Finding Your Whirlpool Refrigerator's Model Number in 5 Minutes

The Model Number Is on a Sticker Inside the Fridge or on the Back

Your Whirlpool refrigerator's model number appears on a white or silver label, usually stuck to the inside wall of the fridge itself—most often on the left or right side wall, or sometimes on the ceiling of the fresh food compartment. If you don't find it there, check the back of the unit, either on the exterior wall or on the compressor housing inside the back panel. The label also lists the serial number, which is different from the model number and sits right next to it.

The model number is typically a string of letters and numbers starting with "WR" or "WRT" for refrigerators, followed by 8 to 10 characters. It will be clearly labeled as "Model" or "Model No." on the sticker. Write it down exactly as it appears—spacing and capitalization matter when you're ordering parts or looking up the manual.

Key Takeaways

• Check the inside walls of the fresh food compartment first, as this is where Whirlpool places the label most often.
• If the inside label is missing or unreadable, look on the back exterior wall or inside the back panel near the compressor.
• The model number starts with "WR" or "WRT" and contains 8 to 10 characters; write it down exactly as printed.
• The serial number sits next to the model number on the same label but serves a different purpose for warranty and service records.

Inside the Fresh Food Compartment—the Most Common Location

Open your refrigerator door and look at the left or right interior wall, about eye level or slightly higher. You'll see a white or silver rectangular label with black text. This is the manufacturer's label, and it contains your model number along with electrical specifications and other technical details. The label is usually laminated or printed directly onto the plastic wall, so it should still be readable even if the fridge is several years old.

If the side walls are clean, check the ceiling or top edge of the fresh food compartment. Some Whirlpool models place the label here instead. Use a flashlight if the interior lighting is dim. Do not remove the label—you may need the information later for warranty claims or service calls, and the adhesive often doesn't stick again once peeled off.

The Back of the Refrigerator—the Backup Location

If you've checked both interior side walls and the ceiling with no luck, move to the back of the unit. Unplug the refrigerator first, then carefully pull it away from the wall. Look at the exterior back panel for a label similar to the one inside. Some Whirlpool models also place a label on the compressor housing, which is the metal canister visible inside the back panel once you remove the rear access cover.

Removing the back panel requires only a screwdriver and takes a few minutes. Locate the screws holding the thin plastic or metal panel in place, remove them, and set the panel aside. The compressor label will be visible on the large metal cylinder. If you're uncomfortable opening the back panel, the interior label is almost always present, so check there first and most thoroughly.

What to Do If the Label Is Missing or Faded

If the label is completely gone or the text has faded to the point of being unreadable, you have two options. First, check your purchase paperwork, warranty card, or any documentation that came with the refrigerator—the model number is often printed there. Second, look at your homeowner's insurance paperwork or home inventory records; many people record appliance model numbers when they move in or file a claim.

If neither of those sources has the information, contact Whirlpool customer service with your serial number (if visible) or the approximate year of purchase and a description of the model. They can cross-reference your information and provide the model number. You can also take a photo of the refrigerator's exterior and dimensions to a Whirlpool dealer, and they may be able to identify it by appearance.

Why You Need the Model Number

The model number tells you which manual applies to your refrigerator, which replacement parts fit, and whether your unit is covered under a recall. When you contact Whirlpool support or a repair technician, they will ask for this number first—it narrows down the exact configuration of your fridge, including the ice maker type, water filter cartridge, and control panel layout. Without it, you may order the wrong part or receive instructions for a different model.

The model number is also required for warranty claims. If something fails within the warranty period, Whirlpool will verify the model and serial number to confirm coverage. Keeping a photo or written record of both numbers in a safe place—such as a notes app on your phone or a home maintenance file—saves time if you ever need service.

How the Model Number Differs from the Serial Number

The model number describes the type and configuration of your refrigerator; many units share the same model number. The serial number is unique to your individual appliance, like a fingerprint. Both appear on the same label, and both matter, but for different reasons. The model number gets you the right manual and parts. The serial number proves ownership and tracks warranty coverage for your specific unit.

When you contact support, have both numbers ready. The model number helps the technician understand your refrigerator's design. The serial number lets them look up your warranty status and service history. If you ever sell the refrigerator or transfer the warranty, the serial number is what changes hands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I find the model number online if I know my serial number?

Whirlpool's website and customer service can look up the model number using the serial number, but you'll need to contact them directly. Having the model number on hand is faster than waiting for a callback, so checking the label first saves time.

What if my refrigerator has two labels with different numbers?

The label inside the fridge is the one to use. If there's a label on the back compressor or exterior, both should show the same model number. If they differ, the interior label is the authoritative one for manual and parts lookup.

Does the model number tell me the age of my refrigerator?

Not directly. The model number describes the design and features, but not the manufacturing date. The serial number sometimes encodes the date, but Whirlpool's format varies by year. Contact customer service with the serial number if you need the exact manufacture date for warranty purposes.

Can I look up my manual using just the model number?

Yes. Go to Whirlpool's website, select "Manuals & Documentation," enter your model number, and download the PDF. You don't need the serial number for this step, only the model number.

Is the model number the same as the product name on the box?

Not always. The box may say "Whirlpool French Door Refrigerator" or a similar description, but the model number is the specific alphanumeric code. The model number is what you need for parts, manuals, and service—not the product name.