Whirlpool 36 In. Wide Counter Depth Side-By-Side Refrigerator In White 21 Cu. Ft.

Multiple reviewers note that the freezer comes with minimal shelves—often just one or two—and several units arrive missing shelves entirely. Many owners have had to purchase additional freezer shelves separately to maximize storage. This is a common point of frustration, particularly for those planning to store larger quantities of frozen foods.

Noise is a recurring complaint across multiple reviews. Owners report the unit produces loud buzzing, ringing, gurgling, and banging sounds during normal operation. Some describe it as noticeably louder than expected, and a few note the ice maker in particular operates at a higher volume than anticipated.

Several owners report that the ice maker wiring, located at a stress point in the freezer door, breaks easily from repeated opening and closing. When this occurs, repair costs are prohibitively high (around $1,000 for a replacement door), and some repair technicians recommend replacing the entire refrigerator instead. Additionally, some ice makers fail to dispense ice or stop working within months of purchase, even with light use.

A notable pattern of reviews describes items—including eggs, liquids, and food on shelves—freezing in the refrigerator section despite correct temperature settings and proper airflow sensor positioning. Owners report this occurs even after adjusting temperature controls, suggesting a potential design or calibration issue with temperature distribution.

Reviewers are divided on capacity. Many praise the efficient use of door space and adjustable shelving that maximizes storage despite the side-by-side design. However, others find the overall interior space smaller than expected, particularly the refrigerator compartment, and note that the side-by-side configuration inherently sacrifices some storage compared to other styles. The 21 cubic foot capacity works well for some households but feels cramped for larger families or those planning extensive meal prep.

Multiple owners report significant reliability issues within the first few years, including compressor failures, cooling problems, and component breakdowns. Service experiences vary widely—some praise responsive warranty repair, while others describe long wait times (hours on hold), difficulty scheduling technicians, and repair personnel who refuse to fix certain issues. Several reviewers express frustration with Whirlpool's declining reputation for quality compared to its historical brand standing.

Owners consistently praise the water and ice dispensers as convenient features, with many highlighting the quality of filtered water and the ice-only option. However, some report water lines that freeze frequently (2–3 times per week in one case), slow or erratic water flow even after filter changes, and ice that tastes like bleach. The ice maker on/off switch location is also criticized as difficult to reach.

Several owners report quality control issues, including door handles that break or pull off easily, tiny star screws that come loose, doors that don't align properly from delivery, missing or cracked shelves upon arrival, and light covers that fall off. These issues suggest inconsistent manufacturing quality and have led some reviewers to conclude that Whirlpool's overall build quality has declined.