How to Find Your Appliance Model Number: The Complete Guide

Knowing your appliance model number is essential for ordering the correct replacement part. Here's exactly where to find it on every major appliance. ## Why Your Model Number Matters Appliance manufacturers make dozens of variations of similar-looking models. Even if two washers look identical on the outside, they may use completely different internal parts. Your model number ensures you get the exact part that fits your specific machine. ## Where to Find Model Numbers by Appliance ### Refrigerator - **Inside the fridge:** Look on the left sidewall, about halfway up - **Behind the crisper drawers:** Some models place it on the back wall near the bottom - **On the ceiling of the fridge compartment** - **Behind the kickplate:** The front panel at the very bottom of the fridge ### Washing Machine (Top Load) - **Under the lid:** Look on the underside of the lid or on the top rim of the tub - **Back of the machine:** On the upper-left or upper-right corner ### Washing Machine (Front Load) - **Door frame:** Open the door and look around the door opening - **Back of the machine:** Upper area near the top - **Side panel:** Left or right side, visible when you pull the washer out ### Dryer - **Inside the door frame:** Open the door and look on the rim - **Back of the machine:** Upper area - **Side panel:** Left or right side near the back ### Dishwasher - **Door edge:** Open the door and look on the left or right edge of the door or tub - **Inside the door:** On the left sidewall, visible when the door is open - **Kickplate area:** Remove the bottom panel and look behind it ### Oven / Range - **Behind the storage drawer:** Pull out the bottom storage/broiler drawer and look on the frame - **Door frame:** Open the oven door and look on the left or right frame - **Back of the unit:** On the upper area (may need to pull it out from the wall) ### Microwave - **Inside the door:** Open the door and look on the left sidewall or ceiling - **Back of the unit:** On a label on the rear panel - **Bottom of the unit:** Some countertop microwaves have it underneath ### Garbage Disposal - **Bottom of the unit:** The model number is usually on the bottom of the disposal canister under the sink - **Side of the unit:** On a label on the side of the canister ## Tips for Reading Model Numbers 1. **Write it down or take a photo.** Model numbers are often in hard-to-reach spots — capture it once so you don't have to find it again. 2. **Model number vs. serial number.** The sticker usually has both. The model number identifies the type of machine. The serial number identifies your specific unit. 3. **Include all characters.** Model numbers often include letters, numbers, and sometimes hyphens. Get every character exactly right. 4. **Don't confuse model and serial numbers.** The model number is usually shorter and starts with letters. The serial number is usually longer and starts with numbers. ## How to Use Your Model Number Once you have your model number, go to PartsDiscount.com and enter it in the search bar. This will show you every available replacement part for your exact appliance — guaranteed to fit. You can also search by part number if you already know which part you need. ## Can't Find the Model Number? If the label has worn off or been removed: - Check your purchase receipt or warranty paperwork - Look up your purchase history at the retailer where you bought it - Search the brand's website — some manufacturers let you look up your model by serial number - Check for a second label — many appliances have model numbers in multiple locations