Refrigerator - Normal Operation of Dispenser

Many refrigerators feature a dispenser on the freezer door exterior. This article provides tips and explanations for using the dispenser for ice or water.

 

Understanding the Normal Operation of the Ice and Water Dispenser on a Refrigerator

Water

Operation

  1. Select water from the selector switch.
  2. Grip the glassware firmly near the rim and press firmly against the cradle/paddle. The glassware must be below the chute.
  3. To stop dispensing, release pressure from the cradle, withdrawing slowly to catch the last bits of water.

What's Normal

  • When initially installing a dispenser model you will have to hold in the chilled water cradle or pad for a minute or two to fill the empty storage tank.
  • A few drips of water occurring after the container is removed is normal.

Ice

Operation

  1. Set the selector switch to your choice of CUBED or CRUSHED ICE.
  2. Grip the glassware firmly near the rim and press firmly against the dispenser cradle/paddle. The glassware must be below the chute. Soft touch dispensers require a much lighter touch and can be used with a cup as soft as Styrofoam.
  3. To stop dispensing, release pressure from the cradle, withdrawing slowly to catch the last bits of ice.

What's Normal

  • When changing from CUBED to CRUSHED ICE, expect a slight delay before new operation begins.
  • When getting crushed ice, some ice chips may "spit" out onto the floor. This is a normal part of the crushing process. Holding the glass as close to the top of the dispenser as possible will help keep the ice from "spitting" out.
  • When changing from CRUSHED ICE to CUBED, the next glassful may receive a bit of crushed ice.
  • When dispensing crushed ice, some slight dripping may follow. Wipe excessive spills dry immediately.

Dispenser Chute and Damper (Flap)

What's Normal

  • When the freezer door or drawer is closed, it is normal for the damper (flapper) in the dispenser chute to open and close to allow pressure equalization in the freezer compartment.
  • You may hear a snap after getting ice from the dispenser. This is the normal sound of the damper in the dispenser chute closing.
  • Sometimes a small mound of snow will form on the door in the ice chute. This condition can be normal and usually occurs when you have dispensed crushed ice repeatedly. The snow will eventually evaporate.

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