Is your refrigerator ice maker not making ice? It’s essential to keep cool on hot summer days, so you need your ice maker fixed fast. Luckily, you can do some ice maker troubleshooting to find the answer before calling the experts.
Top 4 Ice Maker Troubleshooting Tips
Sometimes, the solution to an ice maker not working is simple. Follow these troubleshooting tips to determine if you can fix the problem yourself, or if a professional is needed:
#1. Ice Maker Isn’t Turned On
The first step in ice maker troubleshooting is to make sure it’s turned on. This may seem like a simple solution, but it’s easy to turn the ice maker off accidentally. If you recently bought groceries or were looking for an item in your freezer, you may have accidentally knocked the ice maker power switch or control arm.
When the control arm is in the “up” position, it’s off. Push it down to turn the ice maker back on. Some ice makers operate using a power switch, so you’ll need to locate the switch and turn it on. However, if the control arm or switch indicates that your ice maker is on, check the ice maker harness to make sure it’s plugged in.
Prevention Tip: Make sure everyone in your household knows how the ice maker operates, and keep an eye on the power switch and control arm position.
#2. Freezer Isn’t Cold Enough
If you find your ice maker not working, it could be your that freezer isn’t cool enough. Internal freezer temperatures should be between 0° and 5° F. The water won’t freeze if the temperature is above 5° F, and your ice maker won’t dispense ice.
Another common reason why your freezer is too warm is due to a dirty or damaged door gasket. If it’s torn or dirty, the freezer door won’t close properly and cold air will escape.
Prevention Tip: Make sure the refrigerator and freezer are set to the manufacturer’s recommended temperature settings. If the door gasket seems to be the problem, replace it if you noticed any cracks, or clean it if it looks grimy.
#3. Refrigerator Water Filter Is Dirty
A dirty water filter is one of the most common causes we see when a refrigerator won’t dispense ice. Most refrigerators have a water filter that removes impurities from your home water supply before it reaches the ice maker. When the filter isn’t changed for long periods, it gets clogged, and you’ll find your ice maker not getting water.
Don’t remember the last time the filter was replaced? It’s probably time. Follow these steps to change your refrigerator water filter if your ice maker troubleshooting leads you to a dirty filter:
- Locate the water filter using your refrigerator’s user manual.
- Depending on your refrigerator model, turn it counterclockwise a quarter turn, or push the release button to remove it.
- Install the new filter by inserting it into the housing and turning it clockwise a quarter turn or pushing it into place.
Prevention Tip: Wondering how often to replace a refrigerator water filter? Manufacturers generally recommend replacing it every six months. However, if your city water quality if bad, replace the filter more often.
#4. Water Supply Line Issues
Sometimes, the cause of an ice maker not making ice is due to an issue with the water line. If your refrigerator and freezer temperatures are set too low, the water can freeze in the water line before it reaches the ice maker.
The water line could also be bent or damaged, which leads to your ice maker not getting water. Pull your refrigerator away from the wall and inspect the water line. If it’s frozen, either unplug the unit to let it defrost, or blow a hair dryer on the line. However, if the water line is damaged, it needs to be replaced.
Prevention Tip: Turn up the refrigerator temperature (as long as it’s within manufacturer temperature recommendations) or consider installing a water line heater.
If all else fails, the ice maker itself is most likely defective. We recommend that you have it tested and replaced by a professional. If you need ice maker repair Frisco services, contact Callahan’s Appliance today.
