Whirlpool KRBR109ESS Modular Ice Maker Kit Installation Guide

Whirlpool KRBR109ESS Modular Ice Maker Kit

Product Information

Specifications

• Model Number: W11518243B
• Installation Guide: Included
• Tools Required: Regular screwdriver, Phillips screwdriver, 7/16 and 1/2 open-end wrenches (or an adjustable wrench), pliers, 1/4 nut driver, level, ruler, electric screwdriver
• Compatibility: Refrigerator-freezer
• Water Line Connection: 1/4 (O.D.) copper tubing

Components
The following components are included in the Ice Maker Kit:

• Ice Maker
• Water Valve
• Water Supply Connectors
• Installation Guide

Important Information

• Your safety and the safety of others are very important. Please read and obey all safety messages provided in this manual and on your appliance.
• The safety alert symbol is used to draw attention to potential hazards. All safety messages will follow this symbol and either the word DANGER or WARNING. DANGER signifies an immediate risk of death or serious injury if instructions are not followed, while WARNING signifies a risk of death or serious injury if instructions are not followed.

Before You Begin
Prior to installation, gather the required tools and parts listed below:

• Regular screwdriver
• Phillips screwdriver
• 7/16 and 1/2 open-end wrenches (or an adjustable wrench)
• Pliers
• 1/4 nut driver
• Level
• Ruler
• Electric screwdriver

Installation Notes
For each set of steps shown, refer to the accompanying diagram for clarification. Pay attention to labels A, B, or C, which are referenced in associated steps. Additionally, some illustrations may contain DETAILS, which are indicated by bubbles alongside the larger illustration.

Product Usage Instructions

1. Step 1: Requesting Assistance or Service
   If you need assistance or service, please contact your dealer or call the Whirlpool Experience Centre toll-free at 1-800-253-1301, available 24 hours a day.

2. Step 2: Important Information
   It is crucial to carefully read and understand the important information provided in the installation guide. Your safety and the safety of others should always be prioritized. All safety messages should be followed without exception.

3. Step 3: Before You Begin
   Gather all the required tools and parts mentioned earlier before starting the installation process. Ensure that you have the necessary screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, nut driver, level, ruler, and electric screwdriver.

4. Step 4: Tools
   Use the appropriate tools for each step. Follow the instructions provided with the tools if necessary.

5. Step 5: Installation Notes
   Refer to the diagrams and accompanying text for clarification on each step. Pay attention to labels A, B, or C, as well as any additional details provided in bubbles alongside the illustrations.

6. Step 6: Installing the Ice Maker
   Follow the instructions provided in the installation guide to properly install the ice maker in your refrigerator-freezer.

7. Step 7: Making Preparations
   Before proceeding with the installation, make the necessary preparations as specified in the installation guide.

8. Step 8: Mounting the Water Valve
   Refer to the installation guide for instructions on mounting the water valve.

9. Step 9: Mounting the Ice Maker
   Follow the instructions in the installation guide to mount the ice maker in the appropriate location.

10. Step 10: Connect the Water Supply
    Use 1/4 (O.D.) copper tubing to connect the ice maker to the water line. Do not use polyethylene tubing. Refer to the installation guide for detailed instructions.

11. Step 11: Connecting the Power/Leveling the Unit
    Connect the power to the ice maker and ensure that it is properly leveled. Follow the instructions in the installation guide for guidance.

12. Step 12: Starting the Ice Maker
    Once all the previous steps are completed, start the ice maker according to the instructions provided in the installation guide.

13. Step 13: Troubleshooting
    If you encounter any issues with the ice maker, refer to the troubleshooting section in the installation guide for possible solutions.

14. Step 14: Operational Notes
    Read and understand the operational notes provided in the installation guide to ensure proper usage of the ice maker.

15. Step 15: Troubleshooting Chart
    If you continue to experience problems, refer to the troubleshooting chart in the installation guide for further assistance.

FAQ

• Q: Can I use piercing-type or 3/16 shut-off valves?
  A: No, it is not recommended to use piercing-type or 3/16 shut-off valves as they can reduce the water flow to the ice maker and are prone to clogging.

• Q: Can I use polyethylene tubing to connect the ice maker?
  A: No, only use 1/4 (O.D.) copper tubing to connect the ice maker to the water line. Polyethylene tubing should not be used.

• Q: Is customer installation warranted by the refrigerator or ice maker manufacturer?
  A: No, customer installation is not warranted by the refrigerator or ice maker manufacturer. Please follow the installation guide carefully and observe all safety instructions.

