What is the bottom part of the fridge called?
On a Maytag MFF2558FEZ01 bottom-mount refrigerator, the “bottom part” most people mean is the compressor compartment (the machinery area underneath or behind the lower rear cover). The main component there is the compressor, which pumps refrigerant through the sealed cooling system.
What parts are typically in the bottom rear area?
Depending on the exact layout, the lower rear section commonly includes:
- Compressor (the pump for the sealed system)
- Condenser coil (releases heat from the refrigerant)
- Condenser fan (moves air across the condenser on many models)
- Start device/overload and wiring connections
- Drain pan (catches defrost water so it can evaporate)
For this model, a key “bottom area” sealed-system part is the refrigerator compressor W10233960.
Quick guide: “bottom of the fridge” terms
| What you see/mean | Common name | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Big black can-shaped motor | Compressor | Circulates refrigerant to create cooling |
| Hot tubing/coil near compressor | Condenser | Dumps heat so the fridge can cool |
| Water collecting underneath | Drain pan | Evaporates defrost water |
| Lower drawer area inside | Freezer compartment | Stores frozen food (not a mechanical part) |
Why it matters
Using the right name helps you order the correct Maytag refrigerator parts and troubleshoot faster. For example, “freezer drawer” issues point to slides or baskets, while “bottom rear” noises or heat point to the compressor/condenser area.
Ordering the right part
When you are ready to replace a part, match by model number MFF2558FEZ01 and the exact part ID. You can order parts from the list for this model, or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
Is it better to have a freezer on top or bottom of the refrigerator?
For most households, a bottom-freezer refrigerator like the Maytag MFF2558FEZ01 is the better choice because the fresh-food section (used most often) sits at eye level, so you bend less and access everyday items faster; top-freezer models can be more budget-friendly and slightly simpler.
Quick comparison: top vs bottom freezer
| Feature | Bottom freezer (like MFF2558FEZ01) | Top freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Everyday access | Best for fresh-food items at eye level | More bending for fresh-food items |
| Freezer access | More bending for frozen items | Frozen items at eye level |
| Organization | Often better freezer baskets and drawers | Often simpler shelves |
| Typical cost | Usually higher | Usually lower |
How to choose what is “better” for you
- Choose bottom freezer if you use the refrigerator section most and want less bending.
- Choose top freezer if you want a simpler layout and typically lower purchase cost.
- If you cook with frozen foods often, a top freezer can feel more convenient day to day.
- If you want better freezer organization, bottom-freezer drawer baskets are usually easier to sort.
- If door sealing and temperature stability matter, focus on gasket condition and door alignment more than freezer position.
Why it matters (comfort, efficiency, and maintenance)
Freezer position mostly affects ergonomics and how you organize food. Energy use depends more on habits (door-open time, room temperature, condenser cleanliness) and whether the doors seal tightly than on whether the freezer is on top or bottom.
Parts that support performance on this model
If you are trying to improve cooling consistency or reduce frost and moisture issues on the Maytag MFF2558FEZ01, these model-matched parts are commonly involved:
- Whirlpool refrigerator door gasket (gray) W10443320 (helps prevent warm air leaks)
- Whirlpool refrigerator door gasket, right (gray) W10830162 (helps prevent warm air leaks)
- Refrigerator electronic control board WPW10503278 (manages cooling cycles)
You can order replacement parts for your Maytag MFF2558FEZ01 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
Why does my Maytag bottom freezer build up ice on the bottom?
Ice building up on the bottom of the freezer in your Maytag MFF2558FEZ01 almost always happens when the defrost drain clogs. During defrost, meltwater can’t flow down the drain, so it refreezes on the freezer floor and gradually forms a thick ice sheet.
What’s happening inside the freezer
When the refrigerator goes into defrost, frost on the evaporator melts and should drain to a pan underneath the cabinet. If the drain hole or drain tube is blocked by ice, food debris, or sludge, water backs up and freezes at the lowest point.
Common causes
- Drain hole iced over from repeated partial clogs
- Debris (crumbs, packaging bits) washed into the drain trough
- Drain tube restricted or kinked behind the unit
- Door not sealing well, adding excess moisture that overwhelms the drain
- Freezer left open or not closing fully (more humid air enters)
How we recommend fixing it
- Unplug the refrigerator.
- Remove the freezer drawer/basket and take out the ice buildup (warm towels help).
- Locate the drain trough under the evaporator cover area and clear the drain hole.
- Flush the drain with hot water (a turkey baster works well) until it flows freely.
- Check the drain tube at the back for restrictions; replace the drain tube if it’s damaged.
If the drain tube is cracked, missing, or won’t clear, replacing it is the reliable fix: extension-dr W10619951.
Quick checks that prevent the ice from coming back
- Keep freezer food packages from blocking the rear air vents
- Make sure the freezer closes tightly every time
- Inspect door gaskets for gaps or tears
- Clean spills and crumbs before they wash into the drain
Door seal check (simple test)
| Check | What you do | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Dollar-bill test | Close door on a bill and pull | Easy pull = gasket leak likely |
| Visual gap check | Look for warped corners | Gaps add moisture and frost |
| Frost pattern | Heavy frost near door | Often points to air leak |
For step-by-step help on sealing issues, use: how to fix a fridge door seal.
Why it matters
A clogged defrost drain can cause recurring ice sheets, drawer rails that bind, and water leaks when the ice melts. Clearing the drain restores normal defrost drainage and keeps temperatures more stable.
If you need additional parts for your MFF2558FEZ01, order from the parts list for this model or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026





