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HomeRepair HelpJC Penney Refrigerator RepairJC Penney Refrigerator water dispenser not working Repair
JC Penney Refrigerator water dispenser not working
If your refrigerator water dispenser not working, start with the parts that fail most often. The dispenser actuator that presses the switch can break or wear so it never signals the valve, so inspect and replace the actuator first. Next check for a frozen water tube in the door by disconnecting the tube and blowing air through it; if it is frozen, thaw it and make sure the freezer stays around 0 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 to -12 C) so the line does not refreeze. The water inlet valve is also a common culprit: it needs about 20 psi to open, so confirm house water pressure and, if pressure is adequate, test the valve for continuity with a multimeter and replace it if it fails. Less often the issue is simple low water pressure, a misaligned or clogged water filter that needs reseating or replacement, or a supply valve at the wall that is not fully open. If you need parts, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement for your fridge water dispenser not working problem.
01 - JC Penney 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 - JC Penney 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 fridge water dispenser not working — what should I check first?
How do I tell if the water tube in the door is frozen?
How do I test the water inlet valve on my refrigerator?
The dispenser lever or button doesn't activate the water — could it be the dispenser actuator?
How do I find the correct replacement part on RepairClinic.com for my refrigerator?
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