Where can I buy discontinued refrigerator parts?
For your Wc Wood refrigerator model RP1816RW3, the best way to buy discontinued parts is to start with the model’s parts diagrams and manual so you can confirm the exact part name and any alternate part numbers; then search by that exact identifier to find remaining stock or compatible replacements.
- The parts list and diagrams for model RP1816RW3 on Sears PartsDirect (this helps you identify the correct part)
- The part number printed on the original part (when accessible)
- The model’s documentation for component names and removal steps (use the owner's manual)
- Identify the part correctly: Use the exploded-view diagrams and the part description for RP1816RW3.
- Search by multiple identifiers:
- Manufacturer part number
- Any numbers stamped on the part itself
- The part description (example: “light shield”, “crisper cover”, “thermostat control”)
- Check for substitutions: Many discontinued parts are replaced by a newer part number; the parts listing typically notes substitutions when available.
- Consider used or refurbished parts: For cosmetic items (bins, shelves, crisper drawers), used parts are often a practical option.
- Confirm fit before ordering: Match the part to your exact model number RP1816RW3 and compare photos, mounting points, and dimensions.
| Part type | What it affects | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Door bins and shelves | Storage and door closing | Mount style, length, color |
| Crisper drawer or cover | Produce storage, airflow | Drawer stop style, width |
| Light shield or bulb cover | Interior lighting safety | Tab locations, lens shape |
| Thermostat/control knob | Temperature control | Shaft type, markings |
Ordering by a generic description (like “shelf” or “drawer”) often leads to the wrong fit. Using the RP1816RW3 diagrams and the owner's manual helps you confirm the exact component and avoid returns and downtime.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the main 5 parts of a refrigerator?
The five main parts that make a refrigerator cool are the compressor, condenser coil, evaporator coil, metering device (capillary tube or expansion valve), and thermostat/temperature control. Together, these parts move heat out of your Wc Wood refrigerator model RP1816RW3 and keep food at a safe temperature.
- Compressor: pumps refrigerant through the sealed system
- Condenser coil: releases heat to the room (often underneath or on the back)
- Metering device (capillary tube/expansion device): drops refrigerant pressure so it can cool
- Evaporator coil: absorbs heat from inside the refrigerator/freezer
- Thermostat/temperature control: senses temperature and cycles cooling on and off (your manual references turning the control to OFF when needed)
These are important for performance and convenience, but they are not part of the basic refrigeration cycle:
- Door gasket (door seal): prevents warm air leaks and frost
- Fans (if equipped): move air across coils and through compartments
- Defrost system (if equipped): defrost heater, defrost timer/control, defrost thermostat
- Shelves and drawers: adjustable storage components
| Part | What it does | Common symptom if it fails |
|---|---|---|
| Compressor | Circulates refrigerant | No cooling, clicking, warm cabinet |
| Condenser coil | Dumps heat to room air | Poor cooling, hot cabinet sides |
| Metering device | Controls refrigerant flow/pressure | Weak cooling, uneven temps |
| Evaporator coil | Absorbs heat inside | Warm fridge/freezer, frost pattern issues |
| Thermostat/control | Regulates temperature | Runs nonstop or not at all |
When you know the “main 5,” troubleshooting gets faster: a warm refrigerator is usually an airflow/coil cleanliness issue, a control issue, or a sealed-system component problem. For model-specific control locations and operating guidance, use the owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the most expensive part to replace on a refrigerator?
On the Wc Wood refrigerator model RP1816RW3, the most expensive repair is typically the sealed system, especially the compressor. Compressor replacement usually requires specialized tools and labor, so the total cost often exceeds other repairs like a light bulb, thermostat/control, or door gasket (see the owner's manual).
These repairs tend to be the highest-cost because they involve sealed refrigerant components, specialized equipment, and longer labor time:
- Compressor: the main pump that circulates refrigerant
- Sealed system leak repair: finding and repairing a refrigerant leak, then evacuating and recharging
- Evaporator or condenser replacement: sealed-system components that can require refrigerant work
- Electronic control board (if equipped): can be pricey and sometimes misdiagnosed
Costs vary by location and refrigerator age, but this is the usual order from highest to lowest.
| Repair type | Typical cost level | Why it runs high |
|---|---|---|
| Compressor or sealed system work | Highest | Refrigerant handling, specialized labor, longer service time |
| Control board or major electrical diagnosis | High | Higher-priced electronics, troubleshooting time |
| Fan motor, defrost heater, thermostat/control | Medium | Common repairs, moderate labor |
| Door gasket, light bulb, shelves/bins | Lower | Simple access, minimal labor |
We use these checkpoints to make a practical decision:
- Age and condition: older units with multiple issues rarely justify sealed-system work
- Symptoms: warm temperatures with long run time can point to sealed-system or airflow issues
- Basic checks first: dirty condenser coils, blocked vents, or doors not sealing can mimic “big” failures
- Serviceability: sealed-system repairs require a qualified technician
Starting with the high-probability, low-cost checks can prevent unnecessary compressor or control-board replacement. For example, the manual notes that dirty condenser coils make the motor work harder and can lead to poor cooling, and blocked vents can cause warm temperatures.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most commonly replaced parts in a refrigerator?
In the Wc Wood refrigerator model RP1816RW3, the most commonly replaced parts are the ones that affect sealing, airflow, defrosting, and basic electrical operation: door gaskets, light bulbs, fans, and defrost components (such as the defrost timer and defrost heater). For model-specific care and procedures, use the owner's manual.
- Door gasket (door seal): prevents warm air leaks that cause warm temps and moisture
- Interior light bulb and light shield: restores lighting when the bulb burns out
- Evaporator fan motor: keeps cold air moving through the compartments
- Condenser fan motor: moves air across the condenser for efficient cooling
- Defrost system parts: defrost timer, defrost heater, and defrost thermostat (or sensor)
- Temperature control (thermostat/refrigerator control): cycles cooling on and off
| Symptom | Common part to check/replace | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Door won’t seal, moisture inside | Door gasket | Air leaks raise temps and create condensation |
| Lights don’t work | Light bulb | Basic visibility and door-use convenience |
| Warm refrigerator, freezer OK | Evaporator fan or blocked vents | Poor airflow prevents even cooling |
| Clicking during cycles | Defrost timer or temperature control | Clicking can be normal, but repeated failures stop cooling |
| Water sounds or sizzling during defrost | Defrost heater area | Some sounds are normal during defrost |
Our RP1816RW3 documentation calls out several items that commonly tie to service calls:
- Defrost timer clicking at the start and end of defrost cycles
- Water dripping on the defrost heater during defrost (can sound like sizzling)
- Condenser fan airflow noise
- Gasket care (cleaning sticky gaskets and applying a thin coat of paraffin wax after cleaning)
Replacing the right “wear” part early (like a gasket, fan, or defrost component) helps the refrigerator hold temperature, reduces run time, and prevents moisture buildup that can lead to odors and food spoilage.
Last updated: February 2026





