Guide
How to Find Your Appliance Model Number
Last updated 2026-06-11
Your appliance model number is printed on the rating plate, a sticker or metal label fixed to the appliance. Look inside fridges near the salad drawer, around a washing machine door rim, on a dishwasher door edge, under a vacuum, and under a coffee machine base. The label says MODEL, TYPE or CODE. It is the only reliable way to match a part.
What is a rating plate and what does it show?
A rating plate is a sticker or metal label fixed to every appliance. It shows the model number, the serial number, and electrical ratings. The model number is the code marked MODEL, TYPE, CODE or PN. It identifies the exact appliance variant and is the value you use to order the correct compatible or genuine part.
The rating plate is the manufacturer's identity label for the appliance. Among the voltage and wattage figures you will find two important codes. The model number describes the product variant and is shared by every unit of that model. The serial number is unique to your individual appliance. For parts matching you want the model number, not the serial number.
Where is the model number on a fridge or washing machine?
On fridges, the rating plate is inside the cabinet, commonly on the side wall near the salad drawer, sometimes behind the bottom drawer or on the rear. On washing machines, look inside the door opening or on the door itself, behind the bottom filter flap, or on the back panel.
Fridges and freezers vary by brand. Many display the plate on an interior wall near the vegetable drawer; some hide it behind the salad crisper, and others put it on the back. Open the door and scan the inner walls first. Washing machines almost always carry the plate around the door area: along the rubber door rim, on the door itself, or behind the filter access door at the bottom front.
Where is it on a dishwasher, vacuum or coffee machine?
On dishwashers the plate is usually on the side or top edge of the door, sometimes under the door or on the back. On vacuums it is on the underside or rear, occasionally behind the dust container or battery. On coffee machines it is underneath the base or on the back. Open doors and tip units up to check.
Dishwasher plates sit most often on the inner side edge or top edge of the door, visible when the door is open. For vacuum cleaners, turn the machine over: the plate is usually on the base, sometimes on the rear, and on cordless models it can hide behind the dust container or battery. Coffee machines carry the label on the underside of the base, or sometimes the back.
What is the difference between model and serial number?
The model number identifies the product type and is shared by every unit of that model, so it is what you use to match parts. The serial number is unique to your individual appliance and is used for warranty registration and service records. For ordering a part, always use the model number.
It is easy to confuse the two because they sit side by side on the plate. The model number might read something like WM14T461GB or RF28HMEDBSR and applies to thousands of identical units. The serial number is a longer, unique string tied to your specific machine. A parts seller's fit list is built around model numbers, so that is the one to copy down.
Why is the model number the only reliable way to match a part?
Manufacturers reuse the same external design across many different models, so two appliances that look identical can take different parts. Only the model number distinguishes them. Matching by brand, colour or appearance risks buying a part that does not fit. The model number ties directly to the seller's fit list and the correct component.
Appearance is unreliable because a single chassis design is often sold as several models with different internal components. A door seal, water filter or belt that suits one model may not suit its near-twin. The model number is the manufacturer's own key to the exact specification. Copy the full code exactly, including letters and suffixes, then confirm it appears on the fit list before you buy.
FAQs
Where is the model number on most appliances?
On the rating plate, a sticker or metal label on the appliance. Check inside fridges near the salad drawer, around a washing machine door rim or filter flap, on a dishwasher door edge, under a vacuum, and under a coffee machine base.
What if the rating plate sticker has worn off?
Check your original purchase paperwork, instruction manual or online account, which usually list the model number. Failing that, the manufacturer can often identify it from the serial number or a date code stamped elsewhere on the unit.
Should I match a part by model number or serial number?
Always by model number. The serial number is unique to your individual unit and is used for warranty and service. Parts fit lists are built around model numbers, which identify the exact specification you need.
Can I match a part just by the brand and appearance?
No. Manufacturers reuse the same external design across several models with different internal parts, so visually identical appliances can take different components. Only the model number reliably identifies the correct part.
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