How To Replace Refrigerator Ice and Water Dispenser Pads

Is your refrigerator’s ice or water dispenser not responding, or perhaps it’s springing annoying leaks? If so, worn-out dispenser pads might be the culprit. Don’t worry, though—our simple guide and handy how-to video below will walk you through restoring your appliance’s functionality, ensuring your fridge is back to dispensing refreshment in no time!

The dispenser pads are rubber buttons located inside the dispenser assembly. Pushing the ice pad dispenses ice cubes, while the water pad dispenses water. These pads activate the refrigerator dispenser actuator switches that trigger the ice maker and water valve. Over time, the pads can wear out or become damaged.

Symptoms include:

• Dispenser not responding when pressed
• No ice dispensing
• No water dispensing
• Leaks coming from the dispenser

Replacing the pads is an inexpensive solution that restores full functionality. The repair can be completed by most homeowners with basic DIY skills.

This guide covers the process for the following refrigerator brands:

• Whirlpool
• Maytag
• KitchenAid
• Amana
• JennAir

Tools and Parts Needed

Gather the following before starting:

• Putty knife
• 1/4 inch nut driver
• Flat head screwdriver
• WPW10368730 dispenser pad kit (contains 2 pads)

Safety Precautions

Take the following safety steps when servicing any appliance:

• Unplug the refrigerator – Turn off the power at the breaker or unplug from the wall outlet.
• Shut off the water supply – Close the refrigerator’s water valve before beginning.

With the proper prep, you’re ready to begin the repair.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Remove the Control Panel

The first component to remove is the control panel located above the dispenser compartment.

There are small plastic clips along the bottom edge. Insert a flat-head screwdriver into the seam to release the clips. Once unclipped, tilt the panel forward and unplug the wiring connectors. Set the control panel aside in a safe place.

Step 2: Remove Drip Tray

Below the dispenser is a small plastic drip tray. Insert a putty knife along the edge and gently pry the tray to pop it loose. Pull the drip tray completely out and set it aside with the control panel.

Step 3: Remove the Inner Tray

With the drip tray removed, two 1/4-inch screws will be visible. Use a nut driver to remove these screws. Once out, slide the inner tray forward to remove it.

Step 4: Remove Dispenser Assembly

Two more 1/4-inch screws hold the dispenser assembly itself in place. Remove these screws with the nut driver and pull the assembly forward. There are plastic clips on either side that will release as you slide it forward.

Step 5: Release Side Clips

Insert a putty knife into the seam on each side of the dispenser assembly. Gently pry inward to release the retaining clips.

Once free, lift to remove the top cover of the dispenser assembly.

Step 6: Remove Old Pads

With the cover removed, the rubber ice and water pads will be visible. Press inward and slide each pad upward to detach it from the three retaining clips.

Also, remove any adhesive tape securing the wire harness. Completely detach both pads to fully remove them.

Step 7: Install New Pads

Begin installing the new pads by routing the wire harness through the correct slot for each pad. There are three clips and one guide pin that fit into corresponding holes.

Align these properly, then press the pad downward until all three clips snap into place. Install both the ice and water pad in this manner.

Step 8: Reassemble Dispenser

With the new pads installed, reassemble the dispenser components by reversing the steps:

• Route wire harness along the top
• Reattach side retaining clips
• Install the top cover on the dispenser
• Slide dispenser assembly back into the refrigerator
• Replace screws, inner tray, and drip tray

Step 9: Reinstall the Control Panel

Plug in the wiring connectors on the control panel. Snap the panel back into place at the top of the refrigerator.

Step 10: Complete Repair

Remove any protective plastic film from the new dispenser pads.

Turn on the water supply and plug the fridge back in. Test the dispenser to verify proper ice and water flow. Check for any leaks.

Where To Find Us

Great job on successfully completing the dispenser pad replacement! By taking matters into your own hands, you not only saved yourself the expense of a service call but also gained the satisfaction of a DIY repair.

If you need any replacement parts for your appliances, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to locate and order them quickly. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have tons of great information in our repair help section and YouTube videos to help you troubleshoot.

Stay connected with the latest DIY tips, tutorial videos, and repair guides by following us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. We love hearing about your repair stories and successes. If you need more help or want personalized guidance, feel free to contact or call us at 877-477-7278. We’re ready to help you take on your next project with confidence!

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