Symptoms
- Ice cubes are noticeably smaller than normal
- Cubes appear hollow or cloudy
- Ice production has slowed down along with the smaller size
- Ice maker cycles normally but yields less ice per batch
Likely causes
- CommonClogged or overdue water filterReduced water flow through an aging filter means less water fills the ice tray each cycle.
- CommonPartially closed water supply valveLow water pressure from a valve that isn't fully open limits how much water reaches the ice maker.
- PossibleKinked or partially frozen water lineA partial blockage lets some water through but not a full fill each cycle.
- PossibleLow household water pressureIf overall home water pressure is low, the ice maker may not get a full fill even with everything else working.
What to do
- Replace the water filter, since an old or clogged filter is the most common cause of reduced ice size.
- Check the water shutoff valve behind the fridge and make sure it's fully open, not just cracked open.
- Inspect the water line for kinks where it runs behind or under the fridge.
- Check for partial freezing in the line inside the freezer wall by feeling for a cold or icy section.
- Test your home's general water pressure at a nearby faucet to rule out a house-wide low-pressure issue.
- Run several ice-making cycles after fixing the filter or valve, since it can take a few cycles to see full-size cubes again.
- If cube size doesn't improve after these checks, the water inlet valve itself may be partially failing and restricting flow.
Tools and parts
Refrigerator water filterSearch: “refrigerator replacement water filter”
Refrigerator water inlet valveSearch: “refrigerator water inlet valve”
When to call a pro
If a new filter and a fully open valve don't restore normal cube size, a technician can test the water inlet valve for a partial failure.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.