Whirlpool Side-by-Side Refrigerator User Guide
Model Identification: WRS555SIHZ, Part Identifier: W11101942A
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This condensed User Guide provides essential information for your Whirlpool Side-by-Side Refrigerator. For a complete User Instructions manual, download it from www.whirlpool.com/manuals. The model number is located on the inside wall of the refrigerator compartment. For a printed copy (shipping and handling fees may apply), call 1-800-253-1301 (USA) or 1-800-807-6777 (Canada). Register your refrigerator at www.whirlpool.com (USA) or www.whirlpool.ca (Canada).
Safety First
Your safety and the safety of others are paramount. Always read and obey all safety messages provided in this manual and on your appliance.
The safety alert symbol ⚠️ indicates potential hazards that can cause death or serious injury. Safety messages are accompanied by the words "DANGER" or "WARNING":
DANGER: You can be killed or seriously injured if you do not immediately follow instructions.
WARNING: You can be killed or seriously injured if you do not follow instructions.
All safety messages will identify the hazard, explain how to reduce the risk of injury, and what can happen if instructions are not followed.
Important Safety Instructions
To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury, follow these basic precautions:
- Plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet. Do not remove the ground prong.
- Do not use an adapter or extension cord.
- Disconnect power before servicing.
- Replace all parts and panels before operating.
- Remove doors from your old refrigerator before disposal to prevent suffocation hazards.
- Use nonflammable cleaners.
- Keep flammable materials and vapors (e.g., gasoline) away from the refrigerator.
- Use two or more people to move and install the refrigerator.
- Disconnect power before installing the ice maker (if applicable).
- Use a sturdy glass when dispensing ice (on some models).
- Do not hit the refrigerator glass doors (on some models).
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
State of California Proposition 65 Warnings
WARNING: This product contains one or more chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer.
WARNING: This product contains one or more chemicals known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Proper Disposal of Your Old Refrigerator
WARNING: Suffocation Hazard
Remove doors from your old refrigerator. Failure to do so can result in death or brain damage.
Important: Junked or abandoned refrigerators are dangerous. Follow these instructions to prevent accidents:
- Take off the doors.
- Leave shelves in place so children cannot easily climb inside.
Refrigerant Disposal: Dispose of the refrigerator in accordance with Federal and Local regulations. Refrigerants must be evacuated by a licensed, EPA-certified technician.
Operating Your Refrigerator
Using the Controls
Refrigerator and freezer controls are located on the dispenser panel. The display screen enters "sleep" mode after 2 minutes of inactivity. Press any control button to reactivate the display.
Adjusting Controls
Controls are factory preset. For initial setup, ensure both refrigerator and freezer controls are set to the recommended "mid-setting" (indicated by three illuminated bars). Allow at least 24 hours between adjustments and recheck temperatures.
Temperature Adjustment Guide:
Condition | Adjustment |
---|---|
REFRIGERATOR too cold | Set REFRIGERATOR one setting lower |
REFRIGERATOR too warm | Set REFRIGERATOR one setting higher |
FREEZER too cold | Set FREEZER one setting lower |
FREEZER too warm/ too little ice | Set FREEZER one setting higher |
The set point range is "1 bar" (least cold) to "5 bars" (coldest).
Refrigerator Control: Press REFRIGERATOR TEMP to view and adjust the set point. Settings increase by 1 bar per press, cycling from 1 to 5. Changes are saved after 2 minutes of inactivity.
Freezer Control: Press FREEZER TEMP to view and adjust the set point. Settings increase by 1 bar per press, cycling from 1 to 5. Changes are saved after 2 minutes of inactivity.
Important Notes:
- Wait 24 hours before loading food to prevent spoilage.
- Setting colder temperatures does not speed up cooling.
- If temperatures are incorrect, check for blocked air vents before adjusting controls.
Crisper Humidity Control
Adjust the control between LOW (open) for fruits and vegetables with skins, and HIGH (closed) for fresh, leafy vegetables.
Ice and Water
Water and Ice Dispensers
Notes:
- The dispensing system does not operate when the freezer door is open.
- Allow 24 hours for the refrigerator to cool and chill water.
- Allow 24 hours for the first batch of ice; discard the first three batches. Wait 72 hours for full ice production.
- The dispenser control panel display enters "sleep" mode after 2 minutes of inactivity.
Flush the Water System
To remove air from the water system after connection or filter replacement, flush the system. Dispense water by pressing the lever for 5 seconds, releasing for 5 seconds, repeating until water flows, and continuing until 3 gallons (12 L) have been dispensed. Some households may require additional flushing.
The Water Dispenser
Important: Dispense at least 1 quart (1 L) of water weekly. If water flow decreases, check water pressure. To test pressure, dispense 1 cup (237 mL) of water with the filter removed. If it dispenses in 8 seconds or less, pressure is adequate. If longer, consult "Water Supply Requirements" or "Troubleshooting."
To Dispense Water: Press a sturdy glass against the dispenser lever. Hold the glass close to the spout. Remove the glass to stop dispensing. The tray below catches small spills.
The Ice Dispenser
Ice dispenses from the ice maker storage bin when the dispenser lever is pressed. Use the "Ice Type" button to select CRUSHED or CUBED ice. Crushed ice may cause a slight delay and noise.
