Whirlpool refrigerators with water dispensers have filters that need periodic replacement. An improperly installed water filter prevents correct operation of the water dispenser. If your water dispenser does not work, your ice dispenser likely has malfunctioned as well, because both devices use the same water source. To determine if your water filter is the culprit -- or some other issue is the cause -- troubleshoot your water filter and dispenser to get the device operational again.
Freezer Door
The water dispenser does not work unless the freezer door is fully closed. If an item from the freezer, such as a corner of a frozen vegetable bag, stops the freezer door from closing all the way, the water will not come out of the dispenser. Verify that the freezer door closes completely before assuming the problem is the water filter.
Kinked Line
The water line consists of small plastic or copper tubing that connects a small valve on the wall to the refrigerator. Copper tubing easily crimps, especially if you do not pay attention to it when you pull the refrigerator away from the wall for cleaning. While plastic tubing does not crimp, if the tubing gets hung up under the refrigerator or is bent at a 90-degree angle, water does not flow to the dispenser. Make certain the water line is free of kinks, bends or crimps.
Water Line, Valve and Pressure
A Whirlpool water dispenser requires at least 30 pounds per square inch of pressure to operate. This is well within the range of normal household water pressure, so make certain the water line to the fridge is turned on. If it is, you might need to ensure the valve or water line has an internal obstruction. Turn off the water supply, detach the water line and place a small bowl under the valve. Turn it on again to see if emits water. If it works, consider replacing the water line. If it does not, replace the water valve.
Water Supply Connection
The Whirlpool fridge requires a water supply connection to a cold water line. Before you connect the water supply to the water line on the fridge, make certain the unit is unplugged from the wall. For homes that have whole house water filtration systems installed, verify that the water coming from the water filtration system operates at between 40 and 60 psi. If the pressure is lower than 30 psi, the water and ice dispensers will not function properly.
Clogged Filter
Clogged filters occur because of debris in the water line. Rusty pipes, sediment in water lines and rural well systems can easily clog the small filter on your Whirlpool fridge, especially if you do not have a whole-house water filtration system installed. A light comes on the water dispenser to indicate that it is time to change the filter about every six months or so, depending on the model you have. To keep water from your refrigerator from tasting like you are drinking from the periodic table, change your filter at least twice a year, if not more, depending on usage.
It’s hard to enjoy the convenience of a refrigerator’s ice and water dispenser if it doesn’t respond to your commands. Why is my Whirlpool refrigerator not dispensing water or ice? The water filter may be incorrectly installed or in need of replacement. Determine the reason for dispenser problems with these troubleshooting tips.
While most dispenser issues can be resolved with a DIY fix, a part malfunction may require a professional repair. Here’s how to determine the right solution for a Whirlpool refrigerator not dispensing water or ice.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Control Lock is Activated
If you find your Whirlpool refrigerator water and ice dispenser not working, first determine if the Control Lock is enabled. The Control Lock feature turns off the dispenser to prevent accidental activation or enable easy cleaning. How can you tell if the Control Lock feature is activated? Depending on your model refrigerator, the display panel will show a lock icon above the LOCK button.
To deactivate the Control Lock feature and restore the dispenser’s function, press and hold the LOCK button down for three seconds. An unlocked icon should appear over the LOCK button, indicating that the dispenser is activated.
Water Filter is Installed Incorrectly or Needs Replacement
Water filter issues are a common cause of dispenser problems, resulting in reduced water flow or pressure that limits production. If the refrigerator water dispenser works intermittently or dispenses water or ice more slowly, a filter issue may be responsible.
These water filter issues can result in dispenser problems:
- Improper installation: A filter that’s incorrectly installed can limit water flow and pressure. Refer to your user manual’s instructions to ensure that the filter is installed properly.
- Dirty filter: A refrigerator water filter should be changed every 6 months. This prevents a buildup of contaminants from restricting water flow and producing smelly ice.
- Damaged filter: Inspect the filter and its housing for cracks or holes that can affect performance. A damaged filter requires replacement.
- Incorrect filter is installed: Whirlpool recommends using only a CGP (Certified Genuine Part) EveryDrop filter for optimum performance.
Water Line is Frozen
Since the refrigerator’s water line passes through the freezer, any lingering water droplets in the line can be subject to freezing. This will cause a blockage that prohibits or reduces water flow to the dispenser. If you find your refrigerator water line frozen, check your freezer temperature to make sure it’s between 0-5℉. A temperature below 0℉ is more likely to freeze the line.
To defrost the water line, the refrigerator ice maker needs to be disconnected and removed from the freezer. Once the line is accessible, aim a hairdryer at it for 15 minutes until the ice falls out or water stops dripping.
Door Switch is Broken
Is your Whirlpool refrigerator not dispensing water or ice after trying these DIY tips? It’s possible the door switch may be broken. This switch turns the dispenser off if the refrigerator door is open. However, if it malfunctions, the dispenser will remain off even if the door is closed. To diagnose a broken door switch, test it for continuity with a multimeter. If the switch has no continuity, it needs to be replaced.
Water Dispenser Switch is Defective
If you find your refrigerator dispenser control board not working when you press a button, the dispenser switch may be defective. This switch sends electrical voltage to the dispenser to activate the dispenser when a button is pushed. If the switch is defective, it won’t provide the necessary voltage and the control board won’t respond.
If the water dispenser switch shows no continuity with multimeter testing, it requires a professional Whirlpool refrigerator repair.
Whether you’re experiencing refrigerator cooling issues or a Whirlpool refrigerator not dispensing water and ice, we can help. Schedule an assessment with A-Tech Appliance Service for a fast and professional response!