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HomeRepair HelpSub Zero Refrigerator RepairSub Zero Refrigerator water dispenser not working Repair
Sub Zero Refrigerator water dispenser not working
If your Sub Zero refrigerator water dispenser is not working, start with the parts and conditions that most often cause the problem. The dispenser actuator that presses the switch can be damaged and fail to send voltage, so inspect the actuator and replace it if it looks worn or broken. A frozen water tube inside the door is common; disconnect the tube at the bottom of the door and blow air through it — no airflow means it is frozen, so thaw the line and check freezer temperature (keep the freezer about 0 to 10 F). A bad water inlet valve or low household water pressure will also keep the dispenser from dispensing water; the inlet valve needs about 20 psi and should show continuity on a multimeter, replace it if not. Check kitchen faucet flow to rule out low pressure. A misaligned or improperly seated water filter can block flow, so remove and reseat or replace the filter if needed, and make sure the home water supply valve to the fridge is fully open. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for your refrigerator.
01 - Sub Zero 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.
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02 - Water Tube in Door is Frozen
To determine if the water supply tube is frozen, disconnect the tube at the bottom of the door and blow air through it. If air does not pass through, this indicates that the water supply tube is frozen. If the water supply tube is frozen, thaw it out. In addition, ensure that the freezer is kept at the proper temperature. The freezer temperature should be kept from 0 to10 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 to -12 degrees Celsius). If the freezer is too cold, the water line may freeze.
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03 - Sub Zero Refrigerator Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve opens to supply water to the dispenser. If the water inlet valve is defective, or if the water pressure is too low, the water valve will not open. 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.
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04 - Low Water Pressure from House Supply
The home may have insufficient water pressure. The water inlet valve requires strong water pressure to supply water to the water dispenser. You can check the water flow at the kitchen faucet to help determine if the home's water pressure is sufficient or not.
Highly Likely
05 - Misaligned water filter
Water filter may not be seated properly. Remove and reinstall the water filter. For optimal performance, refrigerator water filters should be replaced every six months or after 200-300 gallons (760-1150 liters) of water have been dispensed - whichever comes first. Replace the water filter if needed.
Highly Likely
06 - Home's water supply valve not fully open
The refrigerator is connected to a water supply valve that may not be fully open. If the water line was disconnected or the valve was shut off for service, it may not have been turned back on to the fully opened position.
Highly Likely
Frequently Asked Questions
My refrigerator water dispenser is not working at all. What should I check first?
How can I tell if the dispenser actuator or switch is faulty?
How do I fix a frozen water tube inside the door and prevent it from freezing again?
Why is the water flow from my dispenser weak or intermittent?
How do I find the correct replacement part on RepairClinic.com for my model?
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