[jjprez3]

Where is the filter bypass plug located in a Kenmore refrigerator? Is it already in the appliance or a separate accessory? How do you get it to work?

Thanks

[jbarrington]

"Where is the filter bypass plug located in a Kenmore refrigerator? Is it already in the appliance or a separate accessory? How do you get it to work?"

Almost all refrigerators that dispense water and/or ice have some sort of a water filter. The location of the filter is almost always in a location where the owner can replace it easily. The typical location is inside the refrigerator within a visible area, and not the freezer (for obvious reasons). This type of water filter typically looks much like an oil filter.

Sometimes some makes of refrigerators have an inline water filter, but judging from your questions you do not have an inline unit.

Now, to answer these questions,

Sometimes the owner may decide for what ever reason that they do not want the water filter anymore, so the plug typically replaces the filter. The plug allows the water to proceed to the icemaker or water dispenser without being filtered anymore. Some people may feel their water is clean enough to not justify using a filter anymore, or some people want to purchase better water filter that connects inline.

When I say replaces the filter, I mean the filter is removed (typically by an unscrewing motion) and the water bypass plug is inserted into the same location from where the filter was located.

The bypass plug is normally a separate accessory that comes along with any new refrigerator. Based on your question, I would have to say that you might have purchased your refrigerator used and the previous owner didn't give it to you for some reason, or someone may have thrown it away, or lost it while unpacking it after a new purchase, or the manufacturer didn't include one for some reason.

Since it is a Kenmore, it pretty likely that you have a Sears in your town and can order the part. If you do not have a Sears nearby, you can call Sear's parts department and order one.

Somewhere on your refrigerator there should be an area that has the model number and make of your refrigerator. I would copy all of the information that is on that label or plate and have it handy when you call for the replacement part. It will greatly help the person on the other end find the part. Try to remember that any letters or numbers and similar to another. Like B and 8, or 0 and O.

I would think it might cost somewhere between $15 and $25, minus any shipping and handling.

I hope this helps some.