[mharwell01]

I have determined that the inlet water valve on my refrigerator has a bad solenoid. I have current to the wire that connects to it, but it doesnt open to allow water through to fill the ice maker tray.

On my refrigerator, the water supply line from the wall connects to a water valve with a single outlet from which a water line goes up to the filter. There is a return line from the filter back to a second water valve that has dual solenoids, one for the ice maker and one for water to the door.

We do not utilize a filter, have always just had the plug installed in its place. So I had the bright idea, that since we dont use the filter, why not just bypass the inlet solenoid and connect the supply water line from the wall directly to the after filter solenoid. After making the connections, I get a steady dribble of water from the door water without even pressing the button.

My first question: shouldnt the solenoid be closed not allowing any water to pass through if there is no current (door water button not pressed)? Are the two water valves wired in a way that they work together or is there some other reason why this doesnt work?

I found the entire water valve assembly that includes both valves for about $60 plus shipping. I found the inlet valve only by itself and the after filter valve by itself also.

My next question: For those who know something about how these things work, is it advisable for me to go ahead and bite the bullet and buy the entire assembly or should I attempt to replace only the inlet valve first?

By the way I did check the supply tube for freezing (it was clear) and the ice maker seems to function fine. If I fill the tray by hand it does everything its supposed to. When it cycles I get current through the wire to the solenoid so I dont think ther is any problem with the ice maker. I put 120v to the solenoid and nothing happened so unless Im missing something I think the problem is with the solenoid.

Your advice/ suggestions would be appreciated.

[Gene]

...why not just bypass the inlet solenoid and connect the supply water line from the wall directly to the after filter solenoid...

All four solenoids are the same (electrically) but the water valves are different and should be used as assembly.

Gene.

[jamac]

I May have same problem, how do I check voltage is going to unit, I have a voltage meter but not sure how to use with this.

Please help thanks

[Gene]

Originally Posted by jamac

I May have same problem, how do I check voltage is going to unit, I have a voltage meter but not sure how to use with this.

Please help thanks

What is the complete model number of the refrigerator?

What exactly is wrong?

Gene.

[jamac]

Thanks for reply,

there is no drinking water and no ice being made, I have checked water inlet and there is water coming into water valve, but nothing coming out.

I thought i would have to replace this part, AP2071738 made by GE but i wanted to make sure that power was getting to this part before ordering,

Due to colour of wires, orange, yellow and white coming in from connector not sure what to check and how


Can you help please

[Gene]

How old is the water filter? It does not last more than a year and it would not let water through if clogged.

- The water filter Part number: AP3859302

Gene.

[jamac]

Hi Gene,

I got new filter appx 6 months ago, there appears to be no water going up to filter when switched on, any other thoughts

Thanks

[Gene]

Remove the wires from the water valve solenoids and check them all for continuity. Check for 120 VAC between the wires connected to the blue solenoids while the water dispenser calls for water. Post the results.

Gene.

[jamac]

Hi gene, how do I do this, ie check for continuity ?

[Gene]

The following article on our forum will explain in detail how to run a continuity test using either an analog meter or a digital meter - How To Check Continuity With Ohmmeter

Gene.