Owner’s manual
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Can you still get parts for Kenmore refrigerators?
Yes. We still offer replacement parts for Kenmore refrigerators, including the Kenmore 25361882102 top-mount refrigerator; you can match parts by model number and replace common wear items like door bins, shelves, gaskets, and light bulbs using the parts list and the owner's manual.
For Kenmore refrigerators like model 25361882102, these are some of the most frequently replaced items (examples from this model’s parts list):
- Door storage: refrigerator door bin 240338201
- Door sealing: refrigerator gasket 242193213
- Interior lighting: appliance light bulb, 40-watt 316538904
- Airflow/cooling: refrigerator evaporator fan blade 5308000010
- Defrost system: refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat 5303918202
Use the model number first, then confirm the part by description and where it installs.
- Confirm your model number is 25361882102 (usually on an inside wall of the fresh food section)
- Compare the part name to what you are replacing (bin, shelf, gasket, fan blade)
- Check color and orientation (left vs. right) for door parts
- Review any handling notes in the owner's manual
- If you are unsure, replace one item at a time so you can compare old vs. new
| Part type | Typical availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shelves, bins, drawers | Often available | Breakage is common, so these are frequently stocked |
| Gaskets and handles | Often available | Color and door side matter |
| Fans, thermostats, motors | Often available | Match by model to avoid wiring/fit issues |
| Sealed system parts | Limited and repair-driven | Compressor/evaporator work typically requires a technician |
Using model-matched parts helps restore proper temperature, airflow, and door sealing. A correct gasket fit, for example, reduces warm air leaks that can cause frost buildup and longer run times.
Last updated: February 2026
How to read Kenmore model numbers?
Kenmore model numbers are read left to right; the first three digits identify the manufacturer code, and the remaining digits identify the specific product design and version. For Kenmore refrigerator model 25361882102, the 253 prefix is the key identifier to match the correct parts and owner's manual.
On Kenmore 25361882102 top-mount refrigerators, the model and serial information is on the serial plate inside the refrigerator compartment. Our manual also notes to clean the serial plate with soap and water only.
- Look on the inside wall of the fresh food (refrigerator) section
- Copy the full model number exactly as shown (all digits)
- Record the serial number too (helps confirm production details)
- Use the full model number when ordering parts like a gasket, shelf, or drawer
Here is a practical way to read most Kenmore model numbers like 25361882102:
| Section | Example | What it tells you | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prefix (first 3 digits) | 253 | Manufacturer code | Helps ensure you are in the right parts family |
| Base model digits | 61882 | Core design series | Narrows down compatible assemblies |
| Suffix/version digits | 102 | Variation or revision | Prevents ordering a similar but incorrect part |
Many Kenmore appliances were built by different manufacturers, so the prefix is the fastest way to avoid mismatched parts. Once you confirm 25361882102, you can confidently shop by model for common fit-sensitive items such as:
- Door sealing parts like a refrigerator gasket 242193213
- Storage components like a crisper drawer 240337103
- Interior lighting like an appliance light bulb, 40-watt 316538904
- Match every digit in the model number (do not shorten it)
- If a part comes in multiple colors or sides, confirm left/right and finish
- For door and drawer parts, compare your original part shape and mounting points
- Use the exploded-view parts list for your model to confirm placement
A single digit difference can change door hardware, shelving, wiring, or sealed-system components. Using the full model number (and the 253 prefix) keeps your Kenmore refrigerator repair accurate and prevents returns.
Last updated: February 2026
How many cubic feet is my Kenmore refrigerator by model number?
Your Kenmore top-mount refrigerator model 25361882102 has its exact capacity (cubic feet) listed on the model and serial plate inside the fresh food compartment; that plate is the most accurate way to match your model number to the correct published specs. See the 25361882102 owner's manual for where to find the serial plate.
- Check the serial plate inside the refrigerator compartment (most reliable for this model).
- Look for a “Capacity” or “Total capacity” line on the plate or in the specifications section.
- Use the model number 25361882102 when searching your documentation so you do not mix it up with similar 253-series units.
- If the plate is dirty, clean it gently with soap and water only (this helps keep the printing readable).
- Record the model and serial number for future parts lookups and service history.
