What is a Refrigerator Data Plate?
Every refrigerator in the US comes with a data plate as mandated by safety certifiers and federal law. This plate acts as an ID card for your appliance. It shows power needs so you do not blow a fuse. This is governed by specific rules like the FTC Energy Labeling Rule. [1]
Common Locations for the Data Plate
To find the data plate, open your refrigerator door and look along the interior side walls, the ceiling, or just behind the lower crisper drawers. If it is not inside, check the exterior by looking at the back of the appliance, along the side panels, or down near the bottom front grill called the kickplate.
1. Inside the Fresh Food Compartment
This is the most common location. Open the fridge door and check the interior side walls, usually the left wall near the top. Some models place it on the ceiling of the compartment. The label is typically white or silver with black text.
2. The Freezer Section
On French door and side by side models, check the interior wall of the freezer, often on the left side near the top. On top freezer models, it may be on the ceiling just inside the freezer door.
3. Behind the Kickplate
The kickplate is the narrow panel running along the bottom front of the fridge. On some models, especially older GE and Hotpoint units, you can pop it off by pulling forward at the bottom. The data plate sits just behind it on the frame.
4. Behind the Refrigerator
If you cannot find it inside, pull the unit forward and check the back panel. This is more common on commercial grade or older refrigerators. The label may be near the compressor or along the upper rear frame.
Brand Specific Locations
Samsung
Typically inside the fridge on the left wall, or inside the freezer on top freezer models.
LG
Left interior wall of the fresh food compartment, near the top.
GE and GE Profile
Inside the fridge on the left wall or behind the kickplate on older units.
Whirlpool and Maytag
Left interior wall of the fridge compartment, or occasionally inside the freezer door frame.
Thermador
Check the manufacturer’s website for specific locations on your model.
What Model and Serial Numbers Actually Mean
It is important to understand the difference between these two numbers. The model number identifies the product line and specific features of the design. The serial number pinpoints the exact unit and its manufacture date. Think of the model number as the last name and the serial number as the first name of your fridge.
How to Decode a Serial Number for Manufacture Date
Brands like Whirlpool and GE encode the year and week of manufacture directly into the serial number. For example, in many Whirlpool serial numbers, the second letter represents the year. This is genuinely useful for warranty checks and determining the age of your appliance. Knowing the age helps you decide if a repair is worth the investment.
What to Do if the Label is Faded or Missing
This is a very common problem. If your label is unreadable, first check your original purchase paperwork or the owners manual. If those are gone, look for an FCC ID on the compressor or other internal parts. You can also call the manufacturer with your approximate purchase date and they might be able to help you narrow it down.
Where to Use the Model Number
Once you have your model number, you can use it to find exact replacement parts on manufacturer websites. It also allows our team at Chicago Star to arrive fully prepared for your repair. Having this number ready when you book a service helps us ensure we have the right tools and components for your specific model.
References: [1] Legal Information Institute: 16 CFR § 305.14 - Energy labeling rule