A broken pantry drawer support in your Whirlpool refrigerator can be frustrating, but the good news is that you do not need to hire an expensive repair technician. With a few simple tools and some patience, you can handle this repair yourself. Follow the steps below to save both time and money.
Why This Repair Matters
Over time, even reliable appliances can develop problems. One common issue with Whirlpool refrigerators is a damaged pantry drawer support. Fortunately, this is a straightforward repair that most people can complete without professional training.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and parts:
- Replacement pantry drawer support (make sure it is compatible with your refrigerator model)
- 1/4-inch nut driver
- Flathead screwdriver
- Towel
Safety First
Whenever you work on an appliance, take steps to protect yourself and your home.
- Power off and unplug the refrigerator or switch off the circuit breaker to prevent electric shock.
- Allow the refrigerator to cool if it was recently in use.
- Turn off the water supply at the outlet. Keep towels nearby to absorb any remaining water when removing parts.
- Take your time. Working carefully reduces the risk of mistakes and injuries.
- Work in a well-lit area so you can see each step clearly.
- Keep the space free of clutter, pets, and children.
- Make sure your hands and work surface are completely dry.
- Refer to the user manual for any model-specific guidance.
- Handle parts gently to avoid damage.
- Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges.
- Do not touch exposed wiring. If contact is necessary, use insulated gloves or a non-conductive tool.
- Take photos of wires or connections before disconnecting them. This will make reassembly easier.
How to Replace the Pantry Drawer Support in a Whirlpool Refrigerator
Follow these steps to remove the old pantry drawer support and install a new one in your refrigerator.
Disassemble the Refrigerator
- Clear the area around the refrigerator to give yourself enough space to work
- Open both refrigerator doors fully
- Pull out the crisper pans located above the pantry drawer and set them aside
- Carefully lift the glass shelf out of its supports and tilt it if needed to release it
- Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screws holding the support rails for the glass shelf
- Slide the pantry drawer out, lift it off the rails, and set it aside
- Locate the pantry drawer support on the right-hand side of the refrigerator
- Use the 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the three screws securing the support to the sidewall
Install the New Pantry Drawer Support
- Transfer the slide from the old support to the new support and snap it into place
- Set the temperature adjustment to the coldest setting so the connector bar can be removed
- Press the release buttons on the connector bar, rotate it to release, and attach it to the new support
- Release the locking tabs on the temperature-adjusting rail, slide it out of the old support, and install it on the new support
Reassemble the Refrigerator
- Place the new support assembly on a soft towel to avoid scratches or damage
- Position the assembly inside the refrigerator and hook the bent slide into the back wall
- Rotate the assembly to engage the rear tabs
- Place the front of the assembly on the mounting posts
- Use the 1/4-inch nut driver to reattach the screws that hold the support to the refrigerator’s sidewall
- Slide the pantry drawer back onto the rails and lock it into place
- Place the glass shelf back into its supports so it is level and secure
- Return the support rails to their original positions and fasten them with the screws
- Slide the crisper pans back into their slots above the pantry drawer
In Summary
Fixing a pantry drawer support in your Whirlpool refrigerator may look like a lot of steps, but it is one of those repairs that feels rewarding once it is done. The job mostly comes down to working carefully, keeping track of your parts, and putting everything back in the right order. The best part is that you save money, avoid waiting for a technician, and know that your refrigerator is back to working the way it should. With a little patience and the right tools, this repair is very doable for anyone ready to give it a try.