How can I tell how many cubic feet my Whirlpool refrigerator is?
For your Whirlpool ED20PKXBN00 side-by-side refrigerator, the most reliable way to confirm cubic feet is to look up the model’s published capacity by model number. If you just need a quick estimate, we can calculate it by measuring the usable interior space and converting cubic inches to cubic feet.
Fast ways to find capacity for ED20PKXBN00
- Check the model/serial tag inside the fresh food section (usually on a side wall or ceiling) and confirm it reads ED20PKXBN00.
- Use the model number to search capacity and specs on Sears PartsDirect.
- If you are comparing refrigerators, measure interior space for an estimate (steps below).
How to estimate cubic feet by measuring (quick math)
- Empty enough items to measure the usable interior.
- Measure width x height x depth in inches (fresh food and freezer separately if you want more accuracy).
- Multiply to get cubic inches.
- Divide by 1,728 to convert to cubic feet.
What to measure (so the estimate is realistic)
- Measure inside wall-to-wall, not door bins.
- Subtract obvious unusable areas (large air ducts, thick shelves you cannot remove).
- Measure the freezer and refrigerator compartments separately, then add them.
Typical capacity range (why your estimate may differ)
Most side-by-side refrigerators like the Whirlpool ED20-series are commonly in the 20 to 26 cu. ft. range, but the exact number depends on cabinet size and interior design.
| Method | Accuracy | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Model-number lookup | High | Exact published capacity |
| Interior measurement | Medium | Quick estimate, comparisons |
| Exterior measurement | Low | Not recommended (includes insulation and walls) |
Why it matters
Cubic feet affects how much food you can store, how you compare replacement models, and whether shelves, bins, and airflow space feel tight. If you are troubleshooting temperature swings or frost, capacity is less important than airflow parts like the evaporator fan and defrost system; our how to fix your evaporator cooling fan guide helps you narrow those issues down.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the most common problem with a Whirlpool refrigerator?
The most common Whirlpool refrigerator problem is poor cooling (warm fridge, soft ice, or thawing freezer), usually caused by restricted airflow from dirty condenser coils or a frost-clogged evaporator area. On the Whirlpool ED20PKXBN00 side-by-side, cooling complaints also commonly trace to the defrost system or evaporator fan.
What to check first (fast, no-parts steps)
- Confirm the controls are set correctly (typical targets: 37°F fresh food, 0°F freezer).
- Clean the condenser coils and make sure the condenser fan area is clear.
- Make sure vents inside the compartments are not blocked by food packages.
- Check door closing and sealing; a small air leak can cause constant running and weak cooling.
- Listen for the evaporator fan; it should run when the compressor is running (door switch may need to be held closed).
Common causes and the parts that often fix them
If basic airflow and settings look good, these are the most frequent “real repair” causes:
| Symptom | Most likely system | Common part examples for ED20PKXBN00 |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer cold but fridge warm | Airflow/evaporator fan | Refrigerator evaporator motor 4389144, refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2169142 |
| Heavy frost on back freezer panel, warming over time | Defrost system | Refrigerator defrost bi-metal WPW10225581 |
| Temps swing too warm or too cold | Temperature control | Refrigerator thermostat WP2198202 |
| Water under fridge or in fresh food section | Defrost drain issue | (Usually a cleaning/clearing repair; parts vary) |
Why it matters
Cooling problems are the “root issue” behind many other complaints (ice maker not producing, food spoiling, long run times). Restoring proper airflow and defrost operation protects the compressor and keeps temperatures stable.
Helpful DIY guides we recommend
- Use our Whirlpool refrigerator error codes guide if your display shows a code or you suspect an electronic control issue.
- If the issue is ice or water related, our how to prevent water dispenser and ice maker problems guide helps you rule out the most common causes.
Ordering the right parts
We list model-matched replacement parts for Whirlpool ED20PKXBN00 on this page; you can also search by model number on Sears PartsDirect if you are comparing options or building a full repair list.
Last updated: February 2026
Can I replace fridge parts myself?
Yes. On a Whirlpool ED20PKXBN00 side-by-side refrigerator, we can safely replace many common parts ourselves (gaskets, switches, drawers, and some fan components) with basic tools and careful unplugging; sealed-system and refrigerant work should be left to a technician.
Good DIY repairs vs. repairs to avoid
Many refrigerator fixes are straightforward because they involve accessible mechanical parts or simple electrical connections.
- Good DIY candidates
- Door seal and door alignment checks (warm air leaks cause frosting and warm temps)
- Interior light or door switch replacement (for example, switch W11384469)
- Evaporator fan airflow issues (for example, refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2169142)
- Crisper and drawer hardware (covers, pans, supports)
- Basic cleaning and defrosting (ice buildup, drain pan cleaning)
- Avoid as DIY
- Sealed-system repairs (compressor, refrigerant lines, brazing)
- Refrigerant charging or leak repair
- Complex electrical diagnosis beyond basic continuity checks
Quick safety checklist before you start
- Unplug the refrigerator (or switch off the breaker) before removing panels or touching wiring.
- Wear cut-resistant gloves around sheet metal and the evaporator area.
