If your icemaker is giving you trouble, a simple fix may be what you need to get it working as usual. ice makers are made up of many parts, so there are plenty of reasons why yours may have malfunctioned or stopped working. Here are some of the most common ice maker problems.
Common Ice Maker Problems
Control Arm Out of Position
Many ice makers are equipped with a control arm that activates a pause feature whenever the ice bin is full. If the control arm is inadvertently moved or possibly falls off, that can cause the ice maker functionality. Be sure to check the owner’s manual for details about the pause feature and check that it’s not enabled.
Water Line Is Clogged or Turned Off
You ice maker needs a supply water line to make ice. Check to ensure the water supply valve is not restricted or shut off by a bracket or fastener.
Clogged Filter
Failing to maintain your unit according to manufacturer specifications can result in a clogged filter. Use your owner’s manual to locate the filter and check if it’s plugged with sediment. If the filter is clogged, then it’s time to replace it.
Clogged or Broken Water Inlet Valve
Water inlet valves are typically located behind the refrigerator, but the location depends on the manufacturer. Before troubleshooting the valve, make sure you’ve unplugged the refrigerator and turned off the water supply valve. Once 
you locate the valve, check whether the filter or screen is clogged with debris. You should also check of the line feeding the valve is restricted by a bracket or bulging.
Ice Maker Not Making Ice
When you’ve confirmed that all the items mentioned above are not the cause, you may be dealing with a frozen water line. If you locate a frozen water line, start by unplugging the refrigerator and turning the water supply line off. A simple trick is to defrost the line with a hairdryer. Exercise caution when doing so and always keep the hair dryer above the water source to avoid the risk of an electric shock.
Once you’ve restored the power and turned on the water line, the frozen water should run freely into the ice maker after thawing. If the water is discolored or you don’t hear the water running, consider seeking professional help from an ice maker repair service.
Ice Maker Not Making Enough Ice
If your ice maker is still making ice cube but not as much as it used to before, chances are your line is in the beginning stages of freezing up. Make it a point to check for a frozen line.
Ice Maker Leaking
Your ice maker could be making ice but its leaking water in the freezer or onto the floor.
- Check the water supply line for pinching, damage or kinks
- Make sure the refrigerator is perfectly level
- Ensure the ice maker unit is level
- Check that the fill cup is aligned correctly with the water funnel
Some other common ice maker problems include a frozen ice maker or an ice maker assembly failure. While some issues you can fix on your own it’s always best to hire a professional. If you would like more information of ice maker troubleshooting, All Pro Appliance and Refrigerator Repair have qualified professionals ready to answer any question.
