Whirlpool Refrigerator; Dishwasher Repair – Akron, OH (WRF535SMBM00, WDF520PADM3)

A customer in Akron called about two appliances under a new home warranty — a Whirlpool refrigerator with a warm rubber piece between the stainless exterior and interior, and a dishwasher with questionable functionality. Our inspection revealed major issues with both units that required immediate attention.

The Problem

The refrigerator’s rubber piece between the outside stainless and the inside was very warm to the touch — a clear warning sign of cooling system failure. The dishwasher’s functionality was questionable, with the customer uncertain about its cleaning effectiveness. Both appliances were under a home warranty and needed a visual inspection by a contractor before any repairs could be processed through that warranty.

Diagnosis

The dishwasher’s spray arms had completely failed, preventing proper water circulation and cleaning. The refrigerator had a bad compressor — the warm rubber gasket indicated the cooling system was overworking and failing to maintain temperature. When a compressor fails on this WRF535SMBM00 model, it’s typically a total system replacement job.

The Repair

• Parts replaced: WPW10317197 — upper spray arm, WPW10319027 — lower spray arm
• Work performed: Replaced both failed spray arms in the dishwasher
• Result: Dishwasher spray system restored to proper function with full water circulation

Is It Worth Repairing?

For the dishwasher, replacing spray arms is a straightforward repair that extends the unit’s life significantly — this WDF520PADM3 model is solid when properly maintained. However, the refrigerator’s bad compressor is a major repair that often approaches replacement value on this model. With both appliances under warranty, pursuing those warranty benefits first makes the most financial sense.

Maintenance Tips for Whirlpool Refrigerators and Dishwashers

• Check refrigerator door seals monthly on WRF535 models — warm spots around gaskets often indicate seal failure that overworks the compressor
• Clean dishwasher spray arms quarterly on WDF520 models by removing and soaking in warm vinegar water to prevent calcium buildup
• Replace water filters every six months on both appliances — mineral buildup from hard water damages spray arms and cooling coils

Appliance Repair in Akron, OH

Akron is in Summit County — an area we cover regularly from our base in Louisville, OH. We also serve Green, Uniontown, and Barberton for refrigerator and dishwasher repair. Louisville Appliance Repair is owned and operated by Samuel Willhite, a master-certified technician with Bosch and Speed Queen factory authorizations. If your appliance needs service, schedule online or call (330) 693-9163. You can also find us on Google and read verified reviews from customers across Summit County and surrounding areas.