Icemaker Not Working? Here are Some Possible Solutions.

Can’t seem to get your refrigerator’s icemaker to work? It normally works automatically, without requiring any additional steps by the consumer. However, icemakers may break down and/or stop working over time. If you’re struggling with a faulty icemaker, keep reading for some possible solutions.

 

Icemaker Switch Turned Off

 

I know this probably sounds like common sense to most people, but it’s worth mentioning that a switch accidentally knocked into the “off” position may prevent the icemaker from working. If you haven’t done so already, check to make sure the switch is on. If the switch is on but the icemaker is still not dispersing ice, test the current flow with an Ohm meter to ensure it’s functional.

 

Saddle Valve

 

The saddle valve is a small valve which supplies low-pressure water to the icemaker. It’s typically mounted directly onto the water line, where it “saddles” the copper tubing.

 

If your icemaker turns on but doesn’t produce ice, the saddle valve may be clogged with mineral deposits. As hard water passes through the valve, it will deposit some of the minerals here. Over time, this can lead to buildups that either restrict or prevent the flow of water; thus, resulting in an icmaker that no longer works.

 

Water Filter Clogged

 

A clogged water filter may also prevent an icemaker from doing its job. The filter’s job is to remove impurities from the water before it reaches the icemaker. If the filter is clogged, however, it will restrict the flow of the water. Refer to your refrigerator’s owner manual for more information on how to access and change the water filter.

 

Ice Clumped Together

 

It’s not uncommon for large clumps of ice to form at the bottom of the ice bin, preventing the icemaker from releasing cubes. The weight of the cubes on top places pressure on the bottom cubes, causing them to fuse together. So even if your icemaker turns on, it may not release any ice due to the large clumps formed at the bottom. To prevent this from happening, it’s recommended that you regularly check and discard any fused ice you find inside the bin.

 

Faulty Cube Mold Thermostat

 

Some refrigerators have mold thermostats which monitor the temperature of the ice cube molds. When the molds reach a certain temperature, the icemaker will begin a new cycle by ejecting the current cubes and filling the empty molds with water. A faulty mold thermostat may prevent this action from taking place, resulting in ice cubes stuck inside the mold.