How to order parts for an appliance: washer, dryer, refrigerator, etc.

Ordering parts is pretty simple. You will need the model number of the appliance. Most appliances have the model number located on a tag visible when the appliance door or lid is open. Some of the appliances have numbers that are separated with a period (dot). For example, Kenmore model numbers always start with three numbers followed by a dot and then a longer number. For Kenmore, model numbers that start with 110. are made by Whirlpool.

You will not need the serial number, or stocking number. The only number that is needed is the model number.

Next you will need the name of the item, such as the timer knob, the timer, the start switch, or the belt. There are a few online services that allow you to look up the part with the use of keywords. These services are quite good because there are good photos to guide you. You must be cautious though because some of the items are difficult to identify without the model number, even if a photo is furnished. For example, belts are difficult to identify because they all pretty much look the same but only one will work on your appliance.

Sometimes when you have removed the part from the appliance you will find a part number. The part number will be helpful if you do not know the exact name of the item. Some part numbers will not be helpful, especially with older machines and the original equipment is not available but third party parts are in abundance. With Whirlpool the parts are listed as factory specified parts and marked with an FSP. Some parts are listed as OEM which indicates original equipment manufacturer. If there is a choice, I would recommend FSP or OEM parts. Often these are not available and therefore you would need to use a substitute.

Most parts houses deal with repairmen who order daily. Be sure to tell them that you are a novice and may need help in identifying the item you wish to order. Most of these people are good with the public and will be helpful.

On line parts stores are quite often too generic for my tastes and searching for parts is difficult. Just think of all of your appliances taken apart and making a list of all the parts. You will have thousands of parts and they all have to be numbered and stocked. Then imagine all of your neighbors having the same thing. Combine the whole neighborhood's parts and list them separately. The idea is daunting. This is why I prefer to deal with a person rather than a parts listing.

Locations that have most parts, your local appliance retailer, sears, and search the yellow pages. A google search for appliance parts will reveal a long list of parts suppliers.