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HomeRepair HelpWhirlpool Refrigerator RepairWhirlpool Refrigerator water dispenser not working Repair
My Whirlpool water dispenser is not working
If your refrigerator water dispenser is not working, start with the most common problems and work down the list: inspect the dispenser actuator first since a cracked or worn actuator often fails to press the switch that sends power to the dispenser. If the actuator looks fine, check the water tube in the door for a freeze by disconnecting it at the bottom of the door and blowing air through it; no airflow means the tube is frozen and needs thawing and a freezer temperature check. Next, test the water inlet valve and confirm the household supply is at least 20 psi; use a multimeter to check the valve for continuity and make sure the home’s water pressure and the fridge’s supply valve are fully open. Also reseat or replace the water filter if it is misaligned or clogged, since a bad filter can block flow. RepairClinic has the parts and step-by-step videos to guide you, and you can enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for your refrigerator.
01 - 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.
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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 - Whirlpool 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
Why is my refrigerator water dispenser not working?
How can I tell if the water tube in the door is frozen?
How do I test the refrigerator water inlet valve?
Could a bad water filter or partially closed shutoff cause the dispenser not to dispense water?
How do I enter my model or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the correct replacement part?
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