- Take a photo of wire connections before disconnecting anything.
- Keep screws organized; many are different lengths.
- If you smell burning insulation or see melted wiring, stop and have it serviced.
Common symptoms and the part area to check
| Symptom | Most likely area | Example part on this model page |
|---|---|---|
| Fridge warm, freezer cold | Evaporator fan and airflow | Refrigerator evaporator motor 4389144 |
| Frost buildup on back wall | Defrost system | Refrigerator defrost bi-metal WPW10225581 |
| Temps swing too warm or too cold | Temperature control | Refrigerator thermostat WP2198202 |
| Water under fridge | Drain system and pan | Refrigerator drain pan WPW10614158 |
Why it matters
DIY-friendly repairs can restore proper cooling and prevent food spoilage without the cost of a service call. Knowing when a repair crosses into sealed-system work also helps protect you from electrical hazards and expensive misdiagnosis.
Parts and step-by-step help
We list model-matched replacement parts for ED20PKXBN00 on this page, and you can also search by model number on Sears PartsDirect. For troubleshooting guidance, use how to fix your evaporator cooling fan when airflow is the issue.
Last updated: February 2026
How to read Whirlpool model numbers?
Whirlpool model numbers identify the product type, size series, and feature level; for your refrigerator, ED20PKXBN00 is the exact model number we use to match the correct diagrams and replacement parts so you get the right fit the first time.
What each section of a Whirlpool model number usually means
Whirlpool model numbers are built in “chunks.” While the exact meaning can vary by product line and year, this is the most common way to interpret them:
- Prefix letters: product family (for example, many side-by-side refrigerators start with ED)
- Number block: capacity or series indicator (often tied to size class or platform)
- Middle letters: design or feature package (trim level, dispenser style, color family)
- Ending digits: engineering revision or configuration (small changes that affect parts)
Where to find the model number on a side-by-side refrigerator
On Whirlpool side-by-side refrigerators like ED20PKXBN00, the model/serial tag is typically found in one of these spots:
- Inside the fresh food compartment on a side wall
- Along the ceiling of the fresh food compartment
- Behind the crisper drawers area (on the liner wall)
- On the door frame near the hinges
Why the full model number matters for parts
Even one character difference can change which thermostat, gasket, or fan motor fits. We recommend matching the full model number (including the last two digits).
| What you enter | What can happen | Best practice |
|---|---|---|
| Partial model (example: ED20PKXB) | Wrong part variant may show | Use the full ED20PKXBN00 |
| Close model (example: ED20PKXBN01) | Different revision parts may fit differently | Match the exact suffix |
| Full model + symptom | Faster, more accurate part selection | Use model plus issue description |
Common examples of parts that depend on the exact model
When you confirm ED20PKXBN00, you can confidently shop parts that match this platform, such as:
- Temperature control components like the refrigerator thermostat WP2198202
- Defrost protection parts like the refrigerator defrost bi-metal WPW10225581
- Airflow parts like the refrigerator evaporator motor 4389144
- Door sealing parts like the refrigerator door gasket 2188405A
Why it matters
Reading the model number correctly prevents ordering the wrong Whirlpool refrigerator parts, reduces downtime, and helps troubleshooting steps line up with the correct wiring and component layout.
You can order replacement parts for Whirlpool ED20PKXBN00 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most commonly replaced parts in a refrigerator?
In a Whirlpool side-by-side refrigerator like model ED20PKXBN00, the most commonly replaced parts are the ones tied to cooling control, airflow, defrosting, and door sealing. These parts wear with normal use and are often linked to warm temperatures, frost buildup, leaks, or noisy operation.
Common parts we replace most often
These categories cover most everyday refrigerator repairs:
- Temperature control parts (thermostat, sensors)
- Defrost system parts (defrost thermostat/bi-metal, heater, timer or control)
- Airflow parts (evaporator fan motor and fan blade)
- Door sealing parts (door gasket)
- Water management parts (drain pan, drain path components)
- Compressor start components (start relay/overload)
Model ED20PKXBN00 examples from the parts list include the refrigerator thermostat WP2198202, refrigerator defrost bi-metal WPW10225581, and refrigerator evaporator motor 4389144.
Symptom-to-part quick guide
| Symptom | Commonly involved part(s) |
|---|---|
| Freezer cold, fresh food warm | Evaporator fan motor or fan blade |
| Frost buildup on freezer back wall | Defrost bi-metal and other defrost parts |
| Temperatures swing or won’t hold | Thermostat/temperature control |
| Condensation or air leaks at door | Door gasket |
| Clicking, won’t start, intermittent cooling | Start relay/overload (and sometimes compressor) |
Why it matters
Replacing the correct “high-impact” part restores proper airflow and temperature stability; that protects food, reduces frost and leaks, and prevents the compressor from running harder than necessary.
Helpful DIY step before ordering
- Confirm temperature settings; wait 24 hours after changes
- Check for frost on the freezer rear panel
- Listen for the evaporator fan with the door switch pressed
For troubleshooting steps, use our how to fix your evaporator cooling fan guide. To order parts, use the parts list for ED20PKXBN00 or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026





