Use a sturdy container to depress and hold the water dispenser lever for 5 seconds and then release it for 5 seconds. Repeat the process until water starts to flow at a steady pass and all the air is out of the water line. You may discard up to 4 gallons of water during this process.
Push the dispenser paddle and see if the pressure coming out of the valve is good. If that all checks good, you're down to either the water filter or the filter receptacle. if they haven't replaced the filter in a while, maybe replace that and see where you stand. If it's still slow, replace the receptacle.
The water filter may be clogged or overdue for replacement. If water is dispensing slowly or not at all, or your water filter is older than 6 months – it's time to replace.
Bleed the Air: To fix an airlock, you'll need to “bleed” the air out of the system. This can usually be done by holding down the water dispense button or lever until water starts flowing again. Check for Leaks: After bleeding the air, check for any leaks in the system.
Does your water filter need to be replaced? A clogged or incorrectly installed water filter will reduce the water flow to the ice maker and dispenser, resulting in small ice cubes, low ice production, or decreased water flow.
Locate the Water Line: The water line is usually in the back of your fridge. If you're unsure where it is, check your refrigerator's manual. Use a Turkey Baster or Funnel: Fill a turkey baster or small funnel with warm water and white vinegar. Insert it into the water line and gently squeeze.
Purge the water tank to remove any trapped air that may be creating a build up in the water pressure. This may cause water to dribble from the dispenser after use. Hold down the dispenser cradle for 2 to 3 minutes to remove any trapped air.
Find out if the inside water filter on your refrigerator is properly installed. If the water filter is not connected or inserted well, the water dispenser may not work. Make sure the water filter is locked in place properly. A clogged water filter is often a culprit of poor water pressure.
Adjust the temperature control on the Refrigerator to make the Fresh Food section colder which will help chill the water that comes from the dispenser. The first few ounces of dispensed water will be warm. This is the water in the tubing between the chilled tank and the dispenser.
It's a general test, so results can vary. Dispense water from the dispenser (internal or external) into a large measuring cup for 20 seconds. If the water is less than 8 ounces, the water flow is probably inadequate. If the water is 8 ounces or more, the dispenser is likely working properly.
A clogged or incorrectly installed water filter will reduce the water flow to the ice maker and dispenser, resulting in small ice cubes, low ice production, or decreased water flow. If the filter is clogged and you are not able to immediately replace it, leave the filter out so the water system is in bypass mode.
If the water line is clogged, it can usually be cleaned out by running vinegar and baking soda through the line. Clogs are likely to occur if there is a flaw in the water line or if the water filter is not updated.
After checking the water line, test the water pressure. Dispense the water for a full 10 seconds. If the water fills less than 2/3 cup, you'll need to increase the water pressure of the fridge.
To ensure you achieve clean water lines in the fridge, you must flush them. Using a small funnel, slowly pour two to three cups of distilled white vinegar into the tube that leads to the water dispenser. Let the vinegar sit in the reservoir for five to ten minutes to thoroughly clean the system.
Remove the food and any crisper drawers. Mop up any excess water and remove the drain hole cover if yours has one. Use the unblock tool that came with your fridge (or else a pipe cleaner, straw or cotton bud) to remove the food and debris build-up. Replace the cover and turn your fridge back on.
Check to make sure there are no kinks in the water supply line. A kink in the line can reduce water flow. Straighten the water source line to restore adequate water flow and pressure. To help reduce the chances of a pinched water line, do not push the refrigerator too far back against the wall or cabinet.
A damaged water inlet valve
The water inlet valve connects your fridge to your home's main water supply. It can become clogged or broken over time. To check the water inlet valve, unplug the refrigerator, turn off the water supply, and remove the rear panel. Check the valve and connected lines for any leaks or damage.
Low water pressure can be the result of a problem as simple as a partially open water main valve that needs to be opened all the way. Additionally, low water pressure can also be the result of a much bigger problem, like a major leak, or the narrowing of the galvanized piping.
Repair a Refrigerator Water Dispenser
You can expect to pay $175 to $500 to repair a water dispenser, depending on the issue. There are many parts to a water dispenser, and many things can go wrong.
Notice that your water is trickling out slower than usual? This could mean your filter is clogged with all the junk it's been catching. A clogged filter means less water can get through, resulting in decreased water pressure. If you're starting to feel like you're in a low-flow zone, it might be time for a new filter.