Whirlpool Refrigerator - User Manual and Installation Guide
Models: MWRF220SEEM, MWRF220SEHM, MWRF220SEHV
Important Safety Instructions
Your safety and the safety of others are very important. This manual contains important safety messages. Always read and obey all safety messages.
Safety Symbol: This symbol ⚠️ alerts you to potential hazards that can cause death or injury to you and others.
Safety messages will be preceded by a safety-alert symbol and the word "DANGER" or "WARNING". These words mean:
- DANGER: If you do not follow instructions immediately, you can be killed or seriously injured.
- WARNING: If you do not follow instructions, you can be killed or seriously injured.
All safety messages will tell you the potential hazard, how to reduce the chance of injury, and what can happen if instructions are not followed.
Basic Safety Precautions:
- Connect to a grounded 3-prong wall outlet.
- Do not remove the ground prong.
- Do not use an adapter.
- Do not use an extension cord.
- Disconnect power before servicing.
- Replace all parts and panels before operating.
- If the power cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent, or a qualified person.
- Children should be supervised to ensure they do not play with the appliance.
- Remove the doors from your old refrigerator.
- Use a non-flammable cleaner.
- Keep flammable materials and vapors, such as gasoline, away from the refrigerator.
Moving and Installation: Use two or more people to move and install the refrigerator. Disconnect power before installing the ice maker.
Installation Instructions
Unpacking the Refrigerator
Important: Do not remove the white foam insert located behind the control panel in the ceiling of the refrigerator. Removing it may cause ice to fall from the freezer and form icicles.
Remove tape and glue residue from surfaces before turning on the refrigerator. Use a little liquid dish detergent on your fingers to rub the adhesive. Clean with warm water and dry. Do not use sharp instruments, rubbing alcohol, flammable liquids, or abrasive cleaners to remove tape or glue residue, as these products can damage the refrigerator's surface.
Glass Shelves and Tops: Do not clean cold glass shelves and tops with hot water. They may break if exposed to sudden temperature changes or impact. Tempered glass is designed to shatter; this is normal. Glass shelves and tops are heavy; use both hands when removing them.
Electrical Requirements
Warning: Electrical Shock Hazard. Connect to a grounded 3-prong wall 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.
A 127V~, 60 Hz, AC only power source with a 15 or 20 A fuse is required. A separate circuit for the refrigerator is recommended. Use a receptacle that cannot be turned off by a switch. Do not use an extension cord.
Location Requirements
Warning: Explosion Hazard. Keep flammable materials and vapors, such as gasoline, away from the refrigerator. Failure to follow this instruction can result in death, explosion, or fire.
Ensure adequate ventilation: Allow 1/2" (1.25 cm) clearance on each side and the top, and 1" (2.54 cm) clearance at the back. If your refrigerator has an ice maker, ensure extra space at the back for water line connections. If installing near a fixed wall, allow a minimum of 2" (5.08 cm) on the hinge side for door clearance.
Temperature Range: This refrigerator is designed for ambient temperatures between 55°F (13°C) and 110°F (43°C). For optimal performance, the preferred room temperature range (reducing electricity use and providing superior cooling) is between 60°F (15°C) and 90°F (32°C). Avoid installing near heat sources like ovens or radiators.
Removing and Reinstalling Doors and Drawer Front
You may need to remove doors to fit the refrigerator through doorways. This process requires two people and specific tools: 5/16" hex socket, 1/4" and 3/8" wrenches, Torx T27 screwdriver, Phillips #2 screwdriver, and flat-head screwdriver.
To Remove Doors and Hinges:
- Unplug the refrigerator or disconnect power.
- Remove the base grille.
- Starting with the right door, remove the upper hinge parts. Lift and remove the door from the lower hinge pin.
- Remove and save the lower hinge pin cover.
- Remove the upper hinge cover from the left refrigerator door.
- Remove the upper hinge components. Lift the left door from the lower hinge pin.
To Reinstall Doors and Hinges:
- Assemble upper hinge components. Do not fully tighten screws yet.
- Reinstall lower hinge components and tighten screws. Place the refrigerator door back on.
- Align the door so its base is even with the top of the freezer drawer. Tighten all screws.
