In the middle of the summer, I can’t live without my Ge Refrigerator’s ice maker.
It is complete magic that takes me to a winter wonderland. But at the time of pouring my big glass, the ice maker wasn’t working.
Oh no!
Ice makers can indeed cause problems with different issues. Most of them are common and can be solved easily.
Still, I want to share 9 reasons and fixes for ice maker in GE refrigerator.
Do you know why? Well, you won’t have call a professional all the time to fix an ice maker.
Besides, it’s super easy to tackle it yourself. Read on to find out!
Key Takeaways:
✅ GE refrigerators stop ice production because of temperature, water supply, water inlet valve, power, and a few others.
✅ With proper maintenance and troubleshooting tips like checking the water supply line, inlet valve, and temperature, you can solve all these problems.
9 Reasons and Fixes For Ice Maker in GE Refrigerator
From a clogged water filter to the temperature, anything can happen with your ice maker. Let’s take a look at the top 9 reasons:
Reason 1: Has the Ice Maker Turned On?
Because of the On/Off switch or when the mechanical arm is down, your ice maker won’t work. So, check the switch. It might be switched off. Also, check the mechanical arm as well. If it is up, then your ice maker won’t work.
How to solve it?
First, check the ice maker’s ON/OFF switch. Turn it on. Once you do it, a green light turns on. Besides, keep the mechanical arm down to keep your ice maker working.
In addition, check the child lock feature. If it is enabled, then make sure to disable it.
Reason 2: The Temperature of the Freezer is Incorrect
Freezer temperature is a more common issue than you think. Your ice maker won’t work as you want if the temperature is too high. It should be between 0°F and 5°F.
Sometimes, the ice freezer cannot hold the proper temperature to maintain it. The common cause is that the condenser coil is coated in dust and dirt.
How to solve it?
You can use a temperature control dial to gain control over the temperature. And a refrigerator thermometer to find the current temperature level. Just make sure it is close to 0° Fahrenheit.
Reason 3: No Ice Production
If the GE ice maker is not working, it may be related to the setting (temperature). Remember, the temperature should be 0°F.
Do you know about ice cycles?
Every ice maker completes the cycle, and for that, it must reach about 16°F. So, check if the freezer temperature is set or not. The ice will no longer form if the temperature is too high.
How to solve it?
Resetting the ice maker can solve this problem. Plus, it can solve many other issues, like temperature, or the automatic adjustment of the working process, easily.
Reason 4: Problem with Water Supply
First of all, water won’t reach the ice maker through the line if it is kinked. If the pressure is low, then the water can barely reach the ice maker as well.
Every refrigerator has a water filter. If it gets clogged, dirty, or expired, then it can reduce water flow as well.
What to do?
At first, inspect the line for kins or beds, and straighten them. If the kink is severe, then replace the water line. Use high-quality and durable lines to avoid any future kinks.
Some refrigerator sensors tell you, “It’s time to change the filter.” However, the best practice is to change it every six months.
Reason 5: Water Inlet Valve Complication
The water inlet valve controls the water flow to the ice maker. Meaning, If it is out of date and cannot ensure a smooth flow of water, then issues start to arise and the ice maker becomes faulty.
How to solve it?
First of all, check for water leaks. If you find any leaks, replace the valve.
In addition, check the connectivity using a multimeter. It will ensure a secure connection between the terminals.
If you find any discontinuities, then replace the valve. If needed, clean the valve using a cleaning solution (vinegar and water).
Reason 6: Faulty Control Module of Ice Maker
As electric equipment, some key components, like the control module of an ice maker, can malfunction and could be faulty.
It is related to the overall functionality of your refrigerator. Because of this, different issues arise when it begins producing ice.
Is there any way to solve it?
To solve this problem, you can follow the below-mentioned steps:
- Identify the test point of the ice maker control module that is labeled L and N or T and H.
- Use an insulated jumper wire to jump test points. Afterward, connect it to the T and H terminals. It simulates the harvest cycle.
- Figure out the appropriate voltage to control the connection. You can use a multimeter set for that.
- Check the power supply or writing if you don’t find any voltage in the test.
- Follow the user manual or diagram to ensure control module functionality.
Reason 7: The Dispenser Switch is Defective
The dispenser switch on your refrigerator could be an issue if your ice maker is not working. After all, it sends the voltage to the dispenser. So, if it becomes defective, then the dispenser won’t work anymore.
