A Whirlpool refrigerator dispenser provides cold or hot water and ice for models with ice and water dispensers. These are convenient features but can become a problem if they stop working.
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Whirlpool Refrigerator Dispenser Not Working – How to Fix
The dispenser may have a loose wire connection, which will mean dismantling the part to inspect the connections. If you are unsure of dismantling the dispenser, get a professional appliance technician for further assistance. The dispenser may not be getting enough power to run, which may stem from a faulty control board or damaged wires. The technician is in the best position to find and fix the electrical issues.
There are a few issues you can fix yourself to get the refrigerator dispenser working again. So, do the following:
1. Check the Dispenser Control Lock
A Whirlpool refrigerator has a dispenser lock that disables the functions of the dispenser, so there is no accidental use. If the lock feature is active, evidenced by a lock icon illumined on the control panel, the dispenser does not work. Locate the Lock button on the panel, press it, and hold it for about three seconds to disable the lock function. If the dispenser begins working again, the problem is solved.
2. Check the Water Supply
The problem of the Whirlpool refrigerator dispenser not working may be due to poor water supply. The water comes from the house’s main water source and goes through a connected water line to feed the refrigerator. Then, the refrigerator makes ice and drinking water and supplies them through the dispenser.
First, check the main water supply valve, usually under the kitchen sink, on the wall behind the refrigerator, or in the basement. Some may even be on the floor close to the refrigerator. Ensure it is fully open; a partial opening may reduce the force and prevent the dispenser from working due to a lack of water. If the valve is open, check the water line behind the refrigerator.
The water line may be frozen or kinked. If it is frozen or obstructed by debris, use a water line kit to remove the obstruction. You can also leave the refrigerator unplugged for some time so the ice can thaw, but it may take longer than using the kit. If the line is kinked, ensure you straighten it and move the refrigerator to accommodate the line to avoid future kinking. You may want to tape it to the refrigerator’s back if possible.
Next, check the water inlet valve. The inlet valve may be defective if the water line works well and the dispenser does not respond. It is controlled by electricity and automatically opens and closes to control the quantity of water flowing to the refrigerator. If the valve fails, the dispenser and ice maker will not have water. In such a case, replace the inlet valve after determining it is no longer working.
The water pressure from the house’s main water supply may be too low to reach the refrigerator. The pressure must be fixed if the water filter works and the inlet valve is functioning. Hire a plumber to check the water pressure and make the necessary adjustments. However, if you have an in-house reverse osmosis water filtration system, it may affect the water pressure. The plumber is the best professional to recommend a better option.
3. Check the Water Filter
A water filter plays a vital role in filtering particles and contaminants from the water in the refrigerator. That way, the water, and ice are pure enough for consumption. However, if the filter is old, these particles clog it and restrict the water flow to the ice maker and water dispenser. The clogged filter also reduces the water pressure and may stop the dispenser from working altogether.
Therefore, replace the water filter with a suitable replacement, a Whirlpool or Everydrop water filter. Always use a certified filter for your Whirlpool refrigerator for optimum performance. Ensure you correctly install it following the user manual instructions and the filter’s location. Improper installation can stop the filter from working and restrict the functions of the dispenser.
4. Check the Door Switch
The door switch automatically turns off the dispenser when you open the refrigerator door. If the switch becomes defective, the dispenser may be disabled even when you close the refrigerator door. The reason is that the switch controls the dispenser to produce water or ice and turns it off to prevent accidental dispensing with the door open.
On some models, the switch also controls the refrigerator’s internal light. Locate the switch and try pressing it to see if the light responds. If the light does not respond, it does not mean the switch is defective. Get a multimeter and check to see if the door switch has continuity. If there is no continuity, replace the switch.
5. Check the Dispenser Switches
The dispenser has some switches that supply voltage so that dispenser can operate. They work as a group, but if one fails, it affects the dispenser’s ability to function due to a lack of sufficient voltage. You must test each switch with a multimeter to find the defective one; it will lack continuity, while others have continuity. And when you find it, replace the switch so the dispenser can work.
6. Check the Dispenser Control Board
If nothing else seems to fix the problem, it may be the dispenser control board. The control board handles the entire dispenser system; if it malfunctions, the dispenser cannot work. However, ensure every other component is in good operating condition. Then, you can test and replace the control board.
