How big is the KitchenAid KSSP42QMS01?
The KitchenAid built-in refrigerator model KSSP42QMS01 is a 42-inch class side-by-side unit. For the exact overall dimensions (width, height, depth, and required clearances), use the specifications section in the owner's manual.
When customers ask about size, we typically look at these measurements:
- Overall width (cabinet and door)
- Overall height (to top of cabinet or hinge cover)
- Overall depth (with and without handles)
- Cutout opening (built-in cavity size)
- Clearances (door swing, ventilation, and service access)
These are common ranges for 42-inch class built-in refrigerators; confirm your exact numbers in the manual before ordering panels or modifying cabinetry.
| Measurement | Typical range for 42-inch class built-ins | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Width | ~41 1/2 to 42 inches | Fit in the cutout and align with surrounding cabinets |
| Height | ~83 to 84 inches | Matches tall cabinet openings and trim |
| Depth | ~24 to 27 inches (cabinet), deeper with doors/handles | Determines how far the unit projects past cabinetry |
Use a tape measure and record to the nearest 1/8 inch.
- Measure width at the widest point (often the hinge side or trim)
- Measure height from floor to the highest point (leveling legs can change this)
- Measure depth from the back to the front edge of the door, then again to the front of the handle
- If it is installed, also measure the cutout opening and note any trim or panels
Built-in refrigerators like the KSSP42QMS01 rely on correct cutout sizing and airflow. Getting the exact width, height, depth, and clearance requirements right helps prevent door interference, poor cooling from restricted ventilation, and costly cabinet rework.
Last updated: February 2026
Why is my KitchenAid refrigerator not getting cold?
If your KitchenAid KSSP42QMS01 is not getting cold, the most common causes are blocked airflow, doors being opened too often, or temperature controls set incorrectly. Start by confirming the set points (freezer: -5°F to 6°F; refrigerator: 34°F to 46°F) in the owner's manual, then check for anything preventing cold air from circulating.
- Make sure air vents in both compartments are not blocked by food packages.
- Confirm the doors close fully and are not being held open by bins or shelves.
- Verify the temperature set points; change only 1°F at a time and wait 24 hours between adjustments.
- If your model has digital controls, turn the unit OFF then ON to reset the controls.
- After adding a large amount of food, allow several hours for temperatures to recover.
| Control | Normal set point range | What to do if too warm |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer | -5°F to 6°F | Set 1°F colder; wait 24 hours |
| Refrigerator | 34°F to 46°F | Set 1°F colder; wait 24 hours |
Good cooling depends on steady airflow from the freezer to the fresh food section.
- Warm refrigerator, colder freezer: often points to blocked vents or an airflow problem.
- No fan sound, weak airflow: the evaporator fan area may need attention; see how to fix your evaporator cooling fan.
- Temperatures drift or swing: a sensor issue is possible; the refrigerator thermistor WP2188820 is one component involved in temperature sensing.
When airflow is restricted or controls are mis-set, the refrigerator can run longer, food can warm into unsafe ranges, and frost or moisture problems can increase. Correct set points and clear vents usually restore normal cooling without replacing major parts.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the most common problem with KitchenAid refrigerators?
The most common KitchenAid refrigerator problems are cooling performance issues and ice maker or dispenser troubles. On the KitchenAid KSSP42QMS01 built-in side-by-side, these symptoms are often tied to airflow (evaporator fan), temperature sensing, or water supply and filtration.
- Refrigerator section too warm or temperatures swing
- Freezer too warm or heavy frost buildup
- Ice maker slow, no ice, or small/hollow cubes
- Dispenser won’t dispense ice or water consistently
- Unusual fan noise from the freezer area
- Water leaking or puddles near the unit
Start with these basics before replacing parts:
- Confirm controls are set to normal temps (about 37°F fresh food, 0°F freezer)
- Clean condenser coils and ensure the grille area has good airflow
- Make sure doors seal fully and aren’t held open by bins or food packages
- If water or ice is weak, replace the water filter and flush several gallons
- If the freezer is frosty, check for blocked vents and signs of a defrost drain issue
| Symptom | Common area | Example part on this model |
|---|---|---|
| Warm temps, poor airflow, fan noise | Evaporator airflow | Refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2169142 |
| Temps fluctuate or run too cold/warm | Temperature sensing | Refrigerator thermistor WP2188820 |
| Weak water flow, bad taste, ice issues | Filtration and water flow | Refrigerator filter EDR5RXD1 |
Cooling and ice maker complaints often share the same root causes: restricted airflow, inaccurate temperature feedback, or restricted water flow. Fixing the underlying cause protects food quality, improves ice production, and reduces strain on sealed system components.
For model-specific operating and care steps (including warranty coverage details), use the owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
How to reset a KitchenAid side-by-side refrigerator?
To reset your KitchenAid KSSP42QMS01 side-by-side built-in refrigerator, we recommend doing a simple power reset: turn the unit OFF then ON again at the controls, or cycle power to reboot the control system. This often clears minor dispenser glitches and temporary control errors.
- Control reset (digital controls): turn the refrigerator OFF, wait about 30 seconds, then turn it ON.
- Power cycle reset: unplug the refrigerator (or switch the circuit breaker OFF), wait 2 to 5 minutes, then restore power.
- Master Alarm Reset (for alarm conditions): press the POWER (ON/OFF) key twice, or turn power OFF and ON again.
- Over Temperature alarm: press OVER TEMPERATURE RESET to silence the alarm; press it a second time to turn off the indicator light (once temperatures are back to normal).
- If possible, set the controls to OFF.
- Unplug the refrigerator or turn the breaker OFF.
- Wait 2 to 5 minutes (this lets the control board fully discharge).
- Restore power.
- Turn the controls ON and allow 24 hours for temperatures to stabilize.
| Symptom | Reset helps most when | If it comes back quickly, check |
|---|---|---|
| Ice or water dispenser not responding | Control is temporarily “stuck” | Filter restriction, dispenser switch, door/ice chute issues |
| Over Temperature alarm | Temp has returned to normal | Door left open, airflow blocked, heavy warm load |
| Not cooling after a power event | Controls need reboot | Air vents blocked, evaporator fan issue, sealed system problem |
A reset restores normal control logic after a power interruption or minor electronic fault. If the refrigerator is still not cooling after a reset, the issue is usually airflow, temperature sensing, or a component problem rather than a control “glitch.”
- Use the control and alarm reset steps exactly as shown in the owner's manual.
- If water flow is weak or tastes off, follow how to replace the water filter in a KitchenAid refrigerator and confirm you are using the correct filter for KSSP42QMS01, such as refrigerator filter EDR5RXD1.
Last updated: February 2026





