Frigidaire Refrigerator: How to Fix Loud Jackhammer... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The water dispenser system typically consists of a water inlet valve controlled by the main control unit (MCU). When the dispenser lever is pressed, the MCU sends a 120V AC signal to the water inlet valve, opening it and allowing water to flow. Restrictions or faulty components in this system can cause unusual noises.

Symptoms:

The refrigerator makes a loud, jackhammer-like noise specifically when dispensing water. The noise may be intermittent or constant during water dispensing.

Possible Causes:

Defective Water Inlet Valve
High Water Pressure
Kinked or Frozen Water Line
Air in the Water Line
Loose Mounting of Components

Solution:

1

Turn off the water supply to the refrigerator. Locate the shut-off valve, usually under the sink.
2

Disconnect the water line from the refrigerator. Inspect the water line for kinks or frozen sections. If frozen, thaw with a hair dryer on low heat. Ensure no kinks are present. The water line is typically 1/4 inch OD.
3

Check the water pressure. Use a pressure gauge to measure the water pressure at the supply line; it should be between 30-100 PSI.
4

Access the water inlet valve (usually behind the fridge, lower section). Disconnect the electrical connector and use a multimeter to check for 120V AC when the water dispenser is activated. If voltage is present but the valve isn't opening properly, the valve is likely defective.
5

Replace the water inlet valve. Use a 5/16-inch nut driver to remove any mounting screws. Install the new valve, reconnect the electrical connector, and reconnect the water line.
6

Purge air from the water line. Dispense water for several minutes to remove any trapped air.
7

Verify the noise is gone. Check for leaks at all connections.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the refrigerator at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. Use Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures to prevent accidental re-energizing of the circuit. Be aware of high voltage (120V AC) present at the water inlet valve.

Prevention:

Replace the water filter every 6 months. Regularly check and clear any kinks or obstructions in the water line. Periodically check water pressure to ensure it's within the recommended range.

Expert Tip:

Some Frigidaire refrigerators have a service mode that allows you to manually activate the water inlet valve for testing. Check your service manual for the specific sequence, but a common sequence is holding the ice and water dispenser pads simultaneously for 3-5 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What if the water pressure is too high; how do I reduce it?

If the water pressure is too high (above 100 PSI), you will need to install a pressure regulator on the main water line to your house or at the refrigerator's water supply. These are available at most plumbing supply stores.

•How can I tell if the water inlet valve is defective if I don't have a multimeter?

If you don't have a multimeter, carefully listen to the valve while someone presses the water dispenser. If you hear no clicking or humming sound coming from the valve when dispensing water, it is very likely defective. Also, a visual inspection can reveal leaks or cracks.

•Where is the water inlet valve located on my Frigidaire refrigerator?

The water inlet valve is usually located at the back of the refrigerator, typically near the bottom. You may need to remove a lower access panel to see it. It will have a water line connected to it and electrical wires plugged into it.

Frigidaire Refrigerator: How to Fix Loud Jackhammer Noise When Drawing Water

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What if the water pressure is too high; how do I reduce it?

•How can I tell if the water inlet valve is defective if I don't have a multimeter?

•Where is the water inlet valve located on my Frigidaire refrigerator?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: