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Quick answer
When a Performa refrigerator will not dispense, first separate water from ice: check whether either function works, then check the door/controls, paddle, filter, water line, and ice chute. Do not use a sharp tool to break ice. If flow stays absent after model-approved checks, arrange service.
Work through in order
Diagnostic checks
Use only checks that match the exact appliance or system and its official guide.
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Check 1
Select water and press a sturdy glass firmly against the dispenser paddle with the door closed; then select ice if the model provides both.
Expected result: Water works, ice works, neither works, or the paddle does not respond.
Next step: Continue with the path that failed and confirm the model's lock setting; do not force the paddle.
Why this matters
Why: Water-only operation points to the ice maker/bin/chute; ice-only operation points to water supply/filter; neither points to controls, lock, power, or supply.
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Check 2
Check the display for a control or dispenser lock and verify the door is fully closed; engage the paddle with a sturdy glass rather than a fingertip.
Expected result: Unlocking or closing the door restores operation, or the dispenser remains inactive.
Next step: Use the model manual to change the lock setting; if the pad remains inactive, arrange service for the switch/control circuit.
Why this matters
Why: A lock, door interlock, or incomplete paddle engagement can disable dispensing without removing refrigerator power.
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Check 3
For water failure, inspect the accessible filter seating and supply line for a kink; for ice failure, inspect the bin and chute for clumped ice using only a plastic utensil.
Expected result: Water returns with the filter correctly reseated or ice flow returns after clumps are removed, or neither changes.
Next step: Use only the model-approved filter procedure and clean/dry the chute; call service if the path remains blocked.
Why this matters
Why: A filter seal, kink, or ice blockage can restrict its own path; no change makes a valve, motor, or control fault more likely.
Use your observations
Decision map
Find the observation that best matches what you see, then follow the next safe action.
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PATH 01Next step
What you see
Water dispenses but ice does not, and the ice maker is producing ice.
Do this next
Empty and dry the bin, clear accessible clumps with a plastic utensil, and reseat the bin.
Why this path and its safety boundary
Why it matters: A clumped bin, blocked chute, unseated bin, or dispenser motor path is more likely.
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PATH 02Next step
What you see
Ice dispenses but water does not, or water is slow after a filter change.
Do this next
Reseat the filter and inspect the accessible line; call service if flow remains absent.
Why this path and its safety boundary
Why it matters: Filter seating, water-line restriction, or supply pressure is more likely.
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PATH 03Next step
What you see
Neither ice nor water dispenses while the doors are closed and the lock is off.
Do this next
Stop forcing the controls and arrange qualified appliance service.
Why this path and its safety boundary
Why it matters: A common control, paddle, power, or supply fault is possible.
Helpful context
Understand the symptom
Water and ice use different clues
A dispenser can stop because its lock or paddle is not engaged, because a filter or supply line restricts water, or because ice has clumped in the bin/chute. Testing water and ice separately avoids replacing a part without identifying the affected path.
When checks do not resolve it
Need a professional?
Stop if the dispenser leaks continuously, the paddle/control is damaged, water reaches electrical parts, or safe filter/line/chute checks do not restore operation. Do not use knives or dismantle the door dispenser.
Common questions
FAQ
Why does the dispenser make noise but deliver nothing?
A locked control, unengaged paddle, clumped ice, unseated bin, or restricted water path can all do this. Identify whether water or ice is affected before service.
Can I use a knife to clear the ice chute?
No. Use a plastic utensil for accessible clumps and follow the model instructions; a sharp tool can damage the bin or mechanism.
Read the exact guide
Official sources
- Not Dispensing Ice or Water - RefrigeratorWhirlpool Corporation · refrigerator filter installation, water supply line, kinks, ice maker, and water pressure
- Not Dispensing Ice - RefrigeratorWhirlpool Corporation · refrigerator dispenser door, lock, paddle, bin, clumping, and chute checks
- Owner's ManualWhirlpool Corporation / Maytag Appliances · Maytag Performa refrigerator operation, care, temperature, leveling, and ice service
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