If your refrigerator dispenser is leaking water into the drip tray or onto the floor, start by checking the dispenser door, since a broken or misaligned door often fails to close or operate and lets water spill. Next check household water pressure at the faucet, because low pressure can keep the inlet valve from sealing and cause the fridge water dispenser to leak. Also inspect the dispenser actuator and linkage, as a damaged actuator may not properly trigger the switch and can allow water to flow when it should not. Less commonly, the water inlet valve itself is clogged or has bad solenoid coils; the valve needs about 20 psi to work and can be tested with a multimeter for continuity. Finally test the dispenser switches for continuity and replace any that fail. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement dispenser door, actuator, inlet valve, switch, and other parts that fit your refrigerator.
01 - Whirlpool Refrigerator Dispenser Door
The dispenser door is opened by a motor or a solenoid to dispense the ice, but if the door is broken, it may not open properly in order to release the ice. You should inspect the dispenser door for damage to determine if the component should be replaced. You may have to remove the dispenser control panel or frame to access and inspect the dispenser door.
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The water inlet valve, which supplies water to the refrigerator water dispenser, requires sufficient water pressure to work properly. If the water pressure is too low, the dispenser will leak. You can check the water flow at the kitchen faucet to help determine if the home's water pressure is sufficient or not.
Common
03 - Whirlpool Refrigerator Dispenser Actuator
The dispenser actuator is the component that activates the switch or switches to send voltage to the dispenser. If the dispenser actuator is damaged, it may be unable to activate the switch. Inspect the dispenser actuator for any damage and replace with a new one if necessary.
A refrigerator water inlet valve will direct water to the dispenser as well as the ice maker fill tube. If the inlet valve is obstructed, the solenoid coils on the valve are defective, or the home's water pressure is too low, the water valve will not work properly. The valve requires at least 20psi to function properly. Make sure that the water pressure to the valve is at least 20 psi. If the water pressure is sufficient, use a multimeter to test the water inlet valve for continuity. If the water inlet valve does not have continuity, replace it.
The dispenser switches send voltage to the dispenser. If one of the dispenser switches is defective, the dispenser will not work. To determine if a dispenser switch is defective, use a multimeter to test each switch for continuity. If a dispenser switch does not have continuity, replace it.