Whirlpool Model WRS321SDHZ08 User Manual

The Whirlpool Model WRS321SDHZ08 is a 21.6 cubic foot side-by-side refrigerator with electronic temperature controls, adaptive defrost, factory-set ice maker, adjustable glass shelves, humidity-controlled crispers, gallon door bins, and a textured steel exterior. It features a water filtration system, energy-saving modes, and door alarm. 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 the Refrigerator 7. Using the Freezer 8. Water & Ice System 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Side-by-side refrigerator/freezer, Electronic Controls, Ice Maker, Water Filter, Adjustable Shelves, Humidity-Controlled Crispers, Door Bins.

FeatureDescription
Electronic ControlsDigital temperature display and settings for fridge/freezer
Adaptive Defrost SystemEnergy-efficient defrost based on usage
Factory-Set Ice MakerProduces ice automatically; on/off control
Adjustable Glass ShelvesRemovable and height-adjustable for flexibility
Humidity-Controlled CrispersPreserves freshness of fruits and vegetables
Gallon Door BinsHolds large containers and beverages
Water Filtration SystemReduces impurities in water and ice
Door AlarmSounds if door is left open
Energy Saver ModeReduces energy consumption in low-humidity environments
Textured Steel ExteriorResists fingerprints and smudges

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper location and clearances.

  1. Position refrigerator: Allow at least 1 inch clearance at back and sides for ventilation.
  2. Level the refrigerator: Adjust front leveling legs to ensure door closes properly.
  3. Connect water supply: Attach water line to shut-off valve and refrigerator inlet (for ice maker/water dispenser).
  4. Plug into dedicated 115V, 60Hz AC outlet.
  5. Allow refrigerator to stabilize for 24 hours before loading food.

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

First-Time Setup

Plug in refrigerator; follow initial setup steps.

  1. Set temperatures: Press TEMP buttons to set refrigerator (recommended 37°F) and freezer (recommended 0°F).
  2. Activate ice maker: Lift wire signal arm to ON position.
  3. Flush water system: Run water through dispenser for 3 minutes to clear air and particles.
  4. Install water filter: Insert and lock filter; run water to prime.
  5. Enable features: Set door alarm, energy saver, and Sabbath mode as desired via control panel.

CAUTION! Do not overload shelves. Allow space between items for air circulation.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Control Panel: TEMP buttons for fridge/freezer, LOCK, ALARM, ENERGY SAVER, FILTER RESET, SABBATH MODE.

Temperature Settings: Refrigerator range 34°F to 46°F; Freezer range -5°F to 5°F. Lock: Press and hold LOCK for 3 seconds to disable control panel. Door Alarm: Sounds after 3 minutes if door ajar; press ALARM to disable/enable. Energy Saver: Reduces condensation; use in low-humidity environments. Filter Reset: Press after replacing water filter. Sabbath Mode: Disables lights and alarms for religious observance.

Using the Refrigerator

Organize food for optimal cooling and access.

  1. Adjust shelves: Lift and reposition as needed.
  2. Use crispers: Set humidity slider high for vegetables, low for fruits.
  3. Door bins: Store condiments, beverages; gallon bins hold large containers.
  4. Temperature monitoring: Use built-in thermometer or place appliance thermometer in center shelf.
  5. Maximize efficiency: Keep door closed; allow hot food to cool before storing.

Tip: Cover liquids and wrap foods to prevent odor transfer and drying.

Using the Freezer

Store frozen foods properly for long-term preservation.

  1. Organize: Place newer items behind older ones (first-in, first-out).
  2. Freeze fresh food: Spread items in single layer until solid, then stack.
  3. Ice storage: Ice maker bin holds up to 4 lbs of ice.
  4. Defrosting: Adaptive system minimizes frost; manual defrost not required under normal use.
  5. Power outage: Keep door closed; food stays frozen for up to 48 hours if full.

WARNING! Do not store glass containers in freezer; they may break. Avoid overpacking to allow air flow.

Water & Ice System

Water dispenser and ice maker operation.

  1. Dispense water: Press glass against paddle; release to stop.
  2. Dispense ice: Hold glass under dispenser; twist knob for crushed or cubed ice.
  3. Replace filter: Turn filter counterclockwise to remove; insert new filter and turn clockwise until it stops.
  4. Reset filter indicator: Press and hold FILTER RESET for 3 seconds.
  5. Turn ice maker on/off: Lift wire signal arm up (ON) or down (OFF).

Note: First ice production may take 24 hours. Discard first few batches.

Care & Cleaning

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

  1. Interior: Clean shelves, bins, crispers monthly.
  2. Exterior: Wipe with damp cloth; use stainless steel cleaner for textured steel.
  3. Condenser coils: Vacuum every 6 months (located at rear or bottom front grille).
  4. Door seals: Wipe with soapy water; check for tight seal.
  5. Defrost water drain: Clear if clogged (located in freezer rear wall).

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals, steam, or pressure washers. Never clean glass shelves with hot water when cold.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed; complies with NSF/ANSI standards for food storage. Energy Star® certified. Copyright © Whirlpool Corporation. For support, visit www.whirlpool.com or contact 1-800-253-1301. Model WRS321SDHZ08 manufactured for U.S. market, 115V/60Hz operation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Refrigerator not coolingPower/controls/temp settingEnsure plugged in; check circuit breaker; verify temperature setting; allow 24 hours for stabilization.
Water not dispensingFilter/water supplyReplace water filter; ensure water supply valve is on; flush system.
Ice maker not producing iceSignal arm/filter/tempEnsure signal arm is up; replace filter; freezer must be at 0°F or below.
Excessive frost in freezerDoor seal/usageCheck door seal for gaps; limit door openings; ensure food is wrapped.
Noisy operationLeveling/fan/itemsLevel refrigerator; check for items touching rear wall; ensure condenser fan is clear.
Control panel unresponsiveLock mode/powerDisable control lock (hold LOCK); check power connection.

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

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

Whirlpool Model WRS321SDHZ08 User Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025