Raleigh

Ice Maker Not Working: What to Do and How to Find the Cause

Home Blog Ice Maker Not Working.
Ice Maker Not Working.
calendarAugust 7, 2025

Why Ice Maker Problems Occur

Ice maker issues are frustrating, especially when you rely on it daily. Modern refrigerators with built-in ice machines offer convenience until one day the ice production stops. The cause may be as simple as a clogged water filter or as complex as a cooling failure. While some problems are easy to troubleshoot, others may require professional assistance.

Most Common Malfunctions and How to Fix Them

Ice maker does not produce ice

This is the most common problem. A refrigerator ice maker not making ice often means no water is getting into the unit. Reasons may include a clogged filter, frozen water line, low water pressure, or a faulty valve. Replacing the filter or defrosting the water line may help. If not, the issue might involve the ice maker water inlet valve or internal cooling. In that case, call a technician.

Ice is not dispensing

If the ice is being made but not dispensing, the issue could be ice stuck in the chute or a jammed ice maker auger. Warm air entering the chute can cause the cubes to melt and refreeze as a block. Manually removing the blockage might help temporarily, but if the ice dispenser motor does not turn, professional repair is likely needed.

Ice is too small or hollow

Small ice cubes usually mean the water pressure is too low. This can be caused by an old filter, a kinked water line, or a faulty water valve. Most ice makers require at least 20 psi for proper filling. If you suspect a pressure problem, it’s best to have a specialist test the system.

Unpleasant smell or taste in ice

Bad tasting ice is often caused by bacteria, mold, or old ice sitting in the bin too long. Try discarding the old ice and cleaning the ice maker compartment. If the problem persists, the unit may need a deep cleaning. Persistent odors or contamination may indicate that it's time to replace the ice maker.

Ice maker makes noise or clicks

Loud ice maker noises like clicking or grinding may signal mechanical issues such as broken gears, a stuck ejector arm, or an ice maker fan hitting ice buildup. A defrost may help temporarily, but unusual sounds often point to components that need replacement.

Ice maker is leaking

Water leaking from the ice maker is often the result of a stuck or malfunctioning valve. Delayed shutoff allows water to overflow the tray. Another reason could be a cracked mold or misaligned parts. This type of issue is difficult to fix without replacing components.

Ice maker is completely frozen

Frozen ice maker problems typically result from warm moist air entering the ice compartment or a failed defrost system. The ice grows around the unit, eventually blocking the ice tray. A 24-hour defrost might restore function, but if the unit freezes again, airflow, seals, or sensors may need attention.

Unable to reset the ice maker

Some users press the reset button but see no results. This may indicate a software error in the ice maker module, a failed sensor, or an issue with the control board. Some models require a full power reset, while others may need a service-level diagnostic reset.

Conclusion

Although the ice maker assembly may seem like a simple device, it relies on multiple factors: water supply, air flow, temperature, and sensor feedback. Many issues require tools, technical knowledge, and sometimes manufacturer-specific replacement parts. Trying to fix complex problems without experience often leads to more damage and higher costs.

Swift Appliance Repair is a trusted provider of professional appliance repair services. We have years of hands-on experience fixing ice maker problems in all major brands. Our team will diagnose the issue accurately and restore your ice maker to full function. Save time, avoid mistakes, and let the experts handle it the right way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my ice maker not making ice?
+
If your ice maker has stopped producing ice entirely, the most likely causes are a blocked water filter, low water pressure, or a frozen inlet line. We often see this when the filter hasn’t been changed in over six months or if the valve is partially closed. In some cases, the internal temperature may be too high for ice to form. Start with the basics: check water supply, replace the filter, and confirm freezer temperature is below 10°F. If none of that helps, the problem may be inside the cooling or valve system.
How do I fix an ice maker that makes ice but does not dispense?
+
When ice builds up but won’t dispense, the issue is usually mechanical. Ice clumps can jam the auger or block the chute. We recommend emptying the bin and checking for fused cubes. If the motor does not activate or you hear clicking without movement, the auger motor may have failed. These components are replaceable, but accessing them can be complex depending on the model.
Why are my ice cubes small or hollow?
+
Small or hollow cubes indicate that the ice maker is not receiving enough water. The root cause is often low household water pressure or a filter that is overdue for replacement. Water entering the mold in short bursts produces undersized cubes that melt quickly. We check for proper pressure (20–30 psi minimum), clear flow through the filter, and correct valve operation. If all systems check out, the fill timer or sensor could be at fault.
Why does my ice taste or smell bad?
+
Unpleasant odors or strange tastes in ice almost always come from neglected cleaning or stale ice. Mold, food odors, and mineral buildup can all be absorbed into the ice if the compartment is not cleaned regularly. We recommend throwing out all old ice, sanitizing the ice bin and tray with food-safe cleaner, and replacing the water filter. If the problem persists, there may be microbial growth inside the internal tubing or mold - something best handled by a technician
What causes ice maker to make noise or click?
+
Unusual sounds such as clicking, knocking, or grinding typically mean something is stuck or misaligned. The most common causes are a jammed ejector arm, broken drive gears, or ice interfering with the fan. We often find that repeated cycling without proper ejection causes strain on the motor. If you hear consistent noises without ice being produced or dispensed, stop using the unit and schedule an inspection to avoid more damage.
Why is my ice maker leaking water?
+
Water leaks from an ice maker usually result from a defective inlet valve or misaligned tray. If the valve fails to close completely, water keeps flowing into the mold and overflows. This is not something that can be reliably fixed without replacing the faulty part. Another common issue is the unit being out of level, causing water to spill over one edge. Always check leveling before assuming a hardware failure.
Why is my ice maker completely frozen?
+
When the entire ice maker freezes over, the unit typically suffers from poor air circulation or a defrost system failure. Another possibility is warm air entering through gaps in the compartment, causing moisture to freeze rapidly. We frequently see this happen in models with known insulation issues. Defrosting the unit may offer temporary relief, but sealing gaps and testing fan operation are usually required to prevent recurrence
How do I reset my ice maker?
+
To reset most modern ice makers, locate the reset button near the ice tray and press it for 5 to 10 seconds until a tone sounds. If your model doesn’t have a button, unplug the refrigerator for a full minute, then power it back on. A successful reset reinitializes the ice-making cycle, which may take several hours to resume production. If nothing changes after a reset, the control board or sensor may need attention
How often should I clean my ice maker?
+
We recommend cleaning the ice maker every 6 to 12 months, depending on usage. Regular cleaning prevents mold, bad odors, and mineral scale buildup. Use a soft cloth with a food-safe cleaner to wipe down the bin and mold area. In hard water regions, more frequent maintenance may be necessary to prevent deposits that restrict water flow and lead to malfunctions
Is it worth repairing an ice maker myself or should I call a pro?
+
Some minor issues like replacing a water filter or defrosting a frozen line can be done at home. But diagnosing electrical faults, valve failures, or cooling issues requires tools and training. In our experience, DIY attempts often result in broken components or misdiagnosis, costing more in the long run. If you're unsure about the cause or already tried basic steps with no result, it's time to call a professional
(984) 400-9341
We are working on your request, and soon our manager will contact you. Thank you for your understanding!