How to reset the replace filter light on a KitchenAid side by side refrigerator?
On KitchenAid model KSSP36QTS02, reset the “REPLACE FILTER” light after you change the water filter by pressing and holding the FILTER button for 3 seconds until the status light blinks and then turns off. See the steps in the owner's manual.
Reset steps (control panel)
- Install the new filter fully (you should feel it seat in the base grille).
- Go to the control panel.
- Press and hold FILTER for 3 seconds.
- Watch for the status light to blink, then change color, then turn off.
- Dispense water for a few minutes (if your model has a dispenser) to clear air from the line.
- Discard the first three batches of ice after replacing the filter.
If the light will not reset
These checks fix most “stuck” filter indicators on built-in side-by-side refrigerators:
- Make sure the filter is fully engaged; the eject button should pop back out when seated.
- Reinstall the filter cap correctly; avoid twisting the cap while pulling the filter out.
- Confirm the protective covers are removed from the filter O-rings.
- Try the reset again with a steady 3-second press (do not tap).
- If the cap is cracked or will not stay on, replace the cap: refrigerator water filter cap (black) WP2260518B.
Parts that commonly apply to this issue
| Symptom | Most common cause | Part to check |
|---|---|---|
| “Replace filter” message stays on | Indicator not reset correctly | Control panel reset (FILTER button) |
| Filter will not seat or leaks at cap | Cap not installed or damaged | Refrigerator water filter cap (black) WP2260518B |
| Poor water flow after replacement | Filter clogged or incorrect install | Refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1 |
Why it matters
Resetting the filter indicator keeps the filter-life percentage accurate and helps protect water flow to the dispenser and ice maker. Replacing the filter on time also reduces the chance of slow fill and small or hollow ice cubes.
Last updated: February 2026
How big is the KitchenAid KSSP36QTS02?
The KitchenAid KSSP36QTS02 is a 36-inch class built-in side-by-side refrigerator. For the exact overall dimensions (height, width, depth, and required clearances), we use the measurements listed in the installation guide for this model so you can confirm fit before moving cabinets, panels, or water lines.
What “big” usually means for this model
Built-in 36-inch side-by-side units like the KSSP36QTS02 are sized around a standard cabinet opening, but the final fit depends on door swing, handle projection, and ventilation space.
Check these items in the installation guide:
- Overall width (cabinet opening vs. refrigerator case)
- Overall height (to top of grille or hinge cover)
- Overall depth (case depth vs. depth with doors)
- Depth with handles (important for aisle clearance)
- Required top and side clearances (for airflow and installation)
Quick fit checklist before you measure
Use a tape measure and confirm the opening in three places (top, middle, bottom). Then compare to the model’s installation specs.
- Measure opening width at top, middle, bottom
- Measure opening height at left and right sides
- Measure depth to the back wall, then note any baseboard trim
- Confirm door swing space so doors can open fully
- Locate the water supply line and electrical connection points
Typical built-in sizing guide (for planning)
These are common planning ranges for 36-inch built-in side-by-side refrigerators; use the installation specs for the exact KSSP36QTS02 numbers.
| Measurement | Typical range for 36-inch built-in SxS | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Width | ~36 in | Must match cabinet opening |
| Height | ~83 to 84 in | Impacts upper cabinet alignment |
| Depth (case) | ~24 in | Designed to sit flush with cabinets |
| Depth (with doors/handles) | varies | Affects walkway clearance |
Why it matters
A built-in refrigerator fit issue usually comes from depth with doors/handles or insufficient clearance for ventilation and door swing. Verifying the KSSP36QTS02 installation dimensions first prevents cabinet modifications and helps avoid pinched water tubing.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the most common problem with a KitchenAid refrigerator?
The most common problems we see on a KitchenAid built-in side-by-side refrigerator like model KSSP36QTS02 are cooling and ice or water issues caused by restricted airflow, dirty condenser coils, or a problem in the water delivery system (filter, housing, or inlet valve). Use the KSSP36QTS02 owner's manual to confirm your exact symptoms and checks.
Most common symptoms (and what they usually point to)
- Fridge or freezer not cold enough: airflow restriction, condenser coil buildup, fan or sensor issue
- Ice maker not making ice or slow ice: water supply restriction, filter or valve issue
- Water dispenser flow is weak: clogged filter, filter housing issue, kinked water line
- Water leaking: loose fittings, filter not seated, drain or tubing issue
- Unusual noises: fan blade rubbing ice, condenser fan noise, compressor area vibration
Quick checks we recommend first
- Confirm temperatures: set freezer near 0°F and fresh food near 37°F (typical targets).
- Check airflow: do not block vents with food packages.
- Inspect and clean condenser area: dust buildup commonly causes warm temps and longer run times.
- Verify water supply: fully open shutoff valve; check for pinched tubing.
- Replace the water filter on schedule: a restricted filter can affect both ice and water.
Parts that commonly solve ice and water complaints
If your symptoms match, these model-compatible parts are common fixes:
| Symptom | Likely area | Example part for KSSP36QTS02 |
|---|---|---|
| Weak water flow, slow ice | Water filter restriction | Refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1 |
| Leaks at filter area, filter will not seat | Filter cap or housing | Refrigerator water filter cap (black) WP2260518B, refrigerator housing WPW10121140 |
| No water to ice maker/dispenser | Water inlet valve | Refrigerator inlet valve WPW10159843 |
Why it matters
Cooling and ice maker problems often cascade: poor heat removal (dirty condenser coil) raises cabinet temperatures, and restricted water flow (filter or valve) reduces ice production. Fixing the root cause protects food quality and reduces compressor run time.
Last updated: February 2026
What causes a side-by-side refrigerator to stop cooling?
When a KitchenAid KSSP36QTS02 side-by-side refrigerator stops cooling, the most common causes are blocked air vents (no airflow between compartments), incorrect temperature control settings, doors being opened too often, or a control needing a reset. Start with airflow and settings before moving to parts testing using the owner's manual.
Quick checks we recommend first
- Confirm both compartments have clear air vents; remove packages blocking vents.
- Verify the refrigerator and freezer controls are set for normal household use.
- Limit door openings and make sure doors fully close and seal.
- If the unit was just installed or loaded with warm food, allow several hours to stabilize.
- For models with digital controls, turn the unit OFF then ON to reset the control.
Why airflow matters on this model
This refrigerator relies on air circulation between the freezer and fresh food sections. Cold air enters the bottom of the freezer, moves up, then enters the refrigerator through the top vent and returns to the freezer. If vents are blocked, cooling performance drops quickly.
If it still is not cooling: likely systems to inspect
If the quick checks do not restore cooling, the issue is usually in one of these areas:
| System | What you may notice | Common next step |
|---|---|---|
| Condenser airflow | Warm cabinet, poor cooling | Clean condenser area; check condenser fan operation |
| Evaporator airflow | Freezer cold but fridge warm | Check evaporator fan and airflow path |
| Temperature sensing/control | Temps swing, inconsistent cooling | Test sensor and control inputs |
| Sealed system | Both sections warm, runs a lot | Professional sealed-system diagnosis |
Parts that can be involved (when symptoms match)
We only recommend replacing parts after confirming symptoms and testing.
- If airflow inside is weak or noisy, inspect the refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2169142.
- If temperatures are erratic, a failed sensor such as the refrigerator temperature sensor WP2188820 can mislead the control.
- If the refrigerator needs frequent resets or behaves unpredictably, control components such as the refrigerator electronic control board WP2259350 can be involved.
Why it matters
A no-cool condition can spoil food quickly, and simple issues like blocked vents or control settings are the fastest, lowest-cost fixes. Checking airflow and controls first prevents unnecessary part replacement.
Last updated: February 2026
How to fix e2 error code KitchenAid refrigerator?
On a KitchenAid KSSP36QTS02 built-in side-by-side refrigerator, an E2 code is handled by resetting power first; if it returns, treat it as a control system input problem (temperature sensing, door switch input, or control board logic) and troubleshoot those circuits. Use the KSSP36QTS02 owner's manual for the model’s control and diagnostic references.
Reset the control (first fix)
- Turn OFF power at the breaker or unplug the refrigerator.
- Wait 1 full minute.
- Restore power.
- Watch the display for 1 minute.
- Confirm the refrigerator resumes normal cooling and the code stays cleared.
If E2 comes back: what to check next
A repeating E2 means the control is still seeing an abnormal input. Focus on the items that most directly affect temperature feedback and door logic.
- Verify both doors close fully and the switches click consistently.
- Check for heavy frost or blocked vents that can cause false temperature readings.
- Inspect visible wiring/connectors for looseness or corrosion.
- If temperatures are unstable, test the temperature sensor circuit.
- If the display is erratic, suspect the main control electronics.
Parts that commonly resolve repeat E2 symptoms
| What you notice | What we check | Example part for KSSP36QTS02 |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature swings, long run times | Temperature feedback | Refrigerator temperature sensor WP2188820 |
| Door alarm or interior light acts wrong | Door or light switch input | Refrigerator light switch W11384469 |
| Random codes, erratic display | Main control board | Refrigerator electronic control board WPW10151236 |
Why it matters
E2 is a warning that the refrigerator’s control is not getting a reliable input. Clearing it without fixing the cause can lead to poor cooling performance and temperature instability.
Last updated: February 2026





