Whirlpool side by side refrigerator water dispenser not working

Cold, filtered water from your refrigerator—it's delicious, refreshing, and incredibly convenient. So it's incredibly frustrating when your fridge stops dispensing it. Don't worry though, Asurion Experts are certified, trained and have experience with every major home appliance, so they can help. Here's their guide to why water isn't coming out of your refrigerator and how to fix it.

Why is my fridge water dispenser not working?

The first step to fixing any appliance is to figure out what the issue is. If the water dispenser isn't working on your fridge, these are the common causes and how to get things flowing again. If at any point you get stumped or it seems like you need an advanced repair, contact an Asurion Expert for help.

A clogged or dirty water filter

A dirty or clogged water filter means less water can flow through the system. The good news: Replacing it is usually a straightforward process. Check your refrigerator's manual (it's usually available online) for instructions on how to replace your filter, including which replacement you'll need and how often to change it to prevent further issues. A dirty or clogged water filter can also cause a clog in your water supply lines—so after cleaning the filter, be sure to clean the water line.

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A blocked, kinked, or frozen water line

Water can stop flowing from the fridge dispenser when supply lines become frozen, clogged, or kinked. Some water lines run through the freezer, so if the temperature is set too low, the water line will become frozen. If there is ice in the line, allow it to defrost. Follow the steps in our guide to cleaning your refrigerator water line to help determine if a clog is your issue.

You should also check for kinks or bends in water lines that could slow the flow of water, and make sure there is ample space behind your refrigerator for the lines.

A damaged water inlet valve

The water inlet valve connects your fridge to your home's main water supply. It can become clogged or broken over time. To check the water inlet valve, unplug the refrigerator, turn off the water supply, and remove the rear panel. Check the valve and connected lines for any leaks or damage.

An issue with a water inlet valve can also stem from power not reaching it effectively. If you have electrical skills, you can test the power supply using a multimeter (if not, we recommend you book a repair with an Asurion Expert). With the water line still disconnected and the power still off, locate the valve's solenoid coils. Disconnect the two wires from the terminals located on the coil. Use a multimeter to test the solenoid and see if it is running electricity steadily. If it isn't, it may need to be replaced.

Other causes of a broken refrigerator water dispenser

If there are no issues with the water supply system, you may need to take a look at a few other components. Malfunctions involving a faulty pressure switch, a water dispenser actuator, a refrigerator door switch, or a control board could be among your problems. You can inspect these components visually for damage or shorts or test the circuits with a multimeter. We recommend you reach out to an Asurion appliance repair expert to help you diagnose these problems and repair or replace these components.

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Water dispensers can undoubtedly be one of the most convenient components to your fridge. But what happens when the water dispenser in your fridge stops working? You feel like your convenience has been taken away. There are a handful of different reasons why this may be happening. Here, we’ve compiled a list of top causes why the water dispenser in your fridge stopped working and things to look for in determining the root of the problem.

Frozen Water Supply Tube

Often times, the water dispenser in your fridge may have stopped working due to a frozen water supply tube. This is a common problem in side-by-side refrigerators in which the tube that connects your water supply to the door where the water dispenser is frozen due to improper temperatures. If this is the issue, simply thaw it out. The temperature in your freezer should be maintained between 0 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. If your freezer is set too cold, your water line may be frozen as well.

Water Inlet Valve

The water dispenser in your fridge is supplied water by the opening of your water inlet valve. However, this valve may stop working if the water pressure is too low or if it is defective. For the valve to function properly, the water pressure must be at least 20 psi (psi being the measurement of water pressure in pounds per square inch). If sufficient water pressure is not the issue, you may want to test the water inlet valve for continuity using a multimeter tool. If your water inlet valve does not have continuity, it’s time to replace it.

Water Pressure Too Low

Your home may have inadequate water pressure. Like stated above, your water inlet valve needs a minimum of 20 psi to even function properly. Insufficient water flow can be caused by substandard plumbing or buildup in your pipes. This can lead different fixtures from being supplied needed to function properly. Including the water dispenser in your fridge to stop working.

Clogged Water Filter

Water filters should be replaced every six months on average. If you can’t remember replacing your water filter, it’s probably time to change it. These filters can get clogged over time causing the water flow to be disrupted and thus, preventing the water dispenser from functioning properly. Not to mention, the quality of your water will stay maintained by regular upkeep.

Faulty Dispenser Switch

Your water dispenser is activated by voltages sent by the dispenser switches. In the case that one of these switches is faulty, the water dispenser in fridge may stop working. This can (again) be tested using a multimeter tool to check for continuity. If lacking in continuity, replacement may be your solution.

Water Dispenser Control Board

Believe it or not, your water dispenser is regulated by a control board that mandates almost all of the functions of your dispenser system. In all likelihood, one isolated part may be malfunctioning and not the entire control board. You will want to test each dispenser component before the entire control board. If you find that in your particular situation the whole dispenser system is not working, your control board may be responsible.

Refrigerators aren’t always perfect. Sometimes things go wrong and you may find yourself in this type of situation. If the water dispenser in your fridge stops working, just know there are causes and solutions to your problem. Guardian Water Services is one call away to help ensure that your family has the best quality water conditions out there. Schedule your free water quality test today! Your home and family deserve it.

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