A Whirlpool's Ice Dispenser Flap Is Broken

Removing the Dispenser Cover

• Unplug the Whirlpool power cord from the wall outlet as a safety precaution. Push up and pull outward on the plastic frame for the ice and water dispenser to remove the frame. You'll need to lift out the drip tray to access the two screws underneath. Removing these screws with a screwdriver lets you pull forward gently on the dispenser housing to disconnect the flat cable from the rear of the control panel. Unplug this cable where it connects to the control panel to release the front of the dispenser unit.

Remove the Old Flap

• To reach the old flap, take out the three screws surrounding the ice chute, which faces forward. Pulling off the chute exposes the dispenser flap, which is molded with two prongs that fit into a pair of holes at the top of the opening behind the ice chute. Pull off the flap if it doesn't fall off on its own.

Install the New Part

• The prongs on the new dispenser flap align with the two holes above the opening. The new part attaches easily with gentle pressure on the prongs. With the flap in place, set the ice chute over the new part and secure the chute with the three screws.

Reassemble the Dispenser

• Before the ice dispener will operate, you'll need to plug in the flat cable to the socket on the back of the control panel and ease the panel gently into place. The panel reattaches to the front of the Whirlpool with the two screws through the bottom, below the holder for the drip tray, which can now be placed on top. Snapping the frame for the water and ice dispenser back in place and plugging in the power cord completes the repair for the Whirlpool.