Do you remove cardboard from the bottom of a Whirlpool refrigerator?
For the Whirlpool WRX735SDHV02 bottom-mount refrigerator, we remove and recycle the external packaging used for shipping, but we do not remove any built-in bottom cover or panel that protects components underneath the cabinet. Follow the unpacking steps in the owner's manual to avoid damaging wiring, tubing, or airflow parts.
What to remove vs. what to leave in place
In general, there are two different “cardboard” situations:
- Shipping packaging (tape, corner blocks, wrap, pads): remove it all.
- Protective bottom cover/panel (sometimes looks like fiberboard): leave it installed.
- Temporary floor protection (cardboard under the fridge while moving it): use it during moving, then remove it.
Safe unpacking steps we recommend
Use these steps right after delivery or before first power-up:
- Remove tape and glue residue with mild dish soap and warm water; dry thoroughly.
- Dispose of or recycle all loose packaging materials.
- Do not use sharp tools, abrasive cleaners, or flammable fluids on finished surfaces.
- If you need to move the refrigerator, pull it straight out; do not “walk” it.
- Protect your flooring with cardboard or hardboard while sliding the unit.
Quick guide: which “bottom cardboard” are you seeing?
| What you see | Where it is | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Loose cardboard base, corner posts, foam | Outside the cabinet | Remove and recycle it |
| Flat panel attached under the cabinet (rear/bottom area) | Part of the refrigerator | Leave it in place |
| Cardboard sheet under the wheels/feet | Between fridge and floor | Use for moving; remove after placement |
Why it matters
That bottom area is where critical cooling and electrical components live. Leaving the protective cover in place helps protect parts and supports proper airflow, while removing shipping materials prevents odors, vibration noise, and blocked vents.
Last updated: February 2026
What's the average lifespan of a Whirlpool refrigerator?
A Whirlpool refrigerator typically lasts 10 to 15 years with normal household use. For your Whirlpool WRX735SDHV02 bottom-mount refrigerator, consistent maintenance (cleaning coils, keeping door seals tight, and changing filters on schedule) is what most often determines whether you reach the high end of that range.
What affects refrigerator lifespan most
- Condenser coil cleanliness: Dust buildup makes the compressor work harder.
- Door gasket condition: Air leaks cause longer run times and temperature swings.
- Ice maker and water system health: Clogs and leaks add strain and can cause damage.
- Room conditions: High heat, humidity, or tight cabinet clearances reduce efficiency.
- Usage habits: Frequent door openings and overpacking restrict airflow.
Maintenance checklist to help your WRX735SDHV02 last longer
Use your WRX735SDHV02 owner's manual for model-specific care intervals and procedures.
- Vacuum or brush condenser area periodically (more often with pets).
- Keep vents inside the fresh food section and freezer unblocked.
- Clean and inspect door gaskets; wipe spills so seals stay flexible.
- Replace the water filter on schedule; a restricted filter can reduce flow and affect ice production.
- Level the refrigerator so doors close fully and consistently.
Common “wear items” vs. long-life components
| Item | Typical role | What you notice when it’s failing |
|---|---|---|
| Water filter | Improves water quality and protects flow | Slow dispenser, small/slow ice production |
| Door gasket | Keeps warm air out | Frost, sweating, warmer temps |
| Ice maker components | Produces and harvests ice | No ice, hollow cubes, jams |
| Sealed system (compressor, evaporator) | Core cooling system | Warm fridge/freezer, long run times |
If you are replacing the filter, the correct match listed for this model is the filter, water EDR4RXD1.
Why it matters
Most refrigerator “end of life” problems start as efficiency issues (dirty coils, air leaks, restricted airflow) that force longer run times. Reducing that strain helps protect major components like the compressor and electronic controls.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the most common problem with Whirlpool refrigerators?
For Whirlpool refrigerators like model WRX735SDHV02, the most common issues we see are airflow and cooling problems caused by dirty condenser coils, a failed condenser or evaporator fan, or temperature-sensing/control problems. These faults often show up as warm temperatures, noisy operation, or inconsistent ice production.
