Skip to main content
Product Help | KitchenAid

Low Ice Production - Freestanding Ice Maker

Possible Solutions

Is the drain cap on correctly?

The drain cap needs to fit securely onto the water pan to produce optimal ice.  If the drain cap is loose; thin ice, no ice production.

To check the drain cap: Unscrew the drain cap from the bottom of the water pan located inside the storage bin. Allow water to drain completely. Replace the drain cap. See the illustration below.

Unscrew the drain cap from the bottom of the water pan located inside the storage bin. Allow water to drain completely.

Does the water filter need to be changed?

We recommend replacing the water filter every 9 months or when the ice making rate starts to decrease.  The "Replace Filter" light only comes on after 9 months or 2000 gallons of water use. Customers with very hard water may need to replace their filters before these counts are reached.

CLICK HERE for more information on how to properly install the water filter

Is the drain hose kinked?

Check to make sure the drain hose is not kinked.  A kinked hose can cause low ice production, no ice production and can also cause no power or intermittent power to the ice maker.  If the drain hose is twisted or kinked, straighten out the line and restore power to the ice maker.  If the ice maker required removal from a cabinet, to check the drain hose, take extra precaution when sliding it back in, ensuring the drain line does not re-kink. 

CLICK HERE for additional information

Is the bin sensor blocked or dirty?

  • It is important to make sure that the bin sensor is not blocked by the ice scoop or any other items that may be in the bin. 
  • We don't recommend storing anything in the bin, other than the ice that is produced.
  • Check to make sure the sensor is not dirty or has a mineral build-up. The sensor can be cleaned with a soft towel and warm soapy water. 
  • Ensure the sensor is properly connected (screw is secure) and is in the correct location, see picture below.  If the sensor is not in the correct location is can cause over or under ice production. 

CLICK HERE for additional information

It is important to make sure that the bin sensor is not blocked by the ice scoop or any other items that may be in the bin. 

Is the water pressure correct? 

Ensure your water pressure is between 30 and 120 PSI. If your water pressure is not in this range contact a certified plumber.

Does the ice maker need to be cleaned?

The ice-making system and the air-cooled condenser need to be cleaned regularly for the ice maker to operate at peak efficiency and to avoid premature failure of system components. It is recommended that you clean the ice Maker when the "Cleaning Needed" or  "Cleaning Cycle" button is illuminated, after 9 months or if ice production has decreased significantly.  

CLICK HERE for more information on why it is important to clean the ice maker

Is the condenser dirty?

A dirty or clogged condenser can cause the following issues:

  • Obstructs proper airflow
  • Reduces ice making capacity to little or no ice production
  • Causes higher-than-recommended operating temperatures which may lead to component failure

The ice-making system and the air-cooled condenser need to be cleaned regularly for the ice maker to operate at peak efficiency and to avoid premature failure of system components.

CLICK HERE for more information on how to clean the condenser

Is the drain hose too high or too long?

For models with a built-in pump, ensure the drain pipe does not exceed 9 feet above the pump outlet and no more than 30 feet from the pump location.  If the drain hose exceeds the maximum recommended runs, it could cause low ice production, no ice production and can also cause no power or intermittent power to the ice maker.

Is the drain hose connected to a garbage disposer? 

If the drain hose is connected to a garbage disposer check to make sure the knockout plug has been removed.  If the plug has not been removed, the water is unable to drain properly which will cause no power or intermittent power to the ice maker. 

CLICK HERE for additional information

Was the correct drain hose installed?

Verify the correct drain hose has been installed on the ice maker.  We recommend only using the kink-resistant drain hose that is supplied with the product. A 10 ft. the corrugated drain hose must be used when installing the optional drain pump accessory kit.  If the correct drain hose is not used it could cause low ice production, no ice production and can also cause no power or intermittent power to the ice maker.

This part can be ordered at our Purchase Genuine Parts site.

Is the room temperature hotter than normal?

If the room's temperatures exceeds more than 90oF (32oC) will typically reduce ice production and can also cause the ice to begin to melt and clump together.

Still need help? Contact us or schedule service.

Please contact us or click below to make an appointment from our preferred list of service providers for service on your appliances.

Interested in purchasing an Extended Service Plan?

Please click below to learn more on how you can save up to 25% on New Appliance Extended Service Plans within 30 days of your appliance purchase.

United States

 

Still need help? Contact us or schedule service.

Please contact us or click below to make an appointment from our preferred list of service providers for service on your appliances.

Interested in purchasing an Extended Service Plan?

Please click below to learn more on how you can save up to 25% on New Appliance Extended Service Plans within 30 days of your appliance purchase.

United States
  • Was this article helpful?