Customer Questions and Answers for Diffuser (Refrigerator Air Damper) by Whirlpool

This diffuser—often called the refrigerator air damper—controls how much cold air flows from the freezer into the fresh food compartment. Replacing a worn diffuser helps restore even cooling and more stable temperatures throughout the refrigerator. What it does:

• Opens and closes to regulate airflow from the freezer to the refrigerator
• Helps maintain set temperatures and reduce warm spots or over-cooling
• Common symptoms: fresh food too warm while freezer is OK, food freezing on shelves, weak airflow from upper vents, or clicking/buzzing from the diffuser area
• Helps address frost or condensation near the diffuser outlet

• 1 diffuser

• Disconnect power before servicing
• Access from the refrigerator section; remove shelves/air duct covers as needed
• Note wiring and orientation; remove mounting screws/clips and transfer any seals/insulation if present
• After installation, restore power and allow up to 24 hours for temperatures to stabilize