Error Codes
How to put Whirlpool side by side refrigerator in defrost mode?
On the Whirlpool ED22TEXHW02 side-by-side refrigerator, “defrost mode” is normally automatic; the defrost timer or control starts a defrost cycle and then returns the refrigerator to cooling on its own (often within about 20 to 30 minutes). If you need to force a defrost for troubleshooting, you typically advance the defrost timer.
Quick way to force a defrost cycle (most common on timer-defrost models)
- Unplug the refrigerator.
- Locate the defrost timer (commonly behind the toe grille, inside the control housing, or behind a rear access panel).
- Use a flat-blade screwdriver to slowly turn the timer dial/shaft until you hear a distinct click.
- Plug the refrigerator back in.
- Wait and listen: the compressor and fans usually stop, and the defrost heater should warm the evaporator area.
If your unit is timer-defrost, the timer should advance out of defrost and restart cooling automatically.
What to check while it’s in defrost
- Heater activity: you should feel warmth at the evaporator area after a few minutes.
- Water flow: you may hear dripping into the drain pan.
- Fans: evaporator fan and condenser fan often stop during defrost.
- Time: if it stays in defrost too long, the timer or defrost controls are a prime suspect.
Parts that commonly affect defrost on this model
If forcing defrost works but the refrigerator will not defrost on its own, these parts are common fixes:
| Symptom | Most likely part | Example part for ED22TEXHW02 |
|---|---|---|
| Frost builds up, no automatic defrost | Defrost timer not advancing | Refrigerator defrost timer W10822278 |
| Defrost starts but stops too soon or never heats | Defrost bi-metal (terminator) | Refrigerator defrost bi-metal WPW10225581 |
| Warm temps, inconsistent cycling | Cold control/thermostat issue | Refrigerator thermostat WP2198202 |
Why it matters
A working defrost system keeps the evaporator from icing over. When frost blocks airflow, the freezer may look “cold” but the fresh food section warms up, and the evaporator fan can get noisy or stop moving air.
Last updated: February 2026
How wide is a 24.5 cu ft refrigerator?
Most 24.5 cu ft refrigerators are in the 36-inch class; the outside cabinet width is typically about 35 to 36 inches. For Whirlpool model ED22TEXHW02, use your tape-measure width (not the capacity) to confirm fit before moving or replacing the unit.
Typical widths you’ll see
Capacity alone does not lock in an exact width, but these are the common real-world ranges for full-size refrigerators.
- Most common class: 36-inch refrigerators
- Typical outside width range: about 35 to 36 inches
- Less common “narrow” full-size units: about 32 to 33 inches
- Counter-depth vs standard-depth: depth changes more than width
How we recommend measuring (so you don’t get surprised)
Measure the refrigerator and the opening; the widest point is what matters.
- Measure across the cabinet with doors closed (left edge to right edge)
- Check the widest point (often the hinge side or door edge)
- Measure handles separately if they extend past the door face
- Measure the cabinet opening at the front and back (walls can be out of square)
- Plan clearance for door swing and leveling
Fit planning quick reference
| What you’re checking | What to record | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator width | Widest cabinet point (inches) | Confirms the true “will it fit” dimension |
| Opening width | Smallest point of the cutout (inches) | Prevents rubbing and binding |
| Door swing clearance | Space at hinge side and front | Ensures doors open fully |
Why it matters
Two refrigerators can both be 24.5 cu ft and still differ in width by several inches. Measuring avoids delivery issues and helps prevent door alignment problems after installation.
If your doors don’t close smoothly after the fridge is in place, a worn closer cam can contribute; see the refrigerator door closer cam WPW10329686.
Last updated: February 2026
Where is the defrost timer on Whirlpool side by side?
On the Whirlpool ED22TEXHW02 side-by-side refrigerator, the defrost timer is mounted in an access area you can reach without opening the sealed system; on this style it’s most often behind the temperature control housing in the fresh food section or behind a small service cover near the bottom front or rear. If you’re replacing it, use the matching refrigerator defrost timer W10822278.
Where to look first (fast checks)
- Fresh food section control console (where the temperature controls are)
- Behind a small cover plate in the control housing
- Lower rear service area behind the access panel (near wiring, not on the compressor itself)
- Behind the toe grille area at the bottom front (some configurations)
How to identify the defrost timer
A mechanical defrost timer is a small module with multiple wire terminals and a manual advance point.
- Look for a slotted shaft or dial you can turn with a flat-blade screwdriver
- Confirm the wire connector style and terminal layout match the replacement
- Take a quick photo of wiring before disconnecting anything
- Unplug the refrigerator before accessing or moving wires
Typical access by location
| Likely location | What you remove | What you’re looking for |
|---|---|---|
| Control console | Light lens and control cover | Timer mounted to a bracket/plate with a wiring plug |
| Lower rear service area | Rear access panel | Timer mounted near harness routing and service components |
| Toe grille area | Toe grille | Timer behind a small bracket or cover (if equipped) |
Why it matters
The defrost timer switches the refrigerator between cooling and defrost. When it fails, frost can build up on the evaporator and block airflow, or the unit can get stuck in defrost and warm up.
Related troubleshooting help
If you’re seeing symptoms that overlap with defrost issues (warm temps, odd cycling), use our Whirlpool refrigerator error codes guide to narrow down the problem before replacing parts.
Last updated: February 2026
