Specifications
Whirlpool USA
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Free, confirm-first email when the price drops on Whirlpool 36 In. Wide Side-By-Side Counter Depth Refrigerator In Stainless Steel 20 Cu. Ft. (best partner price today: $2,519).
Help eliminate warm spots with TotalCoverage cooling in this side-by-side counter depth refrigerator. Multi-flow vents direct fresh, chilled air to each shelf and corner for efficient refrigerator cooling. The space-saving counter depth design of this fingerprint resistant refrigerator helps you keep everything in sight and in its place, so your food stands out in a fridge that doesn't stick out. Whirlpool® 36 in. Wide Side-by-Side Counter Depth Refrigerator in Stainless Steel 20 cu. ft - Available at Fridge.com.
The Internet’s Verdict
81%positive
4.6★ weighted·across 16 ratingsHow We Score It
Gathering the reviews
We continuously collect owner reviews and public discussions from major retailers and community forums, de-duplicate them, and set aside anything we can’t tie to a verified purchase.
Calculating the average
Averaged across every source we found (Amazon, AJ Madison, and other retailers). Each source counts in proportion to how many ratings it has, so a store with thousands of reviews moves the number more than one with only a handful.
✓ Updated regularly · No manufacturer input
What owners talk about most
“Very happy thus far with the Whirlpool refrigerator. This unit uses about only 1/3 the electricity of my old refrigerator (very close to the same size)! Also, unlike some others on the market, it is reasonable designed to be able to clean the inside without major deconstruction. Yes, I would recommend.”
Owners Answer
The questions shoppers ask, answered from real owner reviews and discussions across the web — not the manufacturer spec sheet.
Multiple owners report that this counter-depth model fits perfectly in standard refrigerator alcoves and built-in spaces while still providing ample interior storage. Several reviewers specifically chose this model because it accommodates tight spaces near room entries or custom cabinetry, and some noted it even freed up additional walkway space compared to their previous units.
Reviewers consistently praise the spacious interior, flexible shelving options, and excellent lighting on both the refrigerator and freezer sides. The 20 cubic foot capacity is noted as roomy despite the counter-depth design, and owners appreciate the ability to customize storage with optional door drawers and adjustable shelves.
The door-mounted water and ice dispenser is a frequently praised convenience feature. The model includes both regular and crushed ice options, a large ice bin in the door, and a measured-fill option on the front dispenser that eliminates the need to hunt for a measuring cup while cooking.
One owner reported that this model uses approximately one-third the electricity of their previous refrigerator of similar size, indicating strong energy efficiency. The unit is also designed for easy interior cleaning without major disassembly.
Owners report that the refrigerator maintains perfect temperatures in both the fresh food and freezer sections, with even cooling throughout. The dual cooling system is designed to keep food at consistent temperatures, though one reviewer noted it does reduce some interior refrigerator space.
While most reviewers are satisfied, one owner noted that the drawers are difficult to open and close and do not slide smoothly, describing the overall feel as cheap. However, this appears to be an isolated experience rather than a widespread pattern across reviews.
The automatic ice maker is a popular feature that produces both regular and crushed ice. One owner reported that after replacing the water filter for the first time, the ice became cloudy and contained floating particles, suggesting the filter replacement process may require attention or that filter quality should be verified.
Most reviewers describe the unit as quiet, with one owner specifically selecting this model based on research for quieter operation. However, one reviewer reported occasional loud noises during operation, though the cause was unclear.
Fit & facts
Research done. Whirlpool USA has the best price today — $2,519
View DealSpecifications
Side-by-Side
How this side by side stacks up against close alternatives on Fridge.com.
| Spec | Whirlpool 36 in. Wide Side-by-Side Counter Depth Refrigerator in Stainless Steel 20 cu. ft. Whirlpool · WRS970CIHZ | ![]() Kenmore | ![]() Samsung · RS22T5561SR/AA | ![]() Samsung · RS22T5201SR/AA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $2,519 | $1,664.99 | $2,443 | $1,777 |
| Capacity (cu ft) | 20 | 20 | 21.5 | 22 |
| Width | — | 36 | 35.88 | 35.87 |
| Height | — | 70.21 | 70.06 | 70.06 |
| Depth | — | 30.24 | 28.63 | 28.62 |
| Annual Energy Use (kWh) | — | — | 636 | 640 |
| Top features | — | — |
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| Where to buy | View Deal | See details → | View Deal | View Deal |
What Owners Say
16 ratings
I specifically needed a side-by-side counter depth refrigerator because my refrigerator alcove was near a room entry. This model was perfect and fitted my needs. I also bought an extra door drawer and I was able to further maximize space.
I am very impressed with the Whirlpool I purchased. It is easy to find what I looking for. I live on a fixed income, and it was affordable.
I bought this a few weeks ago and temperature is perfect for both fridge and freezer
We love our SBS frig - especially the water and ice on the door. So convenient.
Very happy thus far with the Whirlpool refrigerator. This unit uses about only 1/3 the electricity of my old refrigerator (very close to the same size)! Also, unlike some others on the market, it is reasonable designed to be able to clean the inside without major deconstruction.…
Convinced? Whirlpool USA has it for $2,519
View DealWatch First
Sourced and aggregated by Fridge.com.
Complete the Setup
Owners of this side by side usually buy these with it.
Water Filter
Certified Alternatives
More from Whirlpool
Other models in the same family — useful for comparing capacity, finish, and feature mix.

Whirlpool 36 in. Wide Side-by-Side Refrigerator in Black 25 cu. ft.
$1,848.99

Whirlpool 33 in. Wide Side-by-Side Refrigerator 22 cu. ft.
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Whirlpool 33 in. Wide Side-by-Side Refrigerator in Black 21 cu. ft. WRS331SDHB
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Whirlpool 36 in. Wide Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator in Stainless Steel 21 cu. ft.
$1,679
Whirlpool 33 in. Wide Side-by-Side Refrigerator 21 cu. ft.
$1,498.99
Whirlpool 36 in. Wide Side-by-Side Refrigerator in Black 25 cu. ft. WRS555SIHV
$1,948.99
Brand Background
Whirlpool stands as one of America's most established appliance manufacturers, with roots stretching back to 1911 when the company was founded in Benton Harbor, Michigan, where its headquarters remain today. Operating under the Whirlpool Corporation umbrella, the brand has built its reputation on delivering dependable refrigeration at accessible price points, positioning itself firmly in the mainstream market tier. The Fridge.com catalog currently tracks 221 active Whirlpool refrigerator and freezer products, reflecting the brand's comprehensive approach to the category. Top-freezer models represent the largest segment with 61 units, followed closely by french-door configurations at 53 and side-by-side designs at 52, demonstrating Whirlpool's commitment to offering options across traditional and contemporary layouts. The lineup extends beyond standard refrigerators to include standalone freezers in both upright and chest configurations, beverage coolers, and dedicated ice makers. Popular models like the WRFC2036RW french-door and the WRTX7419SB top-freezer see consistent tracking activity on Fridge.com. With an average rating of 3.9 out of 5, Whirlpool maintains solid consumer satisfaction while continuing to serve budget-conscious households seeking reliable everyday performance without premium pricing.