How to replace the dispenser control board in a Frigidaire refrigerator

If your Frigidaire refrigerator’s water and ice dispenser isn’t working as it should, the culprit might be a faulty dispenser control board. This part manages the functions of the water and ice dispenser so you get ice and water when you want them.

Let’s walk through the process of replacing the dispenser control board in your Frigidaire refrigerator.

If you need a new dispenser control board or other parts for your Frigidaire refrigerator, you can use your model number to find what you’re looking for at AppliancePartsPros.com. We also have thousands of free DIY troubleshooting and repair guides to help you fix your refrigerator yourself.

Disclaimer: The part replacement information in this article is based on general service manuals and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

What is the dispenser control board?

The dispenser control board is the brain behind your refrigerator’s water and ice dispenser. It controls the functions and operations of the dispenser so you can access ice and water at the touch of a button or lever.

If this board fails testing or becomes damaged, the dispenser may malfunction or fail entirely.

When to replace the dispenser control board

If you’ve noticed any of these issues with your refrigerator’s dispenser, the control board likely needs to be replaced:

• The dispenser isn’t responding or dispensing water or ice
• The dispenser is dispensing water or ice erratically or intermittently
• The dispenser is making unusual noises
• The control panel or display isn’t functioning correctly.

What you need

• Phillips head screwdriver

Keep safety first

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of electric shock.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.

How to replace the dispenser control board

Step 1: Access the dispenser assembly

1. Make sure the fridge is turned off and unplugged.
2. Disconnect the water supply from the fridge.
3. Remove the dispenser tray from the dispenser assembly by unscrewing the three screws under the tray on the front.
4. Lift the dispenser cover off.
5. Disconnect the wiring harness that connects the dispenser cover to the control board.
6. Remove the four screws holding the dispenser housing in place and slide it out.

Step 2: Remove the old dispenser control board

1. Find the old dispenser control board and carefully disconnect any wiring or connectors attached to it.
2. Remove any screws or fasteners that hold the control board in place.
3. Gently pull the old control board out of its housing or mounting.

Step 3: Install the new dispenser control board

1. Position the new dispenser control board in the housing or mounting area.
2. Secure the new control board with the screws or fasteners you removed earlier.
3. Reconnect any wiring or connectors to the new control board and make sure they’re properly seated and connected.

Step 4: Reassemble the dispenser assembly

1. Slide the dispenser bracket back into place and reinstall it with the screws you removed earlier.
2. Reconnect the wiring harness from the dispenser cover to the new control board.
3. Reinstall the dispenser cover and secure it with the three screws under the tray.
4. Replace the dispenser tray.

Final steps

1. Plug your refrigerator back in or turn the circuit breaker back on.
2. Reconnect the water supply to the fridge.
3. Test the water and ice dispenser to make sure the new control board is functioning correctly.

More information

Thanks for reading! If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, you can find more resources including our DIY blog at AppliancePartsPros.com. There, you can enter your model number to order the exact parts you need. Most orders arrive in two business days.

You can also reach our award-winning customer service team at 1-877-477-7278, chat with a pro on our website and watch thousands of free video tutorials on our YouTube channel. We can also help you troubleshoot common fridge problems here.

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