When it comes to appliance repair, understanding part terminology is crucial for DIY enthusiasts, homeowners, and professional technicians alike. At Midwest Appliance Parts Co., Inc., we make it simple by sticking to the original factory OEM part numbers. This guide explains key terms like supercession, replacement parts, compatible parts, and more—so you can repair your appliances with confidence.
We proudly support all major appliance brands, including Amana, Bosch, Danby, Electrolux, Frigidaire, GE (General Electric), Haier, Kenmore, LG, Maytag, Samsung, and Whirlpool.
What Do These Part Terms Mean?
Supercession
A supercession occurs when a manufacturer updates or discontinues a part and replaces it with a new, compatible version. This can be due to design improvements, material changes, or production adjustments. For example:
- Old Part Number: 123456
- New Superceded Part Number: 789012
Supercessions ensure your appliance runs optimally even if the original part is no longer in production.
Replacement Part
A replacement part is any part designed to take the place of a worn-out or damaged component. These include:
- OEM Parts: Original Equipment Manufacturer parts made by the same brand as your appliance.
- Aftermarket Parts: Parts made by third parties to replace OEM components. (CMP (Choice Manufacturing), ERP (Exact Replacement Parts), MAP (Midwest Appliance Parts)
At Midwest Appliance Parts, we emphasize OEM parts for their quality and exact fit. Often times when the OEM is not available, we do offer the Aftermarket or compatible parts that are an exact fit.
Alternative Part
An alternative part is a substitute for the original component that might come from a different production line or manufacturer. These are often suggested when:
- The original part is unavailable.
- Cost-effective options are needed.
- OEM manufacturer used the part from a different manufacturer and is selling it as a higher price, we may offer the alternative part to save you money!
OEM Part (Original Equipment Manufacturer)
An OEM part is the exact component the manufacturer used when assembling your appliance. OEM parts are:
- Guaranteed to fit and function as intended.
- Made from high-quality materials.
- Backed by the appliance manufacturer.
Midwest Appliance Parts Co., Inc. only uses factory OEM part numbers, so you get the exact part your appliance needs.
Superceded Part
A superceded part is the updated version of an older part. Manufacturers might:
- Improve performance.
- Comply with new regulations.
- Streamline production.
At Midwest, we’ll help you navigate supercessions to ensure you get the latest, compatible version of your part.
Part Production Number and Stamping on Parts
Manufacturers often stamp production numbers directly onto parts. These numbers can include:
- Serial numbers.
- Batch codes.
- Internal identification marks.
These stamps are critical for ensuring compatibility and are particularly useful when cross-referencing parts for supercessions or replacements.
Compatible Parts
A compatible part may not be identical to the original but will perform the same function. For example, a belt or gasket might be marketed as compatible with multiple models. While these parts may work, they can vary in quality and longevity.
How Different Brands Handle Parts and Supercessions
Each appliance brand has its own approach to parts, supercessions, and replacements:
- Whirlpool & Maytag: Frequently update part numbers due to new designs, but ensure compatibility with previous versions.
- LG & Samsung: Tend to use high-tech components with unique codes for easy identification, but aftermarket alternatives are common.
- Frigidaire & Electrolux: Offer detailed supersessions the same as the other OEM manufacturers, superseding from one oem part number that is discontinued to the new oem part number that replaces it.
- GE (General Electric): Often issue supersessions for design improvements and regulatory compliance.
- Bosch: Known for precision; their supersessions often include significant upgrades. Be careful with Bosch because they tend to add a double zero in front of the part # for example 001234567.
Navigating these differences can be confusing, which is why Midwest Appliance Parts Co., Inc. only uses the original factory part numbers, ensuring accuracy and compatibility.
How Websites Create Unique Part Numbers to Mix Up Customers
Unfortunately, some websites create their own unique part numbers to confuse customers. They do this by:
- Adding prefixes or suffixes to OEM part numbers.
- Creating entirely new part numbers that lead to the same part.
- Mislabeling aftermarket or alternative parts as OEM.
This practice can make it hard to know if you’re buying the right part. At Midwest Appliance Parts, we stick to factory OEM part numbers—no tricks, no confusion.
Why Choose Midwest Appliance Parts?
- Factory-Authorized OEM Parts: We stock parts for brands like Whirlpool, Samsung, LG, GE, and more, all identified by their original factory numbers.
- Clear Information: We never rebrand or relabel parts, ensuring you always know what you’re buying.
- DIY and Professional Support: Whether you’re a homeowner tackling a repair or a technician needing exact parts, we’re here to help.
Visit www.midwestapplianceparts.com or call us at 773-278-1300 to find the right part for your appliance. We help you get the job done right, the first time.