A refrigerator ice maker is a handy appliance, but it’s frustrating when it stops working properly. There are a few common reasons why this may happen, and we will go over them in this blog post. We will also provide tips on how to troubleshoot the issue and how to resolve it.
Troubleshooting a Refrigerator Ice Maker That Won’t Make Ice
If your refrigerator ice maker isn’t making ice, these five issues may be to blame.
#1- Check the Freezer Temperature
If the freezer temperature is above 10 degrees Fahrenheit, the ice maker will not produce ice efficiently. For the ice maker to work properly, set the freezer temperature between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit. To adjust the freezer temperature, consult your refrigerator’s user manual.
If the freezer is set to the correct temperature but still not making ice, clear the condenser coils of dust and debris and ensure the fans are working properly. Clean the refrigerator condenser coils every six months to ensure optimal refrigerator performance.
If you have checked the freezer temperature and coils and there doesn’t seem to be an issue, move on to the next step.
#2- Is it Time to Replace Your Water Filter?
A clogged or old water filter can also cause your ice maker to stop working. A water filter should be replaced every six months or sooner, depending on use and water quality. If it has been more than six months since you replaced your water filter, replace it with a new one.
#3- Check for Low Water Pressure in Home
If the refrigerator is connected to a water line, low water pressure can also prevent the ice maker from working properly. The water inlet valve supplies water to the ice and water dispenser and requires a minimum of 20psi to function correctly. If you suspect low water pressure is the issue, you can check the water pressure using a simple test gauge.
To test the water pressure, locate the cold water supply valve behind your refrigerator (consult your refrigerator’s user manual for more specific instructions). Attach the gauge to the valve and open it up all of the way. The gauge should be at least 20psi. If the reading is lower than this, you may have low water pressure. If your home’s water pressure is low, contact a plumber.
#4- Possible Part Failure: Faulty Water Inlet Valve
If the refrigerator is connected to a water line and you’ve ruled out low water pressure, check the water inlet valve. The water inlet valve is an electrically-controlled valve that opens and supplies water to the dispenser and ice maker. If the water inlet valve is defective, it won’t allow water to flow through. This could prevent your ice maker from working.
#5- Possible Part Failure: Faulty Ice Maker Assembly
If you’ve ruled out all other potential issues, the ice maker assembly may be defective. The ice maker assembly is what actually produces the ice and is made up of several intricate components, including the mold tray and shut-off arm. If the ice maker assembly is defective, it will need to be replaced.
If your ice maker still isn’t working, it may be time to call an expert refrigerator ice maker repair specialist. Athen’s Appliance Repair specializes in refrigerator ice maker repair and can help you get your ice maker up and running again in no time!
