Maytag Refrigerator: Water Tastes Like Plastic After... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The refrigerator's water system includes a filter housing, water lines, a water tank (reservoir), and the water dispenser. The MCU (Main Control Unit) manages the water valve activation based on user input at the dispenser. Voltage is supplied to the water valve from the MCU through a relay when the dispenser is activated. Any contamination within this system can affect the taste of the water.

Symptoms:

The water dispensed from the refrigerator's water dispenser has a noticeable plastic taste after a new water filter has been installed.

Possible Causes:

Improper filter system
New filter manufacturing residue
Contaminated water lines
Defective or incompatible filter
Water tank contamination inside the refrigerator
Kinked or damaged water lines.

Solution:

1

Turn off the refrigerator's water supply valve (usually located under the sink or behind the refrigerator).
2

Remove the new water filter. Inspect the filter housing for cracks or damage. A 1/4-inch nut driver can be used to remove the housing if necessary.
3

Bypass the water filter (if possible) or install the old filter. Turn on the water supply and dispense water for 5 minutes to flush the lines.
4

Check the water pressure entering the refrigerator using a water pressure gauge. Optimal pressure is between 30-100 PSI.
5

If the issue persists with the old filter or bypassed, drain and sanitize the water tank using a diluted bleach solution (1 tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water), let it sit for 10 minutes, and thoroughly flush with fresh water.
6

Reinstall the new filter, ensuring it's properly seated and locked. Dispense 2 gallons of water and taste.
7

If taste is still bad, the water lines themselves may need sanitizing by a qualified technician.

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 120V AC voltage when working near the water valve.

Prevention:

Replace the refrigerator's water filter every 6 months, or as recommended by the manufacturer. Always use a genuine Maytag or approved replacement filter. Periodically flush the water lines by dispensing several gallons of water.

Expert Tip:

After installing a new filter, some Maytag refrigerators require you to reset the filter indicator by pressing and holding the 'Filter Reset' button for 3-5 seconds. Some models also have a service mode for diagnostic testing, accessible by pressing a specific sequence of buttons (refer to the service manual).

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I sanitize the water tank in my Maytag refrigerator?

Turn off the water supply and drain the tank using the drain plug (usually located at the bottom rear of the fridge). Sanitize with a diluted bleach solution (1 tablespoon bleach per gallon of water), let it sit for 10 minutes, then thoroughly flush with fresh water.

•What type of water filter should I use in my Maytag refrigerator?

Use a genuine Maytag or an approved replacement filter that is compatible with your specific refrigerator model. Verify the filter part number in your owner's manual or on the Maytag website.

•How often should I replace the water filter in my Maytag refrigerator?

Replace the refrigerator's water filter every 6 months, or as recommended by the manufacturer. Refer to your owner’s manual.

Maytag Refrigerator: Water Tastes Like Plastic After Filter Change - Causes and Solutions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I sanitize the water tank in my Maytag refrigerator?

•What type of water filter should I use in my Maytag refrigerator?

•How often should I replace the water filter in my Maytag refrigerator?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: