How to tell what model Kenmore refrigerator?
Your Kenmore refrigerator’s model number is printed on the appliance ID label, usually inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment on a side wall, near the ceiling, or behind/under a crisper drawer. For this parts page, the model is 59673502203.
Where to look on a Kenmore bottom-mount refrigerator
Check these common label locations first (use a flashlight and look for a white or silver sticker/plate):
- Inside the refrigerator section on the left or right side wall
- On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment
- Behind the crisper drawers (remove drawers and look on the liner)
- Along the door frame area (hinge side) when the door is open
- Behind the toe grille at the bottom front (some designs)
What the model number looks like (and why it matters)
Kenmore model numbers are typically a long string of numbers and sometimes letters. The exact model number is what we use to match the correct parts list, diagrams, and compatible replacement parts (like a door switch, water valve, or ice maker components).
Model vs. serial number
| Label item | What it tells you | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | The exact design/version | Finding correct parts and diagrams |
| Serial number | Your unit’s unique ID | Production tracking and service history |
Quick tips to avoid ordering the wrong part
- Copy the model number exactly as printed (include all digits)
- If there’s a revision suffix, include it
- Match parts by model, not by “looks similar”
- Use the parts diagrams for your model to confirm fit
- If you’re troubleshooting a symptom, confirm the failure first (for example, a light not turning on can be a door switch issue)
If you need a common example part to compare against while you’re identifying your unit, the door/light switch used on many Kenmore designs is listed as refrigerator switch W11396033.
Why it matters
Kenmore refrigerators were built in multiple factories over the years, and small design changes can affect fit and wiring. Using the exact model number (like 59673502203) prevents mismatched parts and repeat repairs.
Last updated: February 2026
How to tell if a Kenmore refrigerator compressor is bad?
A bad compressor in your Kenmore refrigerator model 59673502203 usually shows up as poor or no cooling even though interior lights and fans may still run. Common signs include repeated clicking (start attempt), overheating at the compressor area, or the unit tripping off shortly after trying to start.
Quick signs the compressor is the problem
- Fridge and freezer are both warm, and temperatures do not improve after several hours.
- You hear a click every few minutes from the back/bottom area (overload protector cycling).
- The compressor is very hot to the touch (warm is normal; too hot to keep a hand on is not).
- The evaporator fan runs, but there is little or no cold air moving inside.
- You hear loud buzzing, grinding, or rattling from the compressor area.
- The refrigerator runs constantly but never reaches set temperature.
What to check first (before blaming the compressor)
These checks rule out common cooling problems that mimic a failed compressor.
| What you observe | More likely cause | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer cold, fresh food warm | Airflow or damper issue | Make sure vents are not blocked; check for heavy frost on the back wall |
| Heavy frost on freezer back panel | Defrost system problem | Consider the refrigerator adaptive defrost board W11227239 if defrost failures are confirmed |
| No water dispensing and ice maker issues plus warm temps | Not a compressor issue (water system separate) | Focus on cooling airflow and frost pattern first |
| Clicking plus no start | Start device/overload or compressor | If clicking persists after basic checks, testing is needed |
Safe, practical checks you can do
- Confirm airflow: Make sure the condenser area is not packed with dust and the unit has clearance.
- Listen and feel: A running compressor typically produces a steady hum and feels warm.
- Check for frost pattern: If you see heavy frost buildup behind the freezer panel, address defrost first.
- Power reset: Unplug for 5 minutes, plug back in, then listen for repeated clicking.
Why it matters
Replacing a compressor is one of the highest-effort refrigerator repairs. Verifying airflow and defrost operation first prevents replacing major components when the real issue is a defrost control problem or restricted airflow.
For additional troubleshooting steps that often apply to Kenmore bottom-freezer designs, use our DIY reference: Kenmore 111 model bottom freezer refrigerator error codes.
Last updated: February 2026
Why is there water in the bottom drawer of my Kenmore refrigerator?
Water collecting in the bottom drawer of your Kenmore 59673502203 refrigerator is almost always caused by a defrost drain problem (clogged or frozen), or water leaking from the ice maker or water system and running down into the fresh food section.
Most common causes (in order)
- Clogged or frozen defrost drain: Meltwater cannot flow to the drain pan, so it backs up and spills into the refrigerator.
- Door not sealing: Warm, humid air creates excess frost; that frost melts and overwhelms the drain.
- Water line or fitting leak: A slow drip can track along tubing and end up under drawers.
- Water inlet valve seeping: The valve can weep water even when not dispensing.
- Cracked or mispositioned drain pan: Less common, but it can cause water to show up in unexpected places.
Quick checks we recommend (10 to 20 minutes)
- Look for ice or slush at the back of the refrigerator floor (behind the crisper drawers). That points to a drain issue.
- Check the door gasket seal: close a dollar bill in the door; it should resist being pulled out all the way around.
- Inspect the water system for drips:
- Behind the unit at the supply connection
- At any 5/16-inch tubing connections
- Under the fresh food section where the water tank and lines run
- Check the ice maker area for frost buildup or dripping that could run down the back wall.
Parts that commonly relate to this symptom
If you find a leak in the water system, these model-matched parts are often involved:
- Refrigerator water supply tube union, 5/16 x 5/16-in WP2300868 (for a leaking tubing connection)
- Refrigerator valve WP12544002 (if the inlet valve is seeping or leaking)
- Refrigerator drain funnel W10815413 (if the drain path is damaged or not directing water correctly)
Quick comparison
| What you see | Most likely cause | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Ice sheet under crisper drawers | Defrost drain frozen/clogged | Clear the drain and remove ice buildup |
| Water only after using dispenser/ice maker | Water line/valve leak | Inspect fittings; check valve for seepage |
| Condensation, frost, or sweating around door | Door not sealing | Clean gasket, level unit, check alignment |
Why it matters
Standing water can lead to odors, food spoilage, and ice buildup that blocks airflow, which can make temperatures unstable in both the refrigerator and freezer.
Helpful DIY guidance
For water and ice maker related prevention steps, use our guide: how to prevent water dispenser and ice maker problems.
Last updated: February 2026





