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How to Troubleshoot the Water Valve on a GE Refrigerator

Your GE refrigerator requires an active water line to dispense water and produce ice and may sputter, when the water dispenser is pressed, if the water line is improperly connected. An active water line is typically found on the back of the refrigerator and includes a water shutoff valve to temporarily interrupt the water supply during repair. The water line can be tightened to secure the refrigerator connection and is susceptible to damage if overtightened. The setup of your refrigerator's water line depends on the model of the refrigerator but requires minimal labor to restore water to the ice and water dispensers.

Things You'll Need

  • Wrench
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Instructions

    • 1

      Unplug the refrigerator's power cord from the electrical outlet.

    • 2

      Move the refrigerator sideways to access the back and locate the water supply near the bottom of the refrigerator.

    • 3

      Turn the water shutoff valve clockwise to turn off the water. Turning off the water is necessary to prevent water leaks while troubleshooting the water supply.

    • 4

      Rotate the compression nut on the water supply clockwise to tighten the water supply's connection to the refrigerator. Continue to turn the compression nut with your thumb and forefinger until it no longer moves.

    • 5

      Turn the compression nut clockwise 360 degrees with the wrench to secure the compression nut in place. Twist the water shutoff valve counterclockwise to disable the shutoff valve and restore water to the refrigerator.

    • 6

      Plug the fridge's power cord back into the electrical outlet.