Owner’s manual
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What is a standard size side-by-side refrigerator?
Most standard side-by-side refrigerators, including Whirlpool models like GS6SHEXNB00, measure about 30 to 36 inches wide, 67 to 70 inches tall, and 29 to 35 inches deep (depth varies most with handles and door clearance). For the exact cabinet and door-swing clearances for your unit, use the owner's manual.
Typical size ranges (what “standard” usually means)
- Width: 30 to 36 inches
- Height: 67 to 70 inches
- Depth: 29 to 35 inches
- Common cutout planning: add space for door swing and airflow
Installation clearances to plan for
Proper clearance matters as much as the refrigerator’s box dimensions.
- Allow about 1/2 inch of space on each side and the top for ventilation
- If installed next to a fixed wall, plan for about 2 inches minimum on the hinge side so the door can swing open
- If your refrigerator has an ice maker, leave extra space behind for the water line connection
- Avoid installing near heat sources (oven, radiator)
- Do not install where temperatures drop below 55°F (13°C)
Quick planning table
| What you’re measuring | What to include | Typical add-on |
|---|---|---|
| Width | Cabinet plus door swing clearance | Up to 2 inches at wall side |
| Depth | Cabinet plus handles | Often 1 to 3 inches |
| Height | Cabinet plus top ventilation | About 1/2 inch |
Why it matters
A refrigerator that “fits” by width and height can still be hard to use if the doors cannot open fully or if airflow is restricted; both issues can affect everyday access and cooling performance.
Last updated: February 2026
Why is my Whirlpool side-by-side refrigerator frosting up?
Frosting in your Whirlpool GS6SHEXNB00 side-by-side refrigerator happens when warm, humid air gets into the freezer, most often from a door that is not sealing or is being opened frequently. Start by confirming the doors close fully and the air vents are not blocked (see the owner's manual).
Most common causes (and what to check first)
- Door not closing completely because food packages or bins are in the way
- Dirty or sticky door gaskets that do not seal tightly
- Doors opened often or left ajar, especially in humid weather
- Air vents blocked by items in the freezer or refrigerator section
- Temperature settings not matched to room conditions (adjust in small steps)
Quick troubleshooting steps
- Inspect the door seal: Close a thin piece of paper in the door; it should resist being pulled out all the way around.
- Clean the gaskets: Use mild soap and warm water; dry thoroughly so the gasket seats well.
- Check for obstructions: Make sure shelves, drawers, and the ice bin are fully seated and not pushing the door open.
- Clear the vents: Keep packages away from vent openings so cold air can circulate.
- Adjust temperatures correctly: If needed, change the freezer or refrigerator control one setting at a time, then wait 24 hours before adjusting again.
What “normal” vs “not normal” looks like
| What you see | Usually normal? | What it points to |
|---|---|---|
| Light frost after lots of door openings | Yes | Humidity entering during use |
| Heavy frost on the back wall or around vents | No | Airflow restriction or door seal issue |
| Frost plus warm temps in either section | No | Vent blockage, control setting, or cooling issue |
Why it matters
Frost buildup can restrict airflow, which makes temperatures swing and can lead to soft ice cream, thawing, or longer run times. Fixing door sealing and airflow issues early helps the GS6SHEXNB00 cool evenly and defrost properly.
Last updated: February 2026
Where are the controls on a whirlpool side-by-side refrigerator?
On the Whirlpool GS6SHEXNB00 side-by-side refrigerator, the main temperature controls are inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment, and the ice maker ON/OFF switch is inside the freezer compartment at the top right. Control styles vary, but both refrigerator and freezer controls start at the factory mid-setting (see the owner's manual).
Where to look on GS6SHEXNB00
- Refrigerator temperature control: inside the refrigerator compartment (fresh food side)
- Freezer temperature control: inside the refrigerator compartment on many versions, or paired near the refrigerator control (both are described together in the manual)
- Ice maker ON/OFF switch: inside the freezer compartment, top right
- Chilled door bin control (if equipped): left-hand side of the refrigerator compartment
How the temperature controls work
The refrigerator and freezer controls adjust their own compartment temperatures:
- Turning/setting toward colder makes that compartment colder
- Turning/setting toward less cold warms that compartment slightly
- After any change, wait at least 24 hours before adjusting again
| Control | What it changes | Good starting point |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator control | Fresh food temperature | Mid-setting |
| Freezer control | Freezer temperature | Mid-setting |
| Ice maker switch | Ice production on/off | ON (unless water line is not connected) |
Common “control panel” confusion (what customers usually mean)
If you are looking for buttons on the dispenser area, note that many side-by-side models still keep the actual temperature dials/knobs inside the compartment, not on the exterior dispenser.
Why it matters
Using the correct control location prevents accidental shutoff. For example, the refrigerator will not cool if the refrigerator control is set to OFF, and ice production will stop if the ice maker switch is set to OFF.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the best brand for a side-by-side refrigerator?
There is no single “best” brand for every kitchen; the best side-by-side refrigerator brand is the one that matches your priorities for reliability, serviceability, features (ice and water), and price. If you already own a Whirlpool GS6SHEXNB00, keeping it running often comes down to maintenance and using the correct replacement parts listed in the owner's manual.
How we recommend choosing a “best” brand
Focus on the factors that affect day-to-day satisfaction and long-term ownership:
- Reliability track record for the specific model line (not just the brand name)
- Parts availability (filters, ice maker parts, door gaskets, valves)
- Ice and water system design (common source of complaints across many brands)
- Interior layout (shelf adjustability, bin space, crisper performance)
- Noise and airflow (evaporator fan, condenser fan, ventilation needs)
What matters most for side-by-side refrigerators
Side-by-sides are convenient for narrow door swing and easy access, but they rely heavily on airflow and door sealing.
| Priority | What to look for | What to maintain on your fridge |
|---|---|---|
| Clean water and good ice | Proven filtration and steady water pressure | Replace the refrigerator filter EDR5RXD1 on schedule; check the refrigerator inlet valve W10408179 if flow is weak |
| Consistent temps | Strong airflow and defrost performance | Keep vents clear; address frost issues early |
| Energy and noise | Efficient fans and good ventilation | Allow proper clearance around the cabinet (per the manual) |
If you are comparing brands, use this quick checklist
- Choose the layout and capacity that fits your kitchen first.
- Avoid paying extra for features you will not use (extra dispensers, specialty zones).
- Confirm replacement parts are easy to get for the model you are considering.
- Plan on routine upkeep: filter changes, condenser area cleaning, and door seal care.
- If you want fewer water-related issues, consider whether you truly need in-door ice and water.
Why it matters
Most “brand problems” customers experience are really system problems: water filtration, ice maker fill, door sealing, and airflow. When those systems are maintained and repaired with the correct parts, a side-by-side refrigerator like the Whirlpool GS6SHEXNB00 can deliver stable cooling and dependable daily use.
Last updated: February 2026
