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Most people shop for a new refrigerator once every several years. Therefore, it only makes sense to do a little research before committing to buying a new one. You've probably come across the Whirlpool refrigerator with its long history and reputation as a reliable yet budget-friendly brand. Now, you might find yourself asking – why spend hundreds more on a particular Whirlpool fridge model when all refrigerators do the same thing? That is, keep food cold.

We have prepared this review so that you can easily select the ideal Whirlpool refrigerator that is suitable for your needs and your budget.

We covered all pertinent topics from Whirlpool's styling to the benefits of its climate control technology. This way, you will not miss out on the latest and the best refrigerator technology. In addition, you will know exactly which features you are most interested in.

Considering that Whirlpool offers over 100 different fridge models, following the guide below will make you feel confident about your selection.

5 Best Whirlpool Refrigerators

Multiple Door Styles to Choose From

Whirlpool Refrigerator Types

Whirlpool refrigerators come in four distinct styles: French Door Refrigerators are designed to place the most frequently used items at eye level and freezer items below. Whirlpool’s standard French door design features two doors that open up to a single refrigerator compartment at the top, and a large pullout door deep freezer at the bottom.

Whirlpool also makes innovative four or five-door models. French door fridges generally cost slightly more than other door styles as they incorporate the best and the newest technologies.

Some advantages of Whirlpool French door refrigerators include multiple water dispenser options, slide-in shelves for taller items, and enough space for wider items (e.g., pizza boxes).

Whirlpool Refrigerators
Whirlpool Refrigerator Types

Side-By-Side Refrigerators have the freezer on the left and the refrigerator on the right. This is a classic fridge design. Though the side-by-side design does not have the same elegance as that of the French doors, Whirlpool offers much of the same features for the side-by-side fridge.

Some advantages of Whirlpool side-by-side refrigerators include specialized storage (e.g., can caddy) and a space-saving water and ice maker on the freezer door.

Bottom Freezer Refrigerators have a single door refrigerator on top and a deep freezer on the bottom, similar to the French door design. Bottom freezers tend to be smaller in size than French doors and side-by-side models, and they are also lighter on features. Bottom freezers are ideal for narrower spaces.

Top Freezer Refrigerators have the freezer on top and a single door refrigerator on the bottom. In this design, the freezer takes priority, as it is easier to access. Just like the bottom freezer design, the top freezer is both small and light on features.


Seamless Counter-Depth and Large Capacity Standard Depth Models

Whirlpool makes both standard-depth as well as counter-depth refrigerators. Standard depth fridges take up more space and generally run 30 to 34 inches in depth, though they do typically have more storage space. Counter-depth fridges are designed to be aligned with the front edge of your cabinets, allowing for a more streamlined look to your kitchen.

Counter_Depth_vs_full_Depth_Refrigerator

Whirlpool gives you the option to select a fridge that works the best in your kitchen. As an example, if you have a large family and able to sacrifice on the seamless, built-in look, go for a full-depth version. On the other hand, the counter-depth design adds a modern look.

On average, a typical 36-inch wide, 70-inch high family size refrigerator has about 21-23 cu. ft. capacity as counter depth and 27-29 cu. ft. as full depth.

It is always important to size your space accordingly. Take that extra few minutes to accurately measure where the fridge is going to go and decide how much storage space you really need. Taking the time ensures that you get the best fridge the first go!


Why Should I Buy a Whirlpool Refrigerator?

Whirlpool is one of the largest refrigerator manufacturers in the US. The company catalog contains over 100 different models featuring different design styles and colors. Two factors stand out in terms of Whirlpool refrigerators: the number of storage options and their temperature/humidity control abilities. Below you will find why we consider a Whirlpool as one of the best refrigerator brands in the US.

1) Maximum Storage Options

Whirlpool has put a great deal of time and energy into how their fridges look. It offers many different customizable shelf options that allow for maximum storage capacity. Each storage space is purposefully-designed for items that you use most.

Whirlpool refrigerators also store 30% more in their class with a pantry-inspired layout.

Whirlpool Friges - Excellent Interior Space Organization

2) Superior Climate Control

In order to keep the food in your refrigerator fresh, your fridge needs to have advanced temperature/humidity control options. If the temperature and/or humidity are not controlled properly, your food will decompose at a rapid rate.

