If you're considering buying a used Kenmore washing machine, be sure to confirm the machine's age. According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, the average life expectancy of a washing machine is from five to 15 years, so it's important to know exactly how old the washer is before purchasing it. Ask the seller if you can look at the washing machine's serial number, and you'll be able to determine the machine's age.
How to Find the Age of a Kenmore Washer in 3 Steps
- Locate the machine's model and serial numbers.
- Identify whether the manufacturer is Whirlpool or Frigidaire.
- Find the year of manufacture by decoding the serial number. Whirlpool and Frigidaire code the year into their serial numbers differently.
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1. Locate Model and Serial Numbers
Find the serial and model numbers on the Kenmore washing machine you're considering buying. There are several possible locations, including the back of the cabinet (near the top) or on the front or side of the machine's base. For top-load machines, other possible locations include under the lid, on the right rear rim of the washer tub, and along the top of the control panel. On front-load washers, the serial number also might be found inside the door or on the door frame.
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2. Identify the Manufacturer
Determine which company manufactured the machine by checking the model number. Kenmore is the brand name Sears uses for its appliances, but its washing machines are actually manufactured by Whirlpool or Frigidaire. The companies use different numbering systems. Kenmore washers made by Whirlpool are identified by model numbers beginning with "106;" the model numbers of Frigidaire-built washers begin with "417."
3. Decode Kenmore/Whirlpool Serial Number
Locate the serial number on a Kenmore washer made by Whirlpool. The second letter of the serial number identifies the year the machine was manufactured. For instance, "L" represents 2001, "M" means 2002 and, continuing through the alphabet, "Y" means 2009. The two numbers following the letter identify the week of the year that the washer was built.
4. Find Kenmore/Frigidaire Date of Manufacture
Find the serial number on a Frigidaire-made Kenmore washer. It begins with two letters, followed by several numbers. The first number represents the year of manufacture. In more current models, the number "2" represents the year 2002, "3" represents 2003, "4" represents 2004, and so on. The next two numbers identify the week of the year that the washer was built.