Knowing how to do a few simple household repairs can extend the life of your appliances while saving you money. Today, we are going to teach you the simple steps that you need to know to replace the dispenser micro switch on your refrigerator. At first glance, this may seem as if it is a complicated repair; however, with our help you can quickly replace your micro-switch with only a few common household tools.

Step 1: Tools Needed

• New Micro-switch
• Small flat-blade screwdriver
• Putty knife
• Duct tape

Step 2: Shut Off the Power

Anytime you are working with electrical currents, it is important to disconnect the appliance from the power source to ensure the safety of everyone in your workspace. Before you get started, simply pull the plug. Now, you are ready to begin.

Step 3: Remove the Drip Tray

With the power off, you will first begin your repair by removing the drip tray located at the bottom of the dispenser. To protect the finish, you may wrap the putty knife using a layer of duct tape. Then, place your putty knife just beneath the escutcheon and use a pull-down and out motion to remove it from its spot. As you do so, you will notice it is attached with several spots on the bottom and hooks at the top. Therefore, you will need to start at the bottom and tilt it up before pulling it out.

Once you have removed the drip tray, you will be able to see the five-pin plug that provides power to the switches. Simply disconnect this plug and set it to the side before moving forward.

Step 4: Take Out the Old Micro-Switch

With the drip tray and plug out of the way, you now have access to the micro-switches. You will notice they are being held in place by plastic tabs that have a hook on the end. Begin by pulling that hook off of the switch. Then, wiggle it over to the side. After removing it from the posts on which it is mounted, you will be able to pull it out. Use your flat-blade screwdriver to pry off the wire connector. Then, you can throw away the old switch.

Step 5: Install the New Switch

Working in reverse of the previous steps, you will then take your new switch and slide on the wire connector. When doing so, make sure it has a nice and tight fit. Then, carefully rotate that into position while making sure to line up the two diagonal holes located on the switch with the two plastic posts. Next, push it over so that you engage the locking caps. Finally, make sure to tuck all of the wires out of the way.

Step 6: Reconnect the Switches

With the new micro-switch in place, you can now reconnect the harness connector. Start by making sure the locking tab engages with that and slide it in just beneath the handle. Next, lift it up so that it is just above the dispenser housing. Tap it while pushing on the bottom to lock it in place.

Step 7: Finish Up

Now that you have successfully installed your micro-switch and connected the power, you are ready to replace the drip tray and plug it in to its power source. If you need a new micro switch when your refrigerator's water dispenser or ice maker stops working check out, http://www.partselect.com/Repair/Refrigerator/Not-Dispensing-Water/.