Whirlpool Refrigerator water filter not working

Why won't my Whirlpool refrigerator dispense water with the filter in?

When water won’t dispenser with the water filter installed, check the filter to make sure that it’s the right one for your Whirlpool refrigerator model.

Installing the wrong filter can prevent water from flowing through the dispenser and to the ice maker.

Also, use the original manufacturer’s replacement filter instead of using a less expensive aftermarket refrigerator water filter. Aftermarket filters can sometimes cause water flow problems.

Follow the additional tips below for dealing with common refrigerator water filter problems.

Expert Tips for Handling Common Problems with Refrigerator Water Filters

This video provides expert advice for handling common refrigerator water filter problems:

Replacing a refrigerator water filter is usually simple, but sometimes it can be difficult to remove or install—or the new filter can leak. If you’re having a hard time, we’ve got some tips to help you replace your filter so you can get back to enjoying great tasting water and ice.

1. Wiggle the refrigerator water filter

When removing or installing the water filter, you may need to wiggle it back and forth slightly, to help loosen water seal deposits.
Wiggling the new water filter as you insert it will help align the filter as you slide it into the filter head.

2. Shut off the water supply

Water pressure exerted on the filter head can make it difficult to remove a water filter. Try shutting off the water supply valve for the refrigerator. Then run some water through the water dispenser to release water pressure at the filter head and remove the water filter.

3. Extend the water filter housing head completely

For pull-down and swing-out water filters, you may need to extend the water filter head from the housing completely before removing the filter.

4. Use only the original manufacturer replacement water filter

Inexpensive aftermarket water filters can get stuck. They can also can damage water seals and fittings in the water filter housing. Using knock-offs can also cause water leaks through damaged seals and water filter housing-fittings. Don't take chances—buy the brand-name filter that the manufacturer designed specifically to fit your refrigerator.

5. Purge water through the dispenser and then check for leaks

Purging water through the dispenser gets rid of air in the supply system that can cause leaks. Air trapped in the water lines can force water out of the dispenser. If the dispenser still drips after purging water, try purging 2 more gallons of water as constantly as possible to remove any air in the water system supply lines. If water continues to leak after purging more water, you may need to replace the inlet water valve.

If you’re still having trouble with your Whirlpool refrigerator water filter after following these tips, schedule refrigerator repair service and we’ll send a Sears Home Services technician to your home to fix the problem.

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.