Most common issues (and what they look like)
- Dirty condenser coils: fridge runs longer than normal, cabinet feels warm, cooling is weak
- Condenser fan problem: warm fridge, hot compressor area, little airflow at the bottom/back
- Evaporator fan problem: freezer may still feel cold but fresh food warms, weak airflow from vents
- Temperature sensing issue (thermistor): temps swing up and down, food freezes in the fridge section
- Control problem: cooling seems random, fans or compressor do not run when they should
For model-specific operating and troubleshooting steps, use the owner's manual.
Quick checks we recommend first
- Confirm temperatures: set refrigerator to about 37°F and freezer to about 0°F (typical targets).
- Clean the condenser area: unplug the refrigerator, then vacuum dust from the grille and coil area.
- Listen for fans: you should typically hear airflow when the unit is running.
- Check door sealing: a poor seal causes long run times and temperature problems.
Common symptoms and likely causes
| Symptom | Most likely cause | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Fridge and freezer both warm | Dirty coils, condenser fan, sealed system issue | Clean coils; verify condenser fan airflow |
| Freezer cold, fridge warm | Evaporator fan, airflow blockage | Check vents; listen for evaporator fan |
| Ice maker slow or not making ice | Water supply, filter restriction, ice maker issue | Replace filter; check fill and harvest |
| Temps fluctuate | Thermistor or control issue | Check sensor placement; run diagnostics |
Parts that commonly solve these problems
If you are troubleshooting water and ice performance, these model-matched parts are often involved:
- Filter, water EDR4RXD1 (restricted filters can reduce dispenser and ice maker flow)
- Valve-dual w W11043013 (water inlet valve issues can cause weak fill or no fill)
- Refrigerator ice maker assembly WPW10300024 (mechanical or electrical ice maker failures)
- Refrigerator thermistor W10316760 (temperature sensing problems)
Why it matters
Most “not cooling” complaints are not sealed-system failures. Basic maintenance (especially coil cleaning) and quick airflow checks can prevent food spoilage, reduce compressor run time, and help the refrigerator hold steady temperatures.
Last updated: February 2026
What causes a Whirlpool refrigerator to leak water from the bottom?
Water leaking from the bottom of your Whirlpool WRX735SDHV02 refrigerator is usually caused by a defrost drain problem (ice or debris clogging the drain so meltwater overflows), a water supply connection that seeps, or a water/ice system component that is leaking. Use the owner's manual to locate access points and follow model-specific checks.
Most common causes (and what to look for)
- Clogged or frozen defrost drain: Water from the defrost cycle cannot flow to the drain pan, so it spills into the fresh food section and down to the floor.
- Cracked or mispositioned drain pan: Water that should evaporate collects and can spill.
- Loose water line connection: A slow seep at the compression nut or valve connection can drip down the back and pool underneath.
- Leaking water inlet valve: The valve can seep or weep, especially when the ice maker refills.
- Filter or filter head leak: A filter not fully seated or a damaged seal can drip inside the cabinet.
Quick checks we recommend (10 to 20 minutes)
- Unplug the refrigerator and pull it out enough to inspect the floor and back.
- Check the water supply line and fittings for moisture; tighten gently if a compression fitting is loose (do not overtighten).
- Look under the unit for water in the drain pan; note whether it is clear water (often defrost) or appears to be from the supply line.
- Inspect the water filter area for drips; reseat the filter and check the O-ring area.
- If the leak appears after defrost, clear the drain path (warm water flush is commonly effective).
Parts that commonly solve bottom-leak symptoms
| Symptom you notice | Likely area | Part that may be involved (for WRX735SDHV02) |
|---|---|---|
| Puddle appears even when not dispensing water | Water supply/ice maker fill | Valve-dual w W11043013 |
| Drip near filter compartment or after filter change | Filter seating/head | Filter, water EDR4RXD1 |
| Intermittent water on floor, often after defrost | Defrost drain/drain pan area | Drain system cleaning and inspection (no specific part required first) |
Why it matters
A bottom leak can lead to floor damage and can also create ice buildup inside the refrigerator if the defrost water is not draining correctly. Fixing the root cause also helps prevent odor, mold, and recurring puddles.
Last updated: February 2026





