Kenmore Refrigerator Ice Maker Stopped Making Ice

Introduction

A refrigerator’s ice maker is a modern convenience many of us rely on. So, it can be frustrating when your Kenmore refrigerator ice maker stops making ice. Maybe you’re planning a party, or you just enjoy a cold drink on a hot day. Regardless, a non-functioning ice maker is an inconvenience that you’ll want to resolve quickly. This guide will walk you through common causes and troubleshooting steps to get your ice maker working again without needing to call a professional immediately.

Common Causes of Kenmore Refrigerator Ice Maker Stopped Making Ice

Here are some common reasons why your Kenmore ice maker might have stopped producing ice:

Ice Maker is Turned Off: Sounds simple, but it’s often the culprit! The ice maker can accidentally be switched off.
Water Supply Issues: A kinked or frozen water line restricts water flow to the ice maker.
Water Filter Clogged: A dirty water filter can significantly reduce water pressure.
Freezer Temperature Too High: The freezer must be cold enough for ice to form (ideally around 0-5F or -18 to -15C).
Ice Jam: Ice can sometimes clump together and block the ice maker’s ejection mechanism.
Faulty Water Inlet Valve: This valve controls the water flow to the ice maker and can fail over time.
Defective Ice Maker Module: The ice maker module controls the ice-making cycle; if it’s broken, it won’t produce ice.
Arm Obstruction: Make sure the ice-making arm isn’t blocked by any food items or ice buildup.
Low Water Pressure: Insufficient water pressure to your home can affect the ice maker.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to accurately identify the problem:

No ice production at all.
Ice maker makes a clicking or humming noise but no ice.
Ice cubes are small or misshapen.
Ice maker produces only a few cubes at a time.
Water leaks from the ice maker area.
The freezer is not cold enough.
The water dispenser is also not working.

How to Fix Kenmore Refrigerator Ice Maker Stopped Making Ice Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot your Kenmore ice maker:

Check the Power Switch: Locate the ice maker’s power switch (usually a wire arm or an on/off switch) and make sure it’s turned “on.”
Check the Freezer Temperature: Ensure the freezer is set to the correct temperature (0-5F or -18 to -15C). Adjust the temperature and wait 24 hours.
Inspect the Water Line: Look for any kinks, bends, or damage in the water line running to the refrigerator. Straighten out any kinks.
Check the Water Filter: Locate the water filter (usually in the refrigerator compartment or base grille). Replace it if it’s been longer than six months, or if you notice a decrease in water pressure.
Listen for the Water Inlet Valve: After replacing the filter, listen for the water inlet valve opening when the ice maker calls for water (you might hear a faint buzzing or humming sound).
Check for Ice Jams: Remove the ice bucket and inspect the ice maker for any ice jams or obstructions. Remove any ice blockages carefully.
Manually Cycle the Ice Maker: Some ice makers have a test button. Press and hold it for a few seconds (refer to your owner’s manual) to force the ice maker to cycle. Observe if it fills with water.
Check Water Pressure: Poor water pressure can cause issues. Make sure other faucets in your house are providing adequate water pressure.
Defrost the Ice Maker: If you suspect a frozen water line inside the ice maker, try defrosting the ice maker with a hairdryer (on low setting) for a few minutes. Be careful not to melt any plastic parts.
Inspect the Fill Tube: Look for ice buildup in the fill tube, which is the tube that dispenses water into the ice maker. Remove any ice using a turkey baster filled with warm water.
Reset the Refrigerator: Unplug the refrigerator for 5 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the ice maker’s control board.
Clean the Ice Maker Components: Wipe down the ice maker’s interior with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or grime.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Often, you can fix your ice maker issue without needing to buy any new parts:

Reset the Ice Maker: Unplugging the refrigerator for a few minutes is a great first step.
Cleaning: Regularly cleaning the ice maker and water filter can prevent many issues.
Inspection: Carefully inspecting the water line for kinks and the ice maker for blockages can save you time and money.
Maintenance: Replace the water filter every six months.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your ice maker still isn’t working, a replacement part may be necessary. Common parts that fail include:

Water Inlet Valve: Controls water flow (approx. $30-$70 USD).
Ice Maker Module: Controls the ice-making cycle (approx. $50-$150 USD).

If you’re not comfortable replacing these parts yourself, it’s best to call a qualified appliance repair technician.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the refrigerator before performing any repairs.
Avoid working with electrical components if you’re not comfortable.
Be careful when using a hairdryer near water to avoid electric shock.
Clean up any water spills immediately to prevent slips and falls.

Tools You May Need

Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Adjustable wrench
Towel or sponge
Turkey baster
Hairdryer (optional)

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Kenmore ice makers:

Q: How long does it take for an ice maker to make ice after turning it on? A: It usually takes 24-48 hours for the ice maker to start producing ice.
Q: Why is my ice maker making small or hollow ice cubes? A: This is often due to low water pressure or a clogged water filter.
Q: How often should I replace my water filter? A: It’s recommended to replace the water filter every six months.
Q: Can I use a generic water filter in my Kenmore refrigerator? A: While generic filters may fit, it’s best to use a Kenmore-approved filter to ensure proper performance and water quality.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Kenmore refrigerator ice maker can be a straightforward process. By following these steps, you can often identify and resolve the issue yourself, saving time and money. If you’ve exhausted all the troubleshooting options and are still experiencing problems, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician for professional assistance. Good luck!