell what model Kenmore refrigerator?
Your Kenmore refrigerator’s model number is printed on the appliance ID label; once you find it, you can match parts and troubleshooting info to the exact unit. For this page, the model number format looks like 1068582780, which is a Kenmore 106-series style identifier.
Where to find the model number label
Check these common locations first (the label usually shows MODEL and SERIAL):
- Inside the fresh food compartment on a side wall (often right side)
- On the ceiling area inside the refrigerator compartment
- On the door frame when you open the refrigerator door
- Behind the lower kick plate or toe grille
- On the back exterior panel (less common, but worth a quick look)
What to write down (and why)
Capture the full model number exactly as shown, including all digits.
| Item on label | Example | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 1068582780 | Ensures the correct diagrams and compatible parts |
| Serial number | Varies | Helps identify production run details when needed |
Quick tips to avoid mix-ups
- Don’t use the number from the ice maker, water filter, or compressor label; those are part IDs.
- If the label is smudged, take a photo and zoom in; a single wrong digit can change fit.
- If you’re troubleshooting ice or water issues after identifying the model, start with the dispenser and ice maker basics in how to prevent water dispenser and ice maker problems.
Why it matters
Kenmore refrigerators often share similar styling across many models, but parts like an ice maker, inlet valve, or door gasket can differ by model. Using the exact model number prevents ordering the wrong replacement.
Last updated: February 2026
What's the average lifespan of a Kenmore refrigerator?
Kenmore refrigerators typically last 10 to 15 years; with steady upkeep, many units reach the high end of that range. For your Kenmore model 1068582780, lifespan depends most on compressor workload, door seal condition, and how well the cooling system can shed heat.
What most affects refrigerator life
- Condenser coil cleanliness (dirty coils make the compressor run hotter and longer)
- Door gasket seal (air leaks cause constant run time and frost issues)
- Ice maker and water system health (leaks and clogs can create repeat failures)
- Room temperature and ventilation around the cabinet
- Power quality (surges and repeated outages stress electronics and motors)
Maintenance checklist that helps you reach 10 to 15 years
- Vacuum and brush condenser coils every 6 to 12 months.
- Keep doors closing squarely; avoid overloading door bins.
- Clean and dry any water under drawers or near the front grille.
- Replace worn door gaskets promptly (common cause of warm temps and sweating).
- If ice production is inconsistent, address it early using common refrigerator ice maker problems and solutions.
Quick “repair vs. replace” guide
| What you’re seeing | Most common cause | Typical next step |
|---|---|---|
| Warm fridge, freezer OK | Airflow or evaporator fan issue | Check vents, fan operation, defrost pattern |
| Frost buildup, long run times | Door leak or defrost problem | Inspect gasket, check for ice blocking vents |
| No ice or slow ice | Water supply or ice maker fault | Test fill, then consider refrigerator ice maker 4317943 |
| Water leaking inside | Tube/reservoir/valve issue | Inspect lines; consider refrigerator water tube W10823511 |
Why it matters
A refrigerator that runs longer than normal uses more energy and wears out the sealed system faster. Simple items like a tight door seal and clean coils reduce compressor run time, which is the biggest driver of overall lifespan.
Last updated: February 2026