Important Information

The following information is used throughout this installation Guide. Read it carefully so you are familiar with it.

• Your safety and the safety of others are very important.
• We have provided many important safety messages in this manual and on your appliance. Always read and obey all safety messages.
• This is the safety alert symbol.
  • This symbol alerts you to potential hazards that can kill or hurt you and others.
  • All safety messages will follow the safety alert symbol and either the word “DANGER” or “WARNING.” These words mean:
• DANGER You can be killed or seriously injured if you don’t immediately follow instructions.
• WARNING You can be killed or seriously injured if you don’t follow instructions.

All safety messages will tell you what the potential hazard is, tell you how to reduce the chance of injury, and tell you what can happen if the instructions are not followed.

• This Installation Guide gives you complete instructions on how to install the Ice Maker Kit in your refrigerator-freezer and connect a water line to it. Please read the guide thoroughly and follow the instructions exactly as described. Also, make sure that you observe all of the “safety” instructions.
• IMPORTANT: A qualified service technician must install the water line and ice maker.
• Before you start to install your Ice Maker Kit, you will have to purchase a copper tubing kit that contains a “Regular Valve and Clamp Assembly” (for refrigerators with an automatic ice maker, or self-filling trays). The kit contains all of the hardware necessary to connect your ice maker to the water supply. You can purchase one at most hardware or plumbing supply stores.
• NOTE: Do not use piercing-type, or 3/16″ shut-off valves. They reduce the flow of water to the ice maker, and are easily clogged. Do not use polyethylene tubing to connect the ice maker to the water line. Use only 1/4″ (O.D.) copper tubing.
• CUSTOMER INSTALLATION IS NOT WARRANTED BY THE REFRIGERATOR OR ICE MAKER MANUFACTURER.

Before You Begin

Tools
Gather required tools and parts before starting installation. Read and follow the instructions provided with any tools listed here.

1. Regular screwdriver
2. Phillips screwdriver
3. 7/16″ and 1/2″ open-end wrenches (or an adjustable wrench)
4. Pliers
5. 1/4″ nut driver
6. Level
7. Ruler
8. Electric screwdriver

Components

• Remove the contents from the shipping carton and set them on a table where they can be easily identified and located.
• Do not discard any of the packing material until all required parts are identified.

Installation notes

• For each set of steps shown, refer to the diagram immediately beside or below the text for clarification. Some illustrations may contain labels A, B, or C, which are referenced in associated steps. Some illustrations also contain “DETAILS.” DETAILS are contained in bubbles alongside the larger illustration.
• Install the parts as instructed in each step and corresponding illustration.

Installing the Ice Maker

Making preparations

1. Pull the refrigerator away from the wall so that you can easily access the rear panel.

2. WARNING

3. Electrical Shock Hazard

4. Disconnect power before installing ice maker.

5. Failure to do so can result in death or electrical shock.

6. Unplug Refrigerator or disconnect power.

7. Open the freezer door and remove all of the food items from inside the freezer compartment.

8. Remove all baskets, shelves, ice cube trays, and the ice cube tray holder (if necessary, refer to your User Guide for the procedure). Set these items aside.
   NOTE: The work areas are shown below.

9. Remove the water connection cover from the back freezer wall by inserting a flat blade screwdriver into each of the slots on the face of the cover and prying off.

10. If present, locate tube inlet sticker on the back of the unit and remove. Cut through any tape under the sticker.

11. Insert the fill tube through the hole in the back of the unit with the spout facing down.

12. Install water line cover over the fill tube using two of the 5/8″ screws provided in the kit. An electric screwdriver may be used.

Mounting the Water Valve
NOTE: When using this kit to replace an existing ice maker or valve, the new valve and the new ice maker from this kit must both be used.

1. Remove valve cover screw (A) using 1/4″ nut driver. Retain screw. Detach harness from the inner side of cover by removing the clip. Discard cover.

2. Remove 6-9 screws (B) from rear panel. Remove strain relief from slot (C). Remove panel.

3. Locate the 2-pin water valve connector inside the machine compartment. Determine which of the two included water valves has the appropriate connection to mate with this connector. Discard the other water valve.

4. Insert top of valve chosen in step (3) through slot in rear panel, then rotate so the bracket is flat against the panel.

5. Assure water valve bracket is placed into retainer tab (A) and secure to panel with screw (B) removed in step 1.

6. Slide water line guide into rear panel slot below valve, as shown in illustration.

7. Insert water line from fill tube into water line guide opening. Loop tube under the bottom of rear panel and insert into
   water valve nozzle.
   NOTE: Make sure tube is fully inserted into valve, past the first marking on the tube.

8. Pull excess water line tubing taut against the U-channel (A) in the water line guide.

9. Snap plastic shield over water valve nozzle.

10. Plug connector from the refrigerator machine compartment into connector/terminals on the water valve.

11. Insert strain relief clip on power cord back into slot in rear panel and reinstall panel using 6-9 screws removed in step 2 (refer to illustration in step 2 for screw locations B and strain relief location C).

12. Secure excess water line tubing to cabinet with small plastic adhesive clip included in ice maker kit. Position clip (A) approximately halfway between fill tube and valve.

Mounting the Ice Maker
NOTE: When using this kit to replace an existing ice maker or valve, the new valve and the new ice maker from this kit must both be used.

1. Screw two 5/8″ ice maker mounting screws into upper holes present in left wall of freezer section. Leave head out approximately 3/8″ for the slot in the icemaker hanger to slip over the screws. Remove phillips screw (A) if present and discard.

2. Determine which of the two provided jumper harnesses mates with the connector housing in the back of your freezer. A 5-pin housing requires the jumper with the matching 5-pin plug (A). A 4-pin housing requires the jumper with the matching 4-pin plug (B).

3. Connect the jumper chosen in step 2 to the harness on the ice maker. Confirm the locking fingers snap into place. Route jumper over the guide (A) and through the wire clip (B) on the side of the ice maker.

4. Connect the other end of the jumper to the housing in the back of your freezer, making sure the locking fingers snap in place.

5. Slide ice maker hangers over screws.
   IMPORTANT: Make sure the top of each screw touches the bottom of the hanger on the ice maker (see illustration). This ensures the ice maker is oriented correctly.

6. Tighten down top mounting screws, making sure the hangers remain flush against the screws as the screws are tightened. Insert remaining mounting screw into bottom of ice maker and tighten.
   Note: The top front screw is slightly lower than the rear screw, so the ice maker should tilt slightly so that water flows from the fill cup.

7. Confirm water fill tube is aligned with the fill cup on the ice maker. If needed, loosen mounting screws to correct alignment of ice maker with fill tube, then repeat steps 5-6.

8. Route ice maker wire harness and jumper away from moving parts and fill tube. Confirm the bail arm can move freely between the lowered and horizontal positions.

9. Install air diverter by inserting 2 tabs into openings (A) in freezer air grille then snapping the clip into slot (B).

10. If your ice maker has an ON / OFF rocker switch, flip the switch to the OFF (O) position until water connection is complete.

11. If your ice maker does not have a rocker switch, raise wire shut-off arm to the OFF (up) position until water connection is complete.

Connect the Water Supply

Read all directions before you begin.

IMPORTANT:

• Connect to potable water supply only.

• Do not use with water that is microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality without adequate disinfection before or after the system. Systems certified for cyst reduction may be used on disinfected waters that may contain filterable cysts.

• Plumbing must be installed in accordance with the International Plumbing Code and any local codes and ordinances.

• Copper and PEX tubing connections from the household water line to the refrigerator are acceptable and will help avoid off-taste or odor in your ice or water. Check for leaks.

• If PEX tubing is used instead of copper, we recommend the following part numbers: W10505928RP (7 ft [2.14 m] jacketed PEX), 8212547RP (5 ft [1.52 m] PEX), or W10267701RP
  (25 ft [7.62 m] PEX).

• Install tubing only in areas where temperatures will remain above freezing.

Tools Needed:
Gather the required tools and parts before starting installation.

• Flat-blade screwdriver
• 7/16″ and 1/2″ open-end wrenches or 2 adjustable wrenches
• 1/4″ nut driver

NOTE: Do not use a piercing-type or 3/16″ (4.76 mm) saddle valve, which reduces water flow and clogs easier.

Connect to Water Line
IMPORTANT: If you have turned the refrigerator on before the water was connected, turn off the ice maker.

1. Unplug refrigerator or disconnect power.

2. Turn off main water supply. Turn on nearest faucet long enough to reduce water pressure in the water line.

3. Use a quarter-turn shut-off valve or the equivalent, served by a 1/2″ household supply line.
   NOTE: To allow sufficient water flow to the refrigerator, a minimum 1/2″ (12.7 mm) size household supply line is recommended.

