Kenmore is a brand that specializes in making a wide range of household appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, dishwashers, ovens, cooktops, microwaves, and more.
However, it's important to note that Kenmore appliances are not manufactured by a single company, but rather by different manufacturers under license to Sears Holdings Corporation, the parent company of Kenmore.
These manufacturers are required to adhere to Kenmore's design and quality standards to ensure that the appliances meet the brand's reputation for reliability and performance.
Kenmore model numbers typically include a three-digit prefix followed by a dot and a series of numbers that represent the specific appliance model. The prefix can help identify the manufacturer of the appliance.
Here are some common prefixes and the manufacturers they represent:
110, 106, 562: Whirlpool
795, 796: LG
253: Frigidaire
417: Electrolux
363, 364, 665: General Electric
For example, a Kenmore washing machine model number 110.123456 would indicate that it was manufactured by Whirlpool.
It's important to note, however, that not all Kenmore appliances are made by these manufacturers, and there may be exceptions or variations in the model numbering system over time.
Additionally, some Kenmore appliances may be manufactured by multiple companies, and the prefix may not always indicate the sole manufacturer.
This can make it especially difficult to determine the age of a Kenmore appliance. Since each manufacturer has their own specific serial number
date codes, you must first determine who makes that model and then apply that manufacturer's serial date code formula to it.
This can be furthur compounded in difficulty when manufacturers are acquired by other manufacturers. Often the new owner of the brand will
begin using their own serial number date codes for the new brand, introducing further complexity.