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My Refrigerator Water Dispenser Will Not Stop Leaking

If you own a refrigerator with a water and ice dispenser built into the freezer door, then you know how convenient it can be. But if this feature of the refrigerator begins leaking, it can spell trouble for your kitchen floors. Puddles on the floor below the dispenser can warp wood floors and do all sorts of damage to other floor materials. If your water dispenser is leaking, it should be a high priority to get it repaired. There are several reasons why the dispenser may develop a leak.
  1. Trapped Air

    • If your refrigerator water dispenser is dripping water, it could be because there is air trapped in the water line that is causing a build up of pressure that is forcing some water to seep through the dispenser opening. You should purge the tank if this is happening. All you’ll need to do is get a cup and hold it under the dispenser, pressing in the trigger to fill the cup. Keep running the water dispenser for two to three minutes. This should be ample time to get all the air out of the tank and stop the problem if this is in fact the cause.

    Water Valve or Pressure

    • Your water valve could require replacement if water is continually dribbling from the dispenser. If the water pressure to your refrigerator is too high, it could also be the problem. If the water valve is faulty, it may simply be that it is worn out from use. In this instance, you’ll need to replace the valve to stop the leak. Unless you are experienced with these types of appliance repairs, it is best to call a professional to take care of changing out this component.

    Empty the Catch Pan

    • Below the dispenser, there is usually a grate where excess dripped water collects. This area will hold a small amount of water during times when you pull your glass away too fast or someone presses the release with no cup underneath. Eventually, if there is enough spillage, this catch area can overflow. You may notice water trickling down from the dispenser area, running in streams down the front of the refrigerator. You may mistake this for a dispenser problem, but it is actually just a housekeeping error. Empty the removable grate from time to time to make sure it doesn’t overflow, as it does not have a drain.

    Normal Dribble

    • Sometimes there is a normal drip from the refrigerator’s water dispenser. If water splashes off of ice cubes or a glass is removed too quickly, the dispenser may appear to be leaking. But it will stop shortly. The splashed water will probably drip below for a moment and then stop, and some dispensers may drip for a few seconds or more after the glass is removed.