Time machine for appliances: discover the secrets of your whirlpool refrigerator’s birthdate

Determining the year of your Whirlpool refrigerator is crucial for maintenance, repairs, and warranty purposes. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or appliance enthusiast, knowing how to decode the manufacturing date can save you time and hassle. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to tell the year of your Whirlpool refrigerator, empowering you with the knowledge to unlock its age.

Inspecting the Model Number

The model number is a unique identifier for your Whirlpool refrigerator. It typically consists of a combination of letters and numbers and can be found on the following locations:

• Inside the refrigerator: Look for a tag or label on the inside wall or door frame.
• On the back of the refrigerator: Check the rear panel for a sticker or plate.
• In the owner’s manual: If you have the original manual, the model number should be listed on the first few pages.

Decoding the Model Number

Once you have located the model number, you can use the following steps to decode the year of manufacture:

1. Identify the first two digits: The first two digits of the model number usually represent the year of manufacture. For example, a model number starting with “12” would indicate that the refrigerator was manufactured in 2012.

2. Verify the letter code: Some Whirlpool model numbers may include a letter code after the first two digits. This letter code corresponds to the month of manufacture. Use the following table to decode the letter:

3. Combine the digits and letter: Combine the first two digits with the letter code to determine the full year of manufacture. For instance, a model number starting with “12L” would indicate that the refrigerator was manufactured in December 2012.

Checking the Serial Number

If you cannot find the model number on your Whirlpool refrigerator, you can use the serial number instead. The serial number is a unique identifier for each individual appliance. It can be found on a sticker or plate located on the back or bottom of the refrigerator.

Decoding the Serial Number

The serial number typically consists of a combination of letters and numbers. The last two digits of the serial number represent the year of manufacture. For example, a serial number ending in “22” would indicate that the refrigerator was manufactured in 2022.

Contacting Whirlpool Customer Support

If you are unable to determine the year of your Whirlpool refrigerator using the above methods, you can contact Whirlpool customer support for assistance. They can provide you with the exact manufacturing date based on your refrigerator’s model or serial number.

Identifying Refrigerators Without Model or Serial Numbers

In some rare cases, you may encounter a Whirlpool refrigerator that does not have a model or serial number. In such situations, you can try the following:

• Examine the design: Whirlpool refrigerators have undergone design changes over the years. By researching different models and comparing them to your refrigerator, you may be able to estimate the approximate year of manufacture.
• Check with a local appliance repair technician: A qualified appliance repair technician may be able to identify the year of your refrigerator based on its features and components.

In a nutshell: Unlocking the Age of Your Whirlpool Refrigerator

Determining the year of your Whirlpool refrigerator is essential for maintaining and servicing your appliance. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily decode the manufacturing date using the model or serial number. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or appliance enthusiast, knowing how to tell the year of your Whirlpool refrigerator empowers you with the knowledge to unlock its age and ensure its optimal performance.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Why is it important to know the year of my Whirlpool refrigerator?
A: Knowing the year of your Whirlpool refrigerator is important for maintenance, repairs, and warranty purposes. It helps you determine the appropriate maintenance schedule, identify potential issues, and verify warranty coverage.

Q: What is the difference between a model number and a serial number?
A: The model number is a unique identifier for a specific model of Whirlpool refrigerator, while the serial number is a unique identifier for each individual appliance.

Q: Where can I find the model number on my Whirlpool refrigerator?
A: The model number can typically be found on a tag or label inside the refrigerator, on the back panel, or in the owner’s manual.

Q: What if I can’t find the model or serial number on my Whirlpool refrigerator?
A: If you cannot find the model or serial number, you can contact Whirlpool customer support for assistance or try examining the design or consulting with a local appliance repair technician.

Q: How often should I service my Whirlpool refrigerator?
A: Whirlpool recommends servicing your refrigerator every 2-3 years to ensure optimal performance and longevity.