If your refrigerator water dispenser not working, start with the parts that fail most often. The dispenser actuator that presses the switch is the top suspect—inspect it for broken plastic or wear and replace it if it will not trip the switch. A frozen water tube in the door is next; disconnect the tube at the bottom of the door and blow air through it to see if it is iced up, and thaw the line if needed. A faulty water inlet valve or low house pressure can also prevent the dispenser from dispensing water; the valve needs about 20 psi to open and should be checked with a multimeter for continuity if pressure is adequate. Also check the water filter and make sure it is seated correctly, and verify the home supply valve feeding the fridge is fully open. These quick checks cover the most likely causes of a fridge water dispenser not working and help you determine whether you need a replacement part. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for your refrigerator.
01 - Goldstar 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.
Enter model number to search for the required part specific to your product
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.
Top Solution
03 - Goldstar 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.
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 do I tell if the water tube in the door is frozen and how do I fix it?
How do I test the water inlet valve and what water pressure does it need?
The dispenser does nothing when I press it. Could the dispenser actuator be bad?
How do I enter my model number on RepairClinic.com to find the correct replacement part?