Whirlpool 21MTFA Refrigerator Manual

The Whirlpool 21MTFA is a top-freezer refrigerator designed for household use, featuring adjustable glass shelves, humidity-controlled crispers, a freezer with storage baskets, an ice maker (on select models), and energy-efficient operation. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Using Your Refrigerator 7. Ice Maker (If Equipped) 8. Care & Cleaning 9. Energy Saving Tips 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Fresh food compartment, Freezer compartment, Adjustable glass shelves, Humidity-controlled crispers, Freezer baskets, Temperature controls, Ice maker (select models), Door bins.

Feature	Description
Adjustable Glass Shelves	Easy to clean and reposition for flexible storage
Humidity-Controlled Crispers	Preserve freshness of fruits and vegetables
Freezer Storage Baskets	Organize frozen foods for easy access
Ice Maker (Select Models)	Produces ice automatically; manual shut-off available
Door Bins	Store frequently used items like condiments and beverages
Temperature Controls	Separate dials for fresh food and freezer compartments
Energy Saver Switch	Controls heater to reduce condensation in humid environments
Interior Light	Illuminates the fresh food compartment when door is opened
Leveling Legs	Adjustable front legs for stability on uneven floors
Reversible Doors	Door swing can be changed to left or right opening

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Remove all packaging materials and tape.

Choose Location: Place on a level, solid floor near a grounded electrical outlet. Allow space for door swing and air circulation (at least 1 inch on sides and back, 2 inches top).
Level the Refrigerator: Adjust front leveling legs using a wrench to ensure doors close properly.
Connect to Power: Plug into a dedicated 115V, 60Hz, 15- or 20-amp grounded outlet. Do not use an extension cord.
Ice Maker Water Line (If Connecting): Follow separate ice maker installation instructions to connect to a cold water line with a shut-off valve.

WARNING! Refrigerator is heavy; use two people to move. Ensure it is level to prevent door alignment issues.

First-Time Setup

After installation, allow refrigerator to cool before adding food.

Initial Cooling: Set fresh food control to midpoint (usually 5) and freezer control to midpoint. Allow 24 hours to reach stable temperatures.
Temperature Settings: Recommended settings: Fresh food compartment at 37°F (3°C), Freezer at 0°F (-18°C). Adjust controls as needed.
Ice Maker (If Equipped): Turn ice maker ON. Discard first batch of ice (about 24 cubes).
Organize Shelves and Bins: Arrange shelves and bins to suit your storage needs.

CAUTION! Do not overload shelves. Distribute weight evenly.

Specifications

Model: Whirlpool 21MTFA
Type: Top-Freezer Refrigerator
Total Capacity: Approximately 21 cubic feet
Fresh Food Capacity: Approximately 14 cubic feet
Freezer Capacity: Approximately 7 cubic feet
Shelves: Adjustable tempered glass
Defrost System: Automatic defrost for fresh food compartment; manual defrost for freezer (on most models)
Power Source: 115V AC, 60Hz
Energy Star: Compliant (on certified models)
Dimensions (HxWxD): Refer to product label for exact measurements

Controls and Settings

Temperature controls are located inside the fresh food compartment (usually on the ceiling or upper wall).

Fresh Food Control: Dial numbered 1-9 or Cold-Colder. Higher numbers = colder temperature.

Freezer Control: Dial numbered 1-9 or Cold-Colder. Higher numbers = colder temperature.

Energy Saver Switch: Located near temperature controls. Use in humid conditions to reduce condensation; turn OFF in normal conditions to save energy.

Interior Light Switch: Activates when door is opened. Replace bulb if needed (use appliance bulb only).

Using Your Refrigerator

For optimal performance and food preservation:

Allow hot foods to cool before placing inside.
Cover foods to retain moisture and prevent odor transfer.
Use crispers for fruits and vegetables; adjust humidity sliders as needed.
Do not block air vents inside compartments.
Freezer: Package foods airtight to prevent freezer burn.
Defrost freezer when frost buildup exceeds 1/4 inch (for manual defrost models).

Tip: Keep refrigerator full for efficient operation, but allow air circulation around items.

Ice Maker (If Equipped)

Automatic ice maker located in freezer compartment.

To Activate: Ensure water line is connected. Lift wire signal arm to ON position.
First Cycle: Discard first batch of ice (about 24 cubes).
To Turn Off: Lower wire signal arm to OFF position.
Removing Ice Bucket: Lift front of bucket and pull out.
Cleaning: Wash ice bucket with mild detergent; rinse thoroughly.

WARNING! Use only drinking water supply. Do not use with water that is microbiologically unsafe.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug refrigerator before cleaning interior (except for quick wipes).

Interior: Wash shelves, bins, and interior surfaces with warm water and mild detergent. Rinse and dry.
Exterior: Clean door and handles with soft cloth dampened with mild detergent. For stainless steel (if applicable), use manufacturer-recommended cleaner.
Condenser Coils: Vacuum coils at rear or bottom front (grille) every 6-12 months to maintain efficiency.
Door Seals: Wipe with warm, soapy water; check for proper seal.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners, ammonia, or chlorine bleach. Never pour water into or over any part of the refrigerator.

Energy Saving Tips

Set temperatures to recommended levels (37°F fresh food, 0°F freezer).
Ensure door seals are airtight.
Allow hot foods to cool before storing.
Keep condenser coils clean.
Locate refrigerator away from heat sources (oven, dishwasher, direct sunlight).
Use ENERGY SAVER switch appropriately (OFF in normal conditions).

Regulatory Information

This appliance complies with applicable safety standards. Manufactured for household use. For disposal, follow local regulations for recycling or safe disposal of refrigerants and foam. Copyright © Whirlpool Corporation. All trademarks used herein are the property of their respective owners. For support, visit www.whirlpool.com or contact 1-800-253-1301.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Refrigerator not cooling	Power/controls/temperature setting	Ensure plugged in and outlet works; check circuit breaker; adjust temperature controls to colder setting.
Excessive frost in freezer	Door seal/defrost cycle	Check door seal for gaps; ensure door closes completely. For manual defrost models, defrost when frost exceeds 1/4 inch.
Water leaking inside or under unit	Drain tube clogged/ice maker line	Check defrost drain for blockage; clear if necessary. Inspect ice maker water line connections.
Ice maker not producing ice	Signal arm/water supply	Ensure signal arm is in ON position; check water supply valve is open; water line not kinked.
Unusual noise	Leveling/items touching/fan	Ensure refrigerator is level; check for items vibrating against interior; noise may be normal from compressor or fan.
Interior light not working	Bulb/door switch	Replace bulb with appliance bulb (unplug first). Check door switch operation.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes, then plug back in to reset electronic controls (if equipped).

Service: 1-800-253-1301; www.whirlpool.com