How wide is a Frigidaire side-by-side?
Most Frigidaire side-by-side refrigerators are about 36 inches wide (typically 35 7/8 to 36 1/4 inches). For the Frigidaire FRS26ZRGBC, confirm the exact cabinet width by measuring across the case (not the doors or handles) so you get the right fit in your opening.
How to measure width the right way
- Measure the refrigerator cabinet at the widest point (usually the case, not trim).
- Keep the tape measure level and measure left-to-right.
- Do not include door handles unless you specifically need “overall width with handles.”
- If the unit is installed tight, measure the opening too (wall-to-wall or cabinet-to-cabinet).
- Check for extra clearance needed for door swing and pull-out bins.
Typical sizing guide (what you can expect)
| Measurement type | What it includes | Typical range for side-by-side |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinet width | Main case only | 35 7/8 in. to 36 1/4 in. |
| Overall width | Doors and trim | Often slightly wider than cabinet |
| Width with handles | Adds handles | Varies by handle style |
Why it matters
A side-by-side that is even 1/4 inch wider than your opening can bind against cabinets, reduce airflow, and make leveling harder. Measuring correctly also helps when ordering door parts, bins, and water system items that must match your exact configuration.
Related parts and maintenance that affect fit and function
If you are already pulling the refrigerator out to measure, it is a good time to check common wear items:
- Door seal condition (gaps can cause sweating and poor cooling)
- Toe grille placement and airflow
- Water filter seating and leaks at the filter cup
For water and ice performance upkeep on this model, see how to replace the water filter in a Frigidaire refrigerator.
Last updated: February 2026
What does CF mean on my Frigidaire refrigerator?
On a Frigidaire FRS26ZRGBC side-by-side refrigerator, CF (sometimes shown as SY CF) means the controls are not communicating correctly (a communication fault between the main control and the display/user interface). This can cause the display to act erratically or the refrigerator to cool improperly.
What to do first (safe, quick checks)
- Power reset: unplug the refrigerator (or switch off the breaker) for 5 minutes, then restore power.
- Check for a stuck key: press each display button once to ensure none are physically stuck.
- Confirm cooling: verify the freezer is near 0°F and the fresh food section is near 37°F.
- Listen for normal operation: evaporator fan and compressor should cycle on and off; unusual silence can point to a control issue.
- Look for moisture: heavy condensation around the display area can contribute to intermittent keypad or connector problems.
When CF keeps coming back
If CF returns after a reset, the most common causes are a loose/oxidized connector, a failing user interface (display board), or a failing main control board. Those parts are model-specific; use the parts list for FRS26ZRGBC to match the correct control components.
Helpful DIY reference
Use our troubleshooting overview in Frigidaire refrigerator error codes to confirm what the display is reporting and what symptoms typically go with communication faults.
Symptoms and what they usually point to
| What you notice | What it commonly indicates | What to try next |
|---|---|---|
| CF appears after a power outage | Control glitch | Power reset; monitor for 24 hours |
| Display flickers or buttons do not respond | User interface issue | Inspect for stuck keys; check UI connections |
| Cooling is inconsistent | Control not driving fans/compressor correctly | Check temps; consider control diagnostics/service |
Why it matters
A communication fault can prevent the refrigerator from responding correctly to temperature changes, defrost cycles, or dispenser commands. Addressing it early helps protect food temperatures and reduces strain on components like the compressor.
Last updated: February 2026
Where is the defrost timer located on a Frigidaire side-by-side?
On the Frigidaire FRS26ZRGBC side-by-side refrigerator, the defrost timer is typically mounted in the fresh food (refrigerator) control area or behind the toe grille at the bottom front. We use the part listing for the exact timer used on this model: crosley refrigerator defrost timer 215846602.
Common locations to check first
- Inside the refrigerator compartment control housing (where the temperature controls are)
- Behind the toe grille (kick plate) at the bottom front
- In the machine compartment area near the compressor (accessed from the lower rear)
- Behind a small cover plate near the front right or front left corner (varies by build)
How we recommend accessing it safely
- Unplug the refrigerator.
- Remove the toe grille or the control housing cover (depending on where your timer is mounted).
- Look for a small square or rectangular timer with a wiring harness plug.
- Remove the mounting screws, then disconnect the wiring harness.
Quick parts reference
| What you are looking for | What it does | When it is suspected |
|---|---|---|
| Defrost timer | Switches between cooling and defrost cycles | Frost buildup, warm freezer, evaporator fan running but poor airflow |
Why it matters
If the defrost timer sticks in “cooling,” frost can build up on the evaporator and block airflow; if it sticks in “defrost,” the refrigerator can stop cooling. Finding the timer location quickly helps you confirm wiring, mounting, and replacement fit before ordering.
Last updated: February 2026
Why is my Frigidaire side-by-side refrigerator not freezing?
If your Frigidaire FRS26ZRGBC side-by-side refrigerator is not freezing, the most common causes are poor airflow (dirty condenser coils or a stalled evaporator fan), warm air leaks at the door gasket, or a defrost/control problem that lets frost block the evaporator. Start with airflow and temperature checks first.
Quick checks that fix many “not freezing” complaints
- Set the freezer to 0°F and the fresh food section to 37°F; wait 24 hours for stabilization.
- Make sure vents inside the freezer are not blocked by food packages.
- Clean condenser coils and confirm the condenser fan area is clear of dust.
- Check the door closes fully and seals all the way around.
- Listen for the evaporator fan running when the freezer door switch is pressed.
What to inspect next (by symptom)
| Symptom | Most likely cause | What to do first |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer warm, fridge also warm | Airflow or sealed system issue | Clean coils; verify fans run |
| Freezer warm, fridge OK | Frosted evaporator or airflow restriction | Check for heavy frost on rear freezer panel |
| Frost buildup, temps rising over days | Defrost system problem | Inspect defrost timer and defrost thermostat |
| Door area sweating, ice on gasket | Door not sealing | Inspect gasket for gaps/tears |
Parts that commonly relate to “not freezing” on this model
These parts are on the FRS26ZRGBC parts list and often tie directly to freezing and airflow problems:
- Refrigerator evaporator fan blade 5308000010: if the fan is noisy, broken, or not moving air.
- Thermostat 297216600: if temperatures swing or the unit does not cycle correctly.
- Crosley refrigerator defrost timer 215846602: if the evaporator frosts over and airflow stops.
Why it matters
A freezer that is not freezing is usually an airflow problem first; when cold air cannot move across the evaporator and through the compartments, temperatures rise quickly and food safety becomes a concern.
Helpful DIY guidance
Last updated: February 2026





