How to troubleshoot a Whirlpool refrigerator that does not dispense water or ice

It’s difficult to appreciate the convenience of an ice and water dispenser that doesn’t respond to your orders. Why is there no water or ice in your Whirlpool refrigerator? It’s possible that the water filter was put incorrectly or that it needs to be replaced. These troubleshooting steps will help you figure out why your dispenser isn’t working. It will also be useful to study Whirlpool refrigerator troubleshooting codes.

While most dispenser problems can be fixed at home, a part malfunction may necessitate professional assistance. Here’s how to figure out what’s wrong with a Whirlpool refrigerator that won’t dispense water or ice.

The Control Lock on the Whirlpool Refrigerator has been activated

If the water and ice dispensers on your Whirlpool refrigerator aren’t working, check to see if the Control Lock is turned on. The Control Lock feature turns the dispenser off to prevent accidental activation and make cleaning easier. How can you know if the Control Lock functionality is turned on? Depending on your refrigerator model, a lock icon will appear above the LOCK button on the display panel. Press and hold the LOCK button for three seconds to disable the Control Lock feature and restore dispenser functionality. When the dispenser is turned on, an unlocked icon should show over the LOCK button.

Water Filter is Incorrectly Installed or Needs to Be Replaced

Dispenser problems are frequently caused by water filter issues, which result in lower water flow or pressure. A filter issue could be the cause of the refrigerator water dispenser working infrequently or displacing water or ice more slowly.

Dispenser troubles can arise as a result of certain water filter concerns:

  • Incorrect installation: A poorly installed filter can restrict water flow and pressure. Check your user manual for advice on how to install the filter correctly.
  • Filter that has been clogged: A refrigerator water filter should be replaced every six months. This avoids a build-up of pollutants from obstructing water flow and resulting in odorous ice.
  • Damaged filter: Look for cracks or holes in the filter and its housing that could influence performance. A clogged filter must be replaced.
  • Filter is installed incorrectly: For optimal performance, Whirlpool recommends using only a CGP (Certified Genuine Part) EveryDrop filter.

Water Line Is Frozen

Because the water line from the refrigerator travels through the freezer, any leftover water droplets in the line may freeze. This will result in a clog, preventing or limiting water flow to the dispenser. If the water line in your refrigerator has frozen, make sure the temperature in your freezer is between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures below 0°F are more likely to cause the line to freeze. The refrigerator ice maker must be unplugged and removed from the freezer to defrost the water line. 

Doorknob is broken

Have you tried these DIY tips, and your Whirlpool refrigerator still won’t dispense water or ice? If the refrigerator door is open, this switch turns off the dispenser. If it malfunctions, however, the dispenser will remain turned off even if the door is shut. With a multimeter, check for continuity to identify a broken door switch. If there is no continuity in the switch, it must be replaced.

Water Dispenser Switch is Faulty

The dispenser switch on the dispenser control board of your refrigerator may be defective if it does not actuate when the button is pressed. When the button is pressed, this switch transmits an electrical voltage to the dispenser, which activates it. If the switch is defective, it does not supply the necessary voltage, and the control board does not respond. If the water dispenser switch does not indicate continuity when tested with a multimeter, a professional Whirlpool refrigerator repair is required.