Symptoms
- Ice cubes fused into one solid mass
- Ice bin feels heavier than usual
- Ice dispenser jams or won't release cubes
- Cubes look frosty or have a wet sheen before freezing solid
Likely causes
- CommonFreezer door left open or opened oftenWarm air causes partial melting, and the ice refreezes together once the door closes.
- CommonIce sitting unused for a long timeOld ice slowly sublimates and clumps even in a stable freezer.
- CommonFreezer temperature set too warmAbove about 5F, ice softens slightly between cycles and refreezes into clumps.
- PossibleHumid air entering from a bad door sealA worn gasket lets moist air in, which frosts and fuses the ice.
- Less commonIce maker overfilling the binA stuck shutoff arm can keep making ice after the bin is full, packing cubes together.
What to do
- Dump out the clumped ice and wash the bin with warm water, then dry it completely.
- Check the freezer temperature and set it to 0–5F if it is warmer.
- Inspect the door gasket for gaps or tears by closing the door on a piece of paper and checking if it slides out easily.
- Make sure the ice bin is seated correctly under the ice maker so the shutoff arm can sense when it is full.
- Avoid leaving the freezer door open for extended periods, and open it only as needed.
- Use ice regularly or empty and refill the bin every couple of weeks if it is not used often.
Tools and parts
- Warm water
- Dish towel
Refrigerator door gasketSearch: “refrigerator freezer door gasket seal”
When to call a pro
If clumping continues with a good seal and correct temperature, have a technician check the ice maker's shutoff sensor and thermostat.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.