Removing drawers from your KitchenAid refrigerator may seem daunting, but it's quite simple with the right tools and instructions.
Whether you need to clean or replace the drawers, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process.
By following the steps below, you can remove your KitchenAid refrigerator drawers like a pro.
When Should I Remove Drawers From a Kitchenaid Refrigerator?
Removing drawers from your Kitchenaid refrigerator is a task you may need to do occasionally.
Knowing when to remove them can help ensure that your fridge stays clean and organized.
Here are a few instances when you might need to remove the drawers from your Kitchenaid refrigerator:
Cleaning
Over time, drawers can accumulate dirt, dust, and food debris, leading to unpleasant odors and mold growth.
Removing and washing the drawers with warm, soapy water can help keep your fridge clean and fresh.
Repair
If you're experiencing problems with your Kitchenaid refrigerator, you may need to remove the drawers to access the fridge's interior.
For example, if your fridge is not cooling properly, you may need to remove the drawers to check the evaporator coils or the fan.
Organizing
Sometimes, you may need to remove drawers from your Kitchenaid refrigerator to reorganize the contents of your fridge.
For example, if you need to make space for a large item, such as a turkey or a cake, you may need to remove a drawer to make room.
What Type of Drawer Mechanisms Does Kitchenaid Usually Employ?
The freezer drawer mechanism in KitchenAid refrigerators involves slides on each side of the drawer, facilitating its smooth extension and retraction.
To remove the freezer drawer, you'll generally need to lift it off these slides.
The slides have an upper and a lower track on both sides of the drawer, and lifting the drawer evenly on both sides releases it from these tracks.
However, the type of drawer mechanism in your KitchenAid refrigerator may vary depending on the specific model and year of manufacture.
Safety Precautions When Removing Your Kitchenaid Refrigerator Drawers
Avoid accidents and potential damage when removing your by considering these safety measures:
- Always unplug the appliance from the power outlet before removing any refrigerator components.
- Before removing drawers, ensure they are empty. This makes the process easier and prevents any items from falling or spilling during removal.
- Handle glass components, such as shelves or glass covers, carefully to avoid breakage.
- Rushing through the removal process can lead to accidents or damage. Take your time and follow each step carefully.
Removing the Kitchenaid Refrigerator Crisper Drawer
Removing the crisper drawer from your Kitchenaid refrigerator can be tricky, but following the steps below can do it quickly.
Step 1: Remove Glass Shelves and Platter Shelf Glass
Begin by removing all glass shelves from the refrigerator. Gently lift the front of each shelf frame upwards and detach the bracket tabs from the shelf support.
Doing so will create more room and ease the process when you detach the crisper drawers in the next steps.
Next, pull the platter shelf forward and lift the platter shelf glass up from underneath to remove it.
Step 2: Remove the Crisper Cover Glass
Open both crisper drawers and reach in to push the crisper cover glass up and forward from underneath.
Afterward, close the drawers and gently remove the glass by sliding it out.
Step 3: Uninstall the Crisper Drawers
Now that you've removed all upper glass shelves and the cover glass, you can start uninstalling the crisper drawers.
Simply pull both crisper drawers forward while holding the side support brackets and slightly push the drawers back to detach fully.
Step 4: Remove the Crisper Cover Assembly
You may remove the crisper cover and glide assembly if you discover any buildup or debris that requires cleaning.
To do this, simply lift the entire crisper cover assembly and pull it forward to remove it from the refrigerator.
After successfully removing the crisper cover assembly, you'll notice the glide assembly on each side of the refrigerator.
To proceed with its removal, simply lift the front of the crisper drawer glide assembly and gently pull it forward to disconnect it.
Step 5: Clean or Replace the Crisper Drawer Parts and Assembly
After removing the crisper drawer parts, check each one to see if they need cleaning or are broken.
Clean the drawer and its components with warm water and mild dish soap if the drawer is dirty. Gently scrub using a soft cloth or sponge.
For harder-to-reach spots, use a soft-bristle brush to give a gentle scrub.
If your crisper drawers are worn or broken, you must find compatible replacements to prevent potential harm to adjacent components.
Related article: How To Repair A Cracked Freezer Drawer?
Once you've cleaned or replaced the necessary components, you can start the reassembly process by following the previous steps in reverse.
Each part should fit snugly and securely in its designated place.
You can watch this short video as a guide for the steps outlined above.
