The water line in any refrigerator ensures there is water in the ice maker and water dispenser. This article discusses Maytag refrigerator water line issues and solutions.
Table of Contents
Maytag Refrigerator Water Line Freezing – Quick Fix
If the water line in a Maytag refrigerator keeps freezing, the problem may stem from the set temperature. Try increasing the freezer temperature if it is too low; typically, it should be at 0 degrees Fahrenheit, and if you must increase it, it must not exceed 5 degrees Fahrenheit.
Adjust the temperature to this range and check the setting for the refrigerator temperature. If it is lower than 32 degrees Fahrenheit, increase it to a point between 32 degrees and 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Next, disconnect the refrigerator from the wall outlet and open the door. A frozen water line needs to be completely thawed, and one way to do it is by a manual defrost. Therefore, store perishable foods in another refrigerator and leave the unit’s doors open until the water line thaws. This may take a long time. Another option is to use a hairdryer, but it may not reach all the parts of the waterline. Afterward, clean the excess water and reconnect the refrigerator to electric power.
When the Water Line to the Ice Maker Is Frozen
Some refrigerators may have a water line that goes to the ice maker separate from that to the water dispenser. If the water line is frozen, follow the same steps above to turn the refrigerator off. Also, turn off the main water supply valve.
Go to the ice maker inside the freezer and loosen the screws securing it in place; do not completely remove them. Doing this releases the ice maker’s mounting brackets from the screws. Next, lift the ice maker up and off the screws and disconnect the wire harness at the back of the ice maker before laying the machine aside.
Now, get a hairdryer and channel it to the frozen tube protruding from the back wall inside the freezer. Ensure there is no ice on the freezer’s ceiling that may drip water on the hairdryer. Also, position the dryer, so it is level so that water does not drop into its open back.
Use the highest setting to melt the ice in the frozen water line; stop when the ice melts enough to drop out of the line. Cautiously use the heat to avoid damaging the plastic water line. Afterward, reassemble the ice maker and turn on the refrigerator to check the ice maker water line.
Note: It is crucial to melt a frozen refrigerator water line as soon as you notice it. Water expands as it freezes, and the expansion can damage the waterline. Also, ensure it does not freeze to avoid replacing the line.
Maytag Refrigerator Water Line Leaks – Fixed
If the water line leaks, finding the exact leak point is crucial. First, check the connection points. It may be that the nuts have loosened, or the clips are no longer tight. Try tightening the water line at the connections or use the services of a professional installer to fix the problem.
However, if the leak originates further down the waterline, it may be damaged. Consistent freezing, kinking, or twisting are likely to damage the waterline. The same is true if the refrigerator or another heavy object rests on it for too long. If that is the case, replace the waterline.
Check out these other articles…
How to Replace a Maytag Refrigerator Thermostat [Quick Guide]
Age of a Maytag Refrigerator [Quick Guide]
How to Replace a Maytag Refrigerator Ice Maker [Quick Guide]
How to Make Ice in a Maytag Fridge [Quick Guide]
How to Set Temp on a Maytag Refrigerator [Quick Guide]
How to Clean the Water Line in a Maytag Refrigerator
To clean the water line in a Maytag refrigerator, turn off the water supply from the main source. Do not disconnect the unit from power so that you can flush the system. Next, get distilled white vinegar, pour some into a cup, and pour it down the water line. You may want to pour some vinegar into the ice maker if the refrigerator has one and you have not cleaned it in a long time.
After pouring enough vinegar down the line, turn on the water supply valve so that water can run through the line and flush the vinegar from it. Allow the water to run until it completely flushes the vinegar from the waterline. Do the same for the ice maker if you washed it. You may want to clean the refrigerator at this point, make a few ice batches, and throw them out before using the ice maker to ensure there is no leftover vinegar.
How to Install a Water Line to a Maytag Refrigerator
To install a water line to a Maytag refrigerator, turn the main water supply off and ensure the refrigerator is not connected to electric power. Go to the back of the unit and locate a PEX or copper water line. When you do, straighten it to ensure it is long enough to reach the water valve.
Next, get the right water pressure. Typically, the pressure should not be lower than 20 psi, but you may need a different pressure for your specific model. Consult a plumber for professional assistance as regards the water pressure. Now, pull the water line to connect it to the main water shut-off valve under the sink, on the floor, or on the wall at the back of the unit. There should be compression nuts and fittings in the installation kit.
Place the compression nut and sleeve onto the waterline and use a wrench to secure it to the water valve. Ensure you do not make it too tight. Next, flush the new water line with water; there may be debris or other obstructions in it. Channel the free end of the line into a container and open the water shut-off valve.
Turn the water off when the line is clean. Now, connect the free end to the refrigerator; you will see a water port at the back of the unit. Connect the water line to it using a compression nut and sleeve; tighten the nut and sleeve with an adjustable wrench, but do not make it too tight. Ensure the slack part of the water is free with no kinks and nothing resting on it. You may want to use clamps to secure the line to the refrigerator cabinet.
Turn on the water supply and connect the refrigerator to the wall outlet. Next, test the water line to ensure it is working. You may also want to flush it again before using it for ice-making or the water dispenser.
How to Disconnect the Water Line from a Maytag Refrigerator
To disconnect the water line from a Maytag refrigerator, turn off the main water supply valve under the sink, on the wall at the back of the unit, or on the floor. Next, loosen the compression sleeve and nut, and pull the water line from the port at the back of the refrigerator. You can remove the line at this point.
If you want to remove it completely, loosen and remove the compression sleeve and nut at the other end of the water line connected to the water supply valve. Then, you can remove the entire water line.
Recap
This article is a detailed explanation of how to fix a Maytag refrigerator water line. If the line is frozen, thaw it manually or use a hairdryer. And if it is leaking, it is time to buy a replacement water line.
You will also find a guide on installing the water line, especially if it is a new installation. If you have issues with fixing or replacing the water line, contact the Maytag Service Center for servicing or hire an independent appliance technician for further assistance.
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