Skip to main content
Product Help | KitchenAid

How to Troubleshoot the Freestanding Ice Maker

How to Troubleshoot the KitchenAid Ice Maker?

If your KitchenAid Ice Maker is not working, use this troubleshooting guide to diagnose common problems.

  • The ice maker turned off. 
  • The ice maker jammed.
  • The water filter needs to be replaced.
  • The water system needs to be flushed.
  • Check the water supply line.

Is the Ice Maker Turned on? 

Lift the wire shutoff arm to the OFF (arm up) position and listen for the click.

Verify that the ice maker is turned on. There are various ice maker types, so please refer to your Owner's Manual for specific instructions for your model. If the ice maker is on, but disconnected from the water supply line, the following could happen:

  • The ice maker will continue to try to make ice, causing a buzzing sound
  • A refrigerator section may be too cold
  • Food in crisper drawers may freeze

Is the Ice Maker Jammed?

First, ensure that ice is not jammed in the ejector arm of the ice maker. Remove jammed ice from the ejector's arm using only a plastic utensil, so the ice maker is not damaged. This will likely resolve the issue. Because the ice may not be completely frozen yet, when the harvest fingers try to harvest the ice cubes, the fingers bring up icy water that attaches to the stripper. This icy water can then freeze on the stripper during the next cycle, causing an ice bridge. This ice bridge will cause the harvest fingers to jam.

Does the water filter need to be replaced?

It is recommended that the KitchenAid water filter be replaced every 6 months, when the indicator light comes on, or as needed. Replacing your water filter regularly helps to ensure a continual supply of cleaner, fresh-tasting drinking water. Depending on your usage and water quality, it may need to be changed more frequently.  A clogged or incorrectly installed water filter can reduce the water flow to the ice maker and dispenser, potentially causing low ice production and a slowed water flow. KitchenAid recommends using everydrop® water filters. Find the right replacement filter for your refrigerator, and make the simple switch for clean water year-round.

Take a look at Does the Water Filter Need to be Replaced?

Was the water filter flushed?

Flushing the system is needed every time the filter is changed or when it is first installed. Flushing your refrigerator water filter is a key step that reduces excess air, prepares the filter for use, and removes excess carbon. Air in the water system may cause dripping at the dispenser, small or hollow ice cubes, or a cloudy appearance in the water quality.  The amount of water needed to flush the water filter varies depending on the specific filter.  Some filters require 1, 2, or 4 gallons to be dispensed for a proper flush; refer to the water filter's instructions for specific guidelines.

Review How to Flush the Water System in a Refrigerator for more information. 

Was the water line installed correctly? 

The refrigerator must be installed to a cold water supply for the ice maker and water dispenser to work. To connect the shutoff valve and the refrigerator, use 1/4" (6.35 mm) O.D. (outside diameter) soft copper or PEX tubing. It is recommended to leave a coil of copper or PEX tubing (service loop) to allow the refrigerator to be pulled out of the cabinet or away from the wall for service or routine cleaning. Water supply lines can be purchased at KitchenAid Purchase Genuine Parts

Check to make sure there are no kinks in the water supply line. A kink can reduce water flow. Straighten the water source line to restore adequate water flow and pressure. To help reduce the chances of a pinched water line, do not push the refrigerator too far back against the wall or cabinet.

 

If you would like to download or view product literature for your appliance, please visit our Manuals and Literature page.