HELP! Kenmore (Whirlpool) refrigerator water leak from part I cannot identify

[cmatsinger@gmail.com]

Kenmore model 106.50512001

I have a steady drip that just started from a part I do not recognize. It the long narrow copper bulb that hangs vertically near the fan and the water inlet valve.

It looks like a filter drier but I believe it was dripping water because I shut off the water inlet and the drip stopped - so what could this be?

I would like to know if this is a serviceable part and if so, what the part is and how to replace it.

[AJ]

Hi,

The copper thing is a filter/dryer for the sealed system. Water would not be leaking from it.
I would turn the water back on and check the water inlet line going to the refrigerator for leaks.
If it's a plastic line I have seen them get pin holes in them and then spray or leak a small amount of water through the pine hole.

Wipe everything down with a dry towel and then turn the water one. Then look close at the water inlet line, run your hand over it and look for leaks.

Let us know what you find.

[cmatsinger@gmail.com]

Wow you're good!!! A pinhole on the left side of the water line that goes to the icemaker was misting the filter drier, which was then forming drops of water, making it look like that was leaking!

So I just need 1/4" tubing to replace that line?

[AJ]

Glad you found the problem! 


Yes, the water line is a standard 1/4" tubing.
Not sure how your setup is, but you may want to run a copper line to the refrigerator instead of another plastic one.


Also if the water shut off is right behind the refrigerator you may want to use a stainless steel braided water line.
Just don't install a flood safe water inlet hose as I have had trouble with them not working correctly.

[cmatsinger@gmail.com]

Do you know if this something I can get at a Home Depot or Lowes?

[AJ]

Do you know if this something I can get at a Home Depot or Lowes?

Yes, they both should have a good supply of options.
You should be able to buy the 1/4" line in bulk or even as some kind of ice maker install kit.

You may find the 1/4" stainless steel braided water line are limited to 4-6 foot lengths.

[tgoods]

For a supply line I swear by the GE WX08X10006.  It's made of PEX, the same material used for house plumbing. It's got captured brass nuts on each end and no gaskets to leak.
WX08X10006

[AJ]

That does look nicer then the cheap plastic tubing.