Whirlpool WRX735SDBM04 — Common Problems & What Parts Fix Them
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Understanding the Problem
The Whirlpool WRX735SDBM04 is a 36" French-door refrigerator. Owners most commonly report: not cooling or freezing correctly, ice maker or water dispenser failures, leaks, excess frost/ice in the freezer, and unusual noises. Below are targeted diagnostic and repair steps for the most frequent problems, with practical "how to fix" actions. 1) Refrigerator not cooling or too warm 1. Check temperature settings: confirm fridge set to 37°F (3°C) and freezer to 0°F (-18°C). 2. Inspect condenser coils (under or behind unit): unplug refrigerator, slide out and clean dust/debris with a brush or vacuum. Dirty coils reduce cooling efficiency. 3. Verify condenser fan and evaporator fan operation: with power on, open doors and listen. If compressor runs but fans don’t, check the evaporator fan in the freezer and the condenser fan (if present). Replace any failed fan motor. 4. Check airflow paths and vents: ensure nothing blocking air vents between freezer and fridge. Remove shelves/drawers temporarily to test airflow. 5. Test thermistor/air sensors: use a multimeter to check resistance vs temperature. If sensor out of expected range, replace it. 6. Inspect evaporator for frost build-up: heavy frost indicates defrost system failure (defrost heater, defrost thermostat/thermistor, or control board). Manually defrost (24–48 hours with door open) to confirm whether cooling returns; if frost reappears quickly, proceed to defrost diagnostics. 7. If compressor runs but fridge still not cooling after above, notebook any error codes or abnormal sounds and consider sealed-system failure (compressor or refrigerant leak) — these require certified HVAC/technician service. How to fix (common DIY fixes): clean coils, replace failed fan motors, replace thermistor/temperature sensor, repair/replace defrost components if they fail continuity tests. Leave compressor/sealed system repairs to certified techs. 2) Ice maker not producing ice or slow ice production 1. Confirm ice maker is turned ON and the arm or switch isn’t stuck. 2. Check water supply: verify shutoff valve is open and supply line has water. If water dispenser works but ice maker does not, proceed. 3. Inspect water inlet valve: listen for click when ice maker calls for water (manual advance or test cycle). If no water or valve doesn’t open, replace the water inlet valve. 4. Check the ice maker module and fill tube: clear any ice jams in the fill tube. Perform a manual harvest cycle to see if the ejector motor runs. 5. Test the ice maker thermostat/thermostat assembly: when cold enough, the thermostat should close and signal harvest. If it fails, replace ice maker or thermostat assembly. 6. Weak water pressure can cause partial fills — clean or replace filter. How to fix: run ice maker test cycle (see owner’s manual), replace water inlet valve or ice maker assembly if failed, replace clogged water filter. 3) Water dispenser leaking or not dispensing 1. Inspect water supply tubing (behind fridge) and connections for loose fittings or pinches. 2. Replace water filter: a damaged or incorrectly seated filter can leak. Re-seat or replace with the correct EveryDrop filter for your unit. 3. Check dispenser actuator and valve: remove front panel to observe the valve when pressing dispenser. If no valve action, replace inlet valve or actuator components. 4. If leak is internal (puddle inside bottom of fridge), check defrost drain for blockage — clear clogged drain with warm water and a pipe cleaner. How to fix: tighten/replace tubing fittings, install correct water filter, clear defrost drain, replace inlet valve if faulty. 4) Excess frost or ice in freezer compartment 1. Confirm door seals/gaskets are clean and seals fully contact cabinet. Replace any cracked/worn gaskets. 2. Check door alignment/hinges — a sagging door lets warm moist air in. 3. Inspect defrost system: perform manual defrost; if frost returns quickly, test defrost heater continuity and defrost thermostat/thermistor. Replace failed defrost components or control board if it fails to initiate defrost. How to fix: replace gasket, realign doors, replace defrost heater or thermostat as needed. 5) Loud or unusual noises (clicking, buzzing, rattling) 1. Identify noise source: condenser fan, evaporator fan, compressor, or water inlet valve. 2. If rattling, check and secure loose panels, compressor mounting, and water line clamps. 3. If squealing or grinding, likely a fan motor bearing failure — replace the fan motor. 4. Repeating clicks may indicate start relay or compressor issues — capture sound pattern and call a tech if compressor-related. How to fix: tighten hardware, replace failed fan motors or worn parts. Compressor or sealed system noises need a certified technician. Safety note: Always unplug the refrigerator before performing internal inspections or repairs. When working with electrical components, use insulated tools and verify power is off. Repairs involving refrigerant, compressor, or sealed-system components must be done by a licensed appliance or HVAC technician due to safety and legal regulations.
Common Symptoms
Fridge too warm, freezer overfrosting, ice maker not filling, water dispenser leaking or not dispensing, loud fan or compressor noises.
Common Causes
- Dirty condenser coils or restricted airflow
- Failed evaporator fan, condenser fan, or thermistor (temperature sensor)
- Defrost system failure (heater/thermostat) or water inlet/valve issues
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at ProsourceParts.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
Start by checking and cleaning the condenser coils and then confirm both the evaporator and condenser fans run — those two checks fix or reveal the majority of cooling problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I run an ice maker diagnostic or reset the ice maker?
Most Whirlpool ice makers have a test/diagnostic cycle accessible by pressing a diagnostic button on the ice maker module or using the control board diagnostics (check your manual). To manually reset: turn the ice maker switch OFF for 30 seconds then ON, or remove power to the fridge for 60 seconds. If the ice maker fails to fill after reset, test the inlet valve and ensure water supply and filter are good.
My WRX735SDBM04 runs constantly — do I need a new compressor?
Not necessarily. Constant running is often caused by dirty condenser coils, blocked airflow, a failing fan, a faulty thermistor, or door gasket problems. Clean coils, verify fans and sensors, and confirm door seals before assuming compressor failure. If the compressor is hot, making loud noises, or there are signs of refrigerant leak, call a licensed technician to evaluate the sealed system.
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