How to remove bottom grille on GE refrigerator?
On the GE GFE28GSKJSS bottom-mount refrigerator, the bottom grille (base grille) is typically held in place with a few screws and/or snap-in tabs. We remove it by taking out any visible fasteners first, then pulling the grille straight out to release the tabs.
Steps to remove the bottom grille
- Unplug the refrigerator (or switch off power) for safety.
- Locate fasteners along the top edge of the grille (common locations are left and right corners).
- Remove screws using a Phillips screwdriver if screws are present.
- Pull the grille forward evenly from both sides to release any retaining clips.
- If it feels stuck, wiggle gently side-to-side while pulling forward; do not pry hard against plastic.
- Unplug power before working near wiring or the condenser fan area
- Remove screws first (if equipped) before pulling on the grille
- Pull straight out to avoid cracking tabs
- Keep screws in a cup so they do not get lost
- Reinstall by aligning tabs, sliding the grille into place, then reinstalling screws
If you need more clearance to work
Sometimes you need the grille off to clean under the unit or access the front leveling legs.
| Task | What to do | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Pull the refrigerator out safely | Raise the front leveling legs, pull straight out | Prevents floor damage and reduces strain |
| Push it back in | Push straight in, then lower leveling legs | Avoids kinking the water line or rolling over the cord |
We follow the same straight-out, straight-in approach described in the GFE28GSKJSS owner's manual when moving the refrigerator for access.
Why it matters
Removing the bottom grille the right way prevents broken mounting tabs, keeps the grille aligned (so airflow stays normal), and makes it easier to clean dust from the lower front area.
If you end up needing replacement parts for the grille area or other refrigerator parts, we recommend starting with the model-specific parts list, then using Sears PartsDirect to search by model number.
Last updated: February 2026
How to remove the bottom shelf of a GE fridge?
To remove the bottom shelf in your GE GFE28GSKJSS bottom-mount refrigerator, empty the shelf, tilt the front edge up, then lift up at the back and pull the shelf straight out. For the exact shelf style and track locations, use the GFE28GSKJSS owner's manual.
Steps to remove the shelf (fresh food section)
- Remove all food and bins sitting on the shelf.
- Grip the shelf near the front corners.
- Tilt the front of the shelf upward.
- Lift the back of the shelf up to unhook it from the rear track slots.
- Pull the shelf out of the refrigerator.
- Set glass shelves down gently on a flat surface.
Reinstalling the shelf
- Tilt the shelf up and line up the rear hooks with the slots in the side tracks.
- Insert the top hook(s) at the back into the slot.
- Lower the front until the shelf locks into place.
Important safety and handling tips
Glass shelves can break if they are cold and you hit them with warm water or sudden temperature changes. Use these best practices:
- Let the shelf warm to room temperature before washing.
- Wash with mild soap and lukewarm water.
- Avoid bumping the shelf edges on the door liner or cabinet walls.
- Do not put plastic refrigerator parts in the dishwasher.
Shelf types you may see on this model
Some versions use specialty shelves (for example, split or slide-back designs). This quick comparison helps you know what to expect.
| Shelf type | What it does | Removal method |
|---|---|---|
| Standard spillproof shelf | Helps contain small spills | Tilt front up, lift back, pull out |
| Split slide-back style (Quick Space type) | Creates room for tall items below | Same removal steps; the back half typically stays fixed |
Why it matters
Removing the shelf the right way prevents cracked tempered glass, broken shelf supports, and misaligned tracks that can make the shelf sit unevenly and rattle.
For more GE refrigerator how-to help, we also recommend how to remove a GE french door refrigerator flipper mullion. If your issue is related to doors not closing or sealing after moving shelves, that guide often points to the root cause.
You can also find diagrams and replacement items for your refrigerator by searching your model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the most common problem with GE profile refrigerators?
The most common problems we see on GE Profile refrigerators like the GE GFE28GSKJSS involve the ice maker and water dispenser (no ice, slow water, leaks) and cooling complaints (warm temperatures, frost buildup, noisy fan). These usually trace back to restricted airflow, dirty condenser coils, or water supply issues.
Most common issues and likely causes
- Ice maker not making ice or small cubes: clogged water filter, low water pressure, frozen fill tube, failing water inlet valve
- Water dispenser slow or not dispensing: restricted filter, air in the line, kinked supply line, low house pressure
- Water leaking inside or under the refrigerator: blocked defrost drain, loose water line connection, cracked reservoir
- Not cooling well (fresh food warm, freezer OK or both warm): dirty condenser coils, evaporator fan problem, damper/airflow issue
- Door alarm beeping: door not sealing, door not fully closing, alarm setting needs reset
Quick checks we recommend first
- Make sure doors close fully; remove items that block the gasket.
- Set temps to typical targets: 37°F fresh food, 0°F freezer.
- Clean condenser coils and confirm the condenser fan area is clear.
- Verify steady water supply; shutoff valve fully open, line not kinked.
- Replace the water filter on schedule; flush several gallons after.
Symptom-to-next-step guide
| Symptom | Most likely area | Best next step |
|---|---|---|
| Door alarm keeps sounding | Door seal or alarm setting | Use how to reset the door alarm on a GE refrigerator |
| Slow water at dispenser | Filter restriction or air | Follow how to replace the water filter in a GE refrigerator |
| No ice production | Water supply or fill | Review how to prevent water dispenser and ice maker problems |
| Warm temperatures | Airflow or fan | Check GE refrigerator error codes |
Why it matters
Ice/water and cooling problems often share root causes (restricted airflow or water flow). Fixing the basics early helps protect food temperatures and reduces compressor run time.
For model-specific settings and maintenance, use the GFE28GSKJSS owner's manual. For replacement parts, use the diagrams for this model or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026





