Are bottom mount fridges better?
For the Maytag MFT2772HEZ00 bottom-mount refrigerator, a bottom-mount design is better for many kitchens because the fresh-food section sits at eye and waist level, so the items you use most (milk, produce, leftovers) are easier to reach while the freezer stays in a lower pull-out drawer. See the MFT2772HEZ00 use & care guide for the features and layout on this model.
What “better” usually means with a bottom-mount refrigerator
- More ergonomic daily use: less bending for fresh-food items.
- Wide freezer storage: drawer-style freezer makes it easier to organize bags and boxes.
- Strong fresh-food storage focus: French door bottom-mount models typically maximize refrigerator space.
- Efficient operation: high-efficiency compressors often run longer at varying speeds, which is normal.
Pros and cons at a glance
| Feature | Bottom-mount (like MFT2772HEZ00) | Top-freezer style |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh-food access | Best (most-used items higher) | Good, but lower shelves require more bending |
| Freezer access | More bending | Easier access |
| Organization | Freezer drawer bins help sorting | Simple shelves, less compartmentalized |
| Typical cost | Often higher | Often lower |
Model-specific features that support the “better” case
Your MFT2772HEZ00 is a French door bottom-mount style that commonly includes convenience features such as:
- In-door ice dispensing system (more shelf space in the fresh-food section)
- Pantry drawer and crispers for flexible storage
- Air filter and water filter locations designed for routine maintenance
Why it matters
Choosing a bottom-mount refrigerator is usually about daily comfort and workflow. If your household cooks often or uses fresh ingredients frequently, keeping the refrigerator compartment at a more natural reach height reduces strain and makes organization easier.
Last updated: January 2026
Why is the bottom freezer refrigerator not popular?
Bottom-freezer refrigerators (including the Maytag MFT2772HEZ00 French door bottom-mount style) are less popular mainly because they cost more than basic top-freezer models and the freezer drawer layout is less convenient for some people. They are designed for efficiency and fresh-food access, not for the lowest upfront price.
What people like and dislike about bottom-mount designs
Bottom-mount refrigerators put the fresh-food section at eye level and the freezer in a pull-out drawer. That design has clear pros, but it also creates tradeoffs.
Common reasons some shoppers avoid them:
- Higher purchase price than many top-freezer models
- Freezer drawer means bending to reach items, especially those at the bottom
- More parts and features (ice dispenser, pantry drawer, LED lighting) can mean more maintenance over time
- Wide French doors need more side clearance to open fully
- Freezer organization depends on baskets and dividers, which some people find less intuitive
Common reasons people choose them:
- Fresh-food items are easier to see and reach (less bending all day)
- More fresh-food storage space; this style is built for larger refrigerator compartments
- Modern compressors often run at varying speeds for better temperature control and energy use
Efficiency and reliability: what’s actually true
It is normal for a high-efficiency bottom-mount refrigerator to run longer at varying speeds as it matches cooling demand. That operating style is part of how these models manage temperature and energy use.
| Topic | Bottom-mount (French door) | Top-freezer (basic) |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Typically higher | Typically lower |
| Fresh-food access | Best (eye level) | Good, but lower shelves require bending |
| Freezer access | Drawer, bending required | Eye level for freezer |
| Complexity | Higher (more features) | Lower |
What to check if you’re comparing styles
We recommend using the MFT2772HEZ00 owner's manual to compare features that matter most for your kitchen and habits.
- Measure door swing clearance and aisle space
- Decide whether you prefer a freezer drawer or a freezer door
- Consider whether you will use in-door ice and water regularly
- Plan routine maintenance items like the air filter and water filter
- Match the layout to how you cook (fresh-food heavy vs frozen-food heavy)
Why it matters
Popularity often comes down to lifestyle and budget. Bottom-mount models prioritize fresh-food convenience and modern temperature control, while simpler top-freezer models prioritize low cost and simplicity.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the most common problem with Maytag refrigerators?
For Maytag refrigerators like model MFT2772HEZ00, the most common customer complaint is ice maker and water dispensing trouble (no ice, slow ice, leaking, or dispenser issues). These problems usually trace back to water supply, a clogged filter, or a failing inlet valve or ice maker.
Quick checks we recommend first
- Confirm the shutoff valve is fully open and the supply line is not kinked.
- Replace the water filter on schedule and flush the system after replacement.
- Make sure the ice bin is seated correctly and the ice chute is not jammed.
- Verify doors close fully; frequent door openings can affect ice production.
- Allow 24 hours after installation or major changes for temperatures to stabilize (normal for this design).
Common symptoms and the most likely causes
| Symptom | Most likely cause | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| No ice production | Water supply issue, clogged filter, bad ice maker | Check supply, replace filter, test ice maker |
| Small or hollow cubes | Restricted water flow | Replace filter, check inlet valve flow |
| Water dispenser slow | Air in line or restricted filter | Purge air, replace filter |
| Ice maker leaks or overfills | Inlet valve not closing fully | Diagnose valve, replace if needed |
Parts that often solve ice and water problems on MFT2772HEZ00
If basic checks do not fix it, these model-matched parts are common next steps:
- Refrigerator ice maker W11658802
- Refrigerator water inlet valve assembly WPW10341329
- Refrigerator cartridge wrap assembly EDR2RXD1
Why it matters
Ice maker and water issues are usually flow-related, so fixing them early helps prevent secondary problems like ice clumps, dispenser jams, and unnecessary temperature adjustments that can affect food storage.
Helpful guides
- MFT2772HEZ00 use & care guide
- How to replace the water filter in a Maytag refrigerator
- How to diagnose a faulty refrigerator water inlet valve
Last updated: January 2026
What are the disadvantages of a bottom freezer?
On the Maytag MFT2772HEZ00 bottom-mount refrigerator, the main disadvantages are that you bend more to access frozen foods, the freezer can be harder to organize (especially with stacked items), and door alignment or sealing issues can show up sooner if the cabinet is not leveled correctly; see the MFT2772HEZ00 owner's manual.
Common drawbacks you may notice
- More bending and reaching: You access the freezer from a lower drawer, so everyday items like ice cream or frozen vegetables take more effort to grab.
- Drawer organization can be frustrating: Items can slide under baskets or get buried, so you may spend more time “rummaging.”
- Heavier drawer front and rails: The manual notes that two people may be required to remove and replace the freezer drawer front, which also hints at the weight and awkwardness during service.
- Seal and frost issues if the drawer is left open: Frequent openings or a drawer not fully closed can contribute to frost/ice buildup.
- Door closing and alignment sensitivity: If the refrigerator is not level, doors can pop open or not close easily, which can affect temperatures and moisture control.
Bottom freezer vs. top freezer: quick comparison
| Feature | Bottom freezer (like MFT2772HEZ00) | Top freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh food access | Easier (at eye level) | More bending for fresh food |
| Frozen food access | More bending | Easier |
| Freezer organization | Drawer stacking can hide items | Shelves can be simpler |
| Leveling importance | High (door closing, alignment) | Moderate |
What we recommend to reduce the downsides
- Level the cabinet so doors close on their own and stay sealed (brake feet adjustment is typically done with a 1/4-inch hex driver).
- Keep “daily use” frozen items in the upper basket so you do not dig through the drawer.
- Avoid overpacking the freezer drawer; it increases drag and makes incomplete closing more likely.
- If you see frost, check for a blocked drawer, food packages in the way, or a poor seal.
- If odors are a concern (common in any refrigerator style), replace the air filter on schedule; the refrigerator air filter W10311524 is a common maintenance item for this model.
Why it matters
Most “bottom freezer problems” are really access and sealing issues. When the drawer or doors do not close completely, humid air enters, which can lead to frost, moisture buildup, and temperature swings that affect food quality.
Last updated: January 2026





