How to replace Whirlpool fridge drain fitting W11566763

Are you tired of finding water puddles under your Whirlpool refrigerator? This pesky problem often stems from a damaged drain tube grommet, but don’t worry—replacing it is easier than you think! Simply scroll down to watch our step-by-step video and tackle this simple DIY fix like a pro.

Need a part?  Search below using your appliance model number to find exactly what you need:

If you notice water pooling underneath your Whirlpool refrigerator, you might be seeing the result of a damaged drain tube grommet (also called a drain fitting). This small but important part seals the drain opening at the bottom of the freezer compartment.

Good news: You can replace the faulty grommet yourself! Just use this handy guide to navigate through each step in the process. We’re here for you, and you got this!

Plan on spending 30-45 minutes to complete this repair, since you’ll need to remove some freezer parts to get to the drain fitting.

If you need a replacement drain tube grommet W11566763 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!

Read more: How to clean and maintain your refrigerator’s water dispenser

What is the drain fitting & why would it need to be replaced?

The drain fitting mounts through the condensation drain hole at the bottom of your Whirlpool refrigerator’s freezer compartment. It fits snugly around the flexible plastic drain tube to seal the opening while still allowing water to pass through. Over time, the grommet can get brittle and crack. This prevents it from keeping the drain tube in place.

A bad refrigerator drain fitting can also be caused by clogs or damage from impact or freezing temperatures.

Some symptoms of a faulty refrigerator drain fitting include:

• Water leaks near the bottom of the refrigerator
• Buildup of ice or water in the drain pan
• Stagnant water that may have a foul smell
• Difficulty with the defrost cycle or improper defrosting

Read more: How To Prevent And Fix A Frozen Refrigerator Water Line

What you need

• 1/4-inch nut driver
• Phillips & flathead screwdrivers
• Pliers
• 5/16-inch open-end wrench
• 3/8-inch long socket
• Needle nose pliers
• Half-round file
• New drain tube fitting (make sure it’s compatible with your specific model before installing)

Read more: Why Is There Water Pooling in My Refrigerator?

How to replace the drain fitting

Ready? Let’s swap out the drain fitting in your Whirlpool fridge!

Step 1: Disassemble the fridge

1. Unplug the fridge from the power supply.
2. Turn off the water supply to the fridge.
3. Use the 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screws that hold the rear access panel.
4. Remove the panel to access the drain tube and grommet area.
5. Use the flat-blade screwdriver to remove the plugs from the water line valve.
6. Use the 5/16-inch wrench to press down on the locking collar of the water line and pull out the water line so you can move the valve.
7. Release the tube from the clip at the bottom.
8. Use the flat blade screwdriver and pliers to break the old grommet loose and remove it. If only part of it can be removed here, you can remove the rest from the freezer compartment.

Step 2: Move inside the freezer section

1. Take out all the shelves and drawers.
2. Remove the light lens and bulb.
3. Unscrew the support posts and rails with a Phillips screwdriver and 1/4-inch nut driver.
4. Use the flat blade screwdriver to lift the panel by inserting it at the bottom cutout.
5. Remove the panel to expose the internal parts and the rest of the grommet.
6. If any parts of the grommet remain, use a flat-blade screwdriver to pry them out.
7. Use a half-round file to clean any residual insulation foam from the opening.

Step 3: Install the new grommet

1. Lubricate the new grommet by applying soap to it.
2. Insert the new grommet from the bottom up by using the long 3/8 socket to guide it into place.
3. If needed, adjust the placement of the grommet with needle-nose pliers.
4. Reinstall the rear access panel and make sure it hooks correctly.
5. Replace the light bulb, lens, shelves, and drawers.

Step 4: Reassemble the fridge

1. Reconnect the water line and slide the valve back into place.
2. Secure the water line valve with the original screws and reconnect any plugs that were removed.
3. Slide the new drain tube into place and secure it with its clip.
4. Replace the rear access panel and secure it with screws.
5. Plug in the refrigerator.
6. Turn on the water supply to the fridge and check for leaks.

Read more: How To Clean Refrigerator Coils In 5 Easy Steps & Why To Do It

More information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the drain tube grommet in your Whirlpool fridge.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos.

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog, and more. We can also help you troubleshoot common fridge problems here.

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