Freezers & ice makers

Ice maker not making ice at all

This is almost always a water supply problem or a shut-off setting, not a broken ice maker. Checking the shutoff arm, water line, and freezer temperature fixes most cases.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
15–30 minutes plus 24 hour wait
DIY cost
$10–$50
Pro cost
$150–$300

Symptoms

  • No new ice appears over a day or more
  • Bin is empty and stays empty
  • Ice maker arm or switch may be in off position
  • No sound of water filling the tray

Likely causes

  • CommonIce maker turned off or arm/switch in off positionMany models pause production if the wire arm is raised or the power switch is off, sometimes bumped by accident.
  • CommonFreezer too warmIce makers usually need the freezer at 0–5F to cycle; a warmer freezer can stop production entirely.
  • CommonFrozen or shut water supply lineA kinked line or closed valve behind the fridge stops water from reaching the ice maker.
  • PossibleClogged water filterAn old or clogged filter restricts flow enough that the fill cycle fails.
  • Less commonFailed water inlet valve or ice maker moduleThe valve or control module can fail electrically and needs testing by a technician.

What to do

  1. Confirm the ice maker's power switch or wire arm is in the on/down position.
  2. Check the freezer thermometer or display; it should read 0–5F, and give it 24 hours after any adjustment.
  3. Make sure the water supply valve behind the fridge or under the sink is fully open.
  4. Look behind the fridge for a kinked or frozen water line and gently warm a frozen section with a hair dryer on low.
  5. Replace the water filter if it has not been changed in the last 6 months.
  6. Listen for a fill sound (a few seconds of running water) during a cycle; if you hear nothing, the valve may not be opening.
  7. If everything checks out and it still won't fill after 24–48 hours, the water inlet valve or ice maker module likely needs replacement.

Tools and parts

  • Thermometer
  • Hair dryer
  • Flashlight
Refrigerator water filterSearch: “refrigerator water filter replacement”
Ice maker water inlet valveSearch: “refrigerator ice maker water inlet valve”

When to call a pro

If the switch, temperature, and water supply are all fine and it still won't make ice after a couple of days, call an appliance technician to test the inlet valve and ice maker module.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.