Is your Whirlpool Refrigerator water dispenser still working but dispensing really slowly? If so, and you have noticed a decrease in the amount of cold, refreshing water that your fridge dispenses, don’t panic!
This problem is fairly common and -in most cases- can be fixed with some simple troubleshooting steps.
Read on for more details on why your Whirlppol water dispenser may be running slowly and how to fix it!
Common Reasons for a Slow Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Dispenser
Slow flow of water from the water dispenser in Whirlpool refrigerators can be caused by a few different mechanical and technical issues.
To fix the problem, you’ll first need to identify the underlying cause and then take appropriate steps to rectify it. The most common problems are detailed below, alongside quick fixes.
Worn or Improperly Installed Water Filter
Whirlpool recommends that the water filter in your refrigerator is replaced every six months in order to maintain optimal performance.
If the filter is worn, damaged, not installed correctly, or hasn’t been replaced in the last six months, it can restrict the water flow from the dispenser.
How To Fix
To verify if the water filter in your Whirlpool refrigerator has a problem, you should:
- Use the water dispenser to dispense water and commit the flow to memory (or time how long it takes to dispense 250ml)
- Take out the water filter (most Whirlpool refrigerators have the filter inside the fridge)
- Now, dispense water and notice its flow without the filter (or if you timed 250ml, do that again)
If the flow of water from the dispenser increases when the water filter has been removed, then the filter is either worn and due for replacement or wasn’t installed properly.
If you’ve recently sourced and fitted a replacement, double-check in your owner’s manual to make sure it’s the right one for your refrigerator – and try reinstalling it as per the instructions.
Otherwise, you’ll need to replace the filter with a new one again, making sure it’s installed properly.
The following video explains how to do it step by step.
Be aware that the exact steps may vary depending on your Whirlpool refrigerator model and the model of filter it uses. For more details, please refer to the user manual.
Also, note that -as stated earlier- it is advisable to replace the water filter every 6 months to avoid any kind of slow flow issue.
Usage of Non-certified Parts
The use of uncertified water filters and other non-original parts may affect the refrigerator’s performance in several ways, including a decrease in water flow from the dispenser.
For this reason, the manufacturer only recommends using Whirlpool or EveryDrop brand-certified parts.
How To Fix
To avoid any problems caused by non-genuine parts, make sure to use only certified brands that are approved by the manufacturer: Whirlpool or EveryDrop.
You can find filters and replacement parts on the Whirlpool website.
Check the part number and model of your fridge before ordering to ensure you’re buying the right thing.
Air Leaks in the Dispensing Lines
The water dispensing lines of a refrigerator supply water from the tank to the dispenser. If these lines are not properly installed or become worn or cracked, air leaks may occur, resulting in slow water flow.
How To Fix
You will need to eject the air from the dispensing lines to get a steadier stream of water. This can be achieved by letting the dispenser run continuously until the splashing/spurting stops.
You can find more detailed instructions on how to flush your refrigerator’s water system 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 needs to be repaired or replaced.
The easiest way to repair a damaged dispensing line is to call a certified technician. However, if you want to have a go at the repairs yourself, you can watch the following video.
Malfunctioning Dispenser Motor
The water dispenser in your Whirlpool refrigerator is driven by a small motor that can fail over time due to wear and tear or a lack of maintenance.
This motor controls the flow of water from the dispenser, and if it is not working correctly, it can result in a slow flow.
How To Fix
In this case, the best course of action is to contact a qualified technician to inspect and repair your refrigerator. They 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 (if necessary).
However, it is important to note that this is an advanced repair and should only be attempted by someone with relevant knowledge and experience.
If you feel qualified for the task, the following video can serve as a guide.
Damaged or Kinked Water Line
A refrigerator water line is essential to any refrigerator with a built-in water dispenser or ice maker. It is used to supply water from the main plumbing line to the fridge.
However, if the line is bent or kinked, the water flow may be slow or non-existent.
How To Fix
To prevent this issue, examine the water line; follow it from where it leaves your fridge to where it connects to the main plumbing.
Along the way, check for any signs of damage and straighten out any “kinks” in the line. If you find it’s damaged, you’ll need to source and replace a new line – either yourself or by contacting a plumber.
Incorrect Water Pressure
The water pressure of your refrigerator’s dispenser is very important in order 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 or damage to the refrigerator’s internal components.
Low pressure, however, can make it difficult for the water to flow from the dispenser at a normal rate.
How To Fix
According to the manufacturer, the water pressure to the fridge should be between 40 and 120 psi (pounds per square inch) for the dispenser to function properly.
The simplest way to ensure the water pressure is the correct level is to call a plumber. They will be able to check your refrigerator’s water line, measure its water pressure, and make any necessary adjustments.
If you prefer to do the work yourself, there’s a guide below.
- 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 higher or lower 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
Using certain reverse osmosis systems can reduce the water pressure of your Whirlpool refrigerator’s dispenser to below the proper levels, resulting in a slow flow of water.
This is because this type of water filtration system uses several processes to remove impurities and contaminants from the water, which takes time and can reduce the 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 water pressure of the system is at least 40 PSI
- Check that the sediment filter in the reverse osmosis system isn’t clogged, and clean or change it if necessary
- If you’ve been using the dispenser more than usual – give it some time to refill
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.
They should also be able to diagnose the specific problem if none of the above.
Damaged or Clogged Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve controls the flow of water from the main supply line to your Whirlpool refrigerator. This valve also prevents water from leaking and is usually located on the back or side of the refrigerator near the bottom.
The valve needs to be kept clean and regularly maintained to function properly. If it’s damaged or clogged due to the build-up of dirt and minerals, the water flow will be significantly reduced.
How To Fix
To fix this problem, you will need to inspect and clean the water inlet valve. If the valve is damaged, you will also have 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 doing it yourself, the following video could help.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Dispenser Slow After Filter Change
If your water is running slowly after a filter change, it’s likely that the filter hasn’t been installed correctly or because the system hasn’t been flushed through.
It’s important to note that flushing the water system should be done immediately after every filter change.
As stated previously, replacing your fridge filter every 6 months is advisable, so it’s best to get into the habit of doing the filter change followed straight after by a system flush.
How to Flush the Water System on Your Whirlpool Refrigerator
- Place a solid 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. You may need to use up to 3 gallons of water, so don’t be worried if it takes a while!
Note that the dispenser may spurt water after releasing the lever, so keep the container under the dispenser for the duration.
After you flush the water system, simply wait a few hours, and before you know it, you’ll be back up and running with cold water running smoothly from the dispenser again.
Be sure to use the dispenser every week to keep the water system active and running properly.
If you need additional help with flushing your Whirlpool refrigerator’s water system, you may find the following video helpful.