Note: These steps apply to a Whirlpool refrigerator water dispenser and ice dispenser. Follow the instructions to get the faulty dispenser up and running, or consult the user manual for other instructions. The same applies if the water or ice dispenser is slow.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Dispenser Dripping – Solved
A dispenser leaks or drips water primarily if you do not flush the system after replacing the water filter. When the filter is due for a replacement, and you replace it, always dispense about three gallons or ten glasses of water to remove trapped air in the system. It may not always happen, but there is a high probability that air gets trapped in the water lines when you remove the old filter and put in a new one. But running water out of the system fixes it.
Check the filter installation if flushing the system does not solve the problem. An incorrect installation can leak a space for the water to drip from the dispenser. This is especially true if the seal over the filter connection point is weak or loose. Remove the filter, check the installation instructions in the user manual, and reinstall it. Ensure the seal is secure over the connection area before installing the filter.
Another part to check is the O-rings on the head of the filter. They may be damaged or missing, which means the filter cannot work. It is crucial that you do not remove the rings yourself if the filter fails to work. But if the O-rings on the filter are damaged, replace the filter. Otherwise, check other parts of the filter for signs of damage. It may be cracked or dented, and you must replace the filter if it applies.
Other Issues
If the water pressure is too high, the dispenser will drip water. The pressure should not exceed 120 psi and must be up to 20 psi for the dispenser to function normally. Unless you have the necessary kit to check the water pressure, you may need to get professional assistance from a plumber, who can check and fix it.
Another part to check is the water inlet valve. A faulty valve may cause the water dispenser to drip constantly. Check the inlet valve for signs of a fault and replace it if it is no longer working. You may need professional assistance to check and replace the inlet valve.
Finally, check the drip tray Under the dispenser nozzle. It usually collects excess water, especially when someone removes a glass too soon or quickly from under the dispenser or when there is no glass to catch the water when you press the lever. When the drip pan is full, the excess water drips down the front of the dispenser and mimics the dispenser dripping. Empty and clean the tray; it may stop the dripping issue.
Note: The dripping may be normal. Sometimes, the water dispenser drips water and stops after some time. Also, removing a glass too quickly after dispensing water causes the nozzle to drip, but it should quickly stop.
Check out these other articles…
Whirlpool Refrigerator Not Making Ice [Problems & Solutions]
Whirlpool Refrigerator Making Ice [Guide & Issues Solved]
Whirlpool Refrigerator Not Dispensing [Problems Solved]
Whirlpool Refrigerator Dispensing [Issues & Solutions]
Whirlpool Fridge Turns Off and On – [Problems Solved]
Whirlpool Refrigerator Dispenser Light Stays On – Fixed
The dispenser control board may be faulty. But before checking it, test the wiring to the light on the dispenser. Also, check the door switch; if it is faulty, it may trigger the light not to turn off. Test the door switch with a multimeter; replace it if there is no continuity. But if the door switch is not faulty, hire an appliance technician to check the dispenser wiring.
It may be faulty or loose, and fixing it should solve the dispenser light problem. However, you may not have the skillset to check the correct wires and correct the issue. If everything else checks out fine, the dispenser control board may need a replacement. Also, the main control board may malfunction, but you should check it only if the dispenser control board is working. An appliance is also the best person to fix the control board issue.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Dispenser Beeps – Quick Fix
The dispenser module may be faulty; the same is true for the dispenser control board. Try resetting the Whirlpool refrigerator by disconnecting it from electric power for at least five minutes. Reconnect it to power and wait for the dispenser to run. If it stops beeping, the problem is solved. But if it continues beeping, you may have to replace the main control board.
How to Clean a Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Dispenser
If you want to clean the water dispenser on your Whirlpool refrigerator, start by disconnecting the unit from electric power. You can unplug it from the wall outlet or power down the breaker controlling it. Next, unscrew the bulb on the dispenser and set it aside safely. Remove the dispenser’s front panel; push the panel’s bottom down from the inside while pulling one side of the frame out from the dispenser. Do it carefully to avoid breaking the fragile plastic panel.
Once the front panel is off, you can disconnect the wiring harness holding it in place. Use a screwdriver to disconnect the wire connector while pulling the two parts apart. Set the front panel aside when the harness is disconnected. You should clean it later, but ensure you do it carefully to avoid damaging any part of it.
You will see two screws holding the inner part of the dispenser in place. Unmount and remove the screws. When the part is loose, you can disconnect the wire harness holding it secure. But it may mean breaking the tape holding the wires. While it may seem necessary to do it to clean the dispenser properly, you can lift the part and clean it without breaking the tape.