Temperature

The temperature needs to be uniform inside the fridge. Older refrigerators require you to set the temperature using a dial, and instead of setting an exact number, you set a range (usually from 0-10). Whirlpool offers the following unique temperature control options that allow you to set a drawer to just that right temperature.

  • TotalCoverage cooling – TotalCoverage cooling keeps the temperature uniform throughout the entire fridge. It not only keeps every shelf cold but helps to get rid of any warm spots. Fresh air moves from multiple vents to get into every nook and cranny of the fridge.
  • Accu-Chill - This system uses ice to cool water. Ice is formed inside the water reservoir, and as the water is used, room temperature water comes in, mixes with the ice, and quickly cools down. This means that the fridge can make a cold glass of water, even in the heat of a summer day.
  • Adaptive defrost – Some Whirlpool models employ the defrost only when necessary, and provide continuous monitoring of the freezer environment. This also helps keep your electric bill down, as the defrost only turns on when needed.
  • FreezeShield Option – In an effort to reduce freezer burn, Whirlpool has invented a FreezeShield option that reduces temperature fluctuations from the automatic defrost cycle.

Humidity
Humid air is needed for maximum preservation; however, vegetables may need more humidity compared to meat so crisper drawers become an important feature. Many Whirlpool models employ crisper drawers so that your fruits and vegetables are stored in their ideal environments.

Select Whirlpool models come with a dual cooling system that maintains the humidity inside the fridge. This not only keeps your fruits and vegetables fresh longer, but it also helps to make your fridge more energy efficient.

Air Flow and Filtration
As fruits and vegetables ripen, they naturally give off ethylene gas. The ethylene gas then sprays over other fruits and vegetables nearby and causes them to ripen faster (green leaves will turn brown, blueberries get wilted, and so on)! Good refrigerators employ filtration systems to help remove the gases given off by food. This way, the food will stay fresher for longer.

Multiple Whirlpool models come with FreshFlow air filter that is 15 times more effective than baking soda and also extends the freshness of produce up to 25%. FreshFlow filters have a status indicator, so you never forget to change them. On average, each filter should last around six months or so.

Good airflow within a refrigerator is important. As cold air circulates, there will be no warm spots left, and the temperature will be uniform inside of your fridge.

  • People always ask us - what makes a good refrigerator. Read our guide to avoid an expensive mistake.

User-Centric Conveniences

Whirlpool offers additional convivences for customers to choose from such as multiple water and ice maker options, LED lighting, and a variety of color choices.

Water and Ice Maker
Whirlpool offers a multitude of features when it comes to the water and ice maker, with the most novel being the measured fill feature.

Measured Fill – This automated system allows you to select the exact amount of filtered water that you need. Once selected, the dispenser will fill your container and automatically shut off when it is done.

Exterior water and ice are available on most Whirlpool models, which allows you to access fresh filtered water and ice without ever having to open the fridge door. Some models also feature interior water dispenser.

Ice is also available with an ice bin that has been moved to the door. This means easier access to ice and an extra shelf in the freezer. Some Whirlpool models even come with dual ice makers. One icemaker is located inside the refrigerator door, and the other is located in the freezer. Together these ice makers hold an additional 5 lbs of ice, so you are sure never to run out.

Dual-Ice-Makers

Lower-end Whirlpool fridges may not come with a factory-installed ice maker to cut down on cost and to leave more room in the freezer. However, these refrigerators are compatible with an optional icemaker kit that you can purchase later on.

Each Whirlpool fridge with an ice dispenser also comes with an internal filter to ensure that your ice and water are fresh. It is important to change out this filer every six months.

Customizable Shelving Styles
Standard across the line of Whirlpool refrigerators is their frameless glass shelves. These shelves are easy to clean, with no frames to trap unwanted crumbs and debris. Whirlpool also boasts that their shelves are spill-proof, allowing for easy cleanup and prevention of liquids from leaking below.

Whirlpool offers the classic deli drawers that allow you to store plenty of meats and cheeses.

Some additional shelving options include:

  • Can Caddy – Multiple Whirlpool models come with an in-door can caddy that frees up more shelf space and holds either cans or bottles.
  • Adjustable Gallon Door Bins – Some Whirlpool models come with adjustable gallon door bins that you can place anywhere in the door to suit your needs.

