How big is the KitchenAid KSCS25FTMS01?
The KitchenAid KSCS25FTMS01 is a 36-inch class side-by-side refrigerator. The installation guide shows two size groups (23 cu ft and 25 cu ft) with a 35 1/2-inch cabinet width and heights that vary by model size and how far the leveling legs are extended; use the installation guide to match the exact height for your setup.
Key dimensions you can plan around
These measurements come from the installation guide and are the most useful for cabinet and doorway planning.
- Cabinet width: 35 1/2 in (90.5 cm)
- Overall depth (typical for this platform): about 39.6 in (100.6 cm)
- Door clearance to open 150°: allow 13 1/4 in (freezer side) and 16 1/2 in (refrigerator side) from the side wall
- Height changes with leveling legs: add 3/4 in if legs are extended to 1 in below the refrigerator
Height and opening height (23 cu ft vs 25 cu ft)
The guide lists two model-size groups. Use this table to plan your opening; then confirm which group your KSCS25FTMS01 falls into in the installation guide.
| Model size group in guide | Refrigerator height A (legs at minimum) | Standard cabinet opening height | Full-overlay opening height |
|---|---|---|---|
| 23 cu ft (654 L) | 64 7/8 in | 69 in | 69 1/8 in |
| 25 cu ft (694 L) | 67 3/4 in | 72 in | 72 1/8 in |
Why it matters
Correct sizing prevents door swing interference, rubbing on cabinets, and poor leveling. Leveling and clearance also affect door sealing and ice maker and water dispenser performance.
Quick planning checklist
- Measure the cabinet opening width and confirm you have at least 35 1/2 in.
- Decide whether you need standard or full-overlay cabinet opening height.
- Plan side-wall clearance for a 150° door swing.
- If you will extend leveling legs for leveling, add 3/4 in to the listed height.
Last updated: February 2026
What causes a KitchenAid refrigerator to stop cooling?
A KitchenAid KSCS25FTMS01 side-by-side refrigerator usually stops cooling because airflow or heat removal is blocked (dirty condenser area, failed fan), the controls are turned off, or a sealed-system component is failing. We start by confirming Cooling On/Off is set to ON and allowing a full 24 hours after any major change.
Quick checks first (fastest wins)
- Make sure COOLING ON/OFF is ON; the refrigerator will not cool when the control is set to Off (see the owner's manual).
- Verify power: outlet works, cord is plugged in, and the breaker is not tripped.
- After installation or a long power outage, allow 24 hours for temperatures to stabilize.
- Confirm set points are reasonable (factory recommended is 0°F freezer and 37°F refrigerator).
- Do not expect faster cooling by turning controls colder; it will not cool the compartments any faster.
Common causes on side-by-side refrigerators
Airflow problems (most common)
- Condenser coils and the condenser fan area are packed with dust, so heat cannot leave the cabinet.
- Evaporator fan issue (no cold air circulation); a damaged blade can contribute (see refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2169142).
- Frost buildup on the evaporator from a defrost problem; a failed thermostat is a frequent culprit (see refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat WPW10225581).
Cooling system or control problems
- Compressor not running or struggling (sealed system).
- Electronic control not sending power to the compressor/fans.
- Refrigerant restriction or leak (sealed system service).
What to look for (symptom guide)
| What you notice | Most likely area | What we check next |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer warm and fridge warm | Power, controls, sealed system | Cooling ON, outlet, compressor sound |
| Freezer cold, fridge warm | Airflow/damper/evap fan | Fan running, vents blocked |
| Heavy frost on back freezer panel | Defrost system | Defrost thermostat, heater circuit |
| Runs constantly, still warm | Dirty condenser, fan, sealed system | Clean coils, verify fans |
Why it matters
Cooling failures can spoil food quickly. Confirming the control settings and airflow basics first prevents unnecessary parts replacement and helps you pinpoint whether the issue is a fan/defrost problem or a sealed-system repair.
Last updated: February 2026
How to replace water filter on KitchenAid side by side refrigerator?
On KitchenAid side-by-side refrigerator model KSCS25FTMS01, you replace the water filter by ejecting it from the base grille, moving the filter cap to the new filter, then pushing the new filter in until it locks. Finish by flushing the water system and resetting the filter light (if equipped).
Step-by-step: changing the water filter
- Press the eject button on the base grille to release the filter.
- Pull the old filter straight out.
- Turn the filter cap counterclockwise to remove it from the old filter (keep the cap).
- Install the cap on the new filter: align the ridge on the cap with the arrow on the new filter, then turn until it snaps in place.
- Remove protective covers from the O-rings; confirm the O-rings stay seated.
- Push the new filter into the base grille until fully engaged (the eject button pops back out).
- Flush the water system (run water through the dispenser to clear air and carbon fines).
For the exact illustrations and wording for KSCS25FTMS01, use the owner's manual.
Resetting the filter status light (if your model has it)
After replacing the filter:
- Press and hold the FILTER button for 3 seconds.
- The status light should blink red, change to blue, then turn off when reset.
If your refrigerator does not have an indicator light, replace the filter about every 6 months (sooner if water flow to the dispenser or ice maker drops).
