How to replace the water dispenser lever on a Whirlpool refrigerator

Is your fridge’s water dispenser suddenly refusing to cooperate? Don’t worry; it’s a common issue often traced back to a simple problem—an ineffective water dispenser lever. With our step-by-step guide and a handy how-to video just below, you’ll have your appliance dispensing cool, refreshing water again in no time!

Looking for the right part? Enter your appliance model number below to find the exact match and get your appliance running like new again!

If the water dispenser on your Whirlpool, KitchenAid, or Maytag refrigerator has stopped working, the issue likely lies with the water dispenser lever. This small plastic part activates the switch to release water when pressed. Over time, this piece can crack or break entirely, preventing water flow. Replacing this affordable part is an easy DIY fix that will have your water dispenser working again in no time. 

If you need a replacement refrigerator water dispenser lever WP2255432B for your Whirlpool refrigerator, you can use your model number to find what you need at AppliancePartsPros.com. We also have thousands of free DIY troubleshooting and repair guides to help you fix your refrigerator yourself. 

Watch the full repair here!

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

What you’ll need

• New replacement water dispenser lever (part # WP2255432B)
• Putty knife
• 1⁄4 inch nut driver

Safety first

• 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. 
• 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.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• 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.
• 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.

Removing the old water dispenser lever

Step 1: Detach the overflow grill

The water dispenser lever is located behind the overflow grill at the base of the dispenser. 

1. Carefully insert a putty knife into the seam on the bottom edge of the grill. 
2. Gently pry and detach the clip, then slide the grill down and off. 
3. Set it aside so it won’t get damaged.

Step 2: Remove the control frame cover

There is a large control frame cover panel that needs to be taken off to access the water dispenser components. You’ll see two clips at the bottom corners. 

1. Insert the putty knife into the seam on both sides and gently pull the frame forward. 
2. Lift up and slide the cover out. 
3. Unplug the connector cable in the back and set the panel aside.

Step 3: Detach the control board bracket

A large bracket holding the refrigerator’s control board blocks the water dispenser lever. 

1. Use the putty knife to detach the locking clip on each side. 
2. Then pull the bracket straight out. 
3. Lift the control panel up and tape it out of your way for now.

Step 4: Remove the screw and spring

Now you can see the water dispenser lever mechanism.

1. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screw holding the springclip in place. 
2. Carefully detach the spring so it doesn’t snap loose.

Step 5: Remove the old lever

1. Press down on the lever bracket and gently pry the old water dispenser lever upwards.
2. You may need to wiggle it side to side to detach it completely. 
3. Inspect the broken part to ensure no pieces remain stuck on the mechanism.

Installing the new water dispenser lever

Step 1: Position the new lever

1. Orient the replacement water dispenser lever into position, with the right hinge inserted into the opening on that side. 
2. Press the left hinge into place over the bracket.

Step 2: Reattach spring and screw

1. Lifting up slightly on the new lever, reattach the spring so it sits over both levers and the center opening. 
2. Make sure the bottom pin fits into the cutout on the spring. 
3. Install the screw through the spring but leave it slightly loose.

Step 3: Insert spacer and tighten

1. Place the spacer underneath the screw head, 
2. Then tighten down the screw completely. 

This ensures smooth operation when pressing the lever.

Step 4: Reinstall the control board bracket

1. Carefully lower the control board back into position, pressing the side clips back into place. 
2. Remove any tape holding it out of the way.

Step 5: Reattach the control frame cover

1. Align the tabs on the frame cover and plug in the connector cable. 
2. Press firmly on the sides to reattach the clips.

Step 6: Replace the overflow grill

1. Finally, slide the overflow grill back into the slots until it clicks into place.

Completing the repair

1. With the new water dispenser lever installed, plug your refrigerator back in or turn the power back on. 
2. Make sure the ice maker and dispenser are functioning before loading perishable food. 
3. Get ready to enjoy fresh cold water and ice again!

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.

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