Refrigerator Moves When Doors are Opened
How to Lock Wheels on Whirlpool Refrigerator
Your refrigerator should not move or slide out of position when the doors are opened. If yours does, it may need to be leveled or locked into place. Many units include wheels or rollers for easier installation, and the force of a door swing can cause the cabinet to creep on smooth floors. The good news: with a few adjustments and the right accessories, you can stabilize the refrigerator for daily use while keeping it movable for cleaning or service. See below for basic instructions for lowering the leveling legs, brake feet, or adjustable rollers. Instructions will vary based on the model number. We recommend referring to your Owner's Manual or Installation Instructions for specific information on your model. Learn how to use your phone to level household appliances.
Why It Happens
Several factors can make a refrigerator move when doors are opened. The momentum from a heavy door can pull the cabinet forward if the front is not properly leveled or if there is minimal friction between the wheels and the floor. New installations are especially prone to this until the leveling legs are set, and a rolling refrigerator is more likely on very smooth floors.
Design also plays a role. Many models use rear rollers and front leveling legs. Some include front rollers that retract when the leveling legs are lowered. If the front legs are not engaged, the refrigerator rests on wheels and can roll as the door swings open. Knowing how to lock wheels on Whirlpool refrigerator models that include built-in stabilizers can prevent this forward movement.
How to Stabilize Your Refrigerator
Begin by adjusting the front leveling legs. Unplug the refrigerator. Using a wrench, turn each front leveling leg clockwise to lower it until it bears weight and slightly lifts the front wheels off the floor. Set the front a bit higher than the back so the doors self-close. Check with a level side to side and front to back, then fine-tune until the cabinet feels solid and does not rock. Refer to your Installation Instructions for the specific process for your model.
Adjusting the Leveling Legs:
- Remove the base grill
- Turn the leveler or brake feet to lower or raise that side of the refrigerator. It may take several turns for the leg to reach the floor and to lift the roller off the floor.
- To raise, turn the leveler to the right.
- To lower, turn the leveler to the left.
NOTE: Having someone push against the top of the refrigerator takes some weight off the levelers and rollers, which makes it easier to adjust
If you would like to download or view product literature for your appliance, please visit our Manuals and Literature page.