Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Reservoir Replacement Guide

The water reservoir in a Whirlpool refrigerator stores water for chilled dispensing and ice production. Over time, this component can develop problems. If you notice water leaking from the refrigerator, no water coming from the dispenser, or an odd taste or smell in the water or ice, it may be time to replace the reservoir.

Tools and Materials You Will Need

• 1/4 inch nut driver
• Flathead screwdriver
• 1/2 inch wrench
• Scissors or a cutter
• Towels
• Zip ties
• Replacement water reservoir (compatible with your Whirlpool model)

Safety Tips Before Starting the Repair

Follow basic safety steps when working with appliances. These guidelines help protect you and prevent damage to your refrigerator during the replacement process.

• Unplug the refrigerator or turn off the power at the circuit breaker before beginning any work
• Turn off the water supply to the appliance at the valve
• Place towels around the work area to catch any water left in the lines or reservoir
• Let the refrigerator cool down before starting if it has recently been in use
• Work slowly and carefully to avoid mistakes or injury
• Make sure the workspace is well lit to clearly see each component
• Keep your work area organized and free from clutter
• Keep children and pets away from the repair zone
• Do not handle any parts with wet hands
• Keep the area and your hands dry throughout the process
• Review the refrigerator’s user manual for any model-specific steps or safety warnings
• Handle parts gently to avoid damage
• Wear insulated gloves to protect your hands from sharp parts or debris
• Avoid touching exposed wires
• Use tools with insulated handles or wear insulating gloves if working near electrical parts
• Use safety glasses and a dust mask if working around dust or airborne debris

How to Replace the Water Reservoir W11168758 in a Whirlpool Refrigerator

Here are the steps to help you safely remove the old water reservoir and install a new one in your Whirlpool refrigerator.

Power Down and Prepare the Fridge

1. Turn off the refrigerator and unplug it from the power outlet.
2. Shut off the water supply connected to the refrigerator.
3. Open both French doors of the refrigerator.
4. Remove all glass shelves by lifting the front, disengaging the back hooks, and lifting them out.

Access the Reservoir Compartment

5. Locate the reservoir compartment on the ceiling of the fresh food section, right side.
6. Press on the water filter cover to release and open it.
7. Turn the water filter counterclockwise and remove it. Use a towel to catch any water that spills.
8. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the two screws securing the ceiling panel.
9. Pull down the panel and disconnect the LED connector by pressing the tab and pulling it apart.
10. Insert a flat-blade screwdriver into the cutout and pry off the support bracket.

Disconnect and Remove the Old Reservoir

11. Use a 1/2-inch wrench to press down the locking collar on the water filter housing.
12. Pull out the tubes to disconnect the water lines.
13. Cut the three zip ties securing the reservoir using scissors or side cutters.
14. Place a towel under the reservoir to catch remaining water.
15. Press the locking collar on the water valve with the wrench while pulling out the reservoir to disconnect it.
16. Remove the old reservoir from the compartment.
17. Use the 1/4-inch nut driver to remove three screws holding the reservoir.
18. Use a flat-blade screwdriver to release the three clips by pressing down on the top of each one.

Install the New Reservoir

19. Insert a new zip tie into the right-side opening and loosely secure it.
20. Insert the second zip tie, but leave it unlocked.
21. Slide the new reservoir into place between the zip ties.
22. Push the right side of the reservoir into the opening of the water inlet valve.
23. Insert the other tube into the port on the water filter housing and push it in completely.
24. Tighten both zip ties to secure the reservoir.
25. Cut off the extra lengths of both zip ties using side cutters.

Reassemble the Fridge

26. Slide the support bracket into place and push it upward.
27. Use the 1/4-inch nut driver to secure the bracket with three screws.
28. Reconnect the LED plug by pushing both ends together.
29. Reinstall the panel by hooking the three tabs into the upper bracket, sliding it in, and pushing it up.
30. Secure the panel with the 1/4-inch nut driver and two screws.
31. Insert the water filter with the arrow pointing up.
32. Align the plastic dot with the cutout and turn the filter clockwise until it locks.
33. Close the water filter compartment.
34. Reinstall the glass shelves by placing the back into the hooks and lowering the front.
35. Close both refrigerator doors.

Restore Power and Water

36. Plug the refrigerator back into the power outlet.
37. Turn the water supply back on.
38. Check for leaks or loose connections around the reservoir area.
39. Allow the refrigerator to cool down and the water system to refill before using it.

Also Read: How to replace Whirlpool fridge water reservoir W11168758

Tips for Maintaining the New Water Reservoir

After replacing the reservoir, good maintenance helps keep the system running well and avoids early wear.

• Replace the water filter regularly according to the manufacturer’s recommendations
• Run several cups of water through the system after replacement to clear the air and debris
• Check for leaks around connections after installation
• Wipe any moisture near the tubing or fittings to spot slow leaks early
• Clean the area inside the fridge where the reservoir is located to avoid mold or bacteria growth
• Use only compatible replacement parts when future repairs are needed
• Avoid over-tightening fittings, which can lead to cracking or leaks

Final Thoughts

Swapping out the water reservoir in your Whirlpool fridge might look like a big task at first, but breaking it into smaller steps makes it more manageable. When you have the tools ready and follow the process carefully, you can solve issues like leaking water, strange tastes, or weak water flow without much trouble.

After the replacement, keeping things in good shape is important. Change the water filter on time, check the connections for leaks, and clean the area where the reservoir sits. These small actions help the fridge keep running well and the water stay clean.