4. Now you are ready to connect the copper tubing to the shut-off valve. Use 1/4″ (6.35 mm) O.D. (outside diameter) soft copper tubing to connect the shut-off valve and the refrigerator.

5. Ensure that you have the proper length needed for the job. Be sure both ends of the copper tubing are cut square.

6. Slip compression sleeve and compression nut onto copper tubing as shown. Insert end of tubing into outlet end squarely as far as it will go. Screw compression nut onto outlet end with adjustable wrench. Do not overtighten.

7. Place the free end of the tubing into a container or sink and turn on main water supply to flush out tubing until water is clear. Turn off shut-off valve on the water pipe.
   NOTE: Always drain the water line before making the final connection to the inlet of the water valve to avoid possible water valve malfunction.

8. Bend the copper tubing to meet the water line inlet, located on the back of the refrigerator cabinet as shown. Leave a coil of copper tubing to allow the refrigerator to be pulled out of the cabinet or away from the wall for service.

Connect to Refrigerator
Follow the connection instructions specific to your model.

1. Remove plastic cap from water valve inlet port. Attach the copper tubing to the valve inlet using a compression nut and sleeve as shown. Tighten the compression nut. Do not overtighten. Confirm copper tubing is secure by pulling on copper tubing.
2. Create a service loop with the copper tubing. Avoid kinks when coiling the copper tubing. Secure copper tubing to the rear panel with a “P” clamp, using the original screw in the panel slot above the valve.
3. Turn on water supply to refrigerator and check for leaks. Correct any leaks.

Connecting the power/Leveling the unit

WARNING

• Electrical Shock Hazard
• Plug into a grounded 3 prong outlet.
• Do not remove ground prong.
• Do not use an adapter.
• Do not use an extension cord.
• Failure to follow these instructions can result in death, fire, or electrical shock.

1. Plug the power cord into its AC outlet, and push the refrigerator back against the wall.
2. Place a level on top of the refrigerator cabinet. If you need to relevel, follow the procedure outlined in your refrigerator’s User Guide.

Starting the Ice Maker

1. If freezer basket does not already have a Shut-Off Arm Lift, install the one included with the kit to the back of the basket.
2. Reinstall the freezer baskets into the freezer compartment (if necessary, refer to your User Guide for the procedure).
3. Wash out the ice pan, then place in the upper basket, directly under the ice maker. Slide the pan as far back as it will go.
4. If ice maker has an ON/OFF switch, move the rocker switch to the ON (I) position. Close the freezer door.
5. If your ice maker does not have a rocker switch, lower wire shut-off arm to the ON (down) position and close the freezer door.

NOTE: Usually it takes approximately 24 hours for the ice maker to begin producing ice. Once ice is available, you may notice that it has an “off- taste”. If this happens, make two or three batches of ice and discard them. After that the “off-taste” should be gone. If you have any problem, refer to “Troubleshooting” section.

Troubleshooting

Operational notes
The Ice Maker valve contains a flow washer that acts like a pressure regulator to control the water flow. For the Ice Maker to work properly, the water pressure in your home must be between 20 pounds per-square-inch (psi) and 120 pounds per-square-inch (psi). If you encounter problems with your Ice Maker’s ability to produce ice, call your water utility company and have the water pressure checked.

Troubleshooting chart
The following chart lists several common problems that could occur with your Ice Maker.

One or more of the following sounds is heard:

• Buzzing
• Trickling water
• Thud (clatter of ice)

| The water valve is operating.
Ice is being dumped into the ice bin.
Ice tastes stale.| The ice is old. Make a new batch.
Water in Ice Maker overflows.| Refrigerator or Ice Maker is not level. If the Ice Maker still overflows after leveling, turn off the Ice Maker’s water supply at the shut-off valve and turn the switch “off”; then contact your local service center.
Not enough ice.| It will take 72 hours to fill the ice bucket. The ice maker will make ice every 2 hours to 3 hours. For more ice, adjust the freezer control for a colder setting.
Ice making has stopped.|

• Make sure that the water valve is Open.
• The water valve screen is clogged (contact your local service)

Not making ice| Make sure the rocker switch is ON (I) or the wire shut-off arm is in lowered (ON) position.

®/™ ©2023 Whirlpool. All rights reserved. Used under license in Canada.

Documents / Resources

| Whirlpool KRBR109ESS Modular Ice Maker Kit [pdf] Installation Guide
KRBR109ESS Modular Ice Maker Kit, KRBR109ESS, Modular Ice Maker Kit, Ice Maker Kit, Maker Kit, Kit
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