Why Your Model Number Matters
Your appliance model number is the key to finding the right manual, ordering correct replacement parts, and filing warranty claims. Without it, you're guessing — and that can mean wasted time and money on incompatible parts.
The model number is different from the serial number. The model number identifies what product you have (shared by all units of that model), while the serial number is unique to your specific unit.
Where to Find Model Numbers by Appliance Type
Washing Machines (Front Load)
Location: Inside the door frame, on the left or right side
Open the washer door and look around the rubber gasket. Most front-load washers have a sticker or metal plate on the door frame itself. If not there, check:
- The back of the machine (you may need to pull it out slightly)
- Inside the detergent dispenser drawer housing
Common formats:
- Samsung: WF45R6100AW
- LG: WM4000HWA
- Whirlpool: WFW5620HW
Washing Machines (Top Load)
Location: Under the lid, on the top rim of the tub
Lift the lid and look at the top edge of the wash tub or the underside of the lid itself. Some models place it:
- On the back panel
- On the control panel behind the knobs (pull gently)
Dryers
Location: Inside the door frame or on the back
Open the dryer door and check the rim around the opening. Gas dryers sometimes have the label on the back panel near the gas connection.
Tip: If you have a stacked washer/dryer, the dryer label is usually inside its own door, separate from the washer.
Refrigerators
Location: Inside the fridge, on the side wall or ceiling
Look inside the refrigerator compartment — not the freezer. Check:
- Left or right interior wall, near the top
- Ceiling of the fridge compartment
- Behind the vegetable crisper drawers (remove them to see)
For French door models, check between the doors on the top frame.
Dishwashers
Location: Inside the door, on the left or right edge
Open the dishwasher door and look at the edges of the door opening. The label is typically on the left side or top edge. Some models place it:
- On the door itself (visible when open)
- Inside the door panel (remove the inner panel if needed)
Ovens and Ranges
Location: Inside the door frame or in the storage drawer area
For ovens, open the door and look at the frame. For ranges with a storage drawer below, pull out the drawer completely and look at the cavity walls.
Gas ranges: Also check near the gas connection on the back.
Microwaves
Location: Inside the door frame or on the back
Open the microwave door and check the left side of the door frame. For over-the-range microwaves, it might be on the bottom or back of the unit.
Air Conditioners (Window Units)
Location: On the side of the unit, inside the room
Look at the side of the AC unit facing into the room. Some models have it on the back, which you can see if you look down into the unit from above.
Tips for Hard-to-Find Labels
The Label Is Worn or Faded
- Use a flashlight and look at an angle
- Take a photo and increase the contrast
- Feel for raised/embossed numbers even if ink is gone
- Check your purchase receipt or original box
You Can't Access the Label
- Check your receipt or order confirmation email
- Look up your account on the manufacturer's website (if you registered the product)
- Search your email for the brand name + "order confirmation"
- Check your credit card statement for the purchase and contact the retailer
Multiple Stickers and Numbers
Appliances often have several labels. Look for:
- "Model" or "Mod." followed by the number
- Avoid "Serial" or "S/N" numbers (those are unique to your unit)
- Ignore UPC/barcode numbers (those are for retail scanning)
Save Your Model Numbers
Once you find your model numbers, save them somewhere accessible:
- Take a photo of each label
- Store in a notes app or spreadsheet
- Use an app like Recevity to automatically extract and organize product info from your receipts
Having model numbers readily available saves time when you need to order parts, find manuals, or contact customer support.
Quick Reference Chart
| Appliance | Primary Location | Secondary Location |
|---|---|---|
| Front-load washer | Door frame (inside) | Back panel |
| Top-load washer | Under lid rim | Back panel |
| Dryer | Door frame (inside) | Back panel |
| Refrigerator | Inside left wall | Behind crisper drawers |
| Dishwasher | Left door edge | Top door frame |
| Oven/Range | Door frame | Storage drawer cavity |
| Microwave | Inside door frame | Back of unit |
| Window AC | Inside side panel | Back of unit |
What to Do Next
Now that you have your model number:
- Find your manual — Search "[brand] [model number] manual PDF"
- Order parts — Use the model number on parts sites like RepairClinic or PartSelect
- Check warranty status — Visit the manufacturer's website with your model and serial number
- Save it for later — Add it to your Recevity inventory so you never have to hunt for it again