How To A Fix Refrigerator That's Not Dispensing Water

If so equipped, the ice and water filter in your refrigerator is responsible for removing any debris or contaminants from your water that may still remain after local water treatment. Most filters contain and are made up of carbon and a fabric filter. Over time the filter may become restricted and reduce or stop the water flow to the dispenser. Most manufacturers recommend replacing the filter every 6 months but local water conditions may require that you replace more frequently. The filter is normally found in a convenient location in the fresh food section of the fridge.

The water inlet valve is a solenoid-operated device that supplies water to the dispenser when activated. The valve is normally located at the bottom rear of the refrigerator, behind the access panel. When water is selected at the dispenser control panel, line voltage is supplied to the solenoid of the water inlet valve to allow water to flow. Verify that you have adequate pressure at the inlet to the valve, that the inlet screen is not plugged and that there are no restrictions in the inlet or outlet tubing. Check the terminals on the solenoid for power with a multi-meter, when the control panel switch is activated. This is a live voltage check and should only be performed by qualified persons.

On refrigerator models that have a water filter, you will find more than one solenoid valve for the dispenser, and will need to determine which solenoids are used for the dispenser. If power is present, you can check the solenoid for continuity with the multi-meter and if open circuit, then the valve will need to be replaced. If power is not present, then you will need to check the dispenser for a faulty switch or actuator.

The water dispenser actuator is the mechanical part that activates the dispenser micro switch. It is normally a plastic lever that pivots when depressed by your water glass, and it may be covered with a soft plastic pad. You can usually hear a click when the switch is contacted. Remove the control panel cover and verify that the actuator contacts the dispenser switch properly and if not, check the actuator housing bracket, switch mounting bracket and the actuator pivot. Replace any defective parts. If the actuator is contacting the switch, you will need to check the switch or control board for the source of the problem. You should disconnect power to the appliance when working near electrical circuits.

The dispenser micro switch is a momentary contact switch that when actuated will supply power to the solenoid on the water inlet valve. The switch sits behind the pad or lever that is pressed to dispense water. You will need to remove power to the appliance and then remove the control panel cover to access the switch. You can check the continuity of the switch with a multi-meter.

Some models of refrigerators use an electronic control to supply power to the water inlet valve. If you have verified that the water inlet valve is not getting power and the actuator and switch are operating properly, then you may have a defective electronic control.