How To Fix Your Refrigerator’s Water Dispenser

Modern refrigerators today come with a built-in water dispenser. You don’t have to store pitchers of water anymore. You don’t even have to constantly open and close your fridge to get yourself a glass of water. Just use the dispenser and you are good to go.

But as a modern machine, it is quite prone to problems. You might encounter water dispenser problems in the future. Here are steps to help you fix your refrigerator’s dispenser:

Step 1: Check the flow of water first. Stick a glass into the dispenser and try to get some water. Press the paddle or the button. You should hear the pump working inside. If not, there is a problem with the mechanical and electrical parts of the machine. More often than not, this is caused by clogs or blockage somewhere in the mechanisms of the machine.

Step 2: Try cleaning the water filter first. It is located at the back portion of the fridge. Depending on your fridge, you might have to remove the screws that are holding the plastic cap. Before you do this, unplug the washer first and pull it away from the wall. Get an empty bucket or an absorbent towel to catch excess water. After doing this, remove the cap and pull out the filter. You need to change the filter after 6 months or so. Usually, if it is caused by a dirty filter, there is a gradually decrease in the flow of water. If the filter is not the problem, proceed to the next step.

Step 3: This problem can also be caused by frozen refrigerator lines. Unplug the fridge and get a hair dryer. Plug it close to the fridge. Open the door and remove the contents to access the part directly behind the dispenser.

Step 4: Set hair dryer temperature settings to medium heat. Allow it to defrost the solidified lines behind the dispenser. Also defrost the area in front of the dispenser to remove clogged ice. Alternately do this for about 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 5: If the previous step did not work, try defrosting the whole fridge for 24 hours. You might want to store perishable goods in another refrigerator or ask your neighbour if you can store your perishable goods in their fridge. After 24 hours, clean the machine and wipe excess water. Push it back to the wall and plug it. Test the dispenser again.