Owner’s manual
Error Codes
How to clean the coils on a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
For Kenmore model 10641563802, we clean the condenser coils by unplugging the refrigerator, accessing the coil area (rear or bottom-front), then gently brushing and vacuuming away dust and pet hair. Clean coils help the compressor run cooler and maintain steady refrigerator and freezer temperatures.
- Unplug the refrigerator (or disconnect power at the breaker).
- Pull the refrigerator out carefully to avoid kinking the water line (if equipped).
- Remove the lower front toe grille or the rear access cover, depending on where your coils are located.
- Use a coil brush to loosen packed dust; work along the full length of the coil.
- Vacuum the debris (use a crevice tool to reach tight areas).
- Reinstall the cover or grille, restore power, and confirm the unit is running normally.
The cleaning guidance in the 10641563802 owner's manual supports using mild cleaning methods and avoiding harsh or abrasive cleaners on refrigerator surfaces.
| Use | Why it works | Avoid | Why to avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coil brush + vacuum | Removes dust without damaging fins | Water spray/steam | Can push dirt deeper and risk electrical components |
| Soft brush attachment | Safer around wiring and fan areas | Abrasive pads | Can damage finishes and nearby plastic parts |
| Mild detergent on exterior panels | Safe for general cleaning | Harsh/flammable cleaners | Can damage surfaces and create safety risks |
- Every 6 months for most homes
- Every 3 months if you have pets, heavy dust, or the refrigerator is in a tight enclosure
- After any remodeling or drywall work (fine dust clogs coils quickly)
Dirty coils trap heat, which makes the sealed system work harder. That can lead to warmer temperatures, longer run times, and extra wear on components like the compressor and start device.
If you need replacement parts while you are servicing the unit, you can order model-matched parts from the list for 10641563802, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
Where is the model number on a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
On a Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator like model 10641563802, the model number is printed on the appliance identification label (the same label that lists the serial number). You will typically find this label inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment along the side wall or near the ceiling.
Look for a white or silver sticker or plate in these spots:
- Inside the refrigerator compartment on the left or right side wall
- On the ceiling of the refrigerator compartment near the light housing
- Behind the crisper drawers (you may need to pull the drawers out)
- Along the door frame area that is visible when the door is open
- Less commonly, inside the freezer compartment on a side wall
For diagrams and model-specific reference points, use the 10641563802 owner's manual.
The ID label usually includes both numbers. Use the model number when ordering parts; use the serial number when checking age or production details.
| Item on label | What it’s used for | Example format |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Matching the correct parts list and diagrams | 10641563802 |
| Serial number | Manufacturing date and production run info | Letters plus numbers |
Kenmore model families can look nearly identical, but parts like a refrigerator door gasket, refrigerator temperature control, or refrigerator light switch can vary by model. Using the exact model number helps ensure the replacement part fits and functions correctly.
Once you confirm the model number, you can order parts from the parts list for 10641563802, or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How do I reset a Kenmore refrigerator?
To reset your Kenmore refrigerator model 10641563802, we recommend a simple power reset: turn the temperature control(s) OFF, disconnect power for about 5 minutes, then restore power and set the controls back to your normal settings (this reboots the controls and clears many minor glitches). See the owner's manual for control locations and model-specific steps.
- Turn the refrigerator control (or Temperature Control) to OFF.
- Unplug the refrigerator from the outlet (or switch the circuit breaker OFF).
- Wait 5 minutes.
- Restore power.
- Set the Refrigerator and Freezer controls back to the desired setting.
- Allow 24 hours for temperatures to fully stabilize after any control change.
Some issues are not true “resets” and need a targeted check.
| What you want to fix | What to do first | What it points to if it returns |
|---|---|---|
| Not cooling after a brief outage | Power cycle; confirm controls are not set to OFF | Start components or temperature control issue |
| Frost buildup, warm freezer | Check for blocked vents; listen for evaporator fan | Defrost system problem |
| Door not closing or popping open | Inspect hinge/cam area and door alignment | Worn door cam or gasket issue |
If the refrigerator still will not run or cool after a proper power cycle, these model-compatible parts are common suspects:
- Refrigerator start relay WP2304884 (compressor may click, hum, or fail to start)
- Refrigerator run capacitor WPW10662129 (helps the compressor start and run)
- Refrigerator temperature control WP2315562 (controls cooling cycles)
- Refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat WPW10225581 (defrost protection and cycling)
- Refrigerator heater WP2323198 (defrost heater for frost control)
A reset only clears control logic and restores normal operation after a power glitch. If the same problem returns quickly, the cause is usually airflow (blocked vents, dirty condenser area), a door sealing issue, or a failed electrical component in the start or defrost system.