Most Kenmore top-mount refrigerators place the model and serial plate:
- On a side wall in the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment
- Near the crisper area or lower side wall
- Occasionally near the ceiling liner inside the refrigerator section
Cubic feet is the refrigerator’s total interior storage volume. Knowing it helps you compare models, choose correctly sized storage accessories, and confirm you are ordering the right replacement parts for your exact platform.
| Spec you may see | What it tells you | Why you might need it |
|---|---|---|
| Total capacity (cu. ft.) | Combined refrigerator + freezer volume | Model comparison, storage planning |
| Refrigerator capacity (cu. ft.) | Fresh food section volume | Shelf/bin fit expectations |
| Freezer capacity (cu. ft.) | Freezer section volume | Basket/rack fit expectations |
If you are confirming capacity because you are replacing storage components, match parts to 25361882102:
- Crisper drawer 240337103 (fresh food storage bin)
- Refrigerator spill-safe shelf 240358926 (interior shelf)
- Refrigerator door bin 240338201 (door storage)
Last updated: February 2026
How do I tell what model Kenmore fridge I have?
Your Kenmore refrigerator’s model number is printed on the serial plate inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment. For Kenmore model 25361882102, the owner’s guide notes the model and serial information is found on that serial plate; clean it with only soap and water so the numbers stay readable.
Check these common locations on Kenmore top-mount refrigerators:
- Inside the refrigerator compartment on a side wall (most common)
- On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment near the light
- On the inside wall behind or near the lower crisper drawers
- Along the door frame area (fresh food door)
- Behind the lower front kick plate or toe grille (on some designs)
For the exact label location and what the plate looks like on your unit, use the 25361882102 owner's manual.
Record both the model number and serial number before ordering parts or troubleshooting.
- Model number: identifies the exact design and parts list
- Serial number: helps match production changes within the same model
- Brand: Kenmore (useful when searching diagrams)
- Product type: top-mount refrigerator
| Item | Example | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 25361882102 | Correct parts diagrams and compatible replacement parts |
| Serial number | (varies) | Version-specific parts and service history |
A faded or dirty serial plate is common in older refrigerators.
- Wipe gently with soap and water only (avoid solvents)
- Use a flashlight and take a close-up photo to zoom in
- Copy the number exactly, including all digits
- If a digit is unclear, compare it to other digits on the same label (for font shape)
Kenmore model numbers (especially the 253 prefix family) determine which shelves, gaskets, drawers, and cooling parts fit. Using the wrong model number can lead to ordering a part that looks similar but will not mount correctly.
Last updated: February 2026
What's the average lifespan of a Kenmore refrigerator?
Kenmore refrigerators typically last 10 to 15 years. With consistent care (cleaning, good airflow, and tight door seals), many units reach the upper end of that range; major sealed-system failures (compressor, refrigerant system) are what most often end service life. For model 25361882102, follow the maintenance guidance in the owner's manual.
Most refrigerators age out due to cooling-system wear or chronic temperature problems rather than cosmetic issues.
- 10 to 15 years is the normal service-life range for a Kenmore top-mount refrigerator
- Door seal wear can cause long run times and warm temps (check the refrigerator gasket)
- Fan issues can reduce airflow and cause uneven cooling (listen for abnormal fan noise)
- Defrost problems can lead to frost buildup and warming in the fresh-food section
- Poor airflow around the cabinet can shorten compressor life
These steps reduce compressor run time and help keep temperatures stable.
- Vacuum condenser area and remove dust buildup regularly
- Keep door gaskets clean; confirm the doors close and seal evenly
- Set stable temperatures and avoid frequent large adjustments
- Leave space for ventilation around the refrigerator (air circulation matters)
- Fix small issues early (rattling fan blade, torn gasket, recurring frost)
Use this as a practical decision tool when the refrigerator is aging.
| Situation | Usually worth repairing? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Worn door seal, door not closing well | Yes | Low-to-moderate cost; big efficiency gain |
| Noisy airflow issue (fan/blade) | Yes | Restores cooling performance |
| Sealed-system or compressor problem | Sometimes | Higher cost; depends on age and condition |
| Multiple recurring cooling issues | Often no | Reliability drops; costs stack up |
If you are addressing cooling performance or efficiency, these are common wear items for model 25361882102:
- Refrigerator gasket 242193213 (helps prevent warm air leaks)
- Refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat 5303918202 (helps prevent frost-related cooling loss)
- Refrigerator evaporator fan blade 5308000010 (supports airflow across the evaporator)
A refrigerator that runs longer to hold temperature uses more energy and stresses the compressor. Simple upkeep (airflow, seals, clean condenser area) is the most effective way to reach the full 10 to 15 year lifespan.
Last updated: February 2026
