How to Find Your Appliance Model and Serial Number
Where to look for the model and serial number on a washer, dryer, fridge, dishwasher and range, and why that number decides which part fits.
When you call for repair or order a part, the first thing anyone asks is your model number. It is not the name printed on the front of the machine. It is a string of letters and numbers on a small sticker. This guide shows where to look on common appliances and how to read what you find.
Why the Number Matters
Two machines can look the same and still use different parts. The full model number, often with a suffix or revision code, tells a tech which pump, belt, latch or board fits. The serial number helps date the machine and can matter for recalls and warranty.
On this site, we call the sticker that carries both numbers the rating plate. Always read the full string from the plate and not the marketing name on the front.
Before You Look
Turn the appliance off and unplug it if you need to move it or open a door. Bring a flashlight and your phone so you can take a photo of the plate. A photo is easier to read than your handwriting, and it saves you a second trip.
Washers
On a front load washer, manufacturer help pages say to look inside the door on the rim of the opening. On a top load washer, check beneath the lid on the tub rim. If you do not see it there, check the back panel or the side of the cabinet.
Dryers
On most dryers, the plate is inside the door on the rim of the opening. Some ventless models place it behind the water tank. Open the door fully and look around the edge of the frame. If you are checking a Maytag or any other brand, the same places usually work first.
Refrigerators
For top freezer and bottom freezer models, manufacturer help pages point to the inside of the fresh food section on the left side. For side by side models, check the right side. You may need to move a shelf or a drawer to see it. Some models have the plate on the back or under the door.
Dishwashers
Built in dishwashers often have the plate on the left side of the tub frame. You may also see it along the inside edge of the door, or on the right side of the tub when the door is open. Open the door all the way and shine your light along the frame.
Ovens and Ranges
Wall ovens often show the plate on the interior side trim, visible when the door is open. Freestanding ranges may have it on the frame around the oven door, in the broiler drawer opening or on the back. Look for a metal or paper sticker.
Microwaves
Check the inside of the door frame, the side wall of the cavity, or the back. Over the range models may also carry a label on the underside or on the back panel. If it is hard to see, check your owner manual.
How to Read What You Find
The model number is usually labeled MODEL or MOD. The serial number is usually labeled SERIAL or SER. Write both down exactly, including dashes, letters and any suffix. Do not drop a letter because it looks like a number. A letter O and a zero, or a letter I and a one, are easy to mix up, so take a clear photo.
If the plate is worn, look in the owner manual, in the original box or on the receipt. Some brands have a product page where you can enter your serial number.
Tips for Hard to Reach Plates
Some plates are hidden behind a shelf, a drawer or a kick plate. On a fridge, slide out the crisper drawer or remove a shelf so you can see the side wall. On a built in unit, you may need to pull the machine forward a few inches. Be careful with water lines, gas lines and power cords when you move anything. If the unit is gas, do not pull it out. Ask a pro.
If the plate is faded, a bright light held at a low angle can help the letters stand out. A phone camera zoomed in often reads text better than the eye.
Once you have it, save a photo in a folder on your phone named for your home appliances. The next time you need a part, a manual or a repair, the number is a few taps away.
Common Mix Ups
People often copy the number from the wrong sticker. Some machines carry an energy label, a wiring label and a rating plate. Only the rating plate has the full model and serial pair. Another common error is giving the repair company the brand name and the size, such as a 27 inch front load washer. That is a description, not a model number.
What to Do With It
Give the number to the repair company when you call. It helps them check parts and give a better price range. You can also use it to find the right DIY guide. For step by step jobs, browse the DIY guides, and for costs see the repair cost guides. When you are ready to call, use the Find page to compare local companies.
Quick Questions
Is the model number the same as the product name?
No. The product name is a marketing name. The model number is on the rating plate and tells a tech which parts fit.
What if my sticker is missing?
Check the owner manual, the box or your receipt. A repair pro may also be able to identify the machine from its parts.
Do I need the serial number too?
Often yes. It can help date the machine and match the right part version.
Other Fixes
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