For additional parts and diagrams for model 10641563802, use the parts list on this page or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most common problems with Kenmore refrigerators?
The most common problems we see on Kenmore refrigerators like model 10641563802 are cooling issues (often airflow or defrost related), water leaks, ice maker or dispenser trouble, and normal operating noises that can sound unusual. Many fixes start with restoring airflow, cleaning, and checking key defrost and fan components.
- Not cooling or warm temperatures: blocked vents, dirty condenser area, evaporator fan or defrost system problems
- Frost buildup on the freezer back wall: defrost heater or defrost thermostat issues
- Water leaking or puddles: clogged defrost drain, door left ajar, or moisture management issues
- Ice maker or water dispenser problems: restricted water flow, filter or supply issues, frozen lines
- Noises (popping, fan airflow, water during defrost): normal sounds from expansion, fans, and the defrost cycle
- Confirm proper air circulation: do not block the vents; blocked vents cause temperature and moisture problems.
- Verify control settings: controls are typically set to the mid-settings; allow 24 hours after changes or a new install for temperatures to stabilize.
- Reduce moisture load: minimize door openings and make sure doors fully close.
- Listen for normal sounds: airflow over the condenser, popping from wall expansion, and water draining during defrost are commonly normal.
If troubleshooting points to a failed component, these model-matched parts are commonly involved:
| Problem area | What fails | Example model-matched part |
|---|---|---|
| Defrost system | Frost buildup, warm fridge | Refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat WPW10225581 |
| Defrost system | Heavy frost, poor airflow | Refrigerator heater WP2323198 |
| Airflow | Warm temps, weak circulation | Refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2169142 |
For model-specific troubleshooting steps and control guidance, use the 10641563802 owner's manual.
Most “not cooling” complaints come down to airflow (vents blocked, fan not moving air) or defrost performance (ice buildup choking airflow). Fixing the root cause protects food temperatures and prevents repeat icing and leaks.
You can order replacement parts for Kenmore 10641563802 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the code Sy Ef on a Kenmore refrigerator?
On Kenmore model 10641563802, SY EF is treated as an evaporator fan or airflow-related fault; it shows up when the freezer evaporator fan is not moving air correctly or the control is not seeing the expected fan operation. Use the 10641563802 owner's manual for the model’s troubleshooting and safety steps.
- Reset power: unplug the refrigerator or turn off the breaker for 5 minutes, then restore power.
- Check airflow: confirm freezer vents are not blocked by packages.
- Listen for the fan: a working evaporator fan runs with a steady, low sound.
- Inspect for frost: heavy frost on the freezer back panel points to restricted airflow.
- Door switch check: press the door switch; the fan should run when the door is “closed.”
| Symptom you see | What it usually means | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer cold, fresh food warm | Air not being pushed to refrigerator section | Check evaporator fan area for ice or obstruction |
| Rubbing/ticking noise in freezer | Fan blade hitting ice | Defrost and clear ice; recheck fan operation |
| Heavy frost on freezer panel | Defrost system not clearing ice | Inspect defrost components and airflow paths |
| Intermittent cooling | Loose connection or failing fan motor | Inspect wiring and fan operation consistency |
- Damaged or loose fan blade: refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2169142
- Frost buildup tied to defrost cycling: refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat WPW10225581
- No defrost heat during a defrost issue: refrigerator heater WP2323198
When the evaporator fan cannot move air across the evaporator, temperatures become uneven; the refrigerator section warms up, frost can build faster, and the compressor may run longer.
Match parts using the full model number 10641563802 from the parts list for this refrigerator; for broader model searches, use Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
