Refrigerator ice that’s available on-demand is a convenience many of us take for granted until ice production comes to a halt. Why is my Whirlpool refrigerator ice maker not working? It may be accidentally turned off. Use these Whirlpool ice maker troubleshooting tips to pinpoint the problem and restore ice production.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Ice Maker Not Working? This May Be Why…
In most cases, a Whirlpool refrigerator ice maker not working has a DIY fix. From ice jams to clogged water filters, here’s how to determine why your ice maker won’t produce ice.
Was the Ice Maker Turned Off by Accident?
Before suspecting a Whirlpool refrigerator ice maker problem first, make sure that it’s turned on. Oftentimes, user error or shifting freezer items can push the ice maker’s wire shutoff arm up, to the off position. This cuts off power to the ice maker, ceasing ice production.
Push down the ice maker’s wire shutoff arm until an audible “click,” is heard. This means that the ice maker is on and receiving power to make ice. If the arm doesn’t “click” into position and turn the ice maker on, it may need a professional refrigerator ice maker repair.
A Jammed Ice Maker May Be To Blame
Is your Whirlpool ice maker jammed? Sometimes, when the harvest fingers gather ice cubes, they also pick up icy water that attaches to the ejector’s stripper. The water then freezes, creating an ice blockage that results in a Whirlpool ice maker not dumping ice.
Use a plastic utensil to break apart the ice jam, gently chipping at it until it falls apart. Avoid using metal tools or utensils that can damage or harm the ice maker.
The Water Filter Needs to Be Replaced
A water filter that’s clogged or incorrectly installed can result in a Whirlpool refrigerator ice maker not working properly. This is because the water for the ice maker first passes through the filter so any impurities can be removed. If the filter is clogged with debris or not installed correctly, water may not flow to the ice maker. When this happens you may find your Whirlpool ice maker won’t make enough ice or any at all.
Other signs that your water filter requires replacement include:
- Water or ice has a bad taste or smell
- Ice cubes are smaller or oddly shaped
- Water dispenses more slowly
Check your user manual to make sure the water filter was installed correctly. If it is, it may be clogged with impurities and needs to be changed. While changing the filter every 6 months can prevent clogs, it may need more frequent changes if ice production is affected.
Check the Water Supply Line
If you still find your Whirlpool refrigerator ice maker not working after these troubleshooting tips, there may be a water supply line issue. The refrigerator’s water supply line connects it to your home water supply for drinking water and ice production.
Here’s how to check a Whirlpool refrigerator water supply line to ensure it’s functioning properly:
- Assess the connection: Make sure the line is properly connected to a cold water supply.
- Ensure that the valve on your home water supply is completely open: This ensures that water can flow freely to the refrigerator.
- Look for kinks or pinches that can restrict water flow: Gently straighten any kinks and prevent a recurrence by making sure the refrigerator isn’t pushed too closely against the wall.
- Assess for damage: If the water supply line has visible damage like holes or cracks, it needs to be professionally replaced.
Whether you find your refrigerator not cooling or ice maker not working, the team at Royal Appliance Parts & Service can help. Schedule your expert repair today!
