What To Know
- The water inlet valve is usually located at the back of the refrigerator, near the water line connection.
- If the water inlet valve is receiving voltage but not opening, there could be a blockage in the water line.
- The water inlet valve may be faulty, the water line may be blocked, or the water filter may need to be replaced.
If your Whirlpool refrigerator is refusing to dispense water, the culprit could be a faulty water inlet valve. Before calling for a repair technician, it’s worth trying to troubleshoot the issue yourself. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to test a Whirlpool refrigerator water inlet valve:
Tools You’ll Need
- Multimeter
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
Safety Precautions
- Unplug the refrigerator before starting any work.
- Wear gloves and safety glasses for protection.
Step 1: Locate the Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve is usually located at the back of the refrigerator, near the water line connection. It’s a small, cylindrical device with two water lines connected to it.
Step 2: Remove the Water Lines
Using pliers, disconnect the water lines from the water inlet valve. Place a small bowl or towel underneath to catch any water that may leak out.
Step 3: Measure Resistance
Set your multimeter to the ohms setting. Touch one probe to one of the terminals on the water inlet valve and the other probe to the other terminal. The multimeter should read between 500 and 1000 ohms.
Step 4: Test for Voltage
Switch your multimeter to the volts setting. Connect one probe to one of the terminals on the water inlet valve and the other probe to the common terminal. Ask an assistant to turn on the water supply to the refrigerator. The multimeter should read around 120 volts.
Step 5: Check for Water Flow
If the water inlet valve is receiving voltage but not opening, there could be a blockage in the water line. Remove the water line from the valve and blow into it to clear any debris.
Step 6: Replace the Water Inlet Valve
If the water inlet valve is not opening or is leaking, it needs to be replaced. Disconnect the water lines and the electrical wires from the valve. Install the new valve in the same location and reconnect the water lines and electrical wires.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If the multimeter reads infinity when measuring resistance, the water inlet valve is open. Replace it.
- If the multimeter reads 0 ohms when measuring resistance, the water inlet valve is shorted. Replace it.
- If the multimeter reads around 120 volts but there is no water flow, check the water line for blockages.
Key Points
Testing a Whirlpool refrigerator water inlet valve is a relatively simple task that can save you time and money on repairs. By following these steps, you can quickly determine if the valve is the source of your water problems and take the appropriate action.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Why is my Whirlpool refrigerator not dispensing water?
A: The water inlet valve may be faulty, the water line may be blocked, or the water filter may need to be replaced.
Q: How often should I replace my Whirlpool refrigerator water inlet valve?
A: The water inlet valve typically lasts for several years. However, it may need to be replaced sooner if it becomes clogged or damaged.
Q: Can I test a Whirlpool refrigerator water inlet valve without a multimeter?
A: Yes, you can try to test the valve by disconnecting the water lines and blowing into them. If there is no air flow, the valve may be clogged.
