Whirlpool's GD5NVAXS is an enormous, well-featured side-by-side refrigerator that is reasonably priced and energy-efficient. Add to this the fact that the GD5NVAXS is also attractive, both inside and out, and this model clearly becomes a winning fridge.

The GD5NVAXS doesn't have the sophisticated electronic features of some more expensive models. The features it does have, however, are thoughtful and, ultimately, are the features that we'd actually use and appreciate. Features like removable door bins make life easier and more convenient. The door bins also are lined with wonderful rubber mats -- similar to car mats -- that keep items from sliding around and lift out for easy cleaning.

The GD5NVAXS has a capacity of 15.5 cubic feet in the fresh foods area and 10.1 cubic feet in the freezer. It runs on just 618kWh of electricity a year, so you can expect to pay about $66 to operate this model annually. As energy prices increase, this model will, save you more and more on electric bills.

On the door of the GD5NVAXS are two fixed, narrow bottom shelves and two removable gallon-size bins, in addition to a dairy compartment. Within the main compartment are three full-width glass shelves with a spillsaver feature, a humidity-controlled crisper drawer and a temperature-controlled dual-purpose drawer that can be used to store meats or function as a second crisper drawer, as well as a snack drawer.

The main freezer compartment of the GD5NVAXS has four white wire shelves and a large slide-out basket for bulky items. The door has three fixed bins, the through-the-door ice and water apparatus and the ice storage bin. By locating the bin on the door, Whirlpool has freed up more space within the main freezer compartment. The ice storage bin can be removed and functions as an attractive, handy ice bucket.

The ice and water dispenser has a nice, bright readout. One of its most innovative features is its rotating faucet; it swivels out 180 degrees so you can easily fill very tall glasses and pitchers. Ice and water are delivered through an integral filter.

The temperature controls for the GD5NVAXS are electronic and are located on the top left wall of the fresh foods compartment. While they're easy to use, we would have expected the temperature controls to be integrated into the through-the-door ice and water dispenser.

The GD5NVAXS comes in several finish choices including white, biscuit, stainless steel and Satina, which is a stainless steel look with a finish that's easier to maintain.

Whirlpool's GD5NVAXS is an energy-efficient, attractive, large side-by-side refrigerator that has thoughtful, useful features, a nice feel and a reasonable price.


Pros: Energy-efficient, thoughtful features, in-door ice, portable bins
Cons: Controls are inside the fridge and not integrated with the dispenser

Warranty
1 year, parts and labor