Whirlpool also employs some specialty storage shelf options, which will run up the price a bit. The first option is the infinity slide shelf, which is an adjustable center pane that you can move back and forth. The next option is the platter pocket, which is designed to hold wide flat items like brownie pans or pizza boxes. The platter pocket keeps the items tucked away and safe from stacking.

LED Lights
Whirlpool models do employ LED interior lighting to keep food looking as good as it tastes. Though these LEDs do not dim, panoramic lighting is available that provides strong lighting for all areas inside the fridge.

Colors
Though Whirlpool does offer a white and black color fridge option, stainless steel is usually preferred due to how easy it is to clean. Stainless steel also resists fingerprints and smudges, as does the sunset bronze option. Whirlpool offers two different colors of stainless steel: the traditional grey and a sleek black.


5 Best Whirlpool Refrigerators

1) Best Top Freezer: Whirlpool WRT518SZFM

Type: Top Freezer | Width: 28-inch | Height: 67 1/8-inch | Depth: 31 5/8-inch (includes door and handle) | Interior Volume: 17.6 cu. ft. (13.66 cu. ft. Refrigerator, 3.98 cu. ft. Freezer) | Ice Maker: Optional | Reversible Door: Yes | Color: Stainless Steel (Optional colors Black, Fingerprint Resistant Metallic Steel, and White)

Whirlpool Refrigerator WRT518SZFM

Why We Like It:

  • The ideal proportion of fridge and freezer space.
  • Up to date interior LED lights.
  • Reasonable price point.

This highly rated fridge with a top freezer will definitely not break the bank. The Flexi-Slide storage bin is a nice touch. It can slide from side to side to make room for taller items underneath.

Temperature controls are basic for both the fridge and freezer. However, you have the option to notch up/down the level of cooling.

Though the WRT518SZFM model is light on features, it does still allow you the perk of controlling the temperature in both the refrigerator and freezer. Its sleek design is perfect for smaller spaces.


2) Best Bottom Freezer: Whirlpool WRB329DMBM

Type: Bottom Freezer | Width: 29 5/8-inch | Height: 67-inch | Depth: 33 3/8-inch (includes door and handle) | Interior Volume: 18.7 cu. ft. (12.94 cu. ft. Refrigerator, 5.73 cu. ft. Freezer) | Ice Maker: Yes | Reversible Door: Yes | Color: Stainless Steel (Optional colors Black, White)

Whirlpool Refrigerator WRB329DMBM

Why We Like It:

  • Ice maker comes standard, no need to purchase an additional kit.
  • Modern interior with LED lights.
  • SpillProof glass shelves are easy to clean and helps prevent bacteria growth.
  • Competitively priced among other comparable brands.
  • Whirlpool's WRB322DMBM is the sibling product which is slightly larger at 33-inch width and 22 cu. ft. interior volume.

Though the bottom freezer fridge is more expensive than the top freezer models, the added features and amount of customizable storage make it hard to pass up. SpillGuard/SpillProof shelves help contain minor messes.

This model also manages temperature efficiently. Adaptive Defrost keeps your food at just the right temperature and kicks in the compressor only when needed.

On the subject of keeping food fresh, this Whirlpool refrigerator also includes the FreshFlow produce preserver cartridge.

The Whirlpool WRB329DMBM is ENERGY STAR qualified, which means that it exceeds the federal minimum standards to conserve natural resources and save you money on your energy bill.


3) Best Apartment Size: Whirlpool WRF560SEHZ

Type: French-Door | Width: 30-inch | Height: 67-inch | Depth: 33 3/8-inch (includes door and handle) | Interior Volume: 19.68 cu. ft. (13.34 cu. ft. Refrigerator, 6.34 cu. ft. Freezer) | Ice Maker: Yes | Color: Stainless Steel (Optional colors Black, White, Fingerprint Resistant Black Stainless)

Whirlpool Refrigerator WRF560SMHZ

Why We Like It:

  • Modern style for apartments. 30-inch width fits in most small kitchens. The French door design is a great upgrade over a top freezer model.
  • Humidity controlled crispers provide storage and longer food preservation.
  • Ice and water on the door are convenient.
  • This is a direct replacement of customer favorite Whirlpool WRF560SEYM with an updated interior and LED lights.