- Replace the upper hinge covers.
Removing and Reinstalling the Freezer Drawer Front
This may require two people.
To Remove Drawer Front:
- Open the freezer drawer fully.
- Loosen the four screws securing the drawer slides to the drawer front.
- Lift the drawer front up and off the screws.
- Remove the three screws securing each leveler/roller assembly on the sides of the housing and remove the assemblies.
To Reinstall Drawer Front:
- Align the leveler/roller assemblies with the holes on the refrigerator housing and reinstall them with the screws. Tighten screws completely.
- Slide the drawer slides out of the freezer compartment. Insert screws into the top of the drawer front, into the slots on the drawer supports.
- Pull the drawer supports forward to align the two screws on the base of the drawer front into the supports and tighten all four screws completely.
- Replace the base grille.
Final Steps
Warning: Electrical Shock Hazard. Connect to a grounded 3-prong wall outlet. Failure to follow these instructions can result in death, fire, or electrical shock.
- Connect to a grounded 3-prong wall outlet.
- Replace all removable parts, the drawer, and food items into the refrigerator and freezer.
Water Supply Connection
Water Supply Requirements: A cold water supply with water pressure between 30 and 120 psi (207 and 827 kPa) is needed for the water dispenser and ice maker. Call a qualified plumber if you have questions about water pressure.
Reverse Osmosis Water Supply: If connecting a reverse osmosis water filtration system, the water pressure to the system should be a minimum of 40-60 psi (276-414 kPa).
Water Connection: Read all instructions before starting. All installations must comply with local plumbing requirements.
Tools Required: Flat-head screwdriver, 7/16" and 1/2" wrenches, 1/4" nut wrench, adjustable wrenches, 1/4" drill bit, cordless drill.
Style 1 Connection:
- Unplug the refrigerator.
- Shut off the main water supply. Open the nearest water faucet to empty the water line.
- Locate a cold water pipe (1/2" to 1 1/4" vertical pipe) near the refrigerator. Ensure it is a cold water pipe. If using a horizontal pipe, drill into the top side.
- Determine the required copper tubing length, adding 7 feet (2.1 m) for clearance. Use 1/4" OD copper tubing.
- Drill a 1/4" hole into the chosen cold water pipe.
- Attach the shut-off valve to the cold water pipe using a pipe clamp. Ensure the outlet end is inserted into the drilled hole and the washer is below the clamp. Tighten the pressure nut. Tighten clamp screws evenly. Do not overtighten.
- Slide the compression sleeve and nut onto the copper tubing. Insert the tubing end into the valve outlet at a right angle. Screw the compression nut onto the outlet using an adjustable wrench. Do not overtighten.
- Place the free end of the tubing in a container or sink and OPEN the main water supply. Flush the tubing until water runs clear. CLOSE the shut-off valve. Coil the copper tubing.
Style 2 Connection:
- Unplug the refrigerator.
- Remove and discard the black plastic cap from the rear water tube.
- Screw the provided nut onto the water valve as shown. Hand-tighten, then tighten two turns with a wrench. Do not overtighten.
- If the supplied gray water tube is not long enough, you may need a 1/4" x 1/4" (6.35 mm x 6.35 mm) coupling. Screw the provided nut onto the coupling. Hand-tighten, then tighten two turns with a wrench. Do not overtighten.
- OPEN the shut-off valve.
- Check for leaks and tighten any leaking nuts or connections.
Connecting to the Refrigerator:
- Unplug the refrigerator.
- Attach the copper tubing to the valve inlet using a compression nut and sleeve. Adjust the compression nut. Do not overtighten.
- Use the pipe clamp at the rear of the refrigerator to secure the tubing to the refrigerator, preventing damage when pushing it back against the wall.
- OPEN the shut-off valve.
- Check for leaks and adjust any leaking connections or nuts.
Installation and Removal of Handles
Parts included: 2 refrigerator door handles, 1 freezer drawer handle. Required tool: 1/8" (0.31 cm) L-hex wrench.
Installing Door Handles:
- Remove handles from packaging.
- Open one refrigerator door. On the other door, place the handle over the stop screws with the set screws facing the adjacent door.
