Whirlpool Refrigerator Evaporator Fan Motor Parts — Models & Compatibility

If your Whirlpool, KitchenAid, or Maytag fridge isn't cooling properly — or you're hearing grinding noises from the freezer — you're likely dealing with a failed evaporator fan motor. This hub covers the W11578030 replacement motor, which fits dozens of French door and side-by-side models across multiple brands. This motor circulates cold air from the evaporator coils throughout your refrigerator, and when it fails, temperatures rise fast.

Is This the Right Part for Your Model?

The W11578030 evaporator fan motor replaces part numbers W11402610, AP7186685, and PS16730637. It's compatible with Whirlpool WRF7 series, KitchenAid KRFF5 series, and similar Maytag models manufactured between 2018-2023. Your model number is stamped on a label inside the fresh food compartment — usually on the left wall near the top, or on the ceiling. Write down the full model number including all letters and numbers.

Cross-reference your model against the compatibility list below. Even if your model isn't listed, the suffix numbers (the digits after the dash) matter less than the base model — a WRF757SDHZ03 and WRF757SDHZ04 use the same motor.

About This Replacement Part

The evaporator fan motor sits behind the back panel in your freezer compartment, mounted directly to the evaporator coil housing. This OEM-compatible replacement includes the mounting bracket and wire harness connector — you're not buying just a bare motor. The motor runs continuously when your compressor is cycling, pulling air across the cold evaporator coils and pushing it through air ducts into both the freezer and fresh food sections.

Most failures happen gradually. You'll notice the fridge section warming up first since it relies entirely on diverted air from the freezer. Ice buildup on the back freezer wall is another telltale sign — when the fan stops moving air, frost accumulates unevenly. Some motors seize completely and won't spin at all, while others develop noisy bearings and screech during operation.

Replacement involves unplugging the fridge, removing frozen food, and taking out the screws holding the rear freezer panel. The fan motor itself is secured with two or three screws to a plastic shroud. Disconnect the wire harness, swap the motor, and reassemble. The entire job takes 30-45 minutes if you work methodically and let any ice buildup melt first.

Compatible Whirlpool Models

This motor fits the following model series:

• WRF757SDHZ (all suffix variations)
• WRF757SDHV (all suffix variations)
• WRF767SDHZ (all suffix variations)
• WRF767SDHV (all suffix variations)

Compatible KitchenAid Models

• KRFF507HBS (suffix 03, 04)
• KRFF507HPS (suffix 03, 04)
• KRFF507HWH (suffix 03, 04)

What You're Getting

The W11578030 replacement includes the complete motor assembly with mounting bracket and pre-attached wire connector. The motor is rated at 120V, 60Hz, and draws approximately 9 watts during operation. Shaft diameter matches the original equipment blade (fan blade sold separately if yours is damaged). This is an OEM-compatible part manufactured to the same specifications as the factory original — not a universal aftermarket motor that requires modifications.

Check the fan blade condition before installing your new motor. If the blade is cracked or has loose mounting tabs, replace it at the same time. A damaged blade creates vibration that can shorten your new motor's lifespan.

Installation Overview

You'll need a 1/4" nut driver, Phillips screwdriver, and about 45 minutes. Unplug the refrigerator completely — don't rely on flipping a breaker. Remove everything from the freezer and take out the shelves for access. The rear panel is held by 6-8 screws around the perimeter. Once the panel is off, you'll see the evaporator coils and fan assembly in the center.

Disconnect the wire harness first — there's usually a locking tab you press to release the connector. Remove the screws holding the motor bracket, slide out the old motor, and reverse the process with your new one. Before buttoning everything up, spin the fan blade by hand to verify it rotates freely without rubbing. Reinstall the rear panel, plug in the fridge, and give it 4-6 hours to reach proper temperature.

Order Your Replacement Motor

The W11578030 evaporator fan motor is priced at $66.99 and ships with mounting hardware. If your fridge is running warm or making unusual noises from the freezer, this is likely your fix. Verify your model number against the compatibility list, and you'll have cold food storage again within a day.