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  1. Repair
  2. Whirlpool
  3. Whirlpool Refrigerator

Whirlpool Refrigerator water filter not working

Common reasons your Whirlpool Refrigerator water filter not working

The most common reasons your Whirlpool refrigerator water filter is not working are an old water filter, a defective water valve, or a malfunctioning PCB.

  • 45%

    45% of the time it's the
    Water Filter

  • 20%

    20% of the time it's the
    Water Valve

  • 4%

    4% of the time it's the
    PCB

  • 31%

    31% of the time it's the
    Something else

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    Most common repairs needed to fix a Whirlpool refrigerator

    Water Filter Replacement

    Using an old water filter in a refrigerator can lead to a reduction in water to the icemaker 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 Valve Replacement

    When a water valve is defective, it impacts the proper functioning of the water dispenser and icemaker. If the water valve fails to open, the icemaker won't receive the water necessary to produce ice, and the dispenser won't dispense water. Additionally, a defective valve may lead to water leakage, particularly near the water valve assembly. In some instances, a malfunctioning water valve can cause the water dispenser or icemaker to cease working entirely. If the water valve fails to close, water flowing into the icemaker may leak to the evaporator and fan, subsequently freezing into a solid block of ice. This impedes airflow, compromising the proper cooling of the refrigerator and freezer compartments.

    PCB Replacement

    A defective printed circuit board (PCB) can lead to various failures in a refrigerator, including a lack of power, lack of cooling, and water leaks. The PCB controls communication and power between various components of a refrigerator that control temperature regulation, fan operation, the defrost cycle, icemaker functions, and dispenser functions. If the PCB fails, any or all of these components may stop working. Because so many components can be impacted, Sears Home Services professionals should conduct diagnostic tests on the board to confirm if replacement is necessary.

    What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool refrigerator water filter not working issue

    How is the water filter not working issue fixed?

    Correcting most refrigerator water filter not working problems usually involves replacing the water filter, the water valve, or the PCB. 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 filter not working problem

    When a refrigerator water filter isn't 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 filter 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.

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    Glossary Terms

    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.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    Additional possible Whirlpool refrigerator symptoms you may experience

    These refrigerator brands may also experience water filter not working