How to tell if a Kenmore refrigerator compressor is bad?
On Kenmore model 10657034601, a bad compressor usually shows up as poor or no cooling along with unusual compressor behavior (repeated clicking, loud humming, or running hot) while other components like fans may still run. First, use the owner's manual troubleshooting checks to rule out power, airflow, and door-seal issues.
- Refrigerator and freezer are both warm, even though interior lights work
- You hear a click every few minutes (start device/overload cycling) but the compressor does not stay running
- Compressor is very hot to the touch and shuts off quickly
- You hear loud buzzing/humming without normal cooling
- The unit seems to run “all the time” but temperatures never recover
Before blaming the compressor, we check the basics that commonly cause “not cooling” complaints:
- Confirm the outlet has power and the cord is fully plugged in
- Make sure doors close and seal; warm air leaks can mimic a sealed-system failure
- Listen for normal operating sounds; this model can have pulsating or high-pitched compressor/fan sounds during normal operation
- Verify the evaporator fan is moving air (freezer airflow problems can cause warm refrigerator temps)
- Clean condenser area if dusty; restricted heat release can reduce cooling
The manual notes several sounds that are normal during operation; use this as a quick comparison:
| Sound you hear | Often normal? | Common cause |
|---|---|---|
| Buzzing during ice maker fill | Yes | Water valve opening |
| Pulsating/high-pitched | Yes | Compressor/fans adjusting for efficiency |
| Sizzling/gurgling | Yes | Defrost water hitting heater |
| Repeated clicking with no cooling | No | Start device/overload cycling, compressor not starting |
If cooling is weak and you also have water or ice issues, we often check these related items because they can create confusing symptoms (warm temps from frequent door opening, ice buildup, or airflow restrictions):
- Refrigerator defrost bi-metal WPW10225581 (defrost system problems can lead to frost buildup and poor airflow)
- Refrigerator heater WP2323198 (defrost heater issues can contribute to icing)
- Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315549 (no airflow can look like a cooling failure)
A compressor diagnosis is high-impact: compressors are part of the sealed cooling system, and misdiagnosing one can lead to unnecessary cost. Using the manual’s troubleshooting steps first helps separate normal operating behavior from a true cooling-system failure.
Last updated: February 2026
What causes a side-by-side refrigerator to stop cooling?
On Kenmore model 10657034601, a “not cooling” problem is usually caused by a power issue, controls being turned off or set incorrectly, airflow being blocked, or the refrigerator not having enough time to reach temperature after installation (allow a full 24 hours). See the owner's manual for control and startup details.
- Confirm the power cord is plugged into a grounded 3-prong outlet (no adapter or extension cord).
- Test the outlet by plugging in a lamp.
- Reset a tripped circuit breaker or replace a blown fuse.
- Make sure the refrigerator controls are turned on.
- Allow 24 hours after a new installation or after being unplugged for full cooling.
- Check that vents inside the fresh food and freezer sections are not blocked by packages.
| What you notice | Likely cause | What we do next |
|---|---|---|
| No lights, no fans, no sound | No power to the refrigerator | Verify outlet, breaker/fuse, and cord connection |
| Runs a lot but temps stay warm | Doors opened often, warm room, large warm food load | Reduce door openings; let temps stabilize |
| Freezer cold, fridge warm | Airflow problem between compartments | Clear vents; check for frost buildup on the back freezer panel |
| Buzzing near back, no ice or water | Water valve opening but supply issue | Confirm shutoff valve is fully open; straighten kinked water line |
If cooling problems come with heavy frost in the freezer or warming over time, the defrost system or airflow components are common suspects.
- Defrost protection: refrigerator defrost bi-metal WPW10225581
- Defrost heat source: refrigerator heater WP2323198
- Air movement: refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315549
A side-by-side refrigerator depends on steady airflow from the evaporator fan and consistent defrost cycles to move cold air to both compartments. When airflow is restricted or defrosting fails, temperatures rise even if the compressor seems to run normally.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the cubic foot of my Kenmore refrigerator model 10657034601?
The exact cubic-foot capacity for Kenmore model 10657034601 is listed on the model’s rating label and in the specifications section of the owner's manual. Most Kenmore 106 side-by-side refrigerators are commonly in the 22 to 26 cu. ft. range, depending on the exact configuration.
- Check the rating label inside the fresh food compartment (often on a side wall near the crisper area).
- Look in the specifications section of the owner's manual.
- If the label is hard to read, take a clear photo and zoom in; the capacity is typically shown as cu. ft.
Cubic feet is the total interior storage volume (fresh food plus freezer). Shelves, bins, and the ice maker reduce usable space, but they do not change the published capacity.
| Refrigerator type | Typical capacity range |
|---|---|
| Compact/top freezer (small) | 10 to 18 cu. ft. |
| Side-by-side (common) | 22 to 28 cu. ft. |
| Large french door | 25 to 32 cu. ft. |
Knowing the correct cubic-foot capacity helps when you are comparing replacement refrigerators, planning kitchen storage, or choosing accessories such as a compatible water filter like the genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1.
Last updated: February 2026
Where is the model number on a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
On Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 10657034601, the model number is printed on the appliance identification label (the same label that lists the serial number). You will typically find this label inside the fresh food compartment, around the door opening.
Look for a white or silver sticker with MODEL and SERIAL information in these spots:
- Inside the refrigerator section on the side wall (left or right)
- Along the front frame (cabinet liner) near the door gasket
- On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment near the light housing
- Behind the crisper drawers on the side wall or rear wall
- Inside the freezer section on a side wall (less common, but possible)
The ID label usually includes:
- Model number (for example, 10657034601)
- Serial number
- Electrical ratings (voltage/amps)
- Refrigerant type
| Item on label | What it’s used for |
|---|---|
| Model number | Matching the correct parts diagrams and replacement parts |
| Serial number | Identifying production details for service and part revisions |
We use the model number to match your exact Kenmore configuration (ice maker, water filter system, door parts, and controls). That prevents ordering a look-alike part that does not fit.
Use these practical options:
- Check for a duplicate label in the freezer compartment
- Look for a faint “shadow” outline where the sticker used to be
- Use your owner's manual to confirm where the identification label is typically located and what information it contains
Last updated: February 2026





