How to Unlock Wheels on Whirlpool Refrigerator: Expert Tips

You’ve just realized your Whirlpool refrigerator won’t move easily, and you think the wheels might be locked. Moving a heavy fridge can be tricky, especially if the wheels are stuck. But don’t worry — unlocking the wheels on your Whirlpool fridge is easier than you think. In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know, step by step, to get your fridge rolling smoothly again. Let’s get started!

Check the Refrigerator Manual

Before you start pulling on parts or trying to unlock wheels, it’s important to check your Whirlpool refrigerator manual. Your manual is the best source of information because it is made specifically for your model. Every Whirlpool fridge can be a little different in how it locks its wheels or feet.

When you open your manual, look for sections like “Installation,” “Moving the Refrigerator,” or “Leveling and Wheels.” These parts often explain if your fridge has locking wheels, where they are, and how to unlock them safely. If you don’t have the physical manual, you can find it online by typing your fridge model number with “manual” into a search engine. Whirlpool’s official website also has downloadable manuals for most models.

Reading the manual helps you avoid damaging your fridge. Sometimes the wheels don’t really lock — instead, the fridge might have leveling feet that keep it steady. If you try to force the fridge to roll without unlocking or adjusting these feet, you could scratch your floor or hurt the fridge’s legs.

Make a note of any tools the manual says you will need. Some Whirlpool refrigerators require a screwdriver, a wrench, or even just your hands to unlock the wheels. Knowing what to expect will make the process smoother and faster.

Finally, the manual often tells you how to move the fridge once the wheels are unlocked. Moving a refrigerator incorrectly can cause problems inside the fridge, like spilling coolant or damaging parts. So following these steps keeps your appliance safe and working well for years.

Move the Kick Plate or Grille

After checking the manual, your next step is to get better access to the wheels by moving the kick plate or grille. The kick plate is the panel at the very bottom front of your fridge. It hides the wheels and other parts like the compressor or fan.

Most Whirlpool refrigerators have a kick plate or grille that you can remove. This makes it easier to reach the wheels without bending down too far or straining yourself. Usually, the kick plate is held in place by a few screws or clips. You can either unscrew it or gently pull it off, depending on your fridge model.

To remove the kick plate, first unplug the refrigerator for safety. Then, look for screws along the bottom edge of the plate. Use a screwdriver to remove these screws carefully. Keep the screws somewhere safe so you don’t lose them. If your kick plate is held with clips, gently pull on the plate near the corners. It should pop off without much force.

Once the kick plate is removed, you’ll see the wheels and possibly the leveling feet. This clearer view helps you understand what type of locking system your fridge has. Some Whirlpool refrigerators have wheels with locking tabs or small levers. Others have leveling feet that you adjust by turning them.

If you find dirt or dust blocking the wheels, clean it out with a soft cloth or a vacuum. Dirt buildup can make wheels stick and seem locked. Cleaning can solve the problem without even having to unlock anything.

Sometimes the kick plate also covers the drain pan or other parts. Be careful not to bump or break these parts as you work. Take your time, and don’t rush this step. The easier you can access the wheels, the easier unlocking them will be.

If you don’t feel confident removing the kick plate, check the manual again for tips or call a professional. Removing it wrongly could damage your fridge or cause injury.

Find the Wheel Locks

Now that the kick plate is off and you have a good view of the wheels, it’s time to find the wheel locks. Whirlpool refrigerators don’t always have traditional “locks” like doors do, but many models have mechanisms that hold the wheels or feet in place so the fridge won’t roll accidentally.

Look closely at each wheel. Sometimes there is a small lever or tab near the wheel’s base. This lever can be pushed or pulled to unlock the wheel. Other times, the lock is a small screw or bolt that presses a foot pad onto the floor to keep the fridge steady.

If you don’t see a lever, try gently moving the wheel with your hand to see if it can turn freely. If it doesn’t move or moves only slightly, then it might be locked or the foot pad is pressed down.

In some Whirlpool models, the wheels themselves are on a track and can be lifted slightly by turning a screw or a knob nearby. This lifts the wheel off the floor, allowing the fridge to roll.

Also, check for any metal or plastic foot pads near the wheels. These pads sometimes press down on the floor to lock the fridge in place. Unlocking them usually means lifting or loosening them.

The wheel lock mechanism can vary depending on the fridge model and age. Some newer Whirlpool refrigerators have easy-release locking wheels, while older models might use a more manual system.

If you’re unsure, take a picture of what you see and look online for videos or instructions for your exact fridge model. Whirlpool forums or YouTube often have helpful visual guides.

Don’t force anything at this point. If a part doesn’t move easily, it might not be meant to move that way or could be stuck from dirt or rust.

Unlock the Wheels

Once you have found the wheel locks or foot pads, it’s time to unlock them. This step is usually straightforward but can vary by model.

