Keeping your fridge water dispenser clean is important for ensuring you have fresh, clean water on demand. A build-up of mold, mildew, limescale, and bacteria in your water dispenser can negatively impact the taste and quality of your drinking water. Fortunately, cleaning your fridge water dispenser is an easy process that can be done in just 5 simple steps.
Step 1: Unplug the Fridge
The first step is to unplug your fridge before cleaning the water dispenser. This ensures no electric current is running while you clean, which is an important safety precaution. Simply open the door, locate the plug, and disconnect it from the power source.
Once unplugged, give the fridge about 5 minutes before cleaning. This allows the components to settle and cool down.
Step 2: Remove Water Filter
If your fridge has a water filter, the next step is removing it. The water filter housing is typically located inside the fridge ceiling or on the back interior wall.
To remove the filter, simply give it a quarter turn counter-clockwise and pull down. Sometimes a bit of wiggling side to side helps break the seal.
Once removed, set the water filter aside in a secure place. Later it can be washed by hand with warm water and re-installed.
Step 3: Wash Water Dispenser Outer Components
With the fridge unplugged and filter removed, it’s time to clean the external water dispenser parts. You’ll need a microfiber cloth, mild soap, water, and a small brush.
Wipe down the plastic housing around the water dispenser using the cloth, soap, and water. Give any stubborn spots an extra scrub with the brush.
Be sure to fully dry all external surfaces once washing is complete. This prevents any moisture build-up once the fridge is plugged back in.
Step 4: Disinfect and Flush Internal Components
The internal pathways and valves that deliver water also need regular cleaning. For this step, you’ll need white vinegar, water, a large bowl or bucket, and a few clean cloths.
To start, locate the water dispenser tube inside your fridge. This plastic tube runs from the base of the dispenser down to the fridge floor.
Place the large bowl or bucket beneath the end of the tube to catch water drainage.
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a measuring cup or smaller bowl. Pour the solution into the dispenser until full. Allow it to run through the tubes and drain out the end into your collecting bowl or bucket below.
Let the vinegar solution sit for 5-10 minutes to disinfect and break down any build-up.
Next, dispense fresh water to rinse out the vinegar. Repeat the fill and drain process 3-4 times until you no longer smell vinegar.
Lastly, thoroughly dry any drained vinegar from the collecting bowl, your fridge floor, and the end of the dispenser tube.
Step 5: Reassemble and Reset
With cleaning complete, the last step is to reassemble your water dispenser components and reset your fridge.
First, re-install your water filter by gently pushing it straight up into the housing and rotating clockwise. You should feel it click into place.
Wipe down any remaining moisture and allow the fridge interior to fully air dry if needed.
Finally, plug your fridge back in and reconnect the power.
Initiate a manual reset by turning the temperature to its warmest setting for 30 minutes, then back to normal. This helps your fridge stabilize and recommence water flow properly.
Get a glass of fresh water from the dispenser and enjoy! With regular deep cleaning every 3-6 months, you’ll keep your family hydrated with great-tasting water.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning a Fridge Water Dispenser
Cleaning your fridge water dispenser regularly is important, but many people have questions about the best practices. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
How often should I clean the dispenser?
A deep clean every 3-6 months is recommended. Quick wipe downs of the exterior as needed.
What’s the best way to remove limescale?
White vinegar – the acetic acid breaks down mineral deposits. Allow to sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.
Can I use bleach to clean the dispenser?
Avoid bleach, as it can damage plastic components and leave off-tastes. Vinegar is a safer alternative.
What causes black specks in my dispensed water?
Black flecks are usually activated carbon from the filter. Change filters regularly and flush thoroughly after changing.
Why does my dispensed water taste bad sometimes?
Stale tastes can mean it’s time to replace the filter or clean mineral build-up inside the lines.
Are fridge water dispensers safe from bacteria?
Regular cleaning, filter changes, and flushing help keep dispensers bacteria-free. Check for recalls if concerned.
Should I disassemble the dispenser for cleaning?
Disassembling is not necessary in most cases. Simply flushing, disinfecting, and thorough drying is sufficient.
How can I improve water pressure at the dispenser?
Check for kinks in the line. Flush to remove blockages. Filter replacement can help too. Call a technician for other issues.
Why does my dispenser drip or leak?
Clogged tubes, worn valve seals, and misaligned components can cause drips. Try cleaning first, then call for service if needed.
What can I do if there’s no water coming out?
Check power and water supply first. Clogs and frozen lines also prevent flow – try flushing with vinegar. Call for help if still not working.
Conclusion
Maintaining a clean fridge water dispenser has major benefits for your health, your drinking water quality, and the performance of your appliance. Following these 5 simple steps every few months keeps your dispenser working optimally with minimal effort.
The key steps include unplugging, removing filters, washing exterior components, disinfecting interior tubes and valves, rinsing thoroughly, reassembling, and resetting the fridge. White vinegar and water are the most effective homemade cleaners for this task.
With this basic routine, you can keep your fridge dispensed water tasting fresh and prevent harmful bacteria from accumulating. Your family will appreciate the difference that clean, purified water can make in their day.