Refrigerator Ice Maker Not Working

3 Reasons Why Your Ice Maker Isn't Working

What more can go wrong? Let's face it, you have guests over or simply want a nice cold drink. So you go to your fridge and ice isn't coming out of the ice dispenser! Not only do Appliance Techs charge a hefty diagnostic fee just to diagnose the problem with your ice maker, but some also charge a hefty trip fee, that's right... just for driving out to your home. What if the part you need to get your ice maker back up and running is half the price quoted by your Tech? Then, that might be a price you're willing to pay.

Here's some helpful advice on diagnosing a very common problem: "Ice Maker Not Working".

Freezer Temperature is Above 10 Degrees Fahrenheit (-12C)

If your freezer temperature is above 10 degrees Fahrenheit (-12C), the ice maker will not produce ice cubes efficiently. The freezer should be set between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit (-18C to -15C), for the fridge's ice maker to work properly. If the freezer temperature is too high, then make sure the condenser coils are clear of any debris and the condenser fan is working properly. Also, check to see if frost has accumulated on the evaporator coils. If the coils are frosted over, part of the defrost system has probably failed.

Defective Water Inlet Valve

The water inlet valve is an electronically-controlled valve that opens to supply water to the dispenser and ice maker. If the water inlet valve is defective, or if it has insufficient pressure, it will not allow water to flow through. Therefore, the ice maker won't make ice. The inlet valve requires at least 20psi to function properly. Check that the water pressure to the inlet valve is at least 20psi. If it is, use a multimeter to check for power to the valve. If the valve has good pressure and is getting power, but the ice maker won't fill with water to make ice, then replace the  water inlet valve.

Defective Ice Maker Assembly

It may be that a single component of the ice maker might be defective. However, most ice maker components aren't sold separately, so you might need to purchase and replace the entire ice maker assembly. Before you decide to replace the entire ice maker, check the water inlet valve, water line, and fan. If none of these parts are faulty, and the freezer temperature is at least 15 degrees Fahrenheit, then replace the  ice maker assembly.