Ice Maker Not Working
Likely causes
- ✓Frozen or kinked water supply line
- ✓Faulty water inlet valve
- ✓Failed ice maker module
- ✓Blocked or frosted-over freezer air vent
- ✓Clogged inline water filter
The short answer: the cause is usually upstream of the ice maker itself. A frozen or kinked water line, or a clogged water filter, are the most common reasons.
Hard water scale can slow the fill valve too.
What usually causes it
- Frozen or kinked water line. Water can’t reach the ice maker.
- Faulty inlet valve. It may not open to fill the mold.
- Failed ice maker module. The heater or motor can burn out.
- Frosted freezer air vent. Warm air can keep ice from freezing.
- Clogged filter or hard-water scale. Flow slows, and cubes are small or hollow.
What you can check yourself
- Check that it’s switched on. The wire arm should be down and the bin not jammed full.
- Check the freezer temperature. It should be about 0°F or ice won’t form.
- Break up frozen clumps. Empty the bin and clear ice fused to the ice maker.
- Check the water line. Make sure the supply valve is open and the line isn’t kinked behind the fridge.
- Replace the filter if it’s overdue. A clogged filter or hard-water scale gives slow or tiny cubes.
How to prevent it
- Replace the filter on schedule.
- Keep the freezer around 0°F.
- Use the ice regularly so it doesn’t clump.
When to call a technician
Call us if:
- Water reaches the unit but no ice forms
- The freezer is cold, but the ice maker stays empty
- The ice maker keeps jamming or leaking
These repairs involve live voltage, gas or hidden parts, so we recommend leaving them to a professional.
Service call: $89, waived when you go ahead with the repair. Warranty: 90 days on every repair.
Frequently asked questions
Why did my ice maker stop making ice?
Usually the water supply, the filter or the fill valve. The ice maker itself fails less often.
Why are my ice cubes small or hollow?
Low water flow, often from a clogged filter or hard-water scale.
Should I replace the whole ice maker?
Not until the water flow and electrical signal have been tested. It's one of the pricier parts.
This is one of the issues covered under our Refrigerator Repair service.