This model was designed with multiple storage options for items that you use the most. It also comes with humidity-controlled crispers (with FreshFlow cartridge) that let you store produce in its ideal environment. A full width "pantry drawer" is great to keep cheese, cold cuts, and other items organized. The condiment caddy is there for your convenience. You can simply pick this bin up and put on your table.

The Whirlpool WRF560SEHZ refrigerator also has adjustable gallon bins to allow you to maximize your storage. One additional feature to touch on is the "tuck shelf". You will simply tuck the front portion of the interior shelf out of the way, so you have room for taller items such as large pots, pitchers, and bottles.

The Whirlpool WRF560SMHZ (which replaced WRF560SMYM) is the sibling product that does not have the ice and water dispenser on the door. Don't worry; it still has an ice maker in the freezer.


4) Best French Door Refrigerator: Whirlpool WRF560SEHZ

Whirlpool refrigerator WRF560SEHZ

Why We Like It:

  • High quality finish that is fingerprint resistant and easy to clean.
  • Convenient and discreet touch controls are located right above the external water dispenser.
  • Highly flexible and functional exterior design.
  • Advanced temperature and climate control that promotes energy savings while great food preservation.

The WRF560SEHZ is an affordable model with just the right amount of technology. It has one of the best fridge interior designs in the market. You can control the temperature easily and accurately.

This is a relatively quiet as long as you have leveled the legs and provided room for airflow around the fridge (as described in the installation specifications). We noticed that some customers complain online about excessive vibration. This should not be a long-lasting issue for anyone as Whirlpool has one of the best nationwide service networks in the US.


5) Best Innovative French Door: Whirlpool WRX735SDHZ

Type: French-Door | Width: 36-inch | Height: 68 5/8-inch (70 1/8-inch with hinges) | Depth: 35 3/4-inch (includes door and handle) | Interior Volume: 24.5 cu. ft. (17.78 cu. ft. Refrigerator, 6.73 cu. ft. Freezer) | Ice Maker: Yes | Color: Stainless Steel. Fingerprint Resistant

Whirlpool Refrigerator WRX735SDHZ

Why We Like It:

  • Meaured Fill Ice/Water Dispenser eliminates baby-sitting when filling up a large cup of water.
  • The 5-Door design is unique but also functional. It provides "thaw drawer" on-demand for meat, fish, cold drinks, and more.
  • MicroEdge Glass Shelves do not have the metal frames that collect debris and block some containers. They are specially formulated to contain minor spills.

If you are looking to maximize storage space, look for further then this 5-door option. With all of the bells-and-whistles, this model is Whirlpool's greatest in terms of added features. It features a 5-temperature option drawer with a thaw setting that allows you to set custom settings for any food’s ideal environment. It also features a produce drawer with FreshFlow to keep all of your produce fresh. One other shelving accessory this model includes with the small items bin, which is designed to hold smaller items like butter and string cheese.

This model is also highly recommended if you are someone who runs out of ice often. This model has dual ice makers in the two middle drawers and an ice and water dispenser on the door.

Though the customizable storage options for the Whirlpool WRX735SDHZ are endless. The company recently overcame the cleaning challenge on the predecessor of this model with the new fingerprint resistant stainless steel finish. The line up also has other colors in white, black, and black stainless.


Conclusion

Whirlpool offers a variety of refrigerators for any budget. From 3-doors to 5-doors, the customizable storage options are endless. Though Whirlpool has not caught up to the competition in terms of smart features (e.g., wifi connectivity), the brand still offers reliable refrigerators. If you want a traditional, sleek-looking fridge with tons of storage space, Whirlpool might be the one you are looking for.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is the largest capacity Whirlpool refrigerator?

The Side-by-Side style WRS588FIHZ is the largest capacity Whirlpool refrigerator at 28 cu. ft. interior. The WRS588FIHV is the black stainless steel color of this massive fridge.

Is Gladiator fridge a Whirlpool brand?

Yes. Gladiator refrigerators are made for garage use. Gladiator excels where other fridges stall. Ambient temperature fluctuation in a garage typically causes compressors to stop working. Gladiator is able to handle such deviations in temperature.

How long is the warranty on the Whirlpool refrigerator?

Whirlpool refrigerators come with a 1-year factory warranty that covers parts and labor.