Whirlpool Refrigerator Condenser Fan Motor Replacement Guide — What This Part Does
The condenser fan motor sits behind the lower rear access panel and circulates air over the compressor and condenser coil. This airflow removes heat from the refrigeration system so the compressor can operate efficiently and keep cabinet temperatures safe.
The motor fails when windings open, bearings seize, or internal components burn out. Connector or wiring problems can also stop the fan. A damaged or rubbing fan blade can jam the motor. When the condenser fan does not run, the compressor and condenser cannot shed heat properly and cabinet temperatures rise.
Signs It Needs Replacing
- Warm food compartments Fresh-food and freezer sections stay warmer than the setpoint because the compressor cannot reject heat without airflow.
- Compressor runs constantly The compressor cycles on and stays on trying to cool the cabinet, but it overheats without the fan running.
- Compressor feels excessively hot You can feel abnormal heat radiating from the compressor area at the back of the refrigerator.
- Fan does not spin when compressor is on You look behind the lower rear panel and see the condenser fan blade is not turning even though the compressor is running.
- Unusual noise or rubbing from the back A seized motor or damaged blade rubs against the shroud and makes scraping, clicking, or grinding sounds.
- Fan blade wobbles or sits loose The blade is cracked, bent, or not secured to the motor shaft and spins unevenly or not at all.
How to Replace It
- Unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet and shut off the water supply line to remove all power and prevent leaks.
- Move the refrigerator away from the wall so you can reach the lower rear access panel.
- Remove the screws securing the lower rear access panel using a 1/4-inch or 5/16-inch nut driver and lift the panel away.
- Inspect the condenser fan blade and shroud for damage, debris, or rubbing and clear any obstructions.
- Disconnect the condenser fan motor wiring harness by depressing the locking tab and pulling the connector free.
- Pull the fan blade straight off the motor shaft (note the orientation for reinstallation).
- Remove the motor mounting screws from the bracket or shroud and lift the old motor out.
- Mount the new condenser fan motor in the same orientation and secure it with the mounting screws.
- Press the fan blade back onto the new motor shaft in the correct orientation.
- Reconnect the wiring harness to the motor connector until it clicks into place.
- Reinstall the lower rear access panel and its screws, push the refrigerator back into position, restore water supply, and plug in the unit.
- Listen for the condenser fan to start running when the compressor cycles on and verify the refrigerator cools normally.
The Part You Need
| Part | Notes |
|---|---|
| Condenser fan motor | Amazon | Find your refrigerator’s model and serial number on the plate inside the fresh-food door or along the left interior wall. Cross-reference it at an appliance parts site to get the exact motor (common part numbers include WPW10239053 and W11127829). One verified motor spec is 833697 at 115 V, 2 W, clockwise rotation. |
Related Error Codes
If this part is failing you may also see one of these codes:
- Whirlpool Refrigerator Df error code
- Whirlpool Refrigerator E0 error code
- Whirlpool Refrigerator E1 error code
- Whirlpool Refrigerator E2 error code
- Whirlpool Refrigerator E3 error code
- Whirlpool Refrigerator E4 error code
- Whirlpool Refrigerator E5 error code
- Whirlpool Refrigerator E6 error code
- Whirlpool Refrigerator E9 error code
- Whirlpool Refrigerator Po error code
When to Call a Pro
Call a technician if you are uncomfortable working with live 115 V connections, if the wiring harness is damaged and needs splicing, or if the new motor still does not run after replacement (the control board or relay may be at fault). A pro can also verify refrigerant pressures and compressor performance if cabinet temperatures remain high after the fan is replaced.