How to Remove and Clean a Kenmore Elite Refrigerator Water Dispenser
Many Kenmore Elite refrigerators have an ice and water dispenser built into the door of the freezer. It is good practice to thoroughly clean the dispenser periodically to prevent the build-up of deposits and bacteria. To best clean the dispenser, remove it from the door. This allows you to access hard to reach spots. Be sure to avoid submerging the dispenser, as excessive amounts of water may damage the dispenser's electronic components.
Remove the Dispenser
Step 1
Unplug the refrigerator's power cord from the wall outlet, or turn off the breaker in your service panel.
Step 2
Pull the drip tray away from the bottom of the dispenser and remove.
Step 3
Remove the screws on the bottom of the dispenser cover, which are now accessible with the drip tray removed.
Step 4
Slide the dispenser cover up and then pull it away from the front of the dispenser. Disconnect the wire connector on the rear of the cover and set the cover aside.
Step 5
Remove the screws securing the dispenser control module into position and then remove.
Step 6
Disconnect the wire connector on the rear of the dispenser control module, and then remove the module.
Cleaning the Dispenser
Step 1
Mix hot water with a small amount of liquid dish washing soap.
Step 2
Place a soft cloth in the soapy water, then wring the cloth so that it is damp, with no water dripping.
Step 3
Wipe all of the components using the damp cloth until clean.
Step 4
Place a clean soft cloth in clean water, then wring the cloth so that it is damp, with no water dripping. Wipe the components using the clean cloth and water to remove any remaining soap.
Step 5
Soak the drip tray and actuator paddles in undiluted vinegar to remove tough stains. Allow the components to remain in the vinegar for approximately 30 minutes, and then remove from the vinegar and rinse in clean water to remove the stains.
References
Tips
- To remove the actuator paddles, remove the screws at the top of the paddles that secure them in place.
Writer Bio
Andrew Todd has been writing since 2006. He has written for the Consumer Search website and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Florida. Todd has a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice from the University of Central Florida.
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