Parts that commonly come up during a filter change
If the filter will not seat, leaks at the grille, or the cap is missing or damaged, these parts are often involved:
- Refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1
- Refrigerator water filter cap (black) WP2260518B
- Refrigerator water tube fitting WP2300868
- Refrigerator water tube 8201597
Quick symptom-to-check table
| What you notice | Most likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Filter will not lock in | Cap not snapped on correctly | Reinstall cap; align ridge and arrow, then snap in place |
| Drips at base grille | O-ring cover left on or O-ring pinched | Remove covers; reseat O-rings; reinstall filter |
| Sputtering after install | Air in water line | Flush several glasses of water |
| “Replace filter” message stays on | Status not reset | Hold FILTER button 3 seconds |
Why it matters
A properly installed filter helps maintain water flow for the dispenser and ice maker, reduces leaks at the base grille, and keeps the filter status system accurate so you change the filter on time.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the most common problem with KitchenAid refrigerators?
For KitchenAid side-by-side refrigerators like model KSCS25FTMS01, the most common issues we see are ice maker and water dispensing problems, followed by cooling complaints (warm fridge, freezer OK, or uneven temperatures). These often trace back to airflow, defrost, or water-supply related parts and maintenance.
Most common symptoms customers report
- Ice maker not making ice, slow ice production, or small/hollow cubes
- Water dispenser slow, sputtering, or not dispensing
- Refrigerator section warm while freezer stays cold
- Frost buildup on the freezer back wall (defrost issue)
- Unusual fan noise or intermittent buzzing
- Water puddles inside the refrigerator or under the unit
Quick checks that fix many “common problems”
- Confirm temperatures: set freezer near 0°F and refrigerator near 37°F (typical targets for side-by-side units).
- Check airflow: make sure vents are not blocked by food packages.
- Replace the water filter on schedule: a restricted filter can reduce water flow and affect ice production.
- Purge air after filter changes: air in the line can cause sputtering and slow dispensing.
- Clean condenser area: dust buildup commonly contributes to poor cooling and longer run times.
Parts that commonly relate to these problems (KSCS25FTMS01)
If troubleshooting points to a failed component, these are common matches for the symptoms above:
| Symptom | Commonly involved part | Example from this model’s parts list |
|---|---|---|
| No ice or poor ice | Ice maker assembly | Whirlpool refrigerator ice maker assembly 2198597 |
| Slow water or poor ice | Refrigerator water filter | Refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1 |
| Frost buildup, warm temps | Defrost thermostat | Refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat WPW10225581 |
| Warm temps, weak airflow | Evaporator fan blade (and motor if equipped) | Refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2169142 |
Why it matters
Ice and water issues can look like “big” failures, but they are often caused by simple restrictions (filter, air in the line) or airflow/defrost problems that also impact food safety and temperature stability. Using the correct parts for KSCS25FTMS01 helps restore normal cooling and dispenser performance.
Helpful how-to guidance
Last updated: February 2026
Are KitchenAid refrigerators high end?
Yes. KitchenAid refrigerators, including the KitchenAid KSCS25FTMS01 side-by-side refrigerator, are positioned as premium appliances with higher-end styling, features, and build quality than basic models. They are commonly chosen for upgraded kitchens where consistent cooling performance and fit-and-finish matter.
What “high end” means for a refrigerator
High-end typically refers to a mix of design, performance, and long-term serviceability. For KitchenAid side-by-side models, that usually includes:
- More refined exterior and interior finishes
- Tighter temperature control and airflow management
- Feature-rich dispensing (water and ice) on many models
- Higher parts and repair costs compared to entry-level units
- Longer warranty coverage on major sealed-system components (varies by model and purchase date)
Model-specific context for KSCS25FTMS01
Your KSCS25FTMS01 documentation includes extended limited warranty coverage on the sealed refrigeration system components (compressor, evaporator, condenser, dryer, and connecting tubing) when operated and maintained as instructed. For exact terms and exclusions, use the owner's manual.
Sealed-system parts examples (often higher-cost repairs)
| Component | What it does | Example part on this model page |
|---|---|---|
| Compressor | Pumps refrigerant to create cooling | Refrigerator compressor 8201675 |
| Evaporator | Absorbs heat inside the cabinet | Refrigerator evaporator WP2188823 |
| Condenser | Releases heat to the room | Refrigerator condenser W10193018 |
| Dryer | Removes moisture from refrigerant | Drier w/dye WPW10143759 |
Why it matters
“High end” usually means better features and finish, but it also means you will want to stay on top of maintenance (like water filtration and airflow) to protect performance and avoid expensive repairs.
Practical upkeep that protects performance
- Replace the water filter on schedule (taste, flow, and ice quality depend on it)
- Keep vents clear inside both compartments for proper airflow
- Clean condenser area periodically to reduce compressor run time
- Address door seal gaps quickly to prevent frost and temperature swings
- Use model-correct replacement parts when something fails
For water and ice systems, we recommend following how to replace the water filter in a KitchenAid refrigerator to keep filtration and flow working as designed.
Last updated: February 2026





