Is a top mount or bottom mount fridge better?
A top-mount refrigerator like Whirlpool model WRT108FFDM04 is usually the better choice when you want a lower purchase price, simple reliability, and easy freezer access. A bottom-mount is better when you use fresh-food items most and want the refrigerator section at eye level.
| Feature | Top-mount (freezer on top) | Bottom-mount (freezer on bottom) |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh-food access | More bending | Less bending, fridge at eye level |
| Freezer access | Easiest access | Drawer style, can be easier to organize |
| Typical cost | Lower | Higher |
| Space and layout | Simple shelves, classic layout | Often more flexible fridge storage |
- You use the freezer often and want it at a comfortable height.
- You want a straightforward design with fewer convenience features to maintain.
- You are replacing an older fridge and want a similar footprint and layout.
- You want a budget-friendly option that still cools well.
- You cook frequently and want the refrigerator section at eye level.
- You prefer a pull-out freezer drawer for stacking and sorting frozen foods.
- You are willing to pay more for convenience and storage ergonomics.
Choosing the right layout reduces daily bending and door-open time, which helps food stay at safe temperatures and can reduce wear on door seals and hinges. If you are troubleshooting cooling or airflow issues on a top-mount, the freezer-side airflow components are key, such as the refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315539.
Last updated: January 2026
What are the disadvantages of a top mount fridge?
Top-mount refrigerators like the Whirlpool WRT108FFDM04 are reliable and space-efficient, but the main disadvantages are less convenient fresh-food access (you bend more), fewer premium organization features, and fewer built-in dispenser options compared with many bottom-freezer designs.
- Fresh-food items sit lower: you reach down more often for produce, drinks, and leftovers.
- Freezer is at eye level: convenient for frozen foods, but it pushes the refrigerator section down.
- Typically fewer “premium” storage features: fewer full-width pantry drawers, adjustable bins, and specialty zones.
- Less common to have external ice and water: many top-mount models skip door dispensers.
- Can feel tighter for wide platters: shelf layout is often simpler, so large trays may take more rearranging.
Even within top-mount refrigerators, day-to-day usability depends on setup and condition.
- Make sure the doors seal evenly; a worn gasket can cause temperature swings and moisture issues.
- Keep airflow paths clear so the refrigerator cools evenly.
- If you want ice, confirm your unit is set up for an add-on ice maker kit.
| Feature | Top-mount (like WRT108FFDM04) | Bottom-mount (typical) |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh-food access | Lower, more bending | Higher, less bending |
| Freezer access | Higher, easier reach | Lower drawer, more bending |
| Dispensers | Less common | More common |
| Organization | Often simpler | Often more flexible |
The “best” layout depends on what you use most. If you access fresh food many times a day, a bottom-freezer style can feel easier on your back. If you use frozen foods often, a top-mount can be more convenient and straightforward.
If your top-mount fridge feels inconvenient because of cooling or door issues, these model-matched parts are common fixes:
- Refrigerator door gasket (white) W10861499 (helps prevent warm air leaks and moisture)
- Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315539 (helps circulate cold air for even cooling)
- Whirlpool refrigerator error codes (helps interpret symptoms if your unit is signaling a fault)
Last updated: January 2026
What is the most common problem with a whirlpool refrigerator?
The most common Whirlpool refrigerator problem is poor cooling, usually caused by restricted airflow (dirty condenser coils, blocked vents) or a failed evaporator fan. On the Whirlpool WRT108FFDM04 top-mount refrigerator, start by checking airflow and listening for the evaporator fan.
- Fresh food section warm but freezer seems closer to normal
- Freezer warm and ice cream soft
- Loud buzzing or grinding from the freezer area
- Frost buildup on the back freezer panel
- Fridge runs a lot or seems to never shut off
- Confirm settings: Set freezer to about 0°F and refrigerator to about 37°F.
- Check vents: Make sure packages are not blocking air vents between freezer and refrigerator.
- Clean condenser coils: Dust buildup underneath or behind the unit can reduce cooling.
- Door seal check: Close a dollar bill in the door; if it slips out easily, the gasket may be leaking.
- Listen for the fan: When the compressor is running, you should typically hear the evaporator fan moving air.
If airflow checks out but temperatures are still off, these parts are common suspects on WRT108FFDM04:
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to check next |
|---|---|---|
| Warm fridge, freezer OK-ish | Evaporator fan not moving air | Inspect fan for noise, wobble, or no spin; consider refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315539 |
| Fan runs but airflow weak/noisy | Damaged fan blade | Look for cracks or rubbing; consider refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2163777 |
| Temps swing up and down | Temperature sensor issue | Check for erratic readings or icing patterns; consider thermistor, refrigerator W11438736 |
A cooling problem is often an airflow problem. Fixing airflow early helps protect food, reduces run time, and can prevent the compressor from being overworked.
- Use how to fix your evaporator cooling fan to diagnose fan noise, no-spin issues, and airflow problems.
- If your unit shows a fault code, check Whirlpool refrigerator error codes for what the code means and the next steps.
Last updated: January 2026
What's the average lifespan of a whirlpool refrigerator?
Most Whirlpool refrigerators average about 13 years of service life with normal household use and basic maintenance. For your Whirlpool WRT108FFDM04 top-mount refrigerator, keeping airflow clear, doors sealing tightly, and temperatures stable helps you reach (and often exceed) that typical lifespan.
A refrigerator’s life depends more on operating conditions than brand alone.
- Heat and ventilation: tight cabinets and dusty condenser areas make the compressor work harder
- Door seal condition: air leaks cause longer run times and frost issues
- Temperature settings: very cold settings can increase run time and wear
- Usage patterns: frequent door openings and overpacking reduce airflow
- Power quality: repeated outages or surges can stress the control and compressor
These steps reduce strain on the sealed system, evaporator fan, and controls.
- Keep the refrigerator level so doors close fully
- Leave space around the cabinet for air circulation
- Clean spills and odors before they become persistent (see how to get rid of refrigerator smells)
- Check for warm spots or weak airflow that can point to a failing fan (see how to fix your evaporator cooling fan)
- Inspect the door gasket for gaps, tears, or hardening; replace if it will not seal
If cooling gets inconsistent, these model-compatible parts are common suspects.
| Symptom | Common cause | Example part for WRT108FFDM04 |
|---|---|---|
| Fridge warm, freezer cold | Weak/no airflow from freezer | Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315539 |
| Temps swing, runs too long | Sensor reading off | Thermistor, refrigerator W11438736 |
| Frost buildup, moisture | Door not sealing | Refrigerator door gasket (white) W10861499 |
A refrigerator near end-of-life often shows up as longer run times, temperature swings, frost, or water leaks. Catching airflow and sealing problems early can prevent food spoilage and reduce stress on the compressor.
Last updated: January 2026





