Whirlpool Model WRS321SDHZ Manual

The Whirlpool Model WRS321SDHZ is a 21 cubic foot side-by-side refrigerator with ice and water dispenser, adaptive defrost system, adjustable gallon-deep door bins, spill-proof glass shelves, humidity-controlled crispers, and factory-installed ice maker. It features electronic temperature controls, energy-saving mode, door alarm, and a sleek stainless steel exterior. 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. Energy Saving Tips 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Side-by-side refrigerator/freezer, external ice and water dispenser, electronic control panel, adjustable shelving, humidity-controlled crispers, factory-installed ice maker.

FeatureDescription
Total Capacity21 cubic feet (refrigerator: 13.2 cu ft, freezer: 7.8 cu ft)
Ice & Water DispenserExternal dispenser for cubed ice and chilled water
Adaptive Defrost SystemOptimizes defrost cycles for efficiency
Spill-Proof Glass ShelvesTempered glass shelves contain spills
Humidity-Controlled CrispersPreserve freshness of fruits and vegetables
Adjustable Door BinsAccommodate gallon jugs and large items
Electronic ControlsDigital temperature display and settings
Door AlarmAudible alert if door is left open
Energy Saver ModeReduces power consumption
Exterior FinishStainless steel with fingerprint-resistant coating

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper location with adequate clearance.

  1. Position refrigerator: Allow at least 1 inch clearance on sides and back for ventilation.
  2. Level the unit: Adjust front leveling legs to ensure doors close properly.
  3. Connect water supply: Shut off main water valve; connect 1/4-inch copper tubing to water inlet valve.
  4. Plug into dedicated 115V, 15-amp grounded outlet.
  5. Allow 24 hours for ice maker to produce first batch of ice.

WARNING! Refrigerator is heavy; use two people for moving. Ensure water line connections are tight to prevent leaks.

First-Time Setup

Plug in refrigerator; follow initial setup steps.

  1. Set temperatures: Press TEMP buttons to set refrigerator to 37°F (3°C) and freezer to 0°F (-18°C).
  2. Enable ice maker: Lift wire signal arm to ON position.
  3. Flush water system: Dispense water for 3 minutes to clear air from lines.
  4. Adjust shelves and bins: Configure interior layout as needed.
  5. Activate door alarm: Ensure alarm is enabled in control settings.

CAUTION! Do not load food until temperatures have stabilized (approximately 24 hours).

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Electronic control panel located inside refrigerator compartment.

Controls: TEMP (refrigerator/freezer), LOCK (control lock), FILTER RESET, ENERGY SAVER, DOOR ALARM, LIGHT (interior light).

Temperature Settings: Refrigerator (34°F to 46°F), Freezer (-5°F to 5°F). Energy Saver: Reduces condensation in humid environments. Filter Reset: Reset indicator after replacing water filter. Door Alarm: Sounds after 3 minutes if door is ajar. Control Lock: Prevents accidental setting changes.

Connecting Water Supply

Required for ice maker and water dispenser.

  1. Turn off main water supply.
  2. Connect 1/4-inch copper tubing to cold water line using saddle valve or compression fitting.
  3. Route tubing to refrigerator water inlet valve at back of unit.
  4. Connect tubing to inlet valve; tighten compression nut.
  5. Turn on water supply; check for leaks.
  6. Flush system by dispensing water for 3 minutes.

Tip: Use only approved drinking water tubing. Ensure water pressure is between 30-120 psi.

Using the Ice & Water Dispenser

Dispenses cubed ice and chilled water.

  1. Ice dispensing: Press glass against ice paddle; select cubed ice.
  2. Water dispensing: Press glass against water paddle.
  3. Child lock: Press and hold LOCK for 3 seconds to disable dispenser.
  4. Ice maker control: Wire signal arm UP for ON, DOWN for OFF.
  5. Filter replacement: Replace water filter every 6 months; press FILTER RESET.

WARNING! Do not use with containers that are not sturdy. Keep children away from dispenser.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning interior. Use mild detergent and warm water; avoid abrasive cleaners.

  1. Exterior: Clean stainless steel with manufacturer-recommended cleaner.
  2. Interior: Remove shelves and bins; wash with warm soapy water.
  3. Dispenser area: Wipe with damp cloth; clean ice bin monthly.
  4. Condenser coils: Vacuum every 6 months for efficiency.
  5. Door seals: Clean with mild detergent to maintain seal.

CAUTION! Do not use sharp objects to remove ice. Never use hot water on frozen surfaces.

Energy Saving Tips

Regulatory Information

UL Listed. Meets U.S. Department of Energy energy efficiency standards. Copyright © Whirlpool Corporation. For support, visit www.whirlpool.com or contact 1-800-253-1301. This product contains materials that may be recyclable; check local regulations.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Refrigerator not coolingPower/controlsEnsure unit is plugged in; check circuit breaker; verify temperature settings.
Ice maker not producing iceWater supply/settingsEnsure water supply is connected and turned on; check that ice maker is ON.
Water dispenser not workingFilter/line freezeReplace water filter; check for kinked water line; ensure no frozen line in freezer.
Excessive frost in freezerDoor seal/defrostCheck door seal for gaps; ensure door closes completely; defrost if needed.
Unusual noisesLeveling/fanEnsure refrigerator is level; check for items touching back wall; clean condenser fan.
Water leaking on floorWater line/defrost drainCheck water line connections; clear defrost drain tube of clogs.

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

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

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