What is the disadvantage of a side-by-side fridge?
A side-by-side refrigerator like the KitchenAid KBSD706MPS00 is easiest for everyday access, but the main disadvantage is narrow compartment width. That makes it harder to store wide items (pizza boxes, sheet pans, party platters) and can reduce usable fresh-food space compared with some other layouts.
Common disadvantages (what owners notice most)
- Narrow shelves: wide containers often will not fit without rearranging.
- Less flexible fresh-food storage: the refrigerator side can feel tighter for large produce bins and deli trays.
- More door storage, less interior width: lots of bins, but fewer “wide-open” shelf options.
- Dispenser complexity (if equipped): ice and water systems add moving parts that can need service over time.
- More bending for some items: both sides have upper and lower zones, so you may crouch more often.
Side-by-side vs other styles (quick comparison)
| Layout | Biggest strength | Biggest drawback |
|---|---|---|
| Side-by-side | Easy access to both fridge and freezer | Narrow shelves for wide items |
| French door | Wide refrigerator shelves | Freezer items can be harder to see |
| Top freezer | Simple, often efficient | Refrigerator items can be lower and less convenient |
Why it matters
If you regularly store wide leftovers, baking sheets, or large meal-prep containers, the side-by-side layout can create daily frustration. If you mostly store tall items, beverages, and frozen foods you access often, side-by-side can still be a great fit.
Tips to make a side-by-side work better
- Use narrow, stackable bins to maximize shelf depth.
- Store wide items in smaller containers instead of one large tray.
- Keep airflow clear so temperatures stay even; a weak fan can worsen hot spots (see how to fix your evaporator cooling fan).
- Replace filters on schedule to keep dispenser performance strong; for this model, a common option is the refrigerator filter EDR3RXD1.
Last updated: February 2026
Which side-by-side refrigerator brand is most reliable?
KitchenAid is a strong reliability pick in side-by-side refrigerators, especially when you want premium build quality without stepping into true luxury pricing. For long-term dependability across the category, GE and Frigidaire also tend to perform well; Sub-Zero is typically the top premium option.
What “most reliable” usually means
Reliability is mainly about fewer service calls over time, stable temperatures, and fewer leaks or ice maker issues.
Common reliability factors we see:
- Simple, proven cooling design and good airflow
- Strong door sealing and hinge alignment
- Fewer dispenser and ice maker failures
- Easy-to-maintain filtration (water and air)
- Good parts availability for wear items
Brand comparison (practical, real-world view)
| Brand tier | Brands often chosen for reliability | What they’re known for |
|---|---|---|
| Mainstream | GE, Frigidaire | Solid performance, broad serviceability |
| Premium mainstream | KitchenAid (like KBSD706MPS00) | Higher-end fit and finish, strong cooling systems |
| Luxury | Sub-Zero | Top-tier longevity, higher ownership cost |
What to prioritize if you own KitchenAid KBSD706MPS00
If you already have the KitchenAid KBSD706MPS00, the best “reliability move” is preventive maintenance. Most side-by-side issues come from airflow restrictions, filtration neglect, or dispenser wear.
We recommend:
- Replace the water filter on schedule; use the correct refrigerator filter EDR3RXD1
- Replace the air filter regularly; use the matching refrigerator air filter W10311524
- Keep vents clear inside both compartments to prevent warm spots
- Clean the condenser area and grille so the compressor can shed heat
- Address door seal gaps early (warm air causes frost and longer run times)
Why it matters
A side-by-side refrigerator runs best when it can move air freely and keep moisture out. Staying ahead on filters and seals reduces strain on the evaporator fan, compressor, and defrost system, which is where expensive breakdowns start.
Related DIY help: how to replace the water filter in a KitchenAid refrigerator
Last updated: February 2026
What is the most common problem with KitchenAid refrigerators?
The most common KitchenAid refrigerator problems are ice maker and water dispenser issues (no ice, slow ice, weak water flow) and cooling or temperature swings. On the KBSD706MPS00, these symptoms are most often tied to airflow problems, a restricted water filter, or a failing evaporator fan.
What we see most often (and what to check first)
- Ice maker not making ice or slow production: confirm the freezer is cold enough and the water supply is on.
- Weak water dispenser flow: replace the water filter and purge air from the line.
- Fridge too warm or freezer too warm: check for blocked vents, heavy frost, or a fan that is not running.
- Odd noises: a failing fan motor can cause buzzing, rubbing, or intermittent rattling.
- Water leaks or puddles: a clogged defrost drain can overflow and refreeze.
Quick troubleshooting steps for KBSD706MPS00
- Replace the water filter if flow is weak or ice is hollow or small: use the refrigerator filter EDR3RXD1.