Removing the Kitchenaid Refrigerator Lower Freezer Drawer
Removing the lower freezer drawer of a Kitchenaid refrigerator can be accomplished with precision and ease by following the steps below.
Before starting, ensure you have a small flathead screwdriver and a quarter-inch nut driver.
Step 1: Open Your Freezer Drawer
Start by gently pulling out the freezer drawer, allowing you to access the drawer's inside and structural components.
Step 2: Work on the Drawer Stops
Now that the drawer is open take the small flathead screwdriver. Insert the tip in the left slide rail tab and gently pry it away from the liner to release the drawer stop.
Repeat the same procedure on the right side to release the other drawer stop.
These tabs act as a lock, ensuring the drawer doesn’t come out fully during use. That's why you need to be extra careful when detaching them.
Step 3: Remove the Upper Drawer
With the drawer stops on both sides released, you can now remove the upper drawer.
Grasp the sides of the drawer firmly and pull it towards you until it slides out entirely.
Step 4: Separate the Drawer Front
Locate the two screws securing the drawer front in place. With your quarter-inch nut driver, turn these screws counterclockwise to loosen them.
You don’t have to remove them entirely – just enough to allow you to lift the drawer front. After they are loosened, gently lift the drawer front off its glides.
Place it in a safe place to prevent any potential damages or scratches.
Step 5: Extract the Lower Drawer
Now, focus on the main lower freezer drawer. To release it from its position, lift it slightly from the bottom.
As you're doing this, gently squeeze the sides of the drawer. This action makes it easier to release the drawer from its guiding glides.
Step 6: Clean or Replace the Worn Drawer
Inspect the drawer for wear and tear, grime, or any residue. If it appears dirty, clean it thoroughly with appropriate cleaning agents.
Should the drawer show signs of significant wear or damage, consider replacing it with a new one to maintain the refrigerator's functionality and appearance.
Check out the video below for a step-by-step walkthrough of the instructions provided.
What Should I Do If the Drawer Is Jammed or Stuck?
If you find that your Kitchenaid refrigerator drawer is jammed or stuck, don't panic.
You can do a few things to try and fix the problem before calling in a professional. Here's what you can do.
Check for Any Obstructions
First, you should check to see if any obstructions in the drawer might be causing it to stick.
This could be anything from food items to utensils. If you find anything, remove it and try opening the drawer again.
Learn more fixes by following this post: How To Open A Stuck Freezer Door Or Drawer?
Clean the drawer
Try cleaning it if the drawer is still stuck. Sometimes, dirt or debris can accumulate on the tracks, preventing the drawer from sliding open and closing smoothly.
Use a damp cloth to clean the tracks and the bottom of the drawer.
Lubricate the tracks
If cleaning the drawer doesn't work, try lubricating the tracks. This will help the drawer slide open and close more easily.
For this task, the optimal choice is a silicone-based lubricant.
We highly recommend utilizing the Super Lube O-Ring Silicone Lubricant for this purpose.
Continue reading: How To Lubricate A Freezer Drawer?
Adjust the Tracks
You may need to adjust the tracks if none of the above steps work. This is a bit more involved, but it's still something you can do yourself.
You must remove the drawer and adjust the tracks until properly aligned.
Can You Replace a Kitchenaid Refrigerator Drawer If It's Damaged?
Yes, you can replace a Kitchenaid refrigerator drawer if it's damaged.
First, identify the model number of your refrigerator. This information can usually be found on a label inside the fridge or on the back of the appliance.
Once you have the model number, you can search for replacement drawers compatible with your refrigerator.
You can order replacement drawers directly from Kitchenaid or a third-party supplier.
When ordering a replacement drawer, specify the correct model number to ensure you receive the right part.
How Often Should You Clean Your Refrigerator Drawers?
Generally, you should clean your refrigerator drawers at least once a week.
If you notice any spills or stains, cleaning them up immediately is best to prevent bacteria growth.
You should also clean your drawers whenever you notice any unpleasant odors from your fridge.
Clean your drawers more frequently if you're storing raw meat or fish in your refrigerator.
Raw meat and fish can leave behind harmful bacteria that can contaminate other foods in your fridge.
Wrap Up
Removing drawers from your Kitchenaid refrigerator is a simple task that anyone can do.
With the right tools and patience, you can easily remove the drawers to clean them, replace them, or make more room in your fridge.
Be sure to unplug the refrigerator and turn off the water supply if your refrigerator has an ice maker before you start removing the drawers.
Ensure your safety and prevent any accidents from happening!