How do I know what model Kenmore refrigerator I have?
To identify your Kenmore refrigerator model, look for the model and serial number on the identification label inside the refrigerator (fresh food) compartment. For Kenmore model 11173037910, the label is on the interior liner of the refrigerator compartment; match that number when ordering parts or using the owner's manual.
Where to find the model number label
Check these common spots first (use a flashlight and wipe condensation off the liner so the print is readable):
- Inside the fresh food compartment on a side wall
- On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment
- Near or behind the crisper drawers (on the interior liner)
- Along the door frame area (open the door fully and look around the perimeter)
What to write down (and why)
Record both numbers exactly as shown; they are used for parts lookup, warranty paperwork, and troubleshooting.
- Model number (example for this page: 11173037910)
- Serial number (unique to your unit)
- Date of purchase (helpful for your records)
Quick reference
| Item | What it tells us | Example format |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Which design and parts list to use | 11173037910 |
| Serial number | Your unit’s production identity | Letters and numbers |
If the label is hard to read
Use these steps to get a clean, accurate model number:
- Take a close-up photo, then zoom in to read it
- Copy the number exactly, including dots or dashes if present
- If characters look similar (0/O, 1/I), compare other characters on the label for font clues
- Use the model number to confirm features in the owner's manual
Why it matters
Kenmore refrigerators can look similar across series, but parts (like door bins, control boards, and icemaker components) are model-specific. Using the exact model number prevents ordering the wrong replacement part and speeds up troubleshooting.
Last updated: February 2026
Can you still get parts for Kenmore refrigerators?
Yes. You can still get replacement parts for Kenmore refrigerators, and the best way to match parts correctly is to shop by your exact model number. For Kenmore model 11173037910 bottom-mount refrigerators, we use the model-based parts breakdown and the owner's manual to confirm fit and function.
How we make sure you get the right part
Using the full model number matters because Kenmore refrigerators can look similar but use different shelves, bins, door gaskets, and water system components.
- Confirm the full model number on the rating label (inside the fresh food section)
- Match the part by section (refrigerator compartment, freezer drawer, icemaker, controls)
- Compare the part description to what you are replacing (bin vs. drawer vs. basket)
- Check whether your refrigerator has a water line connection and filter setup
- Use the diagrams to verify mounting points, connectors, and quantity needed
Common Kenmore refrigerator parts customers replace
These are the most frequently replaced items on bottom-mount refrigerators like 11173037910:
| Part type | What it affects | Typical sign it needs replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator water filter | Water taste, flow, ice quality | Slow dispensing, odd taste/odor, cloudy ice |
| Door gasket (door seal) | Temperature stability, frost control | Moisture on gasket, warm spots, excess frost |
| Storage bin or drawer | Organization, door closure | Cracks, missing tabs, bin won’t seat |
| Evaporator fan (cooling fan) | Cooling and airflow | Warm fridge, noisy fan, uneven temps |
Why it matters
Ordering by model helps prevent returns and downtime. It also helps you avoid installing a similar-looking part that does not seal, mount, or connect correctly, which can lead to temperature swings and ice maker or water dispenser issues.
Helpful DIY guides for Kenmore refrigerators
If you are troubleshooting before ordering, these guides help narrow down the failure quickly:
- Kenmore 111 model bottom freezer refrigerator error codes
- How to replace the water filter in a Kenmore refrigerator
Last updated: February 2026
How to tell if a Kenmore refrigerator compressor is bad?
A bad compressor on your Kenmore 11173037910 bottom-mount refrigerator usually shows up as poor cooling with long run times, repeated clicking as it tries to start, or the unit running but never reaching temperature. Before condemning the compressor, rule out airflow, dirty condenser vents, and door-seal issues.
Quick checks we recommend first (most common causes)
- Set controls correctly and allow up to 24 hours after a power outage or first start for full cooling.
- Confirm the doors close and seal fully; frequent door opening can make the compressor run much longer.
- Clean the condenser cover and vents using a vacuum attachment; do not remove the panel covering the condenser coil area.
- Make sure room temperature is reasonable; this refrigerator should not be operated above 110°F.
- Listen for normal sounds (whooshing, gurgling, some clicking) that can be part of normal operation.
Symptoms that point more strongly to a compressor problem
These signs are more consistent with a compressor or start-device issue (especially when basic airflow and cleaning checks are already done):
- Repeated clicking every few minutes with little or no cooling (often a start/overload device opening).
- Compressor is very hot to the touch after repeated start attempts.
- Compressor is silent while fans run and the refrigerator is warm.
- Refrigerator runs nearly all the time and still cannot maintain safe temperatures.
What “normal” can look like on this model
Your use and room conditions matter. The Use and Care Guide notes that at about 70°F, you can expect the compressor to run roughly 40% to 80% of the time, and it can run more often in warmer conditions.
| What you notice | Often normal | More likely a problem |
|---|---|---|
| Clicking | Defrost/control cycling on and off | Repeating click-start-fail pattern with no cooling |
| Run time | Longer after loading food or frequent door openings | Runs constantly and never gets cold |
| Heat at compressor | Warm during operation | Extremely hot with repeated start attempts |
Why it matters
A compressor diagnosis affects cost and downtime. Doing the quick checks first prevents replacing major sealed-system components when the real issue is airflow, dirty condenser vents, or doors not sealing.
Where to confirm model-specific guidance
Use the owner's manual for the Kenmore 11173037910 troubleshooting and normal-noise guidance, including cleaning instructions for the condenser cover and vents.
Related help: Kenmore 111 model bottom freezer refrigerator error codes
Last updated: February 2026





