Frigidaire Ice Maker Troubleshooting
Frigidaire ice makers are known for their dependability. In the rare event that your unit isn’t working properly, this Frigidaire ice maker troubleshooting guide will help you identify and resolve problems with your refrigerator’s ice maker quickly and easily.
These instructions are for ice maker models like the FDI101S and IM11700, which are used on side-by-side, 4-door French door and top-freezer refrigerators.
Ice Maker Not Making Ice
- Ice maker is turned “OFF” - Turn the ice maker “ON.”
- Household water line isn’t open - First, make sure your refrigerator is connected to the water supply. If it’s connected, check to see if the valve is open; if it isn’t, open it.
- Freezer isn’t cold enough - There are many reasons why the freezer may be too warm, ranging from an open door to a dirty condenser. Refer to your unit’s manual for more detailed troubleshooting tips.
- Water supply line / valve is kinked or clogged - First, make sure the supply line isn’t kinked when the refrigerator is pushed against the wall. If the valve is clogged, turn off the household water line and clean the valve.
- Water filter isn’t seated properly - Remove and reinstall the filter to make sure it’s seated properly.
- Water filter is clogged - If the water dispenses slowly or not at all, or if 6 months have passed since the filter was changed, replace the filter.
Ice Maker Not Making Enough Ice
- Ice maker is producing less than expected - Keep in mind the ice maker’s capacity: refrigerator ice makers can produce 2 to 5 pounds of ice every 24 hours. If your model has the “EXTRA ICE” setting, it should be able to produce up to 8 pounds in 24 hours.
- Freezer is too warm - As previously stated, there are many reasons why the freezer temperature may be elevated. Refer to the manual for detailed troubleshooting information.
- Household water line isn’t completely open - Turn the household waterline valve “ON.”
- Refrigerator water supply line is kinked - Make sure that the water line isn’t kinked.
- Water is dispensing slowly - Check the water dispenser: if the water dispenses slowly, the filter may be clogged. If you suspect the water filter is clogged, replace it.
- Water pressure is too low (well systems only) - Increase the cut-on and cut-off pressure on the water pump system.
Ice Maker Won’t Stop Making Ice
- Wire signal arm is being held down - Look at the wire signal arm inside the freezer to make sure no ice cubes or other items are depressing it. If the arm is being pressed down, remove the object(s).
Ice Cubes Are Freezing Together
- Ice cubes are used infrequently - If ice cubes sit in the container for a long time, they may start sticking together. To prevent clumps of ice cubes from forming, remove the ice container and then shake it on occasion to loosen the ice cubes.
- Ice cubes are hollow or smaller than normal - If the ice cubes are smaller or misshapen, the ice maker may be receiving less water due to a clogged filter. When this happens, replace the ice and water filter cartridge.
