What is the disadvantage of a bottom freezer refrigerator?
A bottom-freezer refrigerator like the GE PFS22SISBSS keeps fresh food at eye level, but the main disadvantage is that you still have to bend and reach for frozen items in a deep drawer. Bottom-freezer designs also tend to cost more and can be harder to keep organized.
- You bend more to access frozen foods, especially items stored at the bottom of the drawer.
- Deep freezer drawers can hide smaller items, so food is easier to lose.
- Heavy loads (bulk frozen foods) put more strain on drawer slides and alignment over time.
- Kids often have a harder time reaching and safely lifting heavier frozen items.
- Some kitchens need extra clearance for the freezer drawer to pull fully open.
| Feature | Bottom freezer | Top freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh-food access | Easier (at eye level) | More bending for fresh food |
| Frozen-food access | More bending and reaching | Easier (higher up) |
| Organization | Drawer can get “stacked” | Shelves/bins can be simpler |
| Typical cost | Often higher | Often lower |
If you use frozen foods daily, the drawer layout and bending can be the deciding factor. If you use fresh foods more often, the bottom-freezer layout usually feels more convenient because the refrigerator section is where your eyes and hands naturally land.
- Keep everyday frozen items in the top basket/upper layer of the drawer.
- Use small bins to separate categories (breakfast, vegetables, snacks).
- Avoid overloading the drawer; heavy weight can make the drawer feel harder to glide.
- If the drawer does not close smoothly, check leveling and alignment steps in the owner's manual.
You can also order replacement parts for your GE PFS22SISBSS (for example, a refrigerator shelf holder WR71X10541 or refrigerator deli drawer seal WR14X10175) from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the most common problem with GE refrigerators?
The most common problems we see with GE refrigerators like model PFS22SISBSS are cooling complaints (not cold enough or temperature swings) and ice maker or water dispenser issues. Most root causes come down to airflow, dirty condenser coils, door sealing, or a failing temperature-sensing or fan component.
- Fresh food section warm but freezer OK: restricted airflow, evaporator fan issue, iced-up evaporator (defrost problem)
- Both sections warm: condenser coils dirty, condenser fan problem, compressor start components, control issue
- Runs a lot or cycles frequently: dirty condenser, frequent door openings, controls set too cold, warm room conditions
- Ice maker not making ice: temperature too warm, water supply issue, ice maker component failure
- Water tastes odd or dispenser sputters: air in water line after filter change, filter needs flushing
- Confirm the temperature controls are set to normal (not the coldest setting). See the control guidance in the PFS22SISBSS owner’s manual.
- Make sure air vents inside the refrigerator are not blocked by food packages.
- Clean the grille and condenser area; dirty coils commonly cause long run times and weak cooling.
- Check that doors close fully and nothing is holding them open.
- If you recently replaced the water filter, flush and discard the first several glasses of water to purge air and impurities.
| Problem area | What fails | Example part for PFS22SISBSS |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature regulation | Sensor reads wrong temp | GE profile refrigerator temperature sensor WR55X10025 |
| Airflow in freezer | Evaporator fan motor | Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WR60X10196 |
| Water quality/flow | Filter is clogged or overdue | GE smartwater refrigerator water filter GSWF |
| No interior light | Bulb burned out | Refrigerator light bulb 40A15 |
Cooling and ice maker issues often get worse over time. A simple fix like cleaning the condenser or replacing a failed sensor can restore stable temperatures, protect food, and reduce compressor run time.
For model-specific diagrams and part lookups, order directly from the parts list for PFS22SISBSS or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How do I find the model number on my PFS22SISBSS?
On your GE PFS22SISBSS bottom-mount refrigerator, the model number is printed on the rating label inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment; it’s on the right side near the top. Use the exact model number from that label when ordering parts or checking specifications in the owner's manual.
- Open the refrigerator (not the freezer drawer)
- Look on the right interior wall
- Check near the top of the compartment
- Find the label that lists Model and Serial
- Write both down; the serial number helps confirm production details
| Label item | What it’s used for | When you need it |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Identifies the exact refrigerator design | Ordering parts, diagrams, manuals |
| Serial number | Identifies the specific unit | Service history, verifying unit details |
GE often makes small design changes within a product series. Using the model number from the inside label ensures you get the correct fit for items like a water filter, control board, or temperature sensor.
- Wipe the label gently with a damp cloth and dry it
- Use a flashlight or take a close-up photo and zoom in
- Avoid scraping; the print can rub off
Last updated: March 2026





