The Whirlpool WRS325SDHZ is a refrigerator that does exactly what a refrigerator should do, without drama and without a premium price. Side-by-side layouts make items easier to find (everything is eye level), and this Whirlpool's temperature consistency and build reliability exceed what the $1,099 price suggests. After four weeks of testing it earned the Best Value designation in our refrigerator category.
⚡ The Verdict
✔ Pros
- Excellent value at ~$1,099
- Side-by-side layout — easy access to both sections
- Strong Whirlpool reliability record
- Internal water/ice dispenser
- Consistent temperature performance
- 25.1 cu. ft. total capacity
✖ Cons
- Side-by-side means narrow shelves — can't store pizza boxes flat
- No French door convenience
- Some plastic components feel budget-grade
- Ice production is slower than French door competitors
- LED lighting is dim compared to premium models
| Model | WRS325SDHZ |
|---|---|
| Type | Side-by-Side |
| Capacity | 25.1 cu. ft. |
| Width | 36 inches |
| Noise | N/A (not rated) |
| Dispenser | Internal water & ice |
| Shelves | Frameless glass |
| Energy | Energy Star Certified |
| MSRP | $1,099 |
Temperature: Over 4 weeks, the fresh food section maintained ±1.3°F of target temperature. Not as tight as the LG or Samsung, but completely acceptable for a $1,099 fridge. Food quality and shelf life were unaffected in my testing.
Reliability Context: Whirlpool's repair rate data for side-by-side refrigerators is among the lowest in the industry. J.D. Power reliability surveys consistently rank Whirlpool above LG and Samsung for refrigerators. If you want to buy a fridge and not think about it for 15 years, Whirlpool is a very safe choice.
| Category | Weight | Score | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature Performance | 30% | 8.4 | ±1.3°F — acceptable |
| Reliability Track Record | 25% | 9.3 | Best repair rate data in category |
| Layout & Access | 20% | 8.5 | Side-by-side has tradeoffs |
| Features | 15% | 7.8 | Basic — dispenser is the main feature |
| Value | 10% | 9.5 | $1,099 for this reliability is excellent |