Where is the filter on my Whirlpool side by side refrigerator?
On the Whirlpool GS6NBEXRS02 side-by-side refrigerator, the water filter is located in the base grille at the bottom front of the unit. You access it from the front by pressing the eject button, pulling the filter straight out, and transferring the cap to the new filter.
How to find and remove the filter (base grille style)
Use these steps for the GS6NBEXRS02 filter location:
- Locate the base grille (kick plate) at the bottom front of the refrigerator.
- Press the eject button to release the filter.
- Pull the filter straight out.
- Turn the filter cap counterclockwise to remove it (do not discard the cap).
- Install the cap on the new filter, align the ridge with the arrow, and turn until it snaps.
- Push the new filter into the base grille until it seats and the eject button pops out.
For diagrams and model-specific details, use the GS6NBEXRS02 owner's manual.
Which replacement filter fits this model?
This model uses a base filter cartridge. The replacement we commonly see for this setup is the refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1.
| What you are replacing | What you will do | What to watch for |
|---|---|---|
| Water filter cartridge | Eject, pull out, swap cap, push in | Keep the cap; it must transfer to the new filter |
| Filter status light (if equipped) | Press FILTER RESET after replacement | Light should change from red to green after reset |
After you replace it: quick checks
- Dispense water for a few minutes to flush air and carbon fines.
- If ice looks gray or water spurts, keep flushing until clear.
- If water flow is still weak, confirm the filter is fully seated and the cap is snapped in place.
Why it matters
A correctly installed, fresh filter helps maintain water flow to the dispenser and ice maker and reduces off-taste or odor. It also prevents issues caused by incomplete flushing after a filter change.
To order parts for your Whirlpool GS6NBEXRS02, use the parts list for this model or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What size is a Whirlpool side by side refrigerator?
Most Whirlpool side-by-side refrigerators are about 33 to 36 inches wide and 66 to 72 inches tall. For your Whirlpool GS6NBEXRS02, use the exact cabinet dimensions and required clearances in the GS6NBEXRS02 owner's manual so it fits your space and the doors can open fully.
Typical size ranges (what to expect)
Most side-by-side units in this Whirlpool family fall into these common ranges:
- Width: 33 to 36 inches
- Height: 66 to 72 inches
- Depth: commonly 30 to 35 inches (varies by handle style and door design)
- Installation clearance: allow space at the sides and top for airflow
- Wall clearance: allow extra space so doors can swing open
Installation clearances to plan for
Your GS6NBEXRS02 needs clearance for ventilation and door swing. The manual calls out these common planning numbers:
| What you are planning for | Typical minimum clearance |
|---|---|
| Ventilation at each side | 1/2 inch |
| Ventilation at top | 1/2 inch |
| Next to a fixed wall (door swing) | 2 inches (minimum) |
Why it matters
Correct sizing prevents poor cooling and nuisance issues. Tight installs can restrict airflow, cause warm temperatures, and make the ice maker water line harder to route and service.
Quick measuring checklist
- Measure the opening width, height, and depth in three spots (front, middle, back).
- Confirm door swing clearance if the refrigerator sits next to a wall.
- Plan for water line space behind the unit if you use the ice maker.
- Verify the exact dimensions for GS6NBEXRS02 in the GS6NBEXRS02 owner's manual.
- If you are also replacing the filter while moving the unit, match the correct cartridge such as the refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1.
You can also look up parts and accessories for GS6NBEXRS02 on this model’s parts list, or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the 6th sense in a Whirlpool refrigerator?
Whirlpool “6th Sense” refers to sensor-based controls that automatically adjust cooling performance to help keep temperatures stable as conditions change (door openings, room temperature, food load). On the Whirlpool GS6NBEXRS02 side-by-side refrigerator, you can confirm the exact feature names and control behavior in the GS6NBEXRS02 owner's manual.
What it does in everyday use
In practical terms, 6th Sense-style features focus on keeping food fresh by reacting quickly to temperature changes.
- Detects temperature changes inside the refrigerator and freezer
- Adjusts compressor run time and airflow to recover after door openings
- Helps reduce temperature swings that can cause frost or soft ice cream
- Supports consistent cooling when the refrigerator is heavily loaded
- Works in the background; you typically do not need to “turn it on”
Where you will notice it most
You are most likely to notice the benefit during high-use periods.
| Situation | What the system is trying to do | What you may notice |
|---|---|---|
| Frequent door openings | Recover temperature quickly | Faster return to set temps |
| Warm groceries added | Pull heat out efficiently | Longer run time for a while |
| Hot kitchen conditions | Maintain stable cabinet temps | More frequent cycling |
| Seasonal humidity changes | Limit moisture-related issues | Less condensation in normal use |
Related parts that affect cooling and “smart” performance
Even the best control logic cannot compensate for restricted airflow or failed components. If cooling is inconsistent, these model-matched parts are common checks:
- Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315549 (moves cold air through the compartments)
- Refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat WPW10225581 (helps manage defrost temperature)
- Refrigerator heater WP2323198 (melts frost off the evaporator during defrost)
Why it matters
Stable temperatures help protect food quality and reduce issues like freezer frost buildup, thawing, or warm spots. If you are ordering replacement parts for your Whirlpool GS6NBEXRS02, start with 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 Whirlpool refrigerators?
