Kenmore Elite 11172797020 refrigerator Parts

Your Kenmore refrigerator’s model number is printed on the appliance ID label; once you find it, match that number exactly (for example, 11172797020) to get the correct parts, diagrams, and troubleshooting info. For this Kenmore Elite bottom-mount style, the model family is shown as 111.7279* in the owner's manual.

Where to find the model number label

Check these common locations first (use a flashlight and look for a white or silver sticker/plate):

• 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 area (near the hinge side)
• Behind the lower kick plate or grille (front bottom)

How to read what you find (and avoid ordering the wrong part)

Kenmore model numbers must be copied exactly, including dots and any suffix digits.

What you see on the label	What it means	What to do
111.7279*	Model family (the asterisk is the color/variant)	Use the full model from the label for parts lookup
11172797020	Full model number (example for this page)	Use this exact number when searching
Serial number	Production identifier	Keep it for service records, not parts matching

Why it matters

Kenmore refrigerators can look similar across multiple series, but parts like the water filter, door gasket, ice maker components, and control boards are model-specific. Using the exact model number prevents fit issues and repeat repairs.

Next steps once you have the model number

• Write the model number down exactly as shown on the label
• Use the model number to pull the correct parts list for your refrigerator
• If you’re seeing a display code, use the model-series guide such as Kenmore 111 model bottom freezer refrigerator error codes
• For ordering, search by your exact model number on Sears PartsDirect

Last updated: February 2026

Common problems we see on Kenmore Elite refrigerators like model 11172797020 include warm temperatures from restricted airflow (dirty condenser coils, iced-over evaporator area, or a failed fan), water leaks from a clogged defrost drain, and unusual noises from normal defrost cycling or a loose cabinet or water line. For model-specific troubleshooting steps and noise descriptions, use the owner's manual.

Most common symptoms and what they usually point to

• Not cooling or weak cooling: airflow blockage from frost, dirty coils, or a failed evaporator fan
• Frost buildup (freezer or back wall): defrost system issue or door not sealing
• Water under the refrigerator: defrost drain clog or water line connection issue
• Clicking or rattling noises: often normal defrost or refrigerant flow; sometimes a loose water line or items vibrating
• Bad taste or odor in water/ice: filter overdue or air in the water line after installation
• Odors in fresh food section: spoiled food or an air filter that needs replacement

Quick checks you can do first (no tools)

1. Confirm temperatures: setpoint near 37°F for fresh food and 0°F for freezer (typical targets).
2. Check door sealing: look for gaps, torn gasket areas, or doors not closing fully.
3. Look for frost patterns: heavy frost on the back interior panel usually means airflow is being blocked.
4. Inspect for leaks: check for water/ice under the crisper area and under the unit.
5. Listen to the noise type: clicking at start and end of defrost and light rattling can be normal.

Noise guide (what’s normal vs. needs attention)

Noise	Common cause	What to do
Clicking	Defrost cycle or control cycling	Normal operation; monitor frequency
Rattling	Refrigerant flow, water line vibration, items on top	Secure water line, remove vibrating items
Loud fan-like buzzing	Evaporator or condenser fan issue	Check for ice buildup or obstruction

Why it matters

Catching airflow, defrost, and drain issues early helps prevent food spoilage, recurring frost buildup, and water damage around the refrigerator. It also reduces strain on the sealed system by keeping heat exchange and airflow working efficiently.

If you need replacement parts for your Kenmore Elite 11172797020, start with the model-based parts list, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

Water leaking from the bottom of your Kenmore Elite refrigerator model 11172797020 is typically caused by a clogged or frozen defrost drain, a leaking water supply or dispenser line, or seepage at the water filter or ice maker connections. Use the checks below and confirm access points in the 11172797020 owner's manual.

Quick checks (fastest way to pinpoint the source)

• Water under crispers in the fresh food section: defrost drain backing up.
• Ice sheet on freezer floor: drain is frozen or blocked; defrost water overflows.
• Drips after dispensing water or ice: dispenser tubing, fittings, or inlet valve area leaking.
• Leak right after a filter change: filter not fully seated or seal issue.
• Water trail from the back: supply line or compression fitting seeping.

Safe DIY steps

1. Unplug the refrigerator; shut off the household water supply valve.
2. Dry the base area so you can see where new water starts.
3. Check for freezer ice buildup; if present, fully defrost and clear the drain opening with warm water.
4. Inspect the filter and connections; remove and reinstall the filter firmly, then look for drips.
5. Turn water back on and watch the rear line and fittings for 2 to 3 minutes.

What the symptoms usually mean

Symptom	Most likely cause	Next step
Water after defrost cycle; ice in freezer bottom	Clogged/frozen defrost drain	Defrost and flush drain path
Leak after filter replacement	Filter not seated; seal issue	Reseat filter; inspect for damage
Leak only when making ice/dispensing	Tubing or fitting leak	Tighten fittings; replace cracked line

Why it matters

Leaks can create floor damage, freezer ice buildup, and airflow restrictions that reduce cooling performance.

We list model-based replacement parts for 11172797020; you can also search by model on Sears PartsDirect. For filter-related leaks and maintenance, use how to replace the water filter in a Kenmore refrigerator.

Last updated: February 2026

When the Kenmore Elite 11172797020 is warmer at the bottom, the most common causes are restricted airflow, a clogged condenser cover/vent area, or normal warm-up after installation. Start with the quick checks below, then follow the cleaning guidance in the 11172797020 owner's manual.

Quick checks that fix most “warm bottom” complaints

• Allow stabilization time: after installation or a power outage, allow up to 24 hours for temperatures to fully stabilize.
• Limit door openings: frequent or long openings let warm, humid air in and raise compartment temperature.
• Cool hot food first: let hot leftovers cool to room temperature before loading.
• Keep interior vents clear: do not block air vents with tall items, bags, or overpacked shelves.
• Check door closing: make sure drawers and bins are seated so the door seals fully.

Clean the condenser cover and vents (recommended for this model)

Your manual specifically calls out a clogged condenser/back cover as a cooling problem. Clean it like this:

• Unplug the refrigerator or switch off power.
• Vacuum the condenser cover and vents using a brush or crevice tool.
• Do not remove the panel covering the condenser coil area.
• Restore power and recheck temperatures after several hours.

What you notice vs. what it usually means

Symptom	Most likely cause	Best next step
Bottom warm, top closer to normal	Airflow restriction or condenser vent blockage	Clear interior vents; vacuum condenser cover/vents
Whole fresh-food section warm	Door openings, heavy loading, or needs 24-hour stabilization	Reduce openings; allow 24 hours; verify settings
Some items freeze near vents but drawers are warm	Overpacking or blocked air path	Rearrange food; keep vents unobstructed

Why it matters

Bottom shelves and crispers depend on steady air circulation. When airflow is blocked or the condenser venting is clogged, the cooling system runs longer but cold air does not distribute evenly, so the lower area warms first.

Parts and next steps

If cleaning and airflow changes do not restore normal cooling, use the troubleshooting steps in the 11172797020 owner's manual, then find model-specific replacement parts by searching 11172797020 on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026