Ice Maker Not Making Ice? Common Causes and What to Check
When a fridge ice maker stops making ice, the cause is often a switch, a warm freezer, a clogged filter or a frozen fill tube. See what to check and when to book a repair.
An ice maker that has stopped making ice usually has a simple cause, such as it being switched off, or a problem with the water supply. Sometimes a part, such as the inlet valve or the ice maker module, has failed.
Most causes come down to a handful of things: the on and off setting, the bin, freezer temperature, the water filter, the fill tube, the inlet valve, the module itself, and water pressure. A few easy checks can narrow it down before you book anyone.
Do not use tools or force to chip ice out of the freezer or fill tube. Sharp tools can puncture parts and lines. Unplug the fridge before moving it, and never open the back or touch internal wiring. Water lines run near power, so keep towels ready for drips and call a technician if you see a leak.
What you can safely check first
- Make sure the ice maker is switched on. Many have a wire arm that must be down, or an on and off switch or button.
- Check the ice bin is fully seated. If it is crooked or not pushed in, the ice maker may think it is full or not run.
- Check the freezer temperature. Ice makes best when the freezer is cold. If it is too warm, ice forms slowly or not at all. Give it a day after any change.
- Look at the water filter. A filter that is old or clogged can reduce flow. Replace it if it is due, or try the bypass plug if your model has one.
- Look for ice clumped in the bin or around the ice maker. Empty and clear the bin with warm water if ice has stuck together.
- Make sure the water supply tap behind the fridge is open and the line is not kinked, if you can see it without pulling the fridge out.
- Wait several hours after changes, because ice makers work in slow cycles.
Common causes
A frozen fill tube
The fill tube carries water to the ice maker. If it freezes, water cannot get through, and the ice maker stays empty or makes small hollow cubes. This often follows a warm freezer, a door left ajar or low water pressure. A technician can thaw it and find the reason.
A clogged or old water filter
Filters slow the flow as they clog. If the water comes out as a trickle or tastes off, the filter may be the culprit. It is a common cause and an easy one to rule out.
A faulty water inlet valve
The inlet valve opens to let water into the fridge. If it fails, the water dispenser may also slow or stop. A technician tests it and replaces it if needed.
A failed ice maker module
The module is the unit that heats, releases and turns out the ice. When it fails, the arm may move but no ice appears, or the ice maker does nothing at all. It is tested before replacement.
Low water pressure
If the home supply is weak or a line is partly blocked, the ice maker may not get enough water to fill the mould. Small, hollow or irregular cubes are one sign.
When to call a technician
Call a technician if the switch is on, the bin is seated, the freezer is cold and the filter is fresh, but there is still no ice. Call also if the water dispenser is weak, ice is leaking or you see water on the floor.
A technician can test the inlet valve, module and water flow, and explain the repair and price before work begins.
Still not working? Book a ice maker repair and tell us the model number and what you have checked.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take for an ice maker to restart?
After a change, give it several hours. Ice makers cycle slowly, so one check may not show results at once.
Why is my ice maker making small or hollow cubes?
That often points to low water flow, such as a clogged filter, a partly frozen fill tube or low supply pressure.
Should I chip the ice away from the ice maker?
No. Sharp tools can damage the parts. Let it thaw safely and call a technician if it keeps freezing.
Does a new water filter fix an ice maker?
It can, if the old one was blocking flow. If nothing changes, the valve or module may be the cause.
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