Home Garden

Troubleshooting a Whirlpool Side-by-Side Water Dispenser

The convenience of refrigerated and filtered water on tap is a modern luxury many of us have grown accustomed to. Water and ice dispensing functions on Whirlpool's side-by-side refrigerators typically deliver on this service for years with very little care. On occasion, problems crop up that alter the quality of the water dispensed or the proper functioning of the dispenser mechanism itself. When this occurs, Whirlpool provides a troubleshooting guide to help alleviate the most common problems and restore the water dispenser to peak performance.

Instructions

    • 1

      Fix a lack of water flow or intermittent water dispensing on new refrigerators by priming the system. Hold the water dispenser sensor down and release it for alternating 5 second intervals, until the water beings to flow in a smooth stream. Hold the dispenser down to release at least 3 gallons of water to clear and saturate the filter and flush the tubing completely. Don't drink this water. Simply use it for plants in the garden.

    • 2

      Correct low or slow flowing water by opening the water supply valve behind the refrigerator fully and removing any kinks that may have developed in the water supply line between the valve and the refrigerator connection. Check that the flow rate through your home water supply pipes is at least 30psi, otherwise dispensing may be slower than standard.

    • 3

      Check to see if the lock feature, which is found on some models, has been engaged and is preventing the dispensing of water. Press the "Lock/Unlock" button to re-engage the water and ice dispensing functions.

    • 4

      Improve the flavor and freshness of the water by dispensing enough water each week through the system to keep fresh water in the system. Change the water filter out for a fresh one at least every six months to remove odors, poor flavor and particulates from the water. Change the filter more frequently is your water supply is heavy in minerals and other particulates.

    • 5

      Increase the chill on dispensed water by allowing 24 hours for new water flow in the system to cool to the standard 50 F. Toss out the first glass of water after a long period of disuse as it will not be properly chilled. Confirm that your refrigerator is hooked up to a cold water supply line if the water temperature is consistently above 50 F.