Do side-by-side refrigerators have freezers?
Yes. A side-by-side refrigerator like the Frigidaire FGHC2345LF5 has two full-height compartments: one is the fresh-food (refrigerator) section and the other is the freezer section. This layout is also commonly paired with in-door ice and water dispensing features.
How the side-by-side layout works
In a side-by-side design, both compartments run from top to bottom, so you get easy access to frozen foods without bending as much as you would with a bottom-freezer style.
Common characteristics include:
- Two vertical doors: refrigerator on one side, freezer on the other
- Narrower shelves (compared to many French door models)
- Often includes an ice maker and dispenser options
- Designed for built-in style placement with required airflow clearances
Installation details that affect freezer performance
Proper installation helps the freezer cool correctly and helps doors seal evenly.
Key setup points from the installation guidance:
- Keep the refrigerator on a level floor that can support a fully loaded unit
- Allow minimum clearances for airflow (sides/top and rear)
- Use a grounded outlet; do not use an extension cord or adapter plug
- If your unit has an ice and water dispenser, plan for a cold-water supply connection
| Item | Typical requirement for this style | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Air clearance | Sides/top and rear clearance | Helps cooling and efficiency |
| Room temperature | Avoid very cold or very hot rooms | Protects compressor cooling ability |
| Leveling | Doors should be bind-free and seals should contact evenly | Prevents warm air leaks and frost |
For the exact clearances, leveling steps, and door adjustment procedure for FGHC2345LF5, use the FGHC2345LF5 installation guide.
Why it matters
Knowing that a side-by-side always includes a freezer helps when you are comparing storage needs, planning kitchen space, and troubleshooting cooling issues (for example, frost buildup from a door that is not sealing evenly).
Last updated: January 2026
What are the most common issues with FGHC2345LF5?
The most common issues we see on the Frigidaire FGHC2345LF5 side-by-side refrigerator involve cooling performance, ice and water dispensing, and nuisance leaks or odors. These problems usually trace back to airflow (fans and dampers), defrost drainage, or filtration and dispenser components; check the FGHC2345LF5 owner's manual for model-specific indicators and settings.
Common problems and what they point to
- Warm refrigerator or freezer: evaporator fan airflow issues, dirty condenser area, or a control/sensor problem.
- Ice maker not making ice: water supply restriction, dispenser/ice path blockage, or ice maker component failure.
- Water dispenser slow or not dispensing: clogged filter, air in the line, or a dispenser control issue.
- Water puddles under or inside: defrost drain restriction or drain tube issue.
- Bad odors: overdue air filter change or spills trapped in bins/liners.
Quick checks we recommend first
- Confirm temperature settings and allow 24 hours after changes.
- Replace the water filter if flow is reduced; use the correct refrigerator water filter WF3CB.
- If odors persist, replace the refrigerator door air filter EAFCBF and clean interior surfaces.
- Look for ice buildup on the back freezer panel (often tied to defrost/airflow problems).
- Inspect for water at the bottom of the fresh food section; check the drain path.
Symptoms to likely causes (fast guide)
| Symptom | Most likely area | Example parts on this model |
|---|---|---|
| Warm temps, poor airflow | Air movement/control | Refrigerator air damper 241853801, refrigerator condenser fan motor 242018301 |
| Slow water, weak dispense | Filtration/housing | Refrigerator water filter WF3CB, refrigerator water filter housing 242009604 |
| Leaks or puddles | Defrost drainage | Refrigerator drain tube 241830905, refrigerator defrost pan 241697502 |
Why it matters
Cooling, ice, and water issues often share the same root causes: restricted airflow, restricted water flow, or blocked drainage. Addressing the simple maintenance items first (filters, cleaning, clearing drains) prevents repeat failures and protects food temperatures.
For display messages or beeping tied to operation, use Frigidaire refrigerator error codes to match the code to the most likely system.
Last updated: March 2026
What does EF stand for on a Frigidaire refrigerator?
On a Frigidaire FGHC2345LF5 side-by-side refrigerator, EF points to an evaporator fan problem (often shown as SY EF or 5Y EF). The refrigerator is detecting an issue in the evaporator fan circuit, so cooling and airflow can be reduced until the cause is corrected.
What to check first (quick, safe steps)
- Make sure the freezer vents are not blocked by food packages.
- Listen for the evaporator fan: it typically runs when the compressor is running and the door switch is closed.
- Check for heavy frost on the freezer back wall (a defrost issue can stop airflow).
- Power-cycle the refrigerator: unplug for 5 minutes, then plug back in.
- Confirm the unit has proper airflow around it (installation clearance helps overall cooling stability); see the FGHC2345LF5 installation guide.
Common causes and likely fixes
| Likely cause | What you may notice | Typical fix |
|---|---|---|
| Evaporator fan blade obstructed or damaged | Rattling, scraping, weak airflow | Clear ice/debris; replace fan blade if cracked |
| Wiring/connection issue in fan circuit | Intermittent fan, code returns | Inspect harness connections; repair/replace wiring |
| Control problem (fan not being powered correctly) | Fan never runs, code persists | Diagnose control circuit; replace board if needed |
| Frost buildup from defrost failure | Freezer cold but fridge warm | Diagnose defrost system components |
If you find the fan blade is broken or slipping, the correct replacement for this model is the refrigerator evaporator fan blade 5308000010.
Why it matters
The evaporator fan moves cold air from the evaporator through the freezer and into the fresh food section. When the fan circuit faults, temperatures can drift, food can thaw or warm, and frost can build up faster.
Helpful DIY references
Last updated: January 2026





