Fridge Water Dispenser Is Not Working
If your fridge water dispenser isn’t working, start by checking these common issues. Some problems, like replacing a filter or thawing a frozen line, are simple fixes you can do yourself. However, for more complex issues like a faulty control board or water valve, it might be best to call a professional technician. Our technicians typically carry most essential parts with them, allowing them to complete repairs on the same day in 80% of cases, usually within one to two hours. Learn more about our refrigerator repair services.
Main Issues When Water Doesn’t Come Out of the Dispenser
Description and Troubleshooting of Problems
Water Valve Is Not Working
The water valve is responsible for pumping water. When you place a glass and press the water dispensing button, the water valve activates and pumps water. If the water valve is not working or is clogged, water won’t flow to the dispenser. You can check it as follows: when you press the dispenser button, you should hear a slight noise from the water valve. If you don’t hear anything, it’s likely not working. Often, when the water valve is faulty, the ice maker won’t work either.
If the water valve isn’t starting or pumping water, it usually needs to be replaced. You can also check if the faucet supplying water to the water pump is open and if there’s water in the water line connected to the fridge.
Dispenser Board Is Not Working
Most refrigerators have a dispenser board that controls the dispenser’s operation. A key sign of a malfunctioning dispenser board is if the display screen or LEDs on the dispenser either don’t work at all or work inconsistently. For example, they might flicker, some LEDs might be out, or the display dims by half or more when you press the water dispensing button.
A common cause of a malfunctioning dispenser board can be poor contact, often due to water droplets getting in and causing the contacts to rust over time. In such cases, a technician can often repair the dispenser board without replacing it. However, if a repair isn’t possible, the board will need to be replaced with a new one.
Dysfunctional Switch
The switch activates when you press the water dispensing button. This is a common issue with dispensers. You can check it yourself by pressing the water button and listening for a slight click. Try pressing it a few times; if you don’t hear a click, the switch is likely faulty. The switch is located on both the water and ice dispensing buttons. It’s possible for one button to work while the other doesn’t.
After diagnosing the issue, if the switch is indeed faulty, it needs to be replaced. In some refrigerator models from brands like Whirlpool, Hotpoint, Amana, Kenmore, Electrolux, and GE, the switch is installed separately from the button, so you only need to replace the switch. However, in models from brands like KitchenAid, Sub Zero, Viking, Bosch, and Miele, the switch is replaced together with the button. Sometimes, the switch can come off its mount, and when you press the button, it doesn’t press the switch, causing it to malfunction.
Clogged Water Line
A common issue with a non-working water dispenser is a clogged or frozen water line. This can be caused by dirty water clogging the tube or by not using the dispenser for a long time, allowing residue to build up and block the tube. If the water valve is working but water isn’t being dispensed, the water line is likely clogged.
If the tube is clogged or frozen, our technicians have a tool to try to clear it, but sometimes the tube needs to be replaced.
Dysfunctional Door Switch
The door switch activates when you open or close the refrigerator door, and it also controls the interior light. The dispenser only works when the refrigerator door is closed. If the door switch is faulty and the refrigerator thinks the door is open, it disables the dispenser to prevent accidental operation.
If the door switch isn’t working, it needs to be replaced. You can check the door switch yourself by pressing the button located on the top or side wall inside the refrigerator. Some models have a magnetic door switch; to test it, you can place a magnet near the sensor. If the door switch is working, the light inside the refrigerator will turn off, and when you release the button or remove the magnet, the light should turn back on. If you have a double-door refrigerator, most models use two switches, one for each door.
Repair Cost of These Problems
| Replacing the water valve | $220 — $375 |
| Replacing or repairing the dispenser board | $170 — $380 |
| Replacing the switch | $170 — $325 |
| Replacing or repairing the water line | $170 — $265 |
| Replacing the door switch | $220 — $435 |
The cost of repair can vary depending on the brand and model of the refrigerator, as well as the severity of the problem.
Contact Us For Any Refrigerator Repair Service
We are prepared to fix any refrigerator that has malfunctioned or isn’t keeping your food cool. Prefer not to make phone calls? No worries! Simply complete the short form below to get in touch with us. Schedule a refrigerator repair technician today!
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Teodor Appliance Repair delivers exceptional appliance repair services across Florida. Renowned for our dependability and dedication to excellence, we handle a broad spectrum of appliance maintenance. Our technicians are adept at diagnosing and fixing problems with refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, ovens, and more. For convenient location access, check us out on Google Maps using these links: