Ice Maker Not Making Ice: Causes and Fixes for Oakville Homes
An ice maker that suddenly stops producing ice is frustrating, especially when you rely on it daily. Whether your ice bin is empty, cubes are too small, or production is slow, the problem is usually traceable to water flow, temperature, or a faulty ice-making component.
At Oakville Appliance Repairs, 1230 White Oaks Blvd, Oakville, certified technicians diagnose and repair ice makers in all major refrigerator brands. Call 437-970-5596 to schedule service.
How a Refrigerator Ice Maker Works
Most automatic ice makers follow a simple cycle: water fills a mold, freezes, then a motor ejects the cubes into the bin and the cycle repeats. If any step is disrupted—insufficient water, warm freezer temperature, or a failed motor—ice production stops or slows.
Common Reasons an Ice Maker Stops Making Ice
Water supply turned off or pressure too low
A partially closed saddle valve, kinked supply line, or low household pressure can prevent proper fill. Target water pressure is typically 20–120 psi.
Clogged or overdue water filter
Filters usually require replacement every six months. A clogged filter restricts flow, resulting in tiny cubes or no ice.
Frozen fill tube
The small tube that feeds water into the mold can freeze, blocking flow. This is often caused by a seeping inlet valve that slowly drips and forms ice.
Faulty water inlet valve
If the solenoid valve sticks closed or leaks, the mold won’t fill correctly. Symptoms include very small cubes, hollow cubes, or a frozen fill tube.
Freezer temperature too warm
Ice forms reliably around –18 °C to –15 °C. If the freezer is warmer, the mold will not freeze quickly enough, slowing or stopping production.
Ice maker control module or motor failure
The ejector motor and timing module move cubes from the mold to the bin. If the motor stalls or gears strip, the cycle halts.
Bin full sensor or shutoff arm stuck
A mechanical shutoff arm or infrared sensor tells the ice maker to stop when the bin is full. If it’s stuck in the “off” position, production won’t resume.
Door switch or wiring fault
On some models, the door switch powers the ice and water system. A failed switch or broken wire can disable ice production.
Leaking or cracked mold
Water leaks out before freezing, causing small, misshapen cubes or no cubes at all.
What You Can Check Safely
- Confirm the refrigerator is level and the freezer is set between –18 °C and –15 °C.
- Ensure the water supply valve is fully open; look for kinks in the line.
- Replace the water filter if it’s older than six months or flow seems weak.
- Inspect the shutoff arm or bin sensor; make sure it isn’t blocked by ice.
- Empty clumped ice from the bin and restart the ice maker cycle.
- Perform a simple fill test if your model allows it (per user manual).
If you notice water on the floor, a burning smell, or tripped breakers, unplug the refrigerator and call a technician.
How Technicians Diagnose Ice Maker Issues
- Measure water pressure and test the inlet valve electrically and for seepage
- Check freezer temperature, evaporator frost pattern, and airflow
- Inspect and thaw the fill tube; replace valves that allow seeping
- Test the door switch, bin sensor, and ice maker control module
- Run forced cycles and confirm proper fill volume and harvest timing
- Verify no leaks at filter head, tubing, or quick-connect fittings
Preventing Future Ice Maker Problems
- Replace the water filter every six months
- Keep the freezer at the recommended temperature
- Avoid overpacking the freezer, which restricts airflow
- Use a dedicated, properly secured water line; avoid sharp bends
- Empty and clean the ice bin periodically to prevent clumping and odor
Repair or Replace?
- Repair is likely when the fault is a filter, inlet valve, fill tube freeze, door switch, or shutoff arm.
- Consider replacement of the ice maker assembly if the control module or ejector motor has failed on an older unit, or if multiple components have already been replaced.
- Refrigerator replacement may be best if the unit is very old and has broader cooling issues.
Summary
Most ice maker failures come down to water flow, temperature, or a worn control component. With proper diagnosis and routine maintenance, production can often be restored the same day.
For professional ice maker repair in Oakville, visit Oakville Appliance Repairs at 1230 White Oaks Blvd or call 437-970-5596.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my ice cubes small or hollow?
Restricted water flow—usually from a clogged filter or weak inlet valve—causes undersized or hollow cubes.
Why does my ice maker work intermittently?
Borderline freezer temperatures, a seeping inlet valve that freezes the fill tube, or a failing module can cause on-off behavior.
How long should it take to make a batch of ice?
Typically 60–90 minutes per harvest, depending on model and temperature. Warmer freezers slow production noticeably.
Can I defrost a frozen fill tube myself?
Yes, by powering off and letting it thaw, but the root cause is often a leaking inlet valve that should be replaced.
How often should I change the water filter?
Every six months under normal use, or sooner if water flow drops or taste/odor changes.