Whirlpool Model WRS321SDHW08 Manual

The Whirlpool Model WRS321SDHW08 is a 21.6 cubic foot side-by-side refrigerator with an ice and water dispenser, featuring Accu-Chill™ temperature management, adaptive defrost, adjustable spill-proof glass shelves, humidity-controlled crispers, gallon door bins, and a factory-installed water filter. It is designed for built-in or freestanding installation. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Water Supply 7. Using the Ice & Water Dispenser 8. Care & Cleaning 9. Replacing the Water Filter 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Exterior ice and water dispenser, electronic temperature controls, adjustable shelving, humidity-controlled crispers, factory-installed water filter (EveryDrop™ Filter 4), and LED interior lighting.

FeatureDescription
Accu-Chill™ Temperature ManagementMonitors and adjusts temperatures to keep food fresh
Adaptive DefrostReduces energy use by defrosting only when needed
Spill-Proof Glass ShelvesAdjustable shelves contain spills
Humidity-Controlled CrispersPreserve freshness of fruits and vegetables
Gallon Door BinsStore large containers on the door
Ice & Water DispenserDispenses cubed ice, chilled water, and can be locked
EveryDrop™ Filter 4Reduces 99% of lead and 23 other contaminants (factory-installed)
LED Interior LightingEnergy-efficient, bright lighting
ControlsElectronic touchpad for temperature and dispenser settings
Power120V, 60Hz, 15A dedicated circuit recommended

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure installation location meets clearances and has a level floor.

  1. Remove packaging and tape: Remove all shipping materials, including foam and tape.
  2. Position refrigerator: Slide into final location, leaving recommended clearances (1" top/sides, 2" back).
  3. Level the refrigerator: Adjust front leveling legs so doors close easily and unit is stable.
  4. Connect water supply: See "Connecting Water Supply" section.
  5. Plug into dedicated outlet: Use a 120V, 60Hz, 15A grounded outlet.

WARNING! Refrigerator is heavy; use two people to move and install. Ensure floor can support weight.

First-Time Setup

After installation, allow refrigerator to cool for 24 hours before adding food.

  1. Power on: Plug in refrigerator. Interior lights should turn on.
  2. Set temperatures: Use control panel to set fresh food compartment to 37°F (3°C) and freezer to 0°F (-18°C).
  3. Dispenser lock: Press and hold LOCK button for 3 seconds to enable/disable dispenser.
  4. Flush water system: Dispense and discard 2-3 gallons of water to clear air and particles.
  5. Reset filter indicator: After flushing, press and hold FILTER RESET button for 3 seconds.

CAUTION! Do not load food until temperatures are stable. Allow ice maker 24 hours to produce first batch of ice.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Control panel located on dispenser face. Touchpad controls: LOCK, FILTER RESET, LIGHT, TEMPERATURE (FRESH FOOD/FREEZER).

Temperature Settings: Press FRESH FOOD or FREEZER button, then use + or - to adjust (range: Fresh Food 34°F-46°F, Freezer -6°F to +8°F). Display shows selected temperature.

Dispenser Lock: Press and hold LOCK for 3 seconds to disable dispenser (lock icon illuminates). Repeat to unlock.

Filter Reset: Press and hold FILTER RESET for 3 seconds after replacing filter to reset indicator.

Interior Light: Press LIGHT to turn on/off interior LED lights manually.

Connecting Water Supply

Required for ice maker and water dispenser. Use 1/4" copper tubing or FDA-approved plastic water line.

  1. Turn off main water supply.
  2. Connect water line: Attach to cold water pipe using a saddle valve or shut-off valve.
  3. Route line: Run water line to refrigerator location (max length 20 ft).
  4. Connect to refrigerator: Attach line to water valve at back of refrigerator (follow connection diagram).
  5. Turn on water: Slowly open water supply and check for leaks.

Tip: Use the plastic tubing clamp provided to secure connection. Ensure water pressure is between 30-120 psi.

Using the Ice & Water Dispenser

Dispenses cubed ice and chilled water. Dispenser arm must be unlocked.

  1. For water: Press a glass against the water paddle. Release to stop.
  2. For ice: Press a glass against the ice paddle. Ice will dispense until paddle is released.
  3. Ice maker: Produces ice automatically when freezer is at 0°F. Lift wire signal arm to turn off ice maker.
  4. To select ice size: Not adjustable on this model; dispenses standard cubed ice.
  5. Dispenser lock: Enable to prevent accidental dispensing, especially with children.

WARNING! Do not use with containers that are not heat-treated or are not meant for dispensing. Keep fingers away from dispenser openings.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug refrigerator before cleaning interior. Use mild detergent and warm water; rinse and dry.

Exterior: Clean with soft cloth and mild detergent. Do not use abrasive cleaners.

Interior: Remove shelves and bins to wash separately. Wipe interior surfaces.

Dispenser: Wipe with damp cloth. Clean ice bucket monthly with mild detergent.

Condenser Coils: Vacuum coils at rear or underneath every 6-12 months for efficiency.

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals, abrasives, or solvents. Never pour water over or into the control panel.

Replacing the Water Filter

Replace EveryDrop™ Filter 4 every 6 months or when filter indicator light turns on.

  1. Locate filter: Inside refrigerator, top left corner of fresh food compartment.
  2. Turn filter counterclockwise to remove. Discard old filter.
  3. Insert new filter: Align arrows, push in and turn clockwise until it stops.
  4. Flush system: Dispense 2-3 gallons of water (discard).
  5. Reset filter indicator: Press and hold FILTER RESET button for 3 seconds.

Note: Use only EveryDrop™ Filter 4 (EDR4RXD1) for proper performance and warranty.

Regulatory Information

This appliance complies with FCC Part 15, Subpart B. It may not cause harmful interference and must accept any interference received. Copyright © Whirlpool Corporation. All rights reserved. For support, visit www.whirlpool.com or contact 1-800-253-1301. This refrigerator uses a refrigerant (R-600a) that is flammable. Dispose of properly according to local regulations.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Refrigerator not coolingPower/controlsEnsure unit is plugged in and circuit breaker is on. Check temperature settings.
Water dispenser not workingFilter/water supplyReplace water filter if overdue. Ensure water supply valve is open and line is not kinked.
Ice maker not making iceTemperature/arm positionEnsure freezer is at 0°F. Lower wire signal arm to ON position. Allow 24 hours.
Dispenser leakingGlass not alignedEnsure glass is centered under dispenser. Check water line connections.
Unusual noiseLeveling/objectsEnsure refrigerator is level. Check for items touching back or sides.
Filter indicator onFilter needs replacementReplace water filter and reset indicator.

Reset: Unplug refrigerator for 5 minutes, then plug back in to reset control board.

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

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