If your fridge has small levers near the wheels, gently push or pull the lever to unlock the wheel. You should feel or hear a slight click when it unlocks. Test the wheel by trying to roll it with your hand. If it moves smoothly, you’re ready to move the fridge.

If your Whirlpool fridge has screws or bolts holding down foot pads, you need a screwdriver or wrench to loosen them. Turn the screw slowly counterclockwise. As you loosen it, the foot pad will lift off the floor, freeing the wheel.

If the wheels themselves can be lifted, try turning any nearby knob or screw to raise the fridge slightly so the wheels can roll. Be careful not to raise it too high or tip the fridge.

In cases where dirt or rust has stuck the wheels or locks, you may need to clean the parts first. Use a damp cloth or a little bit of oil like WD-40 to loosen rust. Avoid using too much oil, as it could make the wheels slippery and unsafe.

Be gentle when unlocking. Forcing parts can break the locking mechanism or damage the wheel.

Once unlocked, you can slowly push the fridge to see if it rolls easily. If it still feels stuck, double-check the locks or foot pads. Sometimes both front wheels have locks, so you need to unlock both sides.

Make sure to have a helper if the fridge is very heavy. Moving a fridge alone can cause injuries or damage.

After the wheels are unlocked and the fridge moves smoothly, replace the kick plate or grille you removed earlier. Just screw it back or snap it in place.

Test and Move the Fridge

Now that you have unlocked the wheels, it’s time to test and move your Whirlpool refrigerator carefully.

Before you push or pull the fridge, make sure the floor is clear of obstacles like rugs, cords, or small objects. Also, protect your floor by using furniture sliders or a thick towel under the wheels if your floor is delicate.

Start by gently pushing the fridge forward and backward. The wheels should roll smoothly without sticking. If the fridge still feels stuck or heavy, double-check the locks and make sure both wheels are free.

Remember, a refrigerator is heavy, and moving it too fast or at a sharp angle can cause damage to the appliance or floor. Move the fridge slowly and steadily. Avoid jerking or tilting it.

If your fridge has water or ice inside, be careful not to spill or shake it too much. Moving a fridge too fast can cause leaks or damage the internal parts.

If you need to move the fridge a long distance, consider asking for help or using a hand truck designed for appliances.

Once the fridge is in the right spot, lock the wheels again or adjust the leveling feet to keep it steady. This prevents the fridge from moving or rocking while you use it.

Finally, plug the fridge back in and make sure it’s working properly after moving. Check that the doors open and close smoothly and that the fridge is cooling well.

Taking your time to unlock the wheels correctly and move your Whirlpool refrigerator carefully will protect your appliance and your home.

I hope this guide helped you unlock your Whirlpool refrigerator wheels with ease and confidence. Now you can move your fridge safely anytime you need.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it normal for Whirlpool refrigerator wheels to lock?

Yes, many Whirlpool refrigerators come with locking wheels or leveling feet to keep the fridge steady and prevent accidental movement. These locks are designed for safety and to protect your floors. However, not every model has them, so checking your manual is the best way to know for sure.

Can I unlock the wheels without removing the kick plate?

Sometimes you can reach the wheel locks without removing the kick plate, especially if your fridge has easily accessible levers or screws. But most Whirlpool models require removing the kick plate to get full access and unlock the wheels safely. Removing the kick plate is simple and gives you a better view.

Do I need special tools to unlock the wheels?

In many cases, you can unlock the wheels by hand or with basic tools like a flathead screwdriver or a wrench. The specific tools depend on your Whirlpool model. Always check the manual before starting. Having the right tools ready makes the process quicker and easier.

Is it safe to move the refrigerator once wheels are unlocked?

Yes, it is safe to move the fridge once the wheels are unlocked, but you must do it carefully. Move the fridge slowly, avoid sharp turns, and protect your floor to prevent damage. If the fridge is heavy, ask for help to avoid injuries.

Can the wheel locks break if I force them?

Yes, forcing wheel locks or foot pads can damage them or the wheels. If something doesn’t move easily, it might be stuck from dirt or rust, or you might be unlocking it the wrong way. Use gentle cleaning or check the manual for the correct steps to avoid breaking parts.

Do all Whirlpool refrigerators have the same locking wheel system?

No, Whirlpool refrigerators come in many models, and the locking wheel systems can differ. Some have simple levers, others have screws or foot pads. That’s why reading your specific model’s manual is important before trying to unlock the wheels.

Is there a way to lubricate stuck wheels on my Whirlpool fridge?

Yes, if your wheels are stuck from dirt or rust, you can apply a small amount of lubricant like WD-40. Spray carefully and wipe away excess to avoid slippery floors. Lubrication helps wheels move smoothly but use it sparingly to keep the area clean.

Can I leave the wheels unlocked after moving the fridge?

It’s best to lock the wheels or adjust the leveling feet after moving your fridge. This keeps the appliance steady and prevents it from rolling or shifting accidentally. Leaving the wheels unlocked could be unsafe and might cause damage to the fridge or your floors.