Whirlpool French door refrigerators have become increasingly popular in modern kitchens. These refrigerators offer spacious storage, convenient access, and sleek design. However, there may come a time when you need to remove the handles on your Whirlpool French door refrigerator. Whether you’re replacing the handles or simply cleaning behind them, removing the handles can seem like a daunting task. But fear not! In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of removing handles on your Whirlpool French door refrigerator.
Gather the Necessary Tools
Before you begin the process of removing the handles, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools. You will need a flathead screwdriver, a Phillips screwdriver, and possibly a hex key depending on your specific refrigerator model. Having these tools on hand will make the removal process much smoother and easier.
Identify the Screw Locations
The first step in removing the handles is to identify the screw locations. Whirlpool French door refrigerators typically have screws located on the top and bottom of both the refrigerator and freezer doors. These screws secure the handles in place and need to be removed in order to detach the handles from the doors.
Refrigerator Door
Start by opening the refrigerator door and locating the screws on the top and bottom of the handle. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove these screws. Once the screws are removed, the handle should easily come off the door.
Freezer Door
To remove the handles on the freezer door, begin by opening the door. Look for the screws on both the top and bottom of the handle, similar to the refrigerator door. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove these screws. Once the screws are removed, you can detach the handle from the freezer door.
Removing the Trim
In some cases, Whirlpool French door refrigerators have trim pieces that cover the screws holding the handles in place. If your refrigerator has these trim pieces, you will need to remove them before accessing the screws. The trim pieces are typically held in place with either clips or adhesive.
Clip-On Trim
If your refrigerator has clip-on trim, use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry the trim piece away from the door. Start at one corner and work your way around until the trim is completely detached.
Adhesive Trim
For refrigerators with adhesive trim, it’s important to take extra caution when removing them. Use a hairdryer to apply heat to the trim, which will soften the adhesive. Slowly peel back the trim while continuing to apply heat. Be careful not to apply too much force, as this could damage the trim or the door surface.
Reattaching the Handles
After you have successfully removed the handles from your Whirlpool French door refrigerator, you may want to reattach them at some point. The process of reattaching the handles is essentially the reverse of removing them.
Refrigerator Door
To reattach the handle to the refrigerator door, place the handle in the desired location and align the screw holes. Insert the screws into the holes and tighten them using a Phillips screwdriver.
Freezer Door
For the freezer door handles, align the handle with the screw holes on the door and insert the screws. Use a Phillips screwdriver to tighten the screws until they are secure.
Final Thoughts
Removing the handles on your Whirlpool French door refrigerator may seem like a challenging task, but with the right tools and guidance, it can be easily accomplished. Remember to gather all the necessary tools before starting, identify the screw locations, and handle any trim pieces with care. By following this step-by-step guide, you can confidently remove the handles on your Whirlpool French door refrigerator and complete any necessary maintenance or updates.