Is your Frigidaire Refrigerator water dispenser running slowly? This issue can be incredibly annoying and inconvenient, especially when you’re in a hurry. That’s why it’s important to address it as soon as possible.
In this article, I will delve into the different reasons for a slow Frigidaire water dispenser and provide you with practical solutions on how to fix it.
Reasons for a Slow Frigidaire Refrigerator Water Dispenser
Slow flow of water from the water dispenser in Frigidaire refrigerators can be caused by a few different mechanical, technical, or setup issues.
In order to fix the problem, you’ll first need to determine the cause and then take appropriate steps to rectify it.
The most common causes include the following:
- Worn, clogged, or improperly installed water filter
- Installation of non-certified parts
- Air pockets within the dispensing line
- A malfunctioning dispenser motor
- Incorrect water pressure
- Reverse osmosis
- A damaged or clogged water inlet valve
Worn, Clogged, or Improperly Installed Water Filter
The water filter in your Frigidaire refrigerator needs to be replaced every 6 months in order to maintain optimal performance.
If the filter is worn, not installed correctly, or has not been changed often enough, it can restrict the water flow from the dispenser.
How To Fix
To check if the water filter in your Frigidaire refrigerator has a problem, follow the steps below:
- Dispense enough water to judge the flow and commit it to memory
- Take out the water filter and check the speed of water flow without the dispenser in place
Note – Most Frigidaire refrigerators have the filter inside or in the base of the appliance.
If the flow of water from the dispenser increases when the water filter has been removed, then the filter is either worn, damaged or improperly installed.
If you’ve recently replaced the filter, you can try re-installing it following your owner’s manual instructions. At the same time, double-check it’s the right one – as Frigidaire makes a few different variants.
Otherwise, you’ll need to replace the filter with a new one. The following video explains how to replace the water filter on a 32-inch Frigidaire side-by-side refrigerator.
Be aware that the exact steps may vary depending on your model of refrigerator and the model of filter it uses. For more details, please refer to the manual or Frigidaire’s water filter website.
Usage of Non-certified Parts
The use of uncertified water filters and other non-original parts may affect the performance of your refrigerator, including causing a decrease in water flow from the dispenser.
For this reason, you should only purchase and equip your refrigerator with Frigidaire or PureSource-certified filters and parts.
How To Fix
To avoid any problems caused by the use of non-genuine parts, make sure to use only certified Frigidaire or PureSource parts.
There are multiple types of Frigidaire refrigerator water filters available, so look for your model number before you buy to ensure you get the right one.
Air Pockets in the Dispensing Lines
The water dispensing lines of a refrigerator is responsible for supplying water from the tank to the dispenser.
If these lines are not properly installed or become worn or cracked due to changes in temperature or pressure, air can seep into the lines resulting in slow water flow.
How To Fix
To get a steadier stream of water, you will need to eject the air from the dispensing lines. This can be achieved by letting the dispenser run continuously for a few minutes until the splashing ceases and you have a constant stream of water.
You can find more detailed instructions on how to flush the water dispenser later in this article.
If the water flow remains irregular after purging the air from the dispensing lines, it is a sign that the line is damaged and must be repaired or replaced.
The easiest way to repair a damaged dispensing line is to call a certified technician.
However, if you’re a competent DIYer or plumber and you want to try repairs yourself, look at the following video:
Malfunctioning Dispenser Motor
The water dispenser in your Frigidaire refrigerator is driven by a small motor that can fail over time due to wear and tear or improper maintenance.
This motor controls the flow of water from the dispenser, and if it is not working correctly, it can result in slow water output.
How To Fix
In this case, the best course of action is to contact a qualified technician to inspect and repair your refrigerator. The technician will be able to diagnose the problem and replace any faulty components as needed.
If you don’t want to hire a professional, you may be able to fix the problem yourself by checking the motor and making any necessary repairs or replacing it with a new one.
This is an advanced repair and should only be attempted by someone with experience in appliance repairs.
But if you feel qualified for the task, the following video can serve as a guide:
Damaged or Kinked Water Line
The water line is an essential component of any refrigerator that uses a plumbed or built-in water dispenser or ice maker. It is used to supply water from the main plumbing within your home to the refrigerator.