The most common Whirlpool refrigerator problems are cooling issues (warm fridge or freezer, temperature swings) and ice maker or water dispenser problems. On Whirlpool GS6NBEXRS02, these symptoms are usually tied to airflow restrictions, frost buildup from a defrost problem, or water supply and filtration issues; the GS6NBEXRS02 owner's manual helps pinpoint the right checks.
Most common symptoms and what they usually mean
- Fridge warm, freezer OK: blocked air vents, evaporator fan issue, or heavy frost on the evaporator
- Freezer warm, fridge warm: dirty condenser coils, condenser airflow problem, or sealed system/compressor issue
- Ice maker not making ice: water supply restriction, frozen fill tube, or failed ice maker
- Water dispenser slow or stops: clogged filter, air in the water line, or inlet valve issue
- Water leaking or puddles: clogged/iced defrost drain, loose water tube connection, or door not sealing
Quick checks we recommend first (fast, no parts)
- Confirm temperatures: freezer near 0°F, fresh food near 37°F.
- Check door seal and closing: look for gaps, torn gasket, or doors not self-closing.
- Look for blocked vents: avoid packing food tight against air returns.
- Inspect for frost buildup: heavy frost on the back freezer panel often points to a defrost problem.
- Verify water supply: shutoff valve fully open; water line not kinked.
Parts that commonly solve these problems on GS6NBEXRS02
If troubleshooting points to a failed component, these are common fixes for the symptoms above:
| Symptom | Common part to check/replace | Example part on this model page |
|---|---|---|
| Slow water, bad taste/odor | Water filter | Refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1 |
| No ice (with good water pressure) | Ice maker assembly | Whirlpool refrigerator ice maker assembly 2198597 |
| Frost buildup, warm temps | Defrost heater or defrost thermostat | Refrigerator heater WP2323198, refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat WPW10225581 |
| Warm fridge, noisy or no airflow | Evaporator fan motor | Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315549 |
Why it matters
Cooling and ice maker complaints often share the same root causes: restricted airflow, frost from a defrost failure, or restricted water flow. Fixing the underlying cause protects food temperatures, reduces compressor run time, and restores normal ice production.
Helpful DIY guidance
- Use our Whirlpool refrigerator error codes guide if your display shows a fault.
- For filter-related issues, follow how to replace the water filter in a Whirlpool refrigerator.
- To order parts for Whirlpool GS6NBEXRS02, use the parts list for this model or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How do I order parts for a Whirlpool refrigerator?
For your Whirlpool GS6NBEXRS02 side-by-side refrigerator, order replacement parts by matching your model number and the exact part ID or part number, then selecting the part from the parts list for this model. For broader model lookups and ordering, use Sears PartsDirect.
What to gather before you order
Having the right identifiers prevents wrong-part returns and delays.
- Complete model number: GS6NBEXRS02
- Serial number (from the model and serial label inside the fresh food compartment)
- The part ID (example: EDR3RXD1) or part number (example: 4396841)
- A quick symptom note (example: “ice maker not making ice”)
Common parts customers order for this model
These are frequently replaced items for water and ice performance.
- Refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1 (part number 4396841) for taste, odor, and flow issues
- Whirlpool refrigerator ice maker assembly 2198597 for no ice or irregular ice production
- Refrigerator water inlet valve WPW10159839 for no water to dispenser or ice maker
Quick part matching table
| What you’re fixing | What to look up | Example from this model |
|---|---|---|
| Water tastes bad or flow is slow | Water filter ID/part number | EDR3RXD1 / 4396841 |
| No ice production | Ice maker assembly | 2198597 |
| No water to dispenser/ice maker | Water inlet valve | WPW10159839 |
How we recommend ordering (step-by-step)
- Confirm the model number is GS6NBEXRS02.
- Identify the exact part you need by name plus part ID.
- Compare your old part markings (ID/part number) to the listing.
- Order the part and keep your proof of purchase with your records.
Why it matters
Refrigerator parts can look similar across Whirlpool side-by-side models, but connectors, mounting points, and revisions vary. Matching by model number plus part ID is the most reliable way to get the correct replacement.
For model-specific diagrams, part identification, and maintenance details, use the GS6NBEXRS02 owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026





