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How to Install Water Valves for Your Refrigerator

184175_in_the_refrigerator.jpg   The refrigerator is one of the most common, most often used and most depended on appliance in people’s homes. It can also be very expensive to repair when you need work done on it. The good news is that there are many simple things you can actually do yourself. Do you know how to install water valves for your refrigerator? Water valves are an important part of how your refrigerator runs properly. If you have an icemaker or water dispenser in your refrigerator, there are even more important water valves that you need to be sure are installed and working properly.

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Installing the water valves is an important part of installing your icemaker to your refrigerator. How can you install water valves for your refrigerator? In most cases, this is a very simple procedure that you can easily do for yourself. However, if you do not know what you are doing, it is typically best to hire a professional so that you do not ruin something within your refrigerator or icemaker.
Test Your Solenoid Valve
First you will want to perform what is called a water solenoid valve test. Do this by:

  1. Check your water supply line. Be sure you have the proper amount of water pressure to the solenoid valve. There are some types, such as self-tapping or saddle type valves that restrict the flow of water to the refrigerator water valve. You should have at least ¼” of non-restricted flow to your valve.
  2. Make sure your water inlet tube is not frozen over with ice or not letting water pass into your ice maker. If you have a leaking solenoid valve, this can happen. It will need to be replaced.
  3. Check your dual water valve as well. Be sure your water inlet tube is clear and that there is water flowing through the icemaker correctly.

If you are unsure of how to install your ice maker or your water valves properly, then you can look to see if instructions came with your water valves or ice maker. If not, and you still are unable to install them properly, you should seek assistance from a professional.
When Water Valves Need Replaced
Sometimes, in time your water valves will wear out, become eroded and need to be replaced. If you notice a leak in your icemaker or water dispenser or that it is becoming frozen and backed up or blocked, these may all be signs that it needs to be replaced. If you want to prevent further problems with your refrigerator and ice maker and keep it working in top shape, you should check the water valves regularly and replace them when needed.
If you suspect that your water valves need replacing, the easiest way to be sure is to take the elements apart and take a look at them. If they look old, corroded, broken, etc then you can be pretty sure getting new ones will fix your problems. You can typically find parts at a local hardware or appliance repair store or you can check online for your model and the proper valves to fit it. Always remember that proper maintenance will keep your fridge working well for many years to come.

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2 Comments For This Post

  1. Kerry Cressman Says:

    is there a way to electrically test the dual solenoid on an estate (Whirlpool) fridge???? I get water to the water dispenser, but nothing to the icemaker

  2. appliancejournal Says:

    Try http://forum.appliancepartspros.com/oven-repair-including-ranges-cooktops/4810-how-check-continuity-ohmmeter.html

  3. Repair Question? Post it in the Forum

    Leave a Reply

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