Your appliance’s model number is printed on a rating plate (sticker or metal tag) that is almost always on a door frame, inside a door, or on the back or side of the unit. You need it to look up error codes, order the right part, check warranty and find the manual. Write it down and take a photo of the whole label while you are there.
Where to look, appliance by appliance
| Appliance | Common plate locations |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator / freezer | Inside the fridge compartment on a side wall or ceiling, near the top, or behind a crisper drawer or the toe grille |
| Washing machine (front load) | Inside the door opening, on the door frame or on the rim behind the door |
| Washing machine (top load) | Under the lid, on the cabinet rim, or on the back panel |
| Dryer | Inside the door opening, on the door frame, or on the rim of the drum opening |
| Dishwasher | On the edge or inside of the door, on the side of the tub frame, or under the door |
| Oven / range | On the frame behind the oven door, inside the storage drawer or on the edge of a pull-out panel |
| Microwave | Inside the door frame, on the side or back, or inside the cabinet above the range |
| Water heater | On a large label on the side of the tank |
| Furnace / air handler | Inside the blower door or on the side of the cabinet |
| Outdoor AC / heat pump | On the side panel of the outdoor unit, often near the electrical access cover |
Plates are sometimes covered by a removable panel or shelf. A small torch helps, and check the printed manual or the back of the quick-start card too.
Reading the plate
- Find the line labeled MODEL, MOD or M/N
It is usually a mix of letters and numbers, for example an eight to twelve character code.
- Do not confuse it with the serial number
The serial number (S/N or SER) is a longer, unique ID. Parts and manuals use the model number; warranty and recalls often need the serial too.
- Copy it exactly, including dashes and letters
Zero and the letter O, and 1 and I, are easy to mix up. Re-check against the photo.
Our guide to reading an appliance rating plate explains the voltage, wattage and other fields on the same label.
Take a photo now
Photograph each plate and save the pictures in one album, or type the model and serial numbers into a note. When something breaks, you will be able to order parts without pulling the appliance away from the wall. Add the purchase date and the store, which helps with warranty and repair decisions (see repairing an appliance out of warranty).
If the plate is missing or unreadable
Look for the number on the original receipt, the manual or the delivery paperwork. Many manufacturers let you register the product with the serial number, and the retailer’s order history may list the model. A technician can often identify the model from the part layout. If the appliance is old, the model will be shorter than a modern one, and photographing the unit and its controls can help the manufacturer identify it.
Why it matters
- Error code lists vary by model; for example see our guides for Whirlpool and LG washers.
- Replacement parts are model-specific, so the wrong one wastes money.
- Recalls, warranty, and the right manual all depend on it.
- It lets a technician quote accurately over the phone and judge whether repair makes sense (see appliance lifespans).
When to ask the maker
If you cannot find or read the plate, contact the manufacturer’s customer service with the brand, type of appliance, approximate age and a photo of the unit. They can usually narrow it down.
