Whirlpool 36 in. Wide Side-By-Side Counter Depth Refrigerator In Black 23 cu. ft. WRS973CIHV

This side-by-side model offers 23 cubic feet of total capacity. Reviewers consistently praise the spacious layout, with ample room on both the refrigerator and freezer sides. The design accommodates large containers like milk jugs, 2-liter bottles, and Costco-sized items, though some note the freezer compartments are narrower than the fridge side.

Most reviewers report the unit operates quietly, with one owner specifically noting quietness was a priority and they are very satisfied. However, one reviewer mentioned the ice maker motor is noticeably noisy, so while the refrigerator itself is quiet, the ice-making feature may produce some sound.

Reviewers report excellent temperature control and food preservation. Multiple owners note that lettuce stays fresh in the crisper and the unit keeps food properly cooled. However, a few owners experienced freezing problems where food froze unexpectedly even after repairs, suggesting occasional defects in some units.

Owners appreciate the side-by-side layout for its excellent organization and convenience. The design eliminates the need to bend down to access a bottom freezer drawer, and the ice maker positioned in the freezer door frees up additional freezer storage space. The wide shelves and door compartments easily fit large bottles and containers.

While many owners report satisfaction, several reviewers experienced significant issues within the first year, including compressor failure, ice maker malfunction requiring replacement, and cooling problems. Some owners had to replace multiple parts within 6 months. A few units also arrived with missing shelves or installation issues. These problems suggest quality control inconsistencies, though many other owners report trouble-free operation.

Delivery and installation quality varies. Some owners report smooth experiences, while others encountered issues such as uneven leveling, missing shelves, wrong color delivered, and inattentive installation crews. It is advisable to inspect the unit immediately upon delivery and verify all components are included before the installer leaves.

One reviewer reported significant difficulty reaching Whirlpool customer service, noting that chat support had hour-plus wait times and phone lines went to indefinite hold. This suggests customer support responsiveness may be a challenge if you need assistance.

The ice maker and water dispenser are popular features that most owners find convenient and functional. However, one reviewer cautioned that ice makers are generally the most repair-prone feature in refrigerators. One owner experienced ice maker failure requiring replacement after just 4 months, so while many report good performance, this component carries some risk.