Where are the controls on a whirlpool side-by-side refrigerator?
On the Whirlpool GC5SHEXNS00 side-by-side refrigerator, the temperature control panel is located at the top of the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment. To access it, push up on the control panel and release; you can then view or adjust the refrigerator and freezer settings (see the GC5SHEXNS00 owner's manual).
- Open the refrigerator (fresh food) door.
- Look at the top interior area of the refrigerator compartment.
- Push up on the control panel and release to expose the controls.
- Adjust refrigerator and freezer temperatures as needed.
- Wait 24 hours after any change before making another adjustment.
The two main temperature controls affect different compartments.
| Control | What it changes | What to expect after adjusting |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator control | Fresh food compartment temperature | Food section gets warmer or colder over the next 24 hours |
| Freezer control | Freezer compartment temperature | Ice cream and frozen foods get softer or harder over the next 24 hours |
- Start at the factory mid-settings after installation.
- If the refrigerator side is too warm, lower the refrigerator setting one step.
- If items in the refrigerator start freezing, raise the refrigerator setting one step.
- Keep vents inside the compartments unblocked so air can circulate.
- If you are troubleshooting temperature issues, confirm the doors seal fully and close on their own.
Knowing the control location helps you make correct temperature changes. On a side-by-side like the GC5SHEXNS00, small adjustments and a full 24-hour wait prevent over-correcting, which can cause food spoilage in the refrigerator or frost and freezing in the fresh food section.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the dimensions of the GC5SHEXNS00?
For the Whirlpool GC5SHEXNS00 side-by-side refrigerator, the cabinet opening width is typically 36 in. (91.5 cm), and the installed height varies by configuration; many installations fall in the about 69 to 72 in. range depending on leveling legs and door style. For the exact fit details used during installation, use the measurements in the installation guide.
These are the measurements that most often determine whether GC5SHEXNS00 will fit your space.
- Opening width: 36 in. (91.5 cm)
- Opening height (standard cabinet): 69 in. (175.3 cm) for “23” models; 72 in. (182.9 cm) for “25” models
- Opening height (full-overlay): 69 1/8 in. (175.6 cm) for “23” models; 72 1/8 in. (183.2 cm) for “25” models
- Height changes with leveling legs: add 1 1/8 in. (29 mm) when legs are fully extended
- Door swing clearance: plan for doors to open to at least 150°
| Measurement (installation planning) | Typical value shown in guide |
|---|---|
| Minimum opening width | 36 in. (91.5 cm) |
| Opening height, standard cabinet | 69 in. or 72 in. |
| Opening height, full-overlay | 69 1/8 in. or 72 1/8 in. |
| Extra height with legs fully extended | +1 1/8 in. |
Refrigerator height is affected by how the unit is leveled and the cabinet/door configuration. The installation measurements are shown with leveling legs at a minimum extension, then increase if you extend the legs further to level the refrigerator and align doors.
- Measure the opening at the front and back (walls are not always square).
- Confirm you have room for door swing and handle clearance.
- Account for flooring changes (new tile can reduce usable height).
- If you are adding panels or trim, follow the panel and overlay guidance in the guide.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the capacity of the GC5SHEXNS00?
The total storage capacity for the Whirlpool GC5SHEXNS00 is listed in the product data section of the GC5SHEXNS00 owner's manual. That spec is the combined volume of the fresh food and freezer compartments, and it is the right number to use when comparing refrigerator sizes.
In the manual, look for a section labeled “Product data sheets” or “Product” information.
- Check for “Total capacity” (combined)
- Look for a breakdown of “Refrigerator” and “Freezer” capacity
- Note that some documents list capacity in cubic feet and liters
- If your unit has an in-door ice system, usable space can feel smaller than the rated capacity
Rated capacity is a standardized measurement; usable space depends on shelves, bins, and installed options.
| Term | What it means | What it helps with |
|---|---|---|
| Total capacity | Refrigerator + freezer volume | Comparing overall size between models |
| Usable space | What you can actually fit | Planning storage and organization |
| Filter capacity | Gallons a water filter can treat | Maintenance planning |
Knowing the correct GC5SHEXNS00 capacity helps you compare side-by-side refrigerators accurately and set expectations for storage, especially if you use features like an ice maker or door bins that reduce usable room.
Last updated: February 2026
How much freezer space is in a side by side?
A side-by-side refrigerator typically has about 7.5 to 10 cu. ft. of freezer capacity (roughly 30% to 35% of total refrigerator volume). For your Whirlpool GC5SHEXNS00, our documents focus on fit and clearance; use the installation guide for the model’s exact exterior and opening dimensions.
Most side-by-side designs split storage into two tall compartments; the freezer side is narrower but offers lots of vertical shelving.
- Typical freezer capacity: 7.5 to 10 cu. ft.
- Typical total capacity: 22.5 to 31 cu. ft.
- Typical freezer share: 30% to 35%
- Storage layout: shelves, door bins, and an ice bin area
Even with the same cubic-foot rating, the space you can actually use varies.
- Ice maker and ice bin reduce shelf room (common in Whirlpool side-by-sides)
- Shelf and bin configuration affects tall and wide item storage
- Frost buildup reduces space and airflow
- Overpacking blocks vents and makes temperatures uneven
If you are planning cabinetry, door swing clearance, or measuring for replacement, the installation guide provides model-specific fit information.
| Measurement type | Where to confirm for GC5SHEXNS00 | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Overall height/width/depth | Installation guide dimension pages | Ensures the refrigerator fits the space |
| Door swing clearance | Installation guide door swing section | Prevents doors from hitting walls/cabinets |
| Opening dimensions | Installation guide opening dimensions | Helps plan built-in or tight installs |
Freezer “space” is not just cubic feet. Side-by-sides can feel smaller for wide items (pizza boxes, sheet pans) even when capacity is strong because the compartment is tall and narrow.
Last updated: February 2026