Next, remove the levers controlling the water dispenser lever. There is a spring leaf holding the levers, and you need to remove it. Two screws hold the leaf in place, so unmount and remove the screws. Shift the lever out and downwards, and slide it around the dispenser nozzle. Doing this exposes the dispenser so you can clean it.
Mix vinegar and water to make a cleaning solution. Soak the loosened parts in the cleaning solution. It effectively removes dirt and bacteria; you can use a soft sponge to scrub these parts. Also, clean the other parts with the cleaning solution as much as possible. Carefully work around these parts until you remove all the dirt. Then, reassemble the dispenser.
The same steps apply if you want to clean a Whirlpool refrigerator ice dispenser. But after moving the water dispenser lever around the nozzle, locate the ice funnel on the ice dispenser’s lever and unclip the funnel. After that, disconnect the rubber boot on the damper of the ice door and remove it. Open the door and move the ice lever around the damper and door. Afterward, you can clean the dispenser and other loose parts.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Dispenser Calibration
Start by setting a measuring cup under the dispenser nozzle to calibrate the water dispenser on your Whirlpool refrigerator. The measuring cup is important to measure the amount of water accurately before and after calibration. Next, press the Measured Fill button on the dispenser panel and hold it for about three seconds. You will hold the Calibration and Measured Fill buttons on some models for three seconds.
The Measured Fill and Calibration icons will become illumined and remain so as the dispenser calibrates. Afterward, press the dispenser lever to dispense water into the measuring cup. If the dispenser exceeds your set limit, the calibration is incorrect, and you must redo it. Otherwise, press the calibration button to confirm the process, and the display will return to the home screen.
Note: Touch any button on the panel to exit the Measured Fill calibration any time during the process if you have reasons to interrupt it. Each Whirlpool refrigerator model may have specific instructions for calibrating the water dispenser, so it is best to consult the user manual for your model.
Watch this video for steps to calibrate the water dispenser on a specific model…
Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Dispenser Drip Tray Removal
Slide the drip tray out from under the dispenser nozzle and ensure it is all the way out. Lift the back up and completely remove it; the back catches on an edge to prevent the tray from accidentally sliding out. Some Whirlpool refrigerator models do not have removable trays, so if you cannot slide yours out and it does not lift in any way, you may have to empty and clean it while it sits under the dispenser nozzle.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Ice Dispenser Freezing Up – What to Do
Power outages can affect how the ice dispenser on your Whirlpool refrigerator functions. If there is a power outage when ice is in the ice bucket, it may begin to melt and drip into the ice chute. The water in the chute freezes when power is restored, causing the dispenser to freeze. If that is the problem, you may have to find an alternative power source to back the main electricity supply source up. That is if there are constant power outages in your area.
However, inspect the ice chute seal if the outage issues do not apply to you. If the seal is loose or weak, it will allow air to enter the ice dispenser, and the moisture in the warm air builds frost in the dispenser. Fix the seal if it s loose and ensure it is tight around the chute. Otherwise, replace the seal if it is weak.
There is also a drain by the ice door motor that prevents the dispenser and motor from freezing. If it is clogged, the durian cannot let water out, which leads to freezing. Clean the drain if you suspect it is clogged to promote correct drainage. But if none of these work, you may need to hire a professional Whirlpool refrigerator technician to check the refrigerator and service it if necessary.
Other Solutions to Try
Do not leave the refrigerator door open for too long, especially if the ice dispenser is an in-door type. Leaving the door open for too long allows warm air to enter and form condensation, which leads to freezing in the refrigerator, including the ice dispenser. The same applies if you open the refrigerator door too often.
Ensure the door seal is working; any weakness or dirt keeps the door from sealing tightly, compromising the coolness. Over time, ice builds in the refrigerator and may reflect in the ice dispenser. You may also have to rearrange and organize the refrigerator and freezer to ensure nothing sticks out to keep the door from shutting entirely. Get professional assistance if nothing else seems to work.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Ice Dispenser Flap Not Closing – Quick Fix
If the ice chute door or flap on your Whirlpool refrigerator ice dispenser is not closing or sealing, ensure no ice fragment is trapped. When ice is trapped, the door does not close or seal. Pieces of ice can break off and stick to the opening, so the ice prevents it when the chute door tries to close.
