Owner’s manual
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What is the advantage of a bottom mount fridge?
A bottom-mount refrigerator like the KitchenAid KFCP22EXMP1 keeps the fresh-food compartment at eye and waist level, so you reach everyday items with less bending. The freezer stays below, which is convenient if you use frozen foods less often (and it can feel easier on your back and knees). See the owner's manual for layout and feature details specific to your unit.
Key benefits you will notice day to day
- Easier access to fresh food: shelves and crisper drawers are higher up.
- Less bending: you do not have to crouch as often for milk, produce, and leftovers.
- Better organization for fresh items: more usable space at comfortable viewing height.
- Freezer storage stays separate: baskets and drawers keep frozen items contained.
- Good fit for families who cook often: fresh ingredients are quicker to grab.
Bottom-mount vs top-mount: quick comparison
| Feature | Bottom-mount (KFCP22EXMP1 style) | Top-mount |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh-food access | Best (most-used area is higher) | Good, but lower shelves require more bending |
| Freezer access | Requires bending more often | Easier to reach |
| Best for | Frequent fresh-food use | Frequent frozen-food use |
Why it matters
Most households open the refrigerator section far more than the freezer. Putting the refrigerator compartment up top reduces strain and makes it faster to load groceries, prep meals, and see what you have before food gets forgotten.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the bottom part of a refrigerator called?
On a KitchenAid bottom-mount refrigerator like model KFCP22EXMP1, the “bottom part” most people mean is the compressor area (the machinery compartment that houses the compressor and related cooling components). Some models also have a toe grille at the very bottom front.
What you might be referring to
Depending on where you’re looking, the bottom of a refrigerator can mean different parts:
- Toe grille: the vented cover at the bottom front; it helps airflow and hides components.
- Machine compartment: the lower rear area where the cooling system components sit.
- Compressor: the pump that circulates refrigerant; it is commonly located in the lower rear.
- Condenser fan and coil: parts that remove heat from the refrigerant; often near the compressor.
- Bottom freezer section (on bottom-mount units): the freezer drawer and basket area.
Common “bottom” parts for KFCP22EXMP1
These are examples of parts on this model page that relate to the bottom/front or bottom/rear areas:
| What you see | What it’s called | Example part on this model page |
|---|---|---|
| Bottom front vent/cover | Toe grille | Refrigerator grille WPW10534155 |
| Lower rear cooling system | Compressor area | Refrigerator compressor W10233960 |
| Lower rear airflow | Condenser fan motor | Refrigerator condenser fan motor W11613295 |
Why it matters
Using the right name helps you get the correct replacement part and the right repair steps. For example, a broken toe grille is usually cosmetic and airflow-related, while a compressor area issue can affect cooling performance.
Where to confirm the exact terminology
We recommend checking the labeled diagrams and part names for your exact configuration in the owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the most common problem with KitchenAid refrigerators?
For KitchenAid refrigerators like model KFCP22EXMP1, the most common issues we see are ice maker and water system problems (no ice, slow ice, poor water flow) and cooling/temperature complaints caused by airflow restrictions, dirty condenser areas, or a failing fan. Use the owner's manual to confirm your model’s specific checks and settings.
Most common symptoms (and what they usually point to)
- Ice maker not making ice or slow production: restricted water supply, clogged filter, or ice maker failure
- Warm refrigerator section, freezer seems OK: airflow/damper issue or evaporator fan problem
- Both sections warm: condenser airflow problem, compressor start components, or control issue
- Noisy humming, rattling, or clicking: fan blade rubbing, fan motor wearing out, or start components cycling
- Frost buildup or uneven temps: airflow blockage, door sealing issues, or defrost-related problems
Quick checks we recommend first
- Confirm temperatures: set refrigerator around 37°F and freezer around 0°F.
- Check the water filter age: replace if it has been 6 months (or sooner with slow flow).
- Inspect door sealing: look for gaps, torn gasket areas, or doors not closing fully.
- Listen for fans: evaporator fan noise changes often signal a fan motor or blade issue.
- Clean airflow paths: keep vents inside the compartments clear; avoid overpacking.
Parts that commonly solve these problems on KFCP22EXMP1
| Symptom | Common fix | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Slow water, small ice cubes | Replace water filter | Refrigerator water filter EDR4RXD1 |
| Warm temps, poor airflow | Replace evaporator fan motor | Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WPW10128551 |
| Ice maker not cycling | Replace ice maker assembly | Refrigerator ice maker D7824706Q |
Why it matters
Ice maker and cooling complaints often share the same root cause: restricted airflow or restricted water flow. Fixing those early helps prevent food spoilage, reduces compressor run time, and keeps temperatures stable.
Last updated: February 2026
Which is better, top mount or bottom mount refrigerator?
A bottom-mount refrigerator like the KitchenAid KFCP22EXMP1 is better when you want fresh-food items at eye level and a wider, more organized refrigerator section; a top-mount is better when you want the lowest upfront cost and simpler freezer access. The best choice depends on how you use the fridge daily.
Quick comparison
| Feature | Top-mount (freezer on top) | Bottom-mount (freezer on bottom) |
|---|---|---|
| Everyday access | More bending for fresh food | Less bending for fresh food |
| Freezer access | Easiest access | More bending for freezer |
| Organization | Typically simpler layout | Typically more fridge space and bins |
| Efficiency and maintenance | Often simpler, fewer features | Often more features; more parts to maintain |
| Best for | Budget-focused, basic needs | Heavy fresh-food use, convenience |
How to decide for your kitchen
Use these practical checks before you choose:
- What you grab most: If you use fresh food more than frozen, bottom-mount wins.
- Who uses the freezer: If kids or frequent freezer users need easy access, top-mount can be better.
- Space and door swing: Measure clearances and confirm shelf and bin layouts in the owner's manual.
- Cleaning and upkeep: More features (ice maker, water filtration) can mean more periodic maintenance.
- Ergonomics: Bottom-mount reduces bending for the most-used compartment.
Why it matters
The “better” style is the one that matches your habits. Bottom-mount designs prioritize convenience for fresh-food access (where most people spend their time), while top-mount designs prioritize simplicity and value.
Parts and features to keep in mind (bottom-mount)
If you choose a bottom-mount like the KFCP22EXMP1, these common features affect ownership:
- Water filtration and replacement schedule (example: refrigerator water filter EDR4RXD1)
- Ice maker performance and serviceability
- Door sealing and gasket condition
- Airflow between compartments (damper control)
For step-by-step filter replacement guidance, we recommend how to replace the water filter in a KitchenAid refrigerator.
Last updated: February 2026
