Owner’s manual
Error Codes
How to tell what model Kenmore refrigerator?
To tell what model Kenmore refrigerator you have, look for the identification label inside the refrigerator (fresh food) compartment. For Kenmore model 11173022120-series bottom-freezer units, the Use and Care Guide notes the model and serial number are printed on an identification label on the interior liner of the refrigerator compartment; match that model number to the parts list before ordering.
Where to find the model and serial number label
Check these common spots first (use a flashlight and look along the interior liner):
- Side wall inside the fresh food compartment
- Ceiling area inside the fresh food compartment
- Behind or beside the crisper drawers
- Along the frame near the door opening
If you have the paperwork, the model is also listed in your documentation; see the 11173022120 owner's manual.
How to read the number you find
Kenmore model numbers are typically a long number string. For this refrigerator family, the manual lists models as 111.7302* (the asterisk indicates a color number or variation).
| What you see on the label | What it means | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| 111.7302* | Model family/series | Use the full model from the label for parts lookup |
| 11173022120 | Full model number | Use this exact number when searching parts |
| Serial number | Unique unit identifier | Keep it for service records |
Why it matters
Using the exact model number prevents ordering the wrong refrigerator water filter, door gasket, ice maker parts, or control components. Even small model variations can change fit, wiring connectors, and mounting points.
Next step: finding parts and help
Once you have the full model number, use the model-based parts list for Kenmore 11173022120. If you are searching beyond this model page, we recommend using Sears PartsDirect and entering the full model number exactly as shown on the label.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most common problems with Kenmore refrigerators?
For Kenmore model 11173022120 (a bottom-mount refrigerator), the most common problems are cooling complaints (too warm or not cooling), ice maker and water dispenser issues, door sealing or closing problems, leaks or puddles, frost buildup, and normal-to-unusual operating noises. Use the 11173022120 owner's manual to match your symptom to the correct checks.
Most common problems on bottom-mount designs
- Not cooling or too warm: demo mode enabled, unit in a defrost cycle, doors opened often, or condenser/back cover vents clogged (reduced heat removal).
- Fresh food freezing: high-moisture items placed near an air vent, temperature set too cold, or the refrigerator installed in a space that is too cold.
- Doors not closing or popping open: food packages blocking the door, bins/shelves not fully seated, cabinet not level, or doors not reinstalled correctly after moving.
- Leaks or puddles: door not sealing well (warm air causes excess moisture), defrost drain issues, or ice maker/water supply problems.
- Noises: pulsating or high-pitched sounds can be normal while the compressor and fans run.
Quick checks we recommend first
- Confirm demo mode is off and temperature settings are correct.
- After installation or relocation, allow up to 24 hours for temperatures to stabilize.
- Keep air vents clear in both compartments; do not pack food tightly against vents.
- Vacuum the condenser/back cover vents; do not remove the panel covering the condenser coil area.
- Verify doors close smoothly: clear obstructions, push bins fully in, and level the cabinet.
Symptom-to-first-step guide
| Symptom (11173022120) | First step | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Not cooling at all | Check demo mode; wait 30 minutes if defrosting | Cooling can be disabled or temporarily paused |
| Too warm in either section | Reduce door openings; clean condenser vents | Airflow and heat rejection drive cooling |
| Food freezing in fresh food section | Move items away from vents; adjust temp 1 step | Prevents cold air from blasting sensitive foods |
| Doors pop open | Reposition bins/shelves; level cabinet | Misalignment breaks the door seal |
Why it matters
Bottom-mount refrigerators depend on steady airflow, good condenser ventilation, and tight door seals. When any of those slip, temperatures swing, moisture increases (frost or puddles), and the compressor runs longer.
If an error code appears, use Kenmore 111 model bottom freezer refrigerator error codes. To find replacement parts by model number, search 11173022120 on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What does DH mean on Kenmore Elite refrigerator?
On Kenmore refrigerators like model 11173022120, dH typically indicates a defrost heater (defrost) problem. Most often, it means the refrigerator is not completing a normal defrost cycle, which can lead to frost buildup on the evaporator and warmer-than-normal temperatures.
What you may notice when dH shows up
- Freezer temperature slowly rises or swings
- Frost or ice buildup on the back wall inside the freezer
- Reduced airflow to the refrigerator section (fresh food warms up)
- Fan noise changes (fan hitting frost) or airflow sounds weaker
- Ice maker slows down or stops making ice
Quick checks we recommend first
- Power reset: Unplug the refrigerator for 5 minutes, then plug it back in and monitor for 24 hours.
- Confirm airflow: Make sure vents are not blocked by food packages.
- Check door sealing: Verify doors close fully and gaskets seal all the way around.
- Look for heavy frost: If you see thick frost behind the freezer rear panel, a defrost system issue is likely.
What usually causes a dH (defrost heater) issue
| Likely cause | What it affects | Common symptom |
|---|---|---|
| Defrost heater circuit problem | Melts frost off the evaporator | Heavy frost buildup |
| Defrost sensor/thermistor issue | Tells control when to defrost/stop | Defrost runs wrong length |
| Control board/defrost control issue | Initiates defrost cycle | Repeating error after reset |
| Door left ajar or air leak | Adds moisture that turns to frost | Frost returns quickly |
Why it matters
When the evaporator coils ice over, the refrigerator cannot move cold air correctly. That can cause food to warm up, increase compressor run time, and create recurring frost problems until the defrost issue is corrected.
Where to find model-specific guidance
Your 11173022120 troubleshooting and control information is in the 11173022120 owner's manual. For error-code help that matches this model family, use Kenmore 111 model bottom freezer refrigerator error codes. If you need replacement parts, search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the bottom part of a refrigerator called?
On a Kenmore bottom-mount refrigerator like model 11173022120, the “bottom part” most people mean is the compressor compartment area (often called the machine compartment), where the compressor and other sealed-system components are typically located near the lower rear of the cabinet. For model-specific component locations, use the 11173022120 owner's manual.
What you will find in the bottom area
Depending on the exact layout, the lower rear section commonly includes:
- Compressor (the pump that circulates refrigerant)
- Condenser coil (releases heat from the refrigerant)
- Condenser fan (moves air across the condenser coil)
- Drain pan (catches defrost water so it can evaporate)
- Access cover or rear service panel (protects components and directs airflow)
Common “bottom part” terms and what they mean
People use different names for the same area. This quick guide helps match the term to the function.
| What people call it | What it usually refers to | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Bottom back of the fridge | Machine compartment | Where most service checks start (noise, heat, airflow) |
| Compressor area | Compressor and mounting base | A common source of humming or vibration |
| Lower panel / rear cover | Access cover | Removing it improves inspection and cleaning access |
| Bottom freezer section | Freezer drawer compartment | Affects ice cream firmness and frost patterns |
Why it matters
Knowing whether you mean the machine compartment (compressor area) or the bottom freezer compartment helps you troubleshoot correctly. For example, a warm refrigerator with a hot lower rear panel points you toward condenser airflow and cleaning, while frost buildup points you toward freezer airflow and defrost issues.
Helpful next steps for Kenmore 111-series troubleshooting
If you are asking because something is not working right, these resources help narrow it down:
- Check the parts diagram and feature names in the 11173022120 owner's manual
- If you see an error code, use Kenmore 111 model bottom freezer refrigerator error codes
- If you have cooling issues tied to airflow, review how to fix your evaporator cooling fan
- For replacement parts by model number, search on Sears PartsDirect
Last updated: February 2026
