Kenmore refrigerator water dispenser not working

Common reasons your Kenmore refrigerator water dispenser is not working

The most common reasons your Kenmore refrigerator water dispenser is not working are a locked compressor, old water filter or a malfunctioning dispenser.

64% of the time it's the
Compressor

13% of the time it's the
Water Filter

9% of the time it's the
Dispenser

14% of the time it's the
Something else

Most common repairs needed to fix a Kenmore refrigerator

Compressor Replacement

A locked refrigerator compressor can exhibit several symptoms indicative of a malfunction. The most noticeable sign is a lack of cooling in the refrigerator compartment, leading to elevated temperatures and the potential for food spoilage. The freezer may also fail to maintain the desired freezing temperatures, resulting in no ice production from the ice maker or dispenser. Additionally, you'll observe that the compressor is unusually silent or fails to produce its typical humming sound during operation. In some cases, the compressor may attempt to start but fail, resulting in repeated clicking noises. The inability of the compressor to circulate refrigerant properly can affect the defrosting process, leading to ice buildup in the freezer. Furthermore, a faulty compressor could send a sudden influx of melting frost to the drain line, causing it to back up, preventing adequate draining, and potentially causing water leaks.

Troubleshooting compressor problems in refrigerators

Water Filter Replacement

Using an old water filter in a refrigerator can lead to a reduction in water to the ice maker and water dispenser. The filter's capacity to effectively remove impurities diminishes over time, causing a decrease in the water flow rate. You may also notice a decline in the quality of the water and ice dispensed. An old water filter may no longer effectively remove contaminants, leading to a potential change in taste or odor of the dispensed water. This can be particularly noticeable if the filter has been in use beyond its recommended lifespan, typically 6 months.

Water filter finder tool

Dispenser Replacement

When a refrigerator dispenser malfunctions, it can lead to various issues including the dispenser's failure to dispense water or ice, regardless of user input. This malfunction may stem from problems with the dispenser water supply, dispenser controls, or mechanical components within the dispenser assembly. There may be slow or insufficient water flow, inconsistent ice dispensing, or even complete non-functionality. A malfunctioning dispenser may also leak, causing water to pool around the dispenser area or even inside the refrigerator. For a thorough diagnosis and resolution of these issues, it is advisable to have a Sears Home Services professional address the situation.

How to dissasemble a refrigerator dispenser

What to expect when you experience a Kenmore refrigerator water dispenser not working issue

How is the water dispenser not working problem fixed?

Correcting most water dispenser not working problems usually involves replacing the compressor, water filter or dispenser. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

Sears Home Services recommendations for a refrigerator water dispenser that is not working

When the refrigerator water dispenser is not working it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of refrigerator failures.

What to look out for with a refrigerator water dispenser not working diagnosis

Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your refrigerator problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

Kenmore Refrigerator Not Dispensing Water Troubleshooting

When your Kenmore refrigerator is not dispensing water, check to see if the ice maker is working. If not, look to see if the ice mold in the ice maker is dry. If it is, then a water supply problem going to the fridge may be preventing the water dispenser from working.

Replace the water filter if you haven’t installed a new filter within the last year. A clogged water filter will prevent the water dispenser and ice maker from getting water.

If the water filter isn’t the cause of the water system failure, follow these troubleshooting tips to restore the water supply to your Kenmore refrigerator:

Check the water supply shut-off valve to see if it is fully open. Open that valve if you find it closed.
If the water supply going to your fridge uses a saddle valve, deposits and debris can clog the small opening that the saddle valve uses. Shut the saddle valve and then open it back up to clear debris or deposits from the small water supply opening of the saddle valve. This may restore the water supply to your Kenmore refrigerator.
Verify that you have water going to the refrigerator through the water supply line. Shut the water supply cut-off valve and disconnect the water line from the back of the fridge. Place the end of the water supply line in a bucket and briefly open the water supply cut-off valve. If water doesn’t flow from the end of the water supply line, have a plumber fix the water supply going to your fridge.

If the ice maker works in your Kenmore refrigerator, then a failed water valve, bad dispenser control board or faulty water dispenser switch could be preventing the water dispenser from working.

When you’re unable to fix a problem with your Kenmore refrigerator dispensing water, schedule refrigerator repair service and we’ll send a Sears Home Services technician to your home to fix the dispenser.

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Glossary Terms

What is a French-Door Refrigerator?

A French-door refrigerator features two doors that open side-by-side on the top section for the refrigerator compartment, with a bottom freezer drawer, combining style, efficiency, and easy access to both refrigerated and frozen goods.

What is Refrigerant?

Refrigerant is a chemical compound used in HVAC systems and refrigerators to absorb heat from the environment by cycling through states of evaporation and condensation, enabling the cooling process through its cycle of evaporation and condensation.

What is R-12 Refrigerant?

R-12 refrigerant, also known as Freon-12, is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) compound that was once widely used in air conditioning systems, refrigerators, and aerosol propellants before its phase-out due to environmental concerns.

What is CFC Certification?

CFC certification refers to the credentialing process that qualifies HVAC technicians to handle chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other refrigerants in a manner that complies with environmental regulations. It is essential for professionals who install, maintain, or repair HVAC systems and refrigeration equipment.