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My KitchenAid Water Dispenser is not Working

If your KitchenAid refrigerator water dispenser is not working and nothing comes when you press the lever, the likely causes are predictable and easy to check. Start with the dispenser actuator or door switch, which may not be engaging; inspect the actuator for damage and replace it if it won’t activate the switch. A frozen water tube inside the door is the next most common problem; disconnect the tube at the bottom of the door and blow through it to see if it is blocked, then thaw and set proper freezer temps if needed. A defective water inlet valve or insufficient house water pressure can also prevent the dispenser from dispensing water — the valve needs about 20 psi and should be tested for continuity with a multimeter. Less likely but easy to fix are a misaligned or clogged water filter and a partially closed home shutoff valve, so reseat or replace the filter and make sure the supply valve is fully open. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part and step-by-step parts for your fridge water dispenser repair.

01 - KitchenAid 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 - KitchenAid 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. What should I check first?
How can I tell if the water supply tube in the door is frozen?
How do I test the water inlet valve and know if it needs replacing?
The dispenser does not activate when I press it. Could it be the dispenser actuator or switch?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the correct replacement part?

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