To Dispense Ice: Ensure the correct ice type is selected. Press a sturdy glass against the dispenser lever, holding it close to the ice guide. Remove the glass to stop. Do not apply excessive pressure.
WARNING: Cut Hazard Use a sturdy glass when dispensing ice. Failure to do so can result in cuts.
Dispenser Light and Lock
The dispenser light turns on automatically when used. Press LIGHT for continuous illumination. The LED lights are not replaceable.
The dispenser can be locked (hold LOCK for 3 seconds) to prevent accidental dispensing or for cleaning. The display indicates when locked. This does not shut off power.
Ice Maker and Storage Bin
Allow 24 hours for the first ice batch; discard the first three. Water quality affects ice quality. Avoid softened water. Do not use sharp objects to break ice. Do not store items on or in the ice maker/bin.
Turning the Ice Maker On/Off: The On/Off switch is located on the freezer door wall, accessible after removing the ice storage bin. The ice maker has an automatic shut-off when the bin is full. To manually turn it on/off, use the switch (UP for ON, DOWN for OFF).
Removing and Replacing the Ice Storage Bin: Press the release lever, tilt the bin outward, and lift it out. To replace, slide the bin back in and tilt upright until it clicks.
Water Filtration System
Do not use with microbiologically unsafe water without adequate disinfection. Systems certified for cyst reduction may be used on disinfected water.
Water Filter Status Light
The filter status light indicates when to change the filter. Replace when the light turns red or water flow decreases noticeably. Replace at least every six months.
Resetting the Filter Status: After changing the filter, press and hold LIGHT and ICE TYPE for 3 seconds.
Changing the Water Filter
Style 1: Locate the filter cover door in the base grille, pull it open. The filter ejects. Pull the filter straight out. Remove the filter cap. Take the new filter, remove O-ring covers. Align the new filter with the housing (arrow pointing to hinge) and slide it in. The door will begin to close. Close the door completely to snap the filter in place. Flush the water system.
Style 2: Locate the filter cover door in the base grille, pull it open. Twist the filter 90° counterclockwise to unlock. Pull the filter out. Remove the water filter cap. Install the cap onto the new filter, aligning arrows. Insert the new filter into the housing. Twist the filter 90° clockwise to lock, aligning arrows. Push the water filter door closed.
Accessories
Available accessories include:
- affresh® Stainless Steel Cleaner: Part #W10355016 (US), #W10355016B (Canada)
- affresh® Stainless Steel Wipes: Part #W10355049 (US), #W10355049B (Canada)
- affresh® Kitchen & Appliance Cleaner: Part #W10355010 (US), #W10355010B (Canada)
- Water Filter: Style 1 - Part #EDR1RXD1, Style 2 - Part #EDR2RXD1
Order by calling 1-800-688-9901 (US) or 1-800-807-6777 (Canada), or contact an authorized Whirlpool dealer.
Troubleshooting
For troubleshooting tips, visit www.whirlpool.com/product_help or consult the full Installation Instructions and Owner's Manual.
Common Issues:
- Refrigerator Not Operating: Check power connection, outlet, fuse/breaker. Allow 24 hours after new installation for cooling.
- Refrigerator Seems Noisy: Normal operating sounds include buzzing/clicking (water valve), cracking/crashing (ice ejection), popping (wall expansion), pulsating/whirring (fans/compressor), rattling (water/refrigerant flow), water running/gurgling (defrost), sizzling (water on heater).
- Motor Seems to Run Excessively: Modern motors are energy-efficient and may run longer. This is normal, especially in warm rooms, with frequent door openings, or large food loads.
- Temperature Too Warm: Allow 24 hours after installation. Avoid frequent door openings. Ensure air vents are not blocked. Allow time for recently added warm food to cool. Adjust controls to a colder setting if needed.
- Temperature Too Cold: Adjust controls to a warmer setting. Note that the top shelf may be slightly colder than lower shelves due to air vents. Ensure air vents are not blocked.
- Interior Moisture Buildup: Some buildup is normal. Clean with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid humid environments. Minimize door openings and ensure seals are intact.
- User Interface Not Responding: Wait 10 seconds, then press a key. To exit Lock mode, press and hold the lock key for 3 seconds.
WARNING: Electrical Shock Hazard Always plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet. Do not remove the ground prong, use an adapter, or use an extension cord. Failure to follow these instructions can result in death, fire, or electrical shock.
Whirlpool Major Appliance Limited Warranty
Proof of purchase is required for warranty service.
Contact Information: Call the Whirlpool Customer Experience Center at 1-800-253-1301 (US) or 1-800-807-6777 (Canada).
Coverage: For one year from the date of purchase, Whirlpool will pay for factory-specified replacement parts and repair labor to correct defects in materials or workmanship. If the product is replaced, the warranty period continues for the remainder of the original unit's term.
Exclusions: This warranty does not cover commercial use, in-home instruction, improper installation/maintenance, consumable parts (filters, bulbs), non-genuine parts, damage from misuse, accident, fire, flood, acts of God, unauthorized service, cosmetic damage reported after 30 days, discoloration, rust, food loss, pickup/delivery, travel to remote locations, or service for appliances with altered serial numbers.
Implied Warranties: Any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose are limited to one year.
Limitation of Remedies: Whirlpool is not liable for incidental or consequential damages.