Clean the area to remove possible ice pieces. But if that is not the case, there may be a faulty mechanism with the door motor or the door itself. Consider replacing the entire door assembly or hire a professional for further troubleshooting.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Dispenser Frozen – Fixed
Low freezer temperature is the most likely cause of a frozen water dispenser on a Whirlpool water dispenser. You may notice that the water reservoir is frozen or the water line has an ice obstruction. Check to be sure the freezer section is not set too low, below the freezing point of 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Make the necessary adjustments to the temperature if it applies.
The water reservoir will freeze if the refrigerator constantly has a low temperature, especially if you do not regularly use the water dispenser. The same applies to the water lien; irregular usage causes the water in the pipe to freeze over time. Therefore, lower the temperature and give the freezer some run time to determine whether or not the freezing problem stops.
Ensure you arrange and organize the freezer; it must be at least half full to encourage proper cold air circulation. If the freezer is too empty, the water reservoir will freeze too quickly. The reason is that cold air is heavy and tends to settle at the bottom. So, it is easy for the reservoir to freeze. The same applies to the water line.
Your refrigerator may have temperature-controlled drawers, which have a temperature setting separate from that of the refrigerator. And if the temperature is too cold with little or no content in the drawers, the reservoir absorbs the cold air, causing it to freeze. The cold air may also affect the dispenser water line. This affects the water dispenser and prevents water from dispensing.
Your Whirlpool refrigerator may need servicing if adjusting the temperature does not fix the freezing problem in the dispenser. Contact the Service Center to request service or hire an independent technician for further assistance.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Dispenser Making a Loud Noise – Solved
The water filter may be damaged, dirty, or improperly installed if the water dispenser makes a loud noise during use. You should also check the water inlet valve or the water filter housing for faults if the noise persists even without the filter. Check out this article on a Whirlpool refrigerator making noise when dispensing water for detailed instructions on fixing the issue.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Dispenser Keeps Running – Solution
Turn off the water supply to the refrigerator at the main water valve. This is to keep the dispenser from rapidly dispensing water. Next, check the dispenser buttons to see if any are stuck. Try to loosen the stuck button by pressing it continuously; use a kitchen degreaser if pressing it does not work. Clean the area after spraying it; the degreaser should loosen it if dirt buildup is causing the stuck button.
Spray it a second time if it remains stuck and if it persists, call for professional service. For a dispenser with touch buttons, there may be a system bug preventing the dispenser from reading the shut-off command. In such a case, reset the system. Disconnect the refrigerator from electric power for about ten minutes and reconnect it. This hard reset should fix any bug problem but contact Whirlpool if the problem persists.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Dispenser Lever Broken – How to Fix
If th dispenser lever on your Whirlpool refrigerator water dispenser is broken, the only solution is to replace it. Follow these steps to replace the lever:
Step 1
Disconnect the refrigerator from electric power by unplugging the power cord from the wall outlet or powering down the circuit breaker. It may be best to turn off the breaker if the refrigerator is the built-in type. Also, turn off the water supply at the main source.
Step 2
Remove the drip tray under the dispenser nozzle and empty it. The tray may be full, and in need of cleaning, so it may be the best time to clean it. Put a small or putty knife behind the front frame of the dispenser and push down on it while using the knife to pull it outward.
Step 3
Check the wire connections behind the frame when you pull it out. You may want to take pictures to have a reference for reconnection. Then, disconnect the wires from the frame and set it aside. Next, unmount the screw that holds the housing for the light and switch in place, press the retaining tabs, and tape the housing out of the way.
Step 4
Unmount the single screw on the retainer and strain relief, and remove the broken dispenser lever. Set the new lever over the bracket for the water spout, insert the pin in the hole on the right of the housing, and the other pin into the slot on the left. Align the retainer and strain relief on the right pin and mount the screw.
Step 5
Remove the restraining tape on the switch and light housing and snap it in place. Mount the single screw on the housing and secure it. Next, reconnect the dispenser wires following the pictures you took earlier and position the frame properly. Then, snap the frame into place. Put the drip tray back in place, reconnect the refrigerator to electric power, and turn on the water supply.
It is crucial to follow the directions in the user manual to remove and replace the dispenser lever if these steps do not apply to your refrigerator model. Otherwise, employ the services of a qualified technician for further assistance.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Dispenser Only Works Without Water Filter – Solved
If the dispenser works only when you remove the water filter, you may have to replace the water filter housing. But before doing that, ensure you have the correct type of filter for a Whirlpool refrigerator and that you are correctly installing it. Some refrigerator models have built-in bypass plugs so that they may function well without a water filter.
