Follow the resources in this article to fix the problem of a KitchenAid refrigerator with low water pressure.
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KitchenAid Refrigerator with Low Water Pressure – Fixed
Try checking the water pressure in the refrigerator before determining whether or not it has low water pressure. If the water dispenser takes too long to fill a glass, the water is too slow, and the pressure is low. To check it, install a water pressure gauge near the outdoor water meter and take a reading.
If the water pressure is less than 20 psi, it cannot provide the necessary force for the refrigerator. Correct the water pressure by installing a water pressure regulator to stabilize it from the source before reaching the refrigerator.
However, several refrigerator issues can affect the water pressure, causing it to drop. Check the following before installing the water pressure regulator. You can install the regulator if none of them is the source of the problem.
1. Water Source
The main water source is the first place to check if the refrigerator’s water pressure is low. You must determine whether or not there is increased usage at specific times before concluding that the pressure is low. When different parts of the house use water at the same time, the pressure drops. So, check to see if other people are using the shower, kitchen sink, or other water sources.
If that is the case, there is nothing to worry about, as the increased water usage explains the drop in pressure. However, if the low water pressure is constant even when there is no other demand in the house, the problem may stem from the main supply outside the house. Hire a plumber to check the water supply to the house and determine if there is a need for an adjustment.
2. Water Filter
The water filter removes impurities from the water from the refrigerator. Most filters are reliable and can filter contaminants from the water, which also means it becomes clogged within months. And when the filter is clogged, it restricts the water flow through the refrigerator, reducing the pressure.
The water only comes in trickles and may eventually stop flowing if you do not replace the filter. Therefore, take the filter out and replace it with a compatible replacement. Follow the instructions in this article on removing a KitchenAid refrigerator water filter, and reverse the steps to install a new one. You can also check the user manual for further instructions.
Always use the correct filter type for a KitchenAid refrigerator, which is Everydrop or KitchenAid filter. Check the model number before purchasing the water filter to ensure you choose one that fits your refrigerator model. Use strict installation instructions to avoid damaging the filter.
After the installation, you must flush the water line to clear it of trapped air. Doing this prevents pressure buildup and water leaking from the dispenser. Clearing the water line is a crucial step after every filter replacement.
To do this, put a glass under the dispenser nozzle and dispense water for a few minutes. You can also dispense from the water line if the refrigerator does not have a water dispenser. You will need a bigger container to empty the glass whenever it is full because you will need to dispense a few gallons to clear the line.
But that will be unnecessary if you dispense straight from the water line; you can channel it into the container. Stop when the water flows free and uninterrupted from the dispenser or water line.
3. Water Line
A kinked or twisted water line can affect the water pressure in the refrigerator. This typically happens when the length of the water is extended, and you do not roll it up and tape it to the back of the refrigerator. The extra length may twist or kink, restricting the water flow.
Simply straighten the kink or loosen the twist to improve the water pressure and get the water flowing again. If the water line is already damaged, you may want to replace it. But consider patching the leak before replacing the water line. Sometimes, a patch should hold the line, and you can use it for a while longer.
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4. Water Valve
First, check the main saddle valve to ensure it is fully open. Sometimes, partially opening the valve reduces the water flow and affects the pressure. Turn the valve on the wall at the back of the refrigerator or under the sink to see if it is fully open. Consider closing and opening it again. Then, check the water flow to see if there is an improvement.
But if the saddle valve is the root of the problem, inspect the water inlet valve. The inlet valve is the connection point between the main water source and the refrigerator. It opens for a few seconds so water can flow into the ice maker and provide water to the dispenser. In other words, it controls the water flow to avoid an overflow.
The inlet valve connects to the ice maker and water dispenser through different water lines. However, it may restrict the water flow and lower the water pressure if it is faulty. Sediments and dirt can clog the water inlet valve over months and years of use. The inlet valve works with a screen filter that removes dirt and mineral deposits.
If the screen filter is clogged, the water flow slows and trickles with time. Remove and clean the filter if clogged or contact the KitchenAid Center to do the job. There is also the possibility that the inlet valve is faulty, and the technician is in the best position to check, fix, or replace it if necessary.
5. Home Water Filtration System
The last possibility is that your home has a reverse osmosis water filtration system. This type of filtration system usually affects the water flow to the refrigerator. While the system excellently filters the water supply to your refrigerator, it may also cause the water to flow in trickles.
The only solution is to increase the water pressure using the water pressure regulator. That should fix the problem, but it may not work in all cases. So, consider running a separate water line from the main source to your KitchenAid refrigerator and use a refrigerator water filter. Doing this should increase the water pressure.
6. Refrigerator Leveling
Poor refrigerator leveling can cause several faults, such as low water pressure and cooling loss. If nothing else seems to work, check the refrigerator’s leveling. Place a level on top of the refrigerator and check the bubble; if it is not centered, you need to adjust its leveling legs.
Fortunately, the refrigerator’s user manual has specific instructions for leveling the appliance. Alternatively, follow the leveling instructions in this article on leveling a KitchenAid refrigerator to fix the problem. Note the separate steps for different models and select the appropriate ones for your appliance.
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