- Push the handle firmly against the door until its base is flush.
- Insert the small end of the L-hex wrench into the top hole and turn slightly to engage the set screw.
- Tighten the set screw clockwise until snug.
- Repeat for the lower set screw. Tighten snugly, then an additional quarter turn.
- Repeat steps 2-6 for the other refrigerator door.
Installing Drawer Handle:
- With the freezer drawer closed, place the handle over the stop screws with the set screws facing down.
- Push the handle firmly against the drawer until its base is flush.
- Insert the small end of the L-hex wrench into the left side hole and turn slightly to engage the set screw.
- Tighten the set screw by turning it clockwise a quarter turn at a time until snug.
- Repeat steps 3 and 4 for the right set screw. Tighten snugly, then an additional quarter turn.
Removing Handles: While holding the handle, insert the L-hex wrench into a set screw hole and turn to loosen. Repeat for the other set screw. Slowly pull the handle away from the door or drawer. Use a Phillips screwdriver if necessary to remove stop screws.
Door Closing and Alignment
Important: Retract rollers completely to lower the refrigerator before making adjustments.
Door Closing:
The base grille covers the leveling legs and rollers. Remove the grille and move the refrigerator to its final location for adjustments.
- Remove the base grille.
- Move the refrigerator to its final location. (To slide more easily, lift leveling legs by turning them counter-clockwise. Front rollers will touch the floor.)
- To help doors close, use the L-hex wrench to turn both leveling legs clockwise. This raises the front of the refrigerator, tilting it slightly backward. Turn both legs an equal amount.
- Open both doors to check closure. If necessary, tilt the refrigerator slightly more backward by turning the leveling legs clockwise further.
- Replace the base grille.
Door Alignment:
If the space between doors or the freezer drawer appears uneven, adjust as follows:
- Remove the upper hinge cover.
- Loosen the upper hinge screws using a 5/16" socket or wrench.
- Have someone hold the door in place or place a spacer between the doors and drawer.
- Tighten the upper hinge screws once the door is in the desired position.
- Replace the upper hinge cover.
Filters and Accessories
Air Filter Installation:
The air filter reduces odor buildup and helps maintain a cleaner environment. Some models include an air filter in the accessory package; install it before use. Some models have it factory-installed.
- Remove the old filter by squeezing the side tabs inward.
- Install the new filter and reattach the status indicator according to previous instructions.
Air Filter Status Indicator: The control panel displays the filter status: GOOD (Blue icon), ORDER (Yellow icon), REPLACE (Red icon, flashing "Replace Filter"), EXPIRED (Red icon, flashing "Replace Filter"). Reset the indicator by pressing and holding the AIR FILTER button for 3 seconds after replacement.
Fresh Food Preserver Installation:
The accessory package includes two FreshFlow™ preserver bags to be installed in a crisper drawer. Use both bags for best performance. The preserver absorbs ethylene to slow ripening. Ethylene production and sensitivity vary by fruit/vegetable type.
- Remove FreshFlow™ bags from packaging.
- Lift the housing to remove it from the mounting tab.
- Open the housing by pulling upward and outward on the rear of the top section.
- Place both bags inside the housing and snap it shut.
- Place the housing back onto the mounting tab.
Installing the Filter Status Indicator: Activate the indicator by pressing the bubble on its back until it pops. Slide the housing cover open, place the indicator inside facing out, and close the cover. Ensure the indicator is visible through the cover's rectangular opening.
Replacing Fresh Food Preserver: Replace bags every 6 months or when the indicator changes from white to red. Contact for replacements.
Accessories:
Available accessories include Affresh® cleaners, air filters, water filters, and more. Contact the Whirlpool Contact Center for ordering.
Using Your Refrigerator
Opening and Closing Doors:
The refrigerator has two doors. A vertical gasket on the left door folds inward when opened. When closed, the gasket forms a seal between the doors.
Changing the Water Filter:
The disposable water filter should be replaced every 6 months or when the filter status indicator lights up and flashes. Locate the filter in the upper right compartment. Lift the filter cover to open; the filter will release and slide out. Pull the filter out. Rinse the water system after connecting water supply or replacing the filter. Dispense 4 gallons (15 L) of water to flush the system.
Dispensing Water:
Press a sturdy glass against the dispenser paddle. Remove the glass to stop water flow. The dispenser light turns on automatically when used. It can be turned on continuously by pressing the LIGHT button.
Fast Cool (Rapid Cooling):
Press FAST COOL to set the freezer and refrigerator to their coldest temperature settings. Press again to return to the selected temperature. The Fast Cool icon will illuminate. The feature automatically turns off after 24 hours.
Humidity Control:
The humidity control activates a heater to reduce moisture on the door gasket. Use in humid environments or when moisture is noticed on the gasket. The refrigerator uses more energy when Humidity Control is on. The humidity control icon will light up when active.
Water Filter Status Light:
Press and hold WATER FILTER for 3 seconds to reset the water filter status to "Good" (Blue icon).
Air Filter Status Light:
Press and hold AIR FILTER for 3 seconds to reset the air filter status to "Good" (Blue icon).
Water Dispenser:
The dispenser will not function when the refrigerator door is open. The display will go into "sleep" mode after 2 minutes of inactivity.
Important: Allow 3 hours for the refrigerator to cool and chill water. Allow 24 hours for the first batch of ice. Discard the first three batches of ice.
Ice Maker Operation:
The ice maker should produce approximately 8-12 batches of ice in 24 hours. Allow 3 days for the ice bin to fill completely. Adjust freezer/refrigerator temperatures lower to increase ice production. Avoid connecting to soft water supply. Do not use sharp instruments to break ice.
Troubleshooting
Refrigerator Not Functioning:
Check electrical supply, controls, and recent installation. Ensure cooling is ON. Allow 24 hours for cooling after installation.
Motor Seems to Run Excessively:
This is normal for larger, more efficient refrigerators. It's also normal if the refrigerator runs longer due to high ambient temperatures or recently added warm food. Open doors less frequently. Ensure the refrigerator is level and not blocked.
Lights Not Working:
Check for loose or burned-out bulbs. Replace with appropriate appliance bulbs (max 25W). The dispenser light may only work when the dispenser paddle is pressed.
Noises:
Newer refrigerators may operate more quietly, making intermittent noises more noticeable. Normal operating sounds include compressor and fan noise, interior wall contraction/expansion, refrigerant flow, and vibration. Ensure the refrigerator is level to prevent vibration. Secure water lines if they rattle against the cabinet.
Temperature Too High/Low:
Check control settings, ensure cooling is ON, and that air vents are not blocked. Reduce door openings. Ensure the ice bin is not blocking airflow. If the room is humid, condensation may form.
Frost/Ice Buildup:
Minimize door openings. Ensure door seals are clean and making full contact. Check temperature settings.
Ice Maker Issues:
Ensure water supply is connected and the shut-off valve is open. Check for kinks in the water line. Ensure the ice maker is ON. Allow 24 hours for initial ice production and discard the first few batches. If ice cubes are hollow or small, check water pressure and the water filter. If ice has bad taste/odor, discard and flush the water system.
Water Leaks:
Check water line connections for tightness. Ensure the refrigerator is properly installed and leveled.
Doors Not Closing Properly:
Ensure no food packages are blocking the doors. Check for obstructions. Clean door gaskets. Ensure the refrigerator is level.
Warranty Policy (Mexico)
This warranty covers manufacturing defects, parts, and labor for Whirlpool, Maytag, and Acros appliances. It excludes issues related to improper use, commercial use, incorrect installation, voltage fluctuations, cosmetic damage, unauthorized repairs, and normal wear and tear.
To Claim Warranty: Contact the Whirlpool Contact Center. Present the warranty policy and proof of purchase. Repairs are typically completed within 30 days.
Warranty Term: One year on all components and labor. An additional two years on the sealed refrigeration system (compressor, evaporator, etc.), excluding labor.
Whirlpool Service
For service or assistance, read your manual and contact the Whirlpool Contact Center. Have your purchase receipt, warranty, model number, and serial number ready. Visit the Whirlpool Mexico service website or call the provided phone numbers.
Check out the Whirlpool Service Mexico YouTube channel for usage recommendations.