Can you lay a Whirlpool refrigerator on its side?
Yes. For Whirlpool model GD5RHAXNB00, we lay the refrigerator on its side only (never on the front or back). If it stays on its side for an extended time, set it upright and wait 8 hours before plugging it back in so the sealed system can stabilize; see the GD5RHAXNB00 owner's manual.
- Unplug the refrigerator and remove food, bins, and loose shelves.
- Keep it on its side, not the front or back.
- Avoid wiggling or “walking” the refrigerator; that can damage floors.
- Protect glass shelves and covers; avoid impacts and sudden temperature changes.
- Once in place, stand it upright and wait 8 hours before restarting.
| Step | What we do | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Set the unit upright in its final spot | Lets oil/refrigerant settle properly |
| 2 | Wait 8 hours (if it was on its side for a while) | Helps prevent compressor stress |
| 3 | Plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet (no adapter/extension cord) | Reduces shock and overheating risk |
| 4 | Confirm clearance (about 1/2 inch sides/top; more near walls) | Ensures proper ventilation and door swing |
Laying a refrigerator incorrectly (front or back) or restarting too soon can push compressor oil into the wrong places and lead to poor cooling or premature sealed-system wear. Moving it carefully also prevents floor damage and broken tempered glass.
If the move leads to water or ice issues, these model-compatible parts are common fixes:
- Refrigerator inlet valve W10408179 (water dispenser or ice maker not filling)
- Refrigerator filter EDR5RXD1 (slow water flow, bad taste/odor)
- Whirlpool refrigerator ice maker assembly 2198597 (no ice production)
To order replacement parts for GD5RHAXNB00, use the parts list for this model or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How big is the Whirlpool model GD5RHAXNB00?
The Whirlpool GD5RHAXNB00 is a full-size side-by-side refrigerator. For the exact “how big” specs (total capacity in cubic feet plus exterior height, width, and depth including handles), use the published measurements in the GD5RHAXNB00 owner's manual.
Most customers are trying to confirm fit in a kitchen opening or compare storage space.
- Total capacity (cu. ft.): overall food storage volume
- Overall width: whether it fits a standard 36-inch cutout
- Overall height: cabinet clearance and leveling range
- Overall depth: how far it projects past counters (especially with handles)
- Door swing clearance: space needed to fully open doors and bins
These ranges help with planning; confirm the exact GD5RHAXNB00 numbers in the manual before moving the unit or ordering cabinetry.
| Measurement | Typical range for this refrigerator style |
|---|---|
| Width | 35 to 36 inches |
| Height | 69 to 71 inches |
| Depth without handles | 32 to 34 inches |
| Depth with handles | 34 to 36 inches |
Use the manual specs plus a quick site measurement so the refrigerator cools properly and the doors open fully.
- Measure the opening width at top, middle, and bottom
- Measure height to the lowest cabinet, trim, or soffit
- Measure depth to the front edge of counters and note nearby walls
- Plan clearance for airflow behind and above the cabinet
- Confirm water line routing for the dispenser and ice maker
Correct sizing prevents blocked door swing, restricted airflow (warm temps), and pinched water lines. If you are planning service access, leave room to maintain items like the refrigerator filter EDR5RXD1.
You can order GD5RHAXNB00 replacement parts from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How do I find the model number on my GD5RHAXNB00?
The model number and serial number for your Whirlpool GD5RHAXNB00 are printed on the model and serial number label inside the refrigerator compartment. Open the fresh food (refrigerator) door and look for the label on an inside wall.
On this Whirlpool side-by-side refrigerator, the label is typically easy to spot once the refrigerator door is open.
- Open the refrigerator (fresh food) door, not the freezer door
- Look along the inside walls of the refrigerator compartment
- Check near the crisper area and side walls where labels are commonly placed
- Write down the complete model number and serial number exactly as shown
- Keep the information with your records for parts ordering and service
| Item on the label | What it’s used for |
|---|---|
| Model number (GD5RHAXNB00) | Matching the correct parts diagrams and replacement parts |
| Serial number | Identifying the production run and version details |
| Electrical ratings | Verifying power requirements and safe servicing |
Using the complete model number helps us match the correct Whirlpool parts for your exact configuration (ice maker, water filter system, dispenser components). It also prevents ordering a look-alike part that will not fit.
The location of the model and serial number label is described in the GD5RHAXNB00 owner's manual.
Last updated: March 2026





