Changing the water filter housing on your Whirlpool refrigerator typically involves disconnecting the water lines and unmounting the old housing before installing the new one. A critical step in this process, as highlighted in helpful guides, involves releasing the water lines from their fittings.
Understanding the Process
Replacing the filter housing requires careful disconnection and reconnection of water lines, often involving push-to-connect fittings. These fittings use a collar that must be pressed to release the tubing.
Key Steps for Disconnecting Water Lines (Based on Reference)
The provided reference specifically demonstrates how to disconnect the water tubes, a necessary precursor to removing the housing. Follow these steps:
- Address Rings: You may need to interact with rings associated with the fittings. According to the reference, you will "remove" or interact "on that ring."
- Slide Components: After addressing the ring(s), you might need to "slide it out" or remove a "second one," suggesting components related to the fitting or tube are being detached or moved.
- Use a Wrench: Obtain a half inch open ended wrench.
- Press the Collar: Use the half-inch open-ended wrench to press down on a locking collar. This collar is part of the water line fitting. Pressing it releases the internal grip on the tube.
- Remove the Tube: While holding the collar down with the wrench, carefully remove the tube from the fitting.
Important Considerations
- Always turn off the water supply to the refrigerator before starting this process.
- Have towels ready to catch any residual water in the lines.
- The exact location and type of fittings may vary slightly depending on your specific Whirlpool refrigerator model.
- Once water lines are disconnected, you would proceed to unmount the old housing (which might involve screws or clips), install the new one, and reconnect the water lines by simply pushing them firmly back into the fittings until they are seated.
Summary Table: Water Line Disconnection
| Tool Needed | Action on Fitting/Tube | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Hand | Remove/Interact with ring(s) | Prepares fitting/tube |
| Hand | Slide out component(s) | Further disengagement |
| 1/2" Open-Ended Wrench | Press down on locking collar | Releases tube grip |
| Hand | Remove the tube | Disconnects water line |
Successfully disconnecting the water lines using the method described is a vital part of replacing the filter housing. Remember to consult your refrigerator's manual for model-specific instructions and safety precautions.
