With an icemaker, drinking your favorite cold beverages just got easier. Gone are the days of manually refilling ice trays, waiting for the water to freeze and prying out the ice cubes with your fingers. However, that doesn’t mean you won’t run into trouble with an icemaker. Unfortunately, a malfunctioning icemaker is one of the common refrigerator problems homeowners experience.
Is your icemaker not working? Several refrigerator components can be responsible for the problem, including the water filter, water inlet valve and freezer compartment. Before you get too frustrated, here’s a rundown of the possible culprits and how to troubleshoot the issue. If you lack DIY experience, let an appliance repair specialist take over. They have the tools and expertise to get your icemaker up and running again. These pros can also resolve other issues, such as when you’re asking, why is my fridge making a loud noise?
Icemaker Not Working? How to Troubleshoot
Have you been missing your daily iced coffee because of a broken icemaker? Here are the common causes of a malfunctioning icemaker and how to resolve them.
You Have a Clogged Water Filter
Your icemaker has a water filter that works hard to keep contaminants out. However, that means it can become clogged with the particles it collects over time. When that happens, less water makes it to the icemaker, leading to a decrease or complete break in ice production.
First, swap out your old filter every six months to keep things fresh and keep ice production up. Here are some signs you need a filter replacement:
- Unusual-tasting water or ice
- Water dispensing at a slow rate
- Black particles in the water or ice
- A decrease or complete halt in ice production
The Water Inlet Valve Is Defective
If your water filter is clog-free but your icemaker still isn’t working, the water inlet valve might be the reason. This valve opens and closes with the correct pressure level, allowing water to flow to the icemaker. If its pressure is below 20 psi, it can’t deliver the necessary water volume to the icemaker.
You can measure the pressure level in the water inlet valve if you have the equipment. If the reading is at least 20 psi, the pressure is sufficient, and the problem is likely the valve. You might have to replace it to get the icemaker to work again. An appliance repair specialist can do the testing and replacement for you.
The Freezer or Refrigerator Temperature Is Too High
If the temperature setting on your refrigerator or freezer is too high, it can hamper the icemaker’s performance. It can slow down the ice production or result in ice cubes that are too small. It can even shut down ice production altogether.
You can quickly fix this issue by adjusting the temperature settings. Ensure the refrigerator temperature is between 33 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, the freezer should be at 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
The Control Arm Is in the Wrong Position
The icemaker’s control arm tracks the ice level inside the bin, halting ice production when the container hits its limit. It’s a metal or plastic handle on the side or top of the bin. If the control arm is in the off position, loose or broken, your icemaker might stop producing ice.
Fixing this issue can be as simple as switching the control arm to the on position or tightening it if it’s loose. However, you’ll need the help of an appliance repair specialist if it’s broken and needs a replacement.
The Water Inlet Tube Is Frozen
While high temperatures hamper ice production, the temperature setting in your refrigerator and freezer also can’t be too low. Otherwise, you’ll have a frozen water line and no ice cubes for your drinks. This issue can also happen if the insulation around the water line isn’t functioning as it should.
The water line is at the back of the icemaker, so you’d have to remove the icemaker and bin to access it. You can then use warm water or air to unfreeze the water line. While it’s possible to do the job yourself, leave it in the capable hands of a professional. An appliance repair specialist has specialized tools to make the task easier.
There Are Ice Clumps in the Bin or Chute
There’s an auger inside your icemaker bin that breaks up ice clumps to help with dispensing. If you don’t use your icemaker regularly, larger ice chunks might form, which could be too much for the auger to handle. If you hear a loud grinding sound coming from your icemaker and it’s not dispensing, the auger is likely struggling. You can use your hands to break up the ice clumps or remove them altogether.
Another possible reason your icemaker isn’t dispensing is because there are ice clumps in the chute. Sometimes, ice gets lodged in there when they fall at unusual angles. You can try to jiggle them out of there or wait for them to melt.
While some icemaker issues, like incorrect temperature settings and clogged water filters, are easy for homeowners to address, others require professional experience. If you’re dealing with a detective water inlet valve or a broken control arm, don’t hesitate to contact an appliance repair specialist. They will perform the necessary repairs or replacements and have your icemaker churning perfect ice cubes again. These experts can also help fix other frustrating issues like when you’re asking, “My fridge is leaking water: what’s wrong?”
Does Unplugging a Refrigerator Reset the Ice Maker?
Automatic icemakers are a common feature in modern refrigerators, making it much easier for users to enjoy perfect ice cubes. With proper maintenance, they can last up to five years. If yours malfunctions at some point, it’s either a water supply or an electrical issue. The good news is you can usually resolve the latter with a quick reset. It is a straightforward fix with no extra tools needed.
Will unplugging your refrigerator reset the icemaker? Yes, that’s one way to do it. However, resetting might require different steps, depending on the model. You can refer to your refrigerator’s manual for the exact process. Some icemakers must be turned off for a minute and then back on to reset. For others, you must conduct a test cycle by holding down the ice cube size adjustment button for several seconds.
One example of a situation that calls for a reset is when ice cubes have formed in the tray but won’t drop into the bin. The fact that there are ice cubes means there is no water supply issue. However, there might be an electrical problem. First, check if the control arm is in the off position. It’s all too easy to bump it accidentally. If it is, move it to the on position. But it’s time for a reset if it’s already on and the ice cubes still won’t drop.
Another time you should reset your icemaker is if it seems completely dead. Resetting it will reboot the electronic control boards and help bring your icemaker back to life. You can try unplugging the refrigerator or turning off its circuit breaker. Wait for a few minutes, restore the power and see if your icemaker restarts. Check the appliance manual for the exact resetting instructions.
If resetting doesn’t fix your icemaker problem, it’s time to get professional help. There might be a mechanical problem that requires expert skills. An appliance repair specialist will diagnose the issue and fix your icemaker. They can also come in for regular maintenance to keep your icemaker in good working condition. In addition, they can address other issues, including when you notice, “My fridge isn’t cold, but the freezer is.”
How Long Does It Take for an Icemaker to Make Ice After a Reset?
Resetting your icemaker is a quick and easy way to fix an electrical issue. However, ice production will not resume immediately after a reset. You’ll have to be patient because your icemaker might need up to 24 hours to return to work. The icemaker mold must reach 15 degrees Fahrenheit to create the perfect ice cubes again, explaining the delay.
Let an appliance repair specialist help you determine why your icemaker still won’t work after a reset. They’ll inspect your unit and perform the needed repairs and replacements to get it to function again. They can install a new icemaker in your refrigerator and ensure it works seamlessly if necessary.
Let the Pros Handle Your Icemaker Issues
Icemakers make our lives that much more convenient. While they are not essential, it’s hard to go back to ice trays once you’ve experienced the luxury of an icemaker. Unfortunately, they can be prone to electrical and mechanical issues, especially as they age. If yours is acting up and you can’t troubleshoot the problem, let an appliance repair specialist take over. You’ll have perfect ice cubes again in no time.
ABC Can Get Your Icemaker Back in Good Working Condition
If your icemaker isn’t working properly, you can count on the professionals at ABC Home & Commercial Services. Our pros can make all needed appliance repairs, so you can continue enjoying your iced beverages.