However, the water flow may be diminished if the line is bent or kinked.
How To Fix
In order to fix this issue, follow the water line from where it leaves your fridge to where it connects to the mains.
Along the way, check for any signs of damage or kinks in the line that may be disrupting the water supply. If you find any, simply straighten them out.
If you notice damage or leaks, though, you’ll need to get the line replaced. As it’s coming from your mains, it’s best to get a plumber to do this, but there are DIY kits available for purchase online.
Incorrect Water Pressure
The water pressure of your refrigerator’s dispenser must be set at the correct level to dispense water efficiently.
This pressure is usually generated by the water line that runs from your home’s water supply valve to the refrigerator.
High pressure allows water to be dispensed quickly but also increases the risk of water leakage within your Frigidaire refrigerator or damage to the refrigerator’s components.
Low pressure, on the other hand, can make it difficult for the water to flow from the dispenser at a normal rate.
How To Fix
Experts advise that the refrigerator water pressure should be between 40 and 120 psi (pounds per square inch) for the dispenser to function properly.
The simplest way to check the water pressure is set to the correct level is to call a plumber. They will be able to check your refrigerator’s water line, measure the water pressure, and make any necessary adjustments.
If you prefer to do the work yourself, here is what you should do:
- To check the pressure levels, you’ll need a water pressure gauge. With this device, you can measure the exact pressure of your refrigerator’s water supply line and make any adjustments necessary to ensure the water dispenses correctly
- To adjust the water pressure of your refrigerator, you will need to locate the main water valve of your home and adjust it according to the readings you take with your water pressure gauge
- After you have achieved the desired pressure, tighten the valve properly and make sure that there are no leaks
The following video may assist you in testing the water pressure of your refrigerator.
Reverse Osmosis System
The use of certain reverse osmosis systems can reduce the water pressure of your Frigidaire refrigerator’s dispenser below the required levels, resulting in a slow flow of water.
This is because this type of water filtration system performs several processes to remove sediments and impurities from the water, which takes time and can lower pressure.
How To Fix
If your refrigerator is connected to a reverse osmosis system, follow these guidelines to avoid any slow water flow problems:
- Make sure that the system’s water pressure is at least 40 psi
- Check that the sediment filter in the reverse osmosis system isn’t clogged and clean, or replace it if necessary
- Give the storage tank time to refill and test again
If none of these solutions is effective, you may need to call a plumber or appliance technician to examine the problem.
They can check for any clogs in the system, inspect the sediment filter and ensure it is working properly, and investigate whether the water pressure is sufficient.
Damaged or Clogged Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve is responsible for controlling the flow of water from the supply line to your Frigidaire refrigerator.
This valve also prevents water from leaking out of the refrigerator and is usually located on the back or side of the fridge near the bottom.
The valve needs to be kept clean and regularly maintained to function properly. The water flow will be significantly reduced if it’s damaged or clogged due to the build-up of dirt and minerals.
How To Fix
To fix this problem, you will need to inspect and clean the water inlet valve. If the valve is damaged or fully blocked, it’s best to replace it with a new one.
It is strongly advised that you delegate this task to a qualified technician.
However, if you feel comfortable enough to do it yourself, the following video could help:
Frigidaire Refrigerator Water Dispenser Slow After Filter Change
Another reason your Frigidaire refrigerator water dispenser may be running slowly is not flushing the water system after installing a new filter.
It’s important to note that flushing the water system should be done each time you switch out your water filter.
As stated previously, replacing your fridge filter every 6 months is advisable, so don’t forget to flush the water system right after putting in a new filter.
How to Flush the Water Dispenser
- Place a large bottle or container under the water dispenser and press the dispenser lever down for 5 seconds. Then release the lever for 5 seconds
- Repeat the previous step until water begins to flow steadily
Note that the dispenser may release one or two drops of water after releasing the lever. Therefore, you should keep the container under the dispenser for the duration of the flushing.
Once complete, wait a couple of hours to allow the reservoir to refill and cool, then you’ll have access to cold water from the dispenser again.
Be sure to use the dispenser at least weekly to keep the water system active and running properly.
In case you need additional help to flush your refrigerator’s water system, watch the following video.
