Amana Refrigerator Water Filter Bypass Plug Guide for... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

Older Amana refrigerators use a simple mechanical system for water dispensing. The bypass plug completes the water circuit when a filter is not in use. If the plug is missing or the system detects no flow, it will prevent water dispensing. The water inlet valve, a solenoid-operated valve, opens when the dispenser lever is activated, allowing water to flow.

Symptoms:

The refrigerator is not dispensing water, even after installing the water filter bypass plug. The water filter indicator light might still be illuminated.

Possible Causes:

Missing or improperly installed water filter bypass plug.
Cracked or damaged water filter housing causing leaks.
Faulty water inlet valve preventing water flow even with the bypass plug installed.
Clogged water lines or reservoir reducing water pressure.
Low water pressure to the refrigerator itself.

Solution:

1

Verify the water filter bypass plug is correctly installed. Remove and re-install ensuring a tight seal.
2

Inspect the water filter housing for cracks or damage. Replace if necessary.
3

Check the water inlet valve using a multimeter. Disconnect power to the refrigerator first. Resistance should be within the manufacturer's specifications. If open or shorted, replace the valve.
4

Check water pressure to the refrigerator. Should be at least 20 PSI. Clean or replace the water supply line if clogged.
5

Inspect the water lines inside the refrigerator for kinks or blockages. Disconnect and flush with low-pressure water.
6

Check the water reservoir for ice buildup that could be blocking water flow. Allow to thaw completely, or use a hair dryer to gently melt the ice. Avoid excessive heat.
7

Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the water filter housing cover. Clean the area thoroughly.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power to the refrigerator at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. Water and electricity can create a dangerous shock hazard. Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures should be followed. Some components may contain 120V AC even when the refrigerator is switched off.

Prevention:

Regularly inspect the water filter housing for cracks or leaks. Replace the water filter every 6 months, even if the water still appears clean. This prevents sediment buildup in the water lines. Periodically flush the water lines by dispensing several gallons of water.

Expert Tip:

A common trick is to check for continuity on the water inlet valve coil. Use your multimeter set to ohms. A reading of infinity or zero indicates a bad coil and requires replacement. If your valve is good, you can briefly apply 120V AC to the valve terminals to test it. Use extreme caution!

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the water inlet valve with a multimeter?

Disconnect power to the refrigerator. Locate the water inlet valve, typically at the back of the unit. Disconnect the wires from the valve. Set your multimeter to ohms. Place the probes on the valve terminals. You should read a resistance value, typically in the range of 200-500 ohms. An open circuit (infinite resistance) or a short circuit (zero resistance) indicates a faulty valve that needs to be replaced.

•What if my water pressure is below 20 PSI?

Check the water supply line for kinks or obstructions. Inspect the shut-off valve under the sink to ensure it's fully open. If the pressure remains low, you may need to contact a plumber to assess your home's water pressure. A booster pump may be required.

•How do I thaw a frozen water reservoir?

Unplug the refrigerator. Open the refrigerator door and locate the water reservoir. This is usually a plastic tank located inside the refrigerator compartment. Allow the refrigerator to sit unplugged with the door open for several hours to allow the reservoir to thaw naturally. You can also use a hair dryer on a low setting to gently warm the reservoir, but be careful not to overheat the plastic. Avoid using any sharp objects to break the ice, as this could damage the reservoir.

Amana Refrigerator Water Filter Bypass Plug Guide for Older Models

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the water inlet valve with a multimeter?

•What if my water pressure is below 20 PSI?

•How do I thaw a frozen water reservoir?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: