When you find your refrigerator ice maker not working on a hot day it seems like a major malfunction. But before you call for a repair, there are some common problems that can have simple DIY solutions. We’ll review what to do when your ice maker isn’t making or dispensing ice or is producing the wrong size cubes.
Common Problems and Solutions For a Refrigerator Ice Maker Not Working
Regardless of your model refrigerator, ice makers typically work in similar ways to produce and dispense ice. We’ll troubleshoot an ice maker not working correctly, streamlining how to diagnose and fix the problem.
Refrigerator Ice Maker Not Making Any Ice
Often, a complete lack of ice can be due to the temperature of your freezer. If the freezer isn’t cold enough, the ice maker won’t produce ice. If the freezer temperature is above 10 degrees F, the ice maker won’t produce ice efficiently (or even not at all). Ensure your freezer is set between 0 and 5 degrees.
In other instances, a refrigerator ice maker not working at all may have a clogged water line. These clogs are typically made up of frozen water inside the line. Follow these steps to remove the clog and restore ice production:
- Slide the refrigerator away from the wall and unplug it
- Turn off your home’s water valve
- Pour warm water or hold a hairdryer over the water line to defrost any ice buildup
- Plug the refrigerator in and relocate it to its original position
- Turn on the water valve
Refrigerator Ice Maker Cubes Too Small (or Big)
Sometimes ice cubes from your ice maker may be too small or too large. A few reasons your ice cubes are too small include:
- Restricted water valve on your refrigerator (this usually requires a professional repair)
- Inadequate water pressure (ice makers require 15 lbs pressure)
- Clogged refrigerator water filter (change your filter every 6 months)
If you notice that ice cubes are too large, the water valve might be passing too much water to the ice maker. In this case, it is recommended that you schedule professional ice maker repair.
Refrigerator Ice Maker Not Dispensing Ice
A refrigerator ice maker not dispensing ice can have several possible causes. Here are the most likely possibilities:
- Wire shut off arm is in the off position: if shifting items in the freezer push the arm upwards it will turn off the ice maker. Make sure the wire arm is in the downward position for the ice maker to be on and making ice.
- Part malfunction: If all else fails, it’s possible that the ice maker’s electrical connections are faulty or the motor has malfunctioned. In other instances, the water inlet valve that allows water to flow to the ice maker may be defective. A professional service can best assess and replace these components.
Appliance King of America can help with any ice maker repair. Call us when you find your refrigerator ice maker not working!
