Owner’s manual
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What do you call the bottom part of the refrigerator?
On the Whirlpool WRF736SDAM13 bottom-mount refrigerator, the “bottom part” is most often the freezer drawer (the lower compartment you pull out). People also use “bottom” to mean the base grille/kickplate area underneath the doors, where service access and airflow are located; see the WRF736SDAM13 user manual.
Common names (and what they mean)
- Freezer drawer: the bottom freezer compartment on this bottom-mount model
- Base grille (also called kickplate): the grille at the very bottom front
- Machine compartment: the lower rear area where the compressor and condenser components are typically located
- Lower crisper area: the lowest drawers in the fresh-food section (above the freezer)
Quick guide: which “bottom” are you talking about?
| If you mean... | Common name | Where you’ll find it |
|---|---|---|
| The pull-out bottom compartment | Freezer drawer | Front, bottom of the unit |
| The vented cover at floor level | Base grille / kickplate | Front, very bottom edge |
| The cooling-system area | Machine compartment | Back/bottom of cabinet |
| The lowest drawers in the fridge section | Crispers / pantry drawer | Inside fresh-food section |
Why it matters
Using the right term helps you find the correct diagram, instructions, or replacement part. For example, door alignment and leveling steps reference the base grille and brake feet, while storage and access steps reference the freezer drawer.
Last updated: January 2026
How do I remove the base grille on my Whirlpool refrigerator?
On Whirlpool model WRF736SDAM13, the base grille pulls straight off: grasp it firmly and pull it toward you. This exposes the adjustable brake feet and the condenser area for cleaning and leveling. For exact handling notes, use the WRF736SDAM13 user manual.
Steps to remove the base grille
- Unplug the refrigerator (or disconnect power) for safety.
- Stand in front of the unit and locate the base grille below the freezer drawer.
- Grasp the grille firmly with both hands.
- Pull the grille straight toward you to release it.
- Open the freezer drawer if you need more access to the brake feet area.
Reinstalling the grille
Align the ends of the grille with the leveling assemblies on each side, then snap it back into place.
What you can do once the grille is off
- Clean dust and pet hair from the grille and condenser area.
- Access the brake feet to level the refrigerator and improve door closing.
- Inspect for debris that can restrict airflow at the bottom front.
| Task | Tool you may need | Typical frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Clean condenser area behind grille | Vacuum with soft brush | Every 2 to 3 months in dusty or pet-heavy homes |
| Adjust brake feet for leveling | 1/4-inch hex driver | As needed |
| Snap grille back on | None | After service/cleaning |
Why it matters
A properly seated base grille helps protect the condenser area and keeps airflow where it belongs. Keeping the condenser area clean can help your WRF736SDAM13 run more efficiently and maintain stable temperatures.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the most common problem with a Whirlpool refrigerator?
On the Whirlpool WRF736SDAM13, the most common issues we see are cooling complaints (warm fridge or freezer), ice maker or water dispenser problems, and “new” noises that are often normal for an efficient compressor and fans. For model-specific checks, use the WRF736SDAM13 user manual.
Most common issues on WRF736SDAM13 (what to check first)
- Not cooling well: confirm vents are not blocked, doors close fully, and the unit has time to stabilize after changes.
- Ice maker not making ice: verify the ice maker is turned on, the ice bin is seated, and the door is closing completely.
- Slow water dispensing or hollow ice: check household water pressure and replace the filter if flow drops.
- Runs a lot: longer run times can be normal after loading groceries or during hot weather.
- Noise complaints: rattling can be a water line touching the cabinet; clicking can be normal valve or control operation.
Quick baseline settings and expectations (model-specific)
Start with the factory recommended set points and wait before making additional changes.
| Item | Baseline for WRF736SDAM13 | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator set point | 37°F (3°C) | Wait 24 hours between adjustments |
| Freezer set point | 0°F (-18°C) | Colder settings will not cool faster |
| After install or power loss | 24 hours | Time to cool fully |
When a part is commonly involved
If the basic checks above do not resolve the symptom, these model-compatible parts are often involved:
- Water/ice fill problems (no ice, slow fill): refrigerator water inlet valve assembly WPW10341329
- Ice production problems (won’t make ice, won’t harvest): refrigerator ice maker assembly W11577195
- Odor control (not a cooling fix, but a common maintenance item): refrigerator air filter W10311524
Why it matters
Cooling, ice, and water issues can lead to food spoilage, low ice production, or unnecessary compressor run time. Starting with airflow, door sealing, and filter maintenance helps you avoid replacing parts that are still working.
Last updated: January 2026
