How to Install a Water Actuator on the Door of a Frigidaire Model FRS23R4AQ2

Safety Precautions

• Before disassembling any appliance, including the Frigidaire FRS23R4AQ2 refrigerator, you must disconnect the refrigerator's power supply. To disconnect the power supply, move the refrigerator away from the wall so you can reach the power cord to unplug it. If you are unable to move the refrigerator, locate the breaker in the breaker panel that supplies power to the refrigerator and turn it off. Often, the refrigerator is on its own breaker, but sometimes, it's included with the kitchen's main breaker.

How the Actuator Works

• When a cup is place against the actuator paddle to depress it, a switch allows voltage to pass through the ice and water dispenser's solenoid. If you have a water filter installed, voltage also is allowed to pass through the water filter's solenoid. The voltage then passes to the water inlet valve, located on the rear of the refrigerator. This voltage opens the water inlet valve, allowing water to flow into the refrigerator, through the water filter and into your glass. When the actuator paddle is released, the switch stops the passage of voltage. This all happens in a matter of milliseconds -- so quickly that it appears to be instantaneous.

Tools Required

• Replacing the Frigidaire FRS23R4AQ2 ice and water dispenser actuator is a fairly straight-forward DIY project that requires only one tool: a Phillips screwdriver. The rest of the parts that must be removed during the replacement of this part can be removed and reinstalled by hand.

Replacing the Actuator

• Once the power is disconnected, pull the drip tray toward you to remove it from the dispenser, which exposes the three screws on the bottom of the front decorative panel. Remove these three screws, then slide the front decorative panel up and off the ice and water dispenser. Next, carefully disconnect the wire harness by depressing the plastic tab and separating the two pieces, then place the front panel aside. Locate and remove the three screws that secure the control module to the refrigerator, then pull the module away from the door, being careful not to kink the water supply tube. Remove the screws securing the actuator to the model, as well as the two metal retaining brackets. Remove the old actuator and install the new one, ensuring the spring is properly positioned in the notch. Reassemble the dispenser by reversing the steps taken to disassemble it.