Kenmore 79579976902 refrigerator Parts

To tell what model Kenmore refrigerator you have, find the model and serial tag on the cabinet (not on a removable shelf or drawer). On Kenmore model 79579976902, the tag is typically inside the fresh food section or freezer, often on a side wall, near the crisper area, or behind the lower kickplate. Use the exact model number from the tag when ordering parts.

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

• Inside the refrigerator compartment on the left or right side wall
• On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment near the light housing
• Inside the freezer compartment on a side wall
• Behind the lower toe grille or kickplate at the front
• Along the door frame area (cabinet edge) when the door is open

For diagrams and the exact labeling format, use the 79579976902 owner's manual.

Record the information exactly as printed so we can match the correct Kenmore parts list.

• Model number (example format: 795.7997xxxx)
• Serial number (helps confirm production run)
• Revision suffix (letters or extra digits after the model)
• Branding (Kenmore) and door style (top-mount)

Use these steps to narrow it down accurately:

• Look for the model tag outline or adhesive residue and check nearby surfaces
• Check your purchase receipt, delivery paperwork, or home warranty documents
• Compare your door bins, shelves, and control layout to parts diagrams for the closest match
• If you are troubleshooting a display issue, check for any error indicators and reference Kenmore 111 model top freezer refrigerator error codes

Kenmore model numbers control everything from door gasket sizing to electronic control compatibility. Using the exact model from the tag prevents ordering the wrong refrigerator door hinge, control board, or water valve.

Last updated: February 2026

If your Kenmore refrigerator model 79579976902 is not cooling on top (fresh food section), the most common fix is restoring airflow: clear blocked vents, confirm the evaporator fan is running, and make sure the air damper can open to send cold air up from the freezer. Use the 79579976902 owner's manual for vent locations and control settings.

• Move food packages away from the back wall and air vents in the refrigerator section.
• Check the freezer is cold; the refrigerator section depends on freezer airflow.
• Set the refrigerator temperature a little colder and wait 24 hours for stabilization.
• Make sure the doors close fully and the gaskets seal all the way around.
• Look for frost buildup on the freezer back panel (a clue of a defrost or airflow issue).

When the freezer is cold but the top is warm, airflow components are the usual cause.

Model-matched parts that can affect airflow include the refrigerator air damper motor 4681JB1027N and the refrigerator evaporator fan blade 5901JJ1003A.

In a top-mount refrigerator like the Kenmore 79579976902, the freezer makes the cold air and the damper and fan distribute it. If vents are blocked or the damper/fan cannot move air, the top section warms up even though the freezer still seems fine.

A clogged drain can lead to ice that blocks airflow. If you find ice near the drain area, inspect the refrigerator drain tube 5251JA3003D and clear the drain path.

Last updated: February 2026

The exact cubic-foot capacity for Kenmore refrigerator model 79579976902 is listed on the model’s rating label and in the 79579976902 owner's manual. Most Kenmore 795-prefix top-mount refrigerators are commonly in the 18 to 22 cu. ft. range, but the rating label gives the precise number for your unit.

• Check the rating label inside the fresh food compartment (often on a side wall near the crisper area).
• Look for a line that says “Capacity”, “Total volume”, or “Total capacity”.
• Use the manual specifications section for the model’s stated volume.
• If the label is worn, take a clear photo and zoom in; the capacity is usually printed with other electrical data.
• If you are comparing sizes for a replacement, measure your cabinet opening too (height, width, depth).

Manufacturers list capacity as the total internal volume (fresh food plus freezer). Usable space can feel smaller depending on shelf layout, ice maker components, and air channels.

Knowing the exact cubic feet helps us match the right shelves, bins, and drawers, and it also helps when you are planning kitchen fit, airflow clearance, and food storage expectations.

Last updated: February 2026

Kenmore model numbers are read left to right; the first 3 digits identify the manufacturer code, and the remaining digits identify the product series and specific design variations. For your Kenmore refrigerator model 79579976902, the 795 prefix is the key identifier we use to match the correct parts and documentation.

Most Kenmore top-mount refrigerators list the model and serial on a rating label. Common locations include:

• Inside the fresh food compartment on a side wall
• On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment near the light
• Along the door frame (hinge side)
• Behind the toe grille or lower front kickplate
• On the back exterior panel

For diagrams and label location notes specific to this unit, use the 79579976902 owner's manual.

Kenmore model numbers often follow this pattern:

The prefix helps us avoid mismatches when you are selecting parts like a door hinge, gasket, control board, or water valve. When you search parts, always use the full model number (not just the prefix).

• Use the complete model number: 79579976902
• Match the part by name and ID when possible
• Compare photos and mounting points before ordering
• If a part has left/right versions, confirm the side on your refrigerator
• Keep the serial number handy for production breaks

If you are troubleshooting door alignment or a door that will not close smoothly, the model number ensures you get the correct hinge-related parts for your exact build.

A frequently replaced hinge wear item for this model is the refrigerator door hinge bushing 4984JJ3003A.

Kenmore used multiple manufacturers across different product lines; reading the model number correctly is the fastest way to get the right diagrams, troubleshooting steps, and compatible replacement parts for your refrigerator.

Last updated: February 2026

If your Kenmore refrigerator model 79579976902 is warm or only partly cooling, a bad compressor is likely when the unit tries to start but cannot stay running (often with repeated clicking), or it runs continuously with little to no cooling. Confirm the basics first, then narrow it down with a few safe checks from the 79579976902 owner's manual.

• Fridge and freezer temperatures stay high even after 24 hours of running
• Repeated clicking every few minutes (start attempt, then shutoff)
• Compressor is very hot to the touch area (do not touch bare tubing)
• Compressor is silent most of the time and cooling is poor
• Lights and controls work, but the sealed system is not moving heat

Before blaming the compressor, we check the items that most often cause “no cool” on a top-mount refrigerator:

• Make sure the condenser area is clean and has airflow
• Verify the evaporator fan is running; a broken blade can reduce airflow (see evaporator fan blade 5901JJ1003A)
• Listen for the condenser fan (if equipped) and confirm it runs when the compressor runs
• Check for heavy frost on the freezer back wall (defrost/airflow issue)
• Confirm the temperature controls are set correctly and doors seal tightly

1. Listen and watch: clicking plus brief humming usually means a start failure.
2. Feel for vibration: a running compressor typically vibrates slightly.
3. Check cooling pattern: if the compressor runs but both sections stay warm, sealed-system/compressor is more likely.
4. Power reset: unplug 5 minutes, plug back in; if it immediately returns to clicking, suspect start components or compressor.

A compressor is part of the sealed refrigeration system; misdiagnosing it can lead to unnecessary parts costs. Verifying airflow, fans, and frost pattern first helps you decide whether you need a simple airflow repair or sealed-system service.

Last updated: February 2026

Common Kenmore Elite refrigerator problems include warm temperatures (poor cooling), frost buildup from defrost issues, water leaks, noisy operation, and ice maker or water dispenser troubles. On Kenmore model 79579976902, the most frequent root causes are airflow restrictions, dirty condenser coils, a clogged defrost drain, or a failing fan or control.

• Refrigerator warm, freezer OK: restricted airflow, damper problem, or evaporator fan issue
• Freezer warm, refrigerator warm: dirty condenser coils, condenser fan issue, sealed-system or compressor problem
• Water under crisper or on floor: clogged defrost drain or drain tube issue
• Loud buzzing/clicking: compressor start components, fan blade hitting ice, or a failing fan motor
• Ice maker slow or no ice: water supply restriction, inlet valve issue, frozen fill path, or filter restriction

1. Set temps to typical targets: 37°F fresh food and 0°F freezer.
2. Make sure air vents are not blocked by food packages.
3. Clean condenser coils and confirm the condenser fan runs when the compressor runs.
4. Look for ice buildup on the freezer back wall (points to a defrost problem).
5. Check for a clogged defrost drain by inspecting for ice or water at the freezer floor.

Use these when your symptom matches the diagnosis:

Most “Kenmore Elite refrigerator problems” are airflow or water-path issues that get worse over time. Catching them early helps protect food temperatures, prevents floor damage from leaks, and reduces strain on the compressor.

For exact component locations, wiring routing, and the correct disassembly order on 79579976902, follow the 79579976902 owner's manual.

Last updated: February 2026

Top-mount refrigerators like Kenmore model 79579976902 typically make fresh-food access less convenient because the refrigerator section sits lower, and they often offer fewer premium organization and dispenser features than many bottom-freezer or side-by-side designs. For model-specific features and adjustments, use the 79579976902 owner's manual.

• More bending for daily use: fresh foods are below eye level, so you crouch more often.
• Less “grab-and-go” freezer access: the freezer is convenient, but the items you use most (produce, drinks) are lower.
• Fewer built-in features on many models: through-the-door ice and water, dual evaporators, and advanced zones are less common.
• Organization can be simpler: fewer specialty bins, dividers, and slide-out systems on many top-mount designs.
• Freezer crowding: top freezers can get packed quickly, making airflow and access harder.

Even within “top-mount,” the real experience depends on your exact shelving, bins, and airflow setup.

• Confirm shelf and bin positions for your household’s most-used items
• Verify recommended temperature settings and loading guidance
• Keep air vents clear to prevent warm spots and uneven cooling
• Review door alignment and closing so the gasket seals consistently

Choosing a refrigerator style affects everyday ergonomics, food visibility, and how evenly the refrigerator maintains temperature. If you are troubleshooting performance (warm fridge, frost, or airflow issues), the layout and venting in a top-mount design can directly impact results.

Last updated: February 2026

On a Kenmore top-mount refrigerator like model 79579976902, the upper compartment is typically called the freezer compartment (or simply the freezer). It is the section designed to hold frozen foods and, on many models, supports ice-making.

• Freezer compartment
• Freezer section
• Top freezer
• Freezer cabinet (less common)
• Freezer door (refers to the door, not the compartment)

The exact wording can vary by brand and manual, so we recommend checking the terminology and diagrams in the 79579976902 owner's manual.

Using the right compartment name helps when you order Kenmore refrigerator parts, follow troubleshooting steps, or describe a cooling problem (for example, “freezer cold but refrigerator warm,” which can point to airflow or damper issues).

Last updated: February 2026

Most Kenmore refrigerators average 10 to 15 years of service life. For your Kenmore 79579976902 top-mount refrigerator, lifespan depends most on airflow (clean condenser area), tight door sealing, and fixing cooling or water leaks quickly; use the 79579976902 owner's manual for model-specific care and settings.

• Average: 10 to 15 years
• Often achievable with good maintenance: 15+ years
• Common early-life killers: poor ventilation, dirty condenser area, failing fans, and chronic door seal leaks

• Keep the condenser area clean and maintain clearance for airflow.
• Confirm doors close and seal fully; correct sagging or misalignment.
• Set stable temperatures (avoid extreme cold settings that increase run time).
• Clear and clean the defrost drain if you see ice or water pooling; a damaged drain tube can be replaced with the refrigerator drain tube 5251JA3003D.
• Address cooling symptoms early (warm fridge, noisy fan, frequent clicking).

A refrigerator’s compressor and control system last longest when the unit can shed heat efficiently and maintain temperature without running nonstop. Simple upkeep (airflow, seals, and leak prevention) reduces run time and stress on major components.

Last updated: February 2026