- Purge air from the dispenser after any filter change or water shutoff: follow how to purge air from a refrigerator water dispenser video.
- Confirm airflow: do not pack food against the air returns; keep vents clear.
- Listen for the evaporator fan (freezer area): if it is not running consistently, cooling will suffer.
- Address odors early: replace the air filter and clean interior surfaces; use the refrigerator air filter W10311524 and follow how to get rid of refrigerator smells.
Common symptoms and the most likely area to inspect
| Symptom | Most likely area | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Weak water flow | Water filter, air in line | Replace filter; purge air |
| No ice or slow ice | Water supply, filter restriction | Verify supply; replace filter |
| Warm temps | Airflow, evaporator fan | Clear vents; check fan operation |
| Frost buildup | Defrost system, drain path | Clear drain; check for recurring frost |
Why it matters
Ice and cooling complaints often share the same root causes: restricted water flow (filter) and restricted airflow (fan, vents, frost). Fixing those early helps protect food quality, reduces compressor run time, and prevents repeat service issues.
Last updated: February 2026
What does code KBSD706MPS00 mean?
KBSD706MPS00 is the KitchenAid model number for your side-by-side refrigerator. We use this code to match the correct replacement parts (water filter, air filter, door gasket, controls) and diagrams to your exact appliance configuration.
What the model number tells us
For KitchenAid refrigerators, the model number identifies the product family and the exact engineering version so you get compatible parts.
Common ways you’ll use KBSD706MPS00:
- Finding the correct refrigerator water filter and air filter
- Matching door parts like gaskets, trim screws, and door assemblies
- Looking up internal components such as the evaporator fan, thermistor, and user interface
- Confirming fit before ordering parts
Where to find the model number on the refrigerator
Most side-by-side refrigerators have the model/serial tag in one of these spots:
- Inside the fresh food compartment on a side wall
- Near the ceiling of the refrigerator compartment
- Behind the crisper drawers
- On the hinge-side door frame
Parts you can match using KBSD706MPS00
Here are a few examples of model-matched parts available for this refrigerator:
| What you’re replacing | Example part on this model | What it affects |
|---|---|---|
| Water filter | Refrigerator filter EDR3RXD1 | Water taste, flow, ice quality |
| Air filter | Refrigerator air filter W10311524 | Odors inside the refrigerator |
| Door seal | Door gasket (gray) W11625072 | Warm air leaks, frost, run time |
Why it matters
Using the exact model number prevents ordering the wrong revision of a part. Even small design changes (connector style, gasket profile, dispenser components) can affect fit and performance on a built-in KitchenAid side-by-side.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the best brand of side-by-side refrigerator?
There is no single “best” brand for every kitchen; the best side-by-side refrigerator brand depends on your priorities (reliability, serviceability, features, and price). If you already own a KitchenAid like model KBSD706MPS00, keeping it running with the right maintenance parts often delivers the best long-term value.
How we recommend choosing the “best” brand
Focus on the factors that most affect day-to-day satisfaction:
- Reliability track record: fewer cooling, ice maker, and dispenser issues over time
- Parts availability: common wear items like filters, gaskets, and fans should be easy to source
- Serviceability: simpler access to components (fans, sensors, controls) reduces repair time
- Feature fit: water and ice, filtration, door-in-door, smart features, noise level
- Total cost of ownership: purchase price plus filters, repairs, and energy use
What “best” looks like for a built-in KitchenAid (KBSD706MPS00)
If you are comparing brands because you are troubleshooting or planning ahead, these are the parts and systems that most often influence satisfaction in side-by-side refrigerators:
| Priority | What to look for | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Water quality | A compatible water filter | Better taste, fewer dispenser clogs |
| Odor control | A fresh air filter | Helps reduce food odors in the fresh-food section |
| Temperature stability | Working fan and sensor system | Prevents warm spots and food spoilage |
| Door seal | Tight, even gasket seal | Reduces frost, sweating, and run time |
For this KitchenAid model, common maintenance items include the refrigerator filter EDR3RXD1 and the refrigerator air filter W10311524.
Quick buying guidance (brand-agnostic)
When you are shopping across GE, LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, and Frigidaire, we recommend:
- Choose the layout and capacity you will actually use daily
- Compare filter cost and replacement frequency (water and air)
- Check that the dispenser and ice maker design is easy to access and clean
- Look for strong door gasket sealing and sturdy door alignment
- Prioritize models with readily available replacement parts
Why it matters
Side-by-side refrigerators can last a long time, but water/ice systems, airflow components, and door sealing are the most common “make or break” areas. Picking a brand with good parts support, and keeping up with filters and seals, usually matters more than chasing a single top-rated name.
Last updated: February 2026