What to do?
Check the dispenser switch. Press it with your finger. You will hear a clicking sound. If you don’t, then the switch is faulty and may need to be replaced.
Reason 8: The Ice Maker Assembly is Defective
Refrigerators can be worse in service if their assembly doesn’t go well. It improves optimal ice production and dispensing.
Somehow, if you figure out your refrigerator has an assembly problem, then it is going to take you time to resolve it.
However, by performing a few steps, you can solve it. Such as:
- First, locate the ice maker assembly that is inside the freezer compartment. You can discover it as a plastic unit that is attached to a mold and a motor.
- Closely look at the ice mold for blockage or damage. Also, check for signs of mold or residue buildup. If you find any of these issues, then replace the ice mold.
- Additionally, ensure that the ice maker switch stays in the “ON” position.
- Don’t forget to test the motor using a multimeter. If it is not working properly (continuity and voltage), then replace it.
A Must-Know Fact:
An ice cube can become an obstruction if it gets stuck. If you find one, remove it carefully.
Reason 9: A Broken Ice Maker
An ice maker is a unit installed with different components. In some cases, replacing the ice maker is easier than repairing it.
How to do it?
Perform the replacement process perfectly, as I said below:
- Purchase a new ice maker that is a great alternative replacement.
- Turn the water valve off. And unplug the refrigerator from the power supply.
- Remove the ice maker.
- Take the new unit and install it following the manual.
- Turn on the power supply valve and connect it to the power source.
- Test it.
Keeping the Ice Maker Clean: Tips and Tricks You Don’t Know
When your refrigerator is functional, that doesn’t mean it won’t fumble anymore.
You need to maintain and clean the ice maker all the time. Yes, we are talking about cleaning regularly.
We divide the process into 4 sections, as follows:
Follow a Maintenance Schedule
Based on the model of your refrigerator, some maintenance tasks are required at a specific time. Do it at least 2 to 4 times a year.
Clean and Sanitize
It’s important to inspect the ice, especially the test. If it is not right, it is time for cleaning.
Plus, it’s important to keep refrigerators clean and sanitized because a few things develop easily in this unit, such as:
- Scale
- Slime
- Mold
- Bacteria
All these things easily contaminate the ice refrigerator. So, before you start to clean, remove all the ice.
Keep it in cleaning mode as well to run the cycle without producing ice. Wipe the exterior and scrub the ice bin. You can also use a solution for it.
Check Filters
Most ice makers have two types of filters water and air. The filter works best to keep dust and debris away from entering the machine. Hence, check the filter regularly.
If needed, clean the filter or replace it.
Get Through Inspections
Once you have done everything that is needed to keep the ice maker functional, go for a thorough inspection. This can reveal any hidden issues that are usually not visible or detectable to you.
Final Words
Hopefully, this “9 reasons and fixes for ice maker in GE refrigerator” guideline covered every little detail to solve all the problems with your appliance.
At least, you don’t need to shell out big bucks for a new ice maker because of some common issues. Because the solution is right in your very hands.
So, make it count!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do you unfreeze a GE ice maker?
First, press the reset button on the ice maker to start the defrost cycle. It will turn on the defrost heater automatically and start to melt stuck ice. It may take 10-45 minutes (based on the model).
How long does it take for the ice maker to make ice after a reset?
After resetting your ice maker, it will take up to 24 hours to make ice once again. But this time varies based on the ice maker model. To figure out a specific time, you need to run the ice maker and wait until ice making is complete.
What triggers the ice maker to fill with water?
Before the cube pushes out, the shut-off lifts up. After the cubes are cleared from the process, the arms fall to the lowest point. At this point, it will flip a circuit switch. That means it will activate the water valve, starting another cycle with water.
Can you manually add water to the ice maker?
Yes, you can do it. Once the ice maker mold is empty, you can easily do it. Pour 4 ounces of water into the mold, which will take 2 hours to produce ice. You can repeat the process if the cube comes out of the mold.
What is the quick ice button on my GE refrigerator?
The quick ice button helps speed up the production of ice. It’s a great feature that is available only in a few models. Once you press this button, a fan will blow over the icemaker. This action is responsible for boosting the production of ice by up to 48%.
