My refrigerator water dispenser has a delay when activated. The delay is longer if there has been no use for a while and shorter (or no delay) when it has been used recently. There is no water leak, and the solenoid valve seems to work normally. When a cup is pushed against the lever, it may take 5 - 10 seconds until the valve opens and water is dispensed, vs almost no delay if you fill cups back to back.

Any ideas what the problem is?

Are you sure there is no leak? Sounds like water in the supply tube between the water valve and the dispenser is draining or leaking away. It would take a few seconds for the water to fill up the supply tube, hence the delay.

Positive. No leaks. The line is not draining. There is no solenoid activiation at first. You hear a click, then the valve opens and you get water right away. The delay is in the valve opening. I would think that the contacts are bad, except that the light comes on right away when you hit it with a cup.

That's a better explanation. I'd go with a broken water solenoid valve. There's gunk in the shaft.

I ought 48 air valves for a project and we were not using lubercated air. Nearly all the valves buzzed. All had to be taken apar and cleaned. Culpret: dust

I'll go with KISS. WD40 the valve solenoids.

Xoxo. /|\

I'd agree to clean the valve screen and seat along with a little emory clothe for the plunger.. I never use aerosols too much anymore. Just make sure the valve seats no gunk, junk, or bunk in the screen area and your water line is full. You could take apart the dispenser to clean the contacts too and maybe make sure the area is sealed from air by adding some gum.