Important Safety Information
Read all instructions before using this appliance to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury. Keep this manual for future reference.
- Ensure the refrigerator is properly grounded.
- Do not use extension cords or ungrounded adapters.
- Unplug the refrigerator before cleaning or performing any maintenance.
- Keep ventilation openings clear of obstructions.
- Do not store explosive substances such as aerosol cans with a flammable propellant in this appliance.
- This appliance is intended for household use only.
Product Overview
The Midea WHS-87LW1 is a 2.4 cubic feet compact refrigerator designed for efficient cooling in various settings. It features a mechanical control system and a separate chiller compartment.
Key Features:
- Mechanical control with adjustable thermostat
- Adjustable leg for leveling
- Reversible door for flexible placement
- Energy-saving design with low noise operation
- Separate chiller compartment for short-term freezing
- Adjustable wire shelves

This image shows the Midea WHS-87LW1 compact refrigerator from an angled front view, highlighting its dimensions: 24.8 inches in height, 20.1 inches in depth, and 17.5 inches in width. The refrigerator has a white finish and a single door.
Setup Instructions
1. Unpacking
- Remove all packaging materials, including foam and adhesive tape.
- Inspect the refrigerator for any damage. Report any damage to your retailer immediately.
- Remove any internal packing and protective film from shelves and surfaces.
2. Placement
- Place the refrigerator on a flat, solid surface strong enough to support it when fully loaded.
- Allow at least 4 inches (10 cm) of space between the back and sides of the refrigerator and any adjacent walls to ensure proper air circulation.
- Avoid placing the refrigerator in direct sunlight or near heat sources (e.g., stove, heater).
- Ensure the ambient temperature is between 50°F (10°C) and 90°F (32°C) for optimal performance.
3. Leveling
The refrigerator has an adjustable leg at the front. Turn the leg clockwise to raise the refrigerator or counter-clockwise to lower it until it is level. A level refrigerator ensures proper door sealing and efficient operation.
4. Door Reversal (Optional)
The door of this refrigerator is reversible and can be hinged on either the left or right side. Refer to the detailed instructions in the separate door reversal guide (if provided) or contact customer support for assistance. This process typically involves removing hinge covers, screws, and the door, then reattaching them on the opposite side.
5. Power Connection
- Before plugging in, allow the refrigerator to stand upright for at least 2 hours. This allows the refrigerant to settle.
- Plug the refrigerator into a dedicated, grounded 120V, 60Hz AC outlet. Do not use an extension cord or a multi-outlet adapter.
- The refrigerator will begin to cool immediately. Allow several hours for the interior to reach the desired temperature before storing food.
Operating Instructions
Temperature Control
The refrigerator is equipped with a mechanical thermostat located inside the unit. To adjust the temperature:
- Locate the temperature control dial.
- Turn the dial to a setting between "1" (least cold) and "7" (coldest).
- A setting of "4" or "5" is generally recommended for normal use.
- Allow several hours for the temperature to stabilize after making adjustments.
Manual Defrost
This refrigerator features a manual defrost system for its chiller compartment. Frost buildup is normal and should be defrosted regularly to maintain efficiency.
- When frost on the chiller compartment walls reaches approximately 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick, defrost the unit.
- Remove all food items from the refrigerator and chiller compartment. Place perishable items in a cooler.
- Unplug the refrigerator from the power outlet.
- Leave the refrigerator door open to allow frost to melt naturally. You can place a towel at the bottom to absorb water. Do not use sharp objects or heating devices to speed up defrosting, as this can damage the unit.
- Once all frost has melted, clean and dry the interior thoroughly.
- Plug the refrigerator back in and allow it to cool for a few hours before returning food items.
Maintenance and Care
Cleaning the Interior
- Unplug the refrigerator before cleaning.
- Wash the interior surfaces with a solution of warm water and baking soda (2 tablespoons baking soda to 1 quart of water).
- Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry with a soft cloth.
- Clean removable parts (shelves, door racks) in warm soapy water, rinse, and dry.
Cleaning the Exterior
- Wipe the exterior with a soft cloth dampened with mild detergent and water.
- Dry thoroughly.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners or harsh solvents.
Power Outage
In case of a power outage, keep the refrigerator door closed to maintain internal temperature for as long as possible. Avoid opening the door unnecessarily.
Vacation Care
- For short vacations, leave the refrigerator operating.
- For long vacations, remove all food, unplug the refrigerator, defrost (if necessary), clean the interior, and leave the door slightly ajar to prevent odors and mold growth.
Troubleshooting Guide
Before contacting service, review this guide for common issues and solutions.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator does not operate. | Not plugged in; circuit breaker tripped; temperature control set to "OFF". | Ensure plug is secure; reset circuit breaker; set temperature control to a numerical setting. |
| Temperature is too warm. | Door opened too frequently; large amount of warm food added; poor air circulation; temperature control set too low. | Minimize door openings; allow warm food to cool before storing; ensure proper clearance around unit; adjust temperature control to a colder setting. |
| Temperature is too cold. | Temperature control set too high. | Adjust temperature control to a warmer setting. |
| Unusual noises. | Refrigerator not level; objects vibrating against the unit; normal compressor operation. | Level the refrigerator using the adjustable leg; ensure nothing is touching the unit; some operational noises (e.g., gurgling, popping) are normal. |
| Excessive frost buildup in chiller. | Door not sealed properly; frequent door openings; high humidity; manual defrost needed. | Check door gasket for proper seal; minimize door openings; perform manual defrost as instructed. |
Specifications
| Model | WHS-87LW1 |
| Brand | Midea |
| Capacity | 2.4 Cubic Feet |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 17.52 x 20.08 x 24.8 inches |
| Item Weight | 37.9 pounds |
| Noise Level | 42 Decibels |
| Installation Type | Freestanding |
| Defrost System | Manual |
| Door Hinges | Reversible |
| Shelf Type | Wire |
| Number of Shelves | 3 |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Color | White |
Warranty and Support
Warranty Information
This Midea refrigerator comes with a Full 1-Year Warranty on the entire unit and a 2-Year Warranty on the compressor. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Customer Support
For technical assistance, warranty service, or to order replacement parts, please contact Midea customer support. Refer to the contact information provided with your product documentation or visit the official Midea website for current support details.
Online Resources: For additional information and support, you may visit the Midea Store on Amazon.