However, the filter’s primary purpose is to ensure you have clean water for drinking or making ice. Therefore, it is crucial to find out why the filter has failed. Use a recommended filter and ensure there is no damage. Follow the instructions in the user manual to install it for your specific model. Contact the Whirlpool Center if the problem persists.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Dispenser Turns On By Itself – What to Do
The problem may be a faulty water inlet valve or valve diode problem. It may also be a problem with a faulty dispenser switch or dispenser control board. You can test the dispenser switch with a multimeter and replace it if there is no continuity. But you may need professional assistance to check the inlet valve and dispenser control board.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Dispenser Pulsing – Fixed
The problem may be with the water filter housing. It has a valve at the back, and it is its job to bypass the filter when it is removed so that there is no sudden splash or rush of water without the valve. If this part fails, it cannot properly actuate when you install a new water filter.
Remove the filter and install another one. If the problem stops, you know the old filter was causing the problem. However, if it persists, the valve is the problem. You must replace the filter receptacle or solenoid to fix the problem. Finding the right replacement part is crucial to stopping the pulsing from the dispenser, so contact Whirlpool to request a compatible replacement for the part.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Dispenser Slow After Filter Change – What to Do
Ensure you installed the water filter correctly. Improper installation can restrict the water flow to the point where the dispenser becomes slow or stops working. Therefore, following the installation instructions in the user manual is important. Also, use only certified water filters for Whirlpool refrigerators.
After the installation, flush the system by dispensing a few gallons of water. It should clear the water lines of trapped air if any. Additionally, low water pressure slows the water, so check the main source to see if the pressure issue comes from there. That is if the water filter is in good working condition and is correctly installed. You may need a plumber to check the water pressure and make necessary adjustments.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Dispenser Too Fast
If the dispenser is too fast, check the water inlet valve. A clogged or broken valve causes water to rush to the dispenser without any hindrance. The inlet valve controls the amount of water that flows per time, and if damaged or clogged, the pressure may build and cause the water to dispense too fast. You may have to replace the inlet valve to fix the problem.
Another possibility is that the water lines may be clogged with dirt. Irregular cleaning can block the lines and cause the water to flow through other channels. Consequently, the pressure builds, and the water comes out too fast. Get the user manual and clean the water lines if they are obstructed.
The rubber covering on the dispenser nozzle may be loose, creating a pocket of air. The space created may also be filled with debris, which may cause the dispenser to have issues such as fast dispensing. Clean this area if you can, or hire a professional to fix the issue and recommend ways to prevent it in the future.
How to Repair a Whirlpool Refrigerator Ice Dispenser Door
To repair the ice dispenser door on a Whirlpool refrigerator, disconnect the unit from electric power and turn off the water. Remove the drip tray, empty it, and lay it aside. Next, remove the front panel from the dispenser; use a putty knife to pry it free, but do not pull it off. There are wires attached behind it, so carefully lower the panel when it is free and note the connections. Then, disconnect the wires.
Now, remove the single screw holding the switch and light housing for the dispenser, press the locking tabs to release the housing, and tape it aside with duct tape. You will find the ice guide behind it; press the retaining tabs to release the guide and lift it out. Lift the ice chute door and detach it from the door closer using a small screwdriver.
Next, insert the new door in the place of the old door and snap it in place. Position the ice guide by inserting its lower tab into the dispenser lever. Turn the guide and snap the upper tabs in place. Now, you can remove the tape from the switch and light housing and snap it into position.
Mount the single screw and reconnect the wires to the dispenser’s front panel. Align the top of the panel with the housing and snap it in place. Put the drip tray back in place, reconnect the refrigerator to electric power, turn on the water, and test the ice dispenser.
How to Unlock a Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Dispenser
Most Whirlpool refrigerators with a Lock feature usually have a dedicated button to use it. The button is on the control panel, and pressing and holding it for three seconds activates or deactivates the dispenser. You can check the user manual for the exact location of the lock button on your specific model.
If the Lock icon is lit on the panel, it means the dispenser is locked. Press and hold the button for three seconds to unlock it. However, the method for unlocking the dispenser may vary from model to model. So, consult the user manual for specific instructions that match your model.
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