Model numbers are on labels inside door frames (washers, dryers, dishwashers), inside the refrigerator compartment, on the back panel, or under the lid. Look for a sticker or metal plate with alphanumeric codes like “WF45R6100AW” or “GFE28GYNFS.”
Your appliance’s model number is the key to getting accurate information about error codes, finding correct replacement parts, and ensuring proper service. This guide shows you exactly where to find it for any appliance type.
Why You Need Your Model Number
Having your model number ready helps you:
- Look up specific error codes for your exact appliance
- Order correct replacement parts that fit
- Download the owner’s manual as PDF
- Verify warranty status with the manufacturer
- Give service technicians accurate information
- Get help from customer support efficiently
Model Number vs. Serial Number
Both appear on the same label, but serve different purposes:
| Type | Purpose | Format Example |
|---|---|---|
| Model Number | Identifies product type/version | WF45R6100AW |
| Serial Number | Identifies your specific unit | H4XM9ABC123456 |
You’ll typically need the model number for parts and troubleshooting. You’ll need both for warranty claims and service scheduling.
Finding Model Numbers by Appliance
Washing Machines (Front-Load)
Primary locations:
- Inside the door frame (most common)
- On the back panel
- Under the machine (visible from front)
How to find it:
- Open the washer door
- Look at the frame where the door seals against the machine
- The label is usually on the left side, top, or around the door opening
Washing Machines (Top-Load)
Primary locations:
- Under the lid
- Inside the lid (top surface)
- Behind the control panel
- On the back panel
How to find it:
- Lift the lid fully
- Look on the underside of the lid
- Or check the top edge of the cabinet where the lid closes
Take a photo of the model/serial label and save it in your phone. You’ll have it ready whenever you need to look up information or order parts.
Dryers
Primary locations:
- Inside the door frame
- Inside the drum (on a tag)
- On the back panel
How to find it:
- Open the dryer door
- Check the door frame opening (similar to front-load washers)
- Look inside the drum for a hanging tag
- Check behind the machine if not found elsewhere
Dishwashers
Primary locations:
- Inside the door (left or right edge)
- Top edge of the door opening
- Left side wall when door is open
How to find it:
- Open the dishwasher door fully
- Look at the edges of the door opening
- The label is often on the left side, inside the tub area
- May need to look closely at the narrow edge
Refrigerators
Primary locations:
- Inside fresh food compartment (side wall)
- Behind the crisper drawers
- On the ceiling of the fresh food section
- Back panel (may require pulling out)
- Inside the freezer compartment
How to find it (most common):
- Open the fresh food door
- Look on the left or right side wall, near the top
- May be behind a removable cover
- Some models place it behind the crisper/fruit drawers
Ranges/Ovens (Electric and Gas)
Primary locations:
- Inside the oven door frame
- Behind the storage drawer (at bottom)
- On the back panel
- Under the cooktop (lift-up models)
How to find it:
- Open the oven door
- Look at the frame where the door seals
- Or pull out the bottom storage drawer and look inside the cavity
Microwaves
Primary locations:
- Inside the door frame
- On the back panel
- Inside the microwave cavity (side wall)
How to find it:
- Open the microwave door
- Look at the door frame or around the cavity opening
- Built-in units may have it on an external panel
Understanding Model Numbers
Common Formats by Brand
Samsung: Letters + Numbers (WF45R6100AW)
- WF = Washer Front-load
- 45 = Capacity indicator
- R6100 = Series/version
- AW = Color code
LG: Letters + Numbers (DLEX7900WE)
- DLE = Dryer Electric
- X = Feature indicator
- 7900 = Series
- WE = White Electric
Whirlpool: Letters + Numbers (WED5000DW)
- WED = Whirlpool Electric Dryer
- 5000 = Series
- DW = Color
GE: Letters + Numbers (GFE28GYNFS)
- GFE = GE French-door refrigerator
- 28 = Capacity (cubic feet)
- G = Feature set
- YNFS = Color/finish
Bosch: Letters + Numbers (SHPM88Z75N)
- SHP = Series indicator
- M88 = Model features
- Z75N = Specific variant
What the Numbers Often Indicate
While formats vary, these elements are common:
- First 2-3 letters: Product type
- Middle numbers: Capacity, series, or feature level
- Last letters: Color, finish, or regional variant
Tips for Finding Hard-to-Read Labels
- Use a flashlight to illuminate the label
- Take a photo and zoom in if text is small
- Clean the label gently if dirty
- Check multiple locations if label is missing or damaged
- Contact manufacturer if you can’t find it—they may look it up by serial number or purchase info
Registering Your Model Number
Benefits of registering with the manufacturer:
- Extended warranty offers sometimes available
- Recall notifications sent directly to you
- Proof of purchase backup for warranty claims
- Personalized support access
What to Do If the Label Is Missing
If the model label is gone:
- Check other locations (there may be multiple labels)
- Look for sales receipt with model information
- Check your email for purchase confirmation
- Contact retailer where you purchased
- Look for registration card you may have filled out
- Search manufacturer site by appliance type and features to narrow down
Sources
For registering and looking up model information: