How do I know what model Kenmore refrigerator I have?
You can identify your Kenmore refrigerator model by finding the model and serial number on the identification label inside the refrigerator (fresh food) compartment. For Kenmore model 11173307910, the label is on the interior liner of the refrigerator compartment; match that model number when looking up parts and instructions in the owner's manual.
Where to look for the model and serial label
Check these common spots first (use a flashlight and look along the cabinet walls):
- Inside the fresh food compartment on a side wall (interior liner)
- Inside the fresh food compartment near the top (ceiling area)
- Behind or beside the crisper drawers (on the liner)
- Near the door opening where the gasket seals (liner edge)
What to write down (and why)
Record both numbers exactly as shown so you can get the right parts and service information.
| Item | What it’s used for | Example format |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Identifies the exact design and parts list | 11173307910 |
| Serial number | Identifies the production unit for records | Letters and numbers |
| Date of purchase | Helps with your product record and warranty paperwork | Month/day/year |
Tips to avoid mix-ups
These quick checks prevent ordering the wrong refrigerator parts (like a door gasket, water filter, or ice maker component):
- Copy the model number character-for-character (no spaces added)
- Use the full model number, not just the first few digits
- If the label is worn, take a clear photo and zoom in
- Keep the information with your receipt in your home records
Why it matters
Kenmore refrigerators can look similar across series, but parts and control settings can differ by model. Using the exact model number ensures you get the correct diagrams, troubleshooting steps, and compatible replacement parts.
Last updated: February 2026
How to tell if a Kenmore refrigerator compressor is bad?
If your Kenmore 11173307910 bottom-mount refrigerator is warm and the compressor runs almost constantly, gets unusually hot, or repeatedly trips the breaker, the compressor or its start components may be failing. First rule out normal long run times caused by warm room temps, door openings, or dirty condenser airflow (see the owner's manual).
Quick checks before blaming the compressor
Many “bad compressor” symptoms are caused by airflow, door sealing, or normal operating conditions.
- Confirm the doors fully close and seal; a leaking gasket forces long run times.
- Set controls to normal temps and wait up to 24 hours after changes or power loss.
- Clean the condenser cover and vents with a vacuum; do not remove the condenser area panel.
- Check room temperature; at about 70°F, the compressor commonly runs about 40% to 80% of the time.
- Listen for normal sounds (clicking, gurgling, whooshing) that can be part of normal operation.
Signs that point more strongly to a compressor or start-device problem
These checks help separate “running a lot” from “not able to start or pump.”
| What you notice | What it often means | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Compressor tries to start, clicks off, repeats | Start relay/overload issue or locked rotor | Unplug for 5 minutes, restore power; if it repeats, have the start components and compressor tested |
| Fridge and freezer both warm, compressor runs steadily | Sealed system or compressor not pumping | Check condenser airflow and fans first; then schedule sealed-system diagnosis |
| Breaker trips when compressor starts | Electrical overload | Stop using the outlet circuit; have wiring, start device, and compressor checked |
| Compressor extremely hot and cooling is poor | Overload condition or failing compressor | Improve airflow, clean vents; if no improvement, professional diagnosis |
Noises: what is normal vs not
Your refrigerator can make clicking, rattling, whooshing, gurgling, popping, and sizzling sounds during normal cycles. If the noise is a loud repeated click with no cooling, that is more consistent with a start failure than normal defrost cycling (details in the owner's manual).
Why it matters
A true compressor or sealed-system failure is a high-cost repair, so it is worth eliminating common causes first (dirty condenser airflow, doors not sealing, warm ambient conditions). That prevents unnecessary parts replacement and gets cooling restored faster.
Last updated: February 2026
What does "bottom mount refrigerator" mean?
A bottom-mount refrigerator means the freezer compartment is on the bottom and the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment is on top. On Kenmore model 11173307910, this layout puts everyday items at eye level while frozen foods are stored in a lower pull-out drawer.
How a bottom-mount layout is organized
Most bottom-mount designs (including this Kenmore bottom freezer style) are set up like this:
- Top section: fresh food compartment with shelves, bins, and door storage
- Bottom section: freezer drawer (often with baskets or dividers)
- Airflow: cold air is circulated between compartments by fans and vents
- Door style: typically a single refrigerator door on top with a freezer drawer below
Bottom-mount vs. other refrigerator styles
| Style | Freezer location | Best for | Common tradeoff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom-mount | Bottom drawer | Frequent fresh food access | Bending to reach freezer items |
| Top freezer | Top compartment | Simple layout, often lower cost | Fresh food is lower |
| Side-by-side | Left or right side | Narrow door swing, easy freezer access | Less wide shelf space |
| French door (bottom freezer) | Bottom drawer | Wide fresh food shelves | More door seals and alignment points |
Why it matters for use, installation, and troubleshooting
The freezer being on the bottom affects how you maintain and diagnose common issues:
- Temperature balance: freezer performance strongly impacts overall cooling
- Door sealing and alignment: drawer and door gaskets must seal tightly to prevent frost and warm spots
- Clearance needs: allow airflow space around the cabinet (the guide calls for about 2 inches at the back and top)
- Moving the unit: door removal is often recommended for narrow openings
For model-specific features, controls, and compartment details, use the 11173307910 owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
Why is my Kenmore refrigerator leaking water from the bottom?
Water leaking from the bottom of your Kenmore 11173307910 bottom-mount refrigerator is usually caused by defrost water not draining correctly (a clogged or frozen defrost drain) or by water supply issues if the refrigerator is connected to a water line. Use the troubleshooting and care steps in the owner's manual to confirm the source.
Most common causes (and what to check first)
- Clogged or frozen defrost drain: Melted frost cannot flow to the drain pan, so it backs up and leaks.
- Cracked, shifted, or overflowing drain pan: Defrost water is supposed to run into the pan during defrost.
- Water line connection seepage: A loose fitting or damaged tubing can drip and run to the front or bottom.
- Water inlet valve leaking: A slow leak can create intermittent puddles.
- Door not sealing well: Excess moisture can increase frost and defrost water, making drain problems show up faster.
Step-by-step troubleshooting
- Identify the water type: Clear water near the front often points to the water system; water after heavy frost points to defrost drainage.
- Check inside for drain backup: Look for water pooling under crisper drawers or on the refrigerator floor.
- Clear the defrost drain: Remove any visible debris; melt ice in the drain area using warm water (never use sharp tools).
- Inspect the drain pan: Make sure it is seated correctly and not cracked.
- If plumbed in, inspect the water line: Confirm fittings are snug and tubing is not kinked or rubbing.
Quick diagnosis guide
| What you see | Most likely cause | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Water inside fridge, then leaks out | Defrost drain clogged/frozen | Clear drain and flush with warm water |
| Puddle under center/rear | Drain pan issue | Re-seat pan; replace if cracked |
| Drips near back where water line enters | Water line fitting/tubing | Tighten fitting; replace damaged tubing |
| Random puddles, ice maker acts up | Inlet valve seepage | Inspect valve and connections |
Why it matters
A small leak can turn into floor damage and can also signal airflow or defrost issues that reduce cooling performance. Your manual notes that water normally runs into the drain pan during the defrost cycle, so leaks often mean the drain path or pan is not handling that water correctly.
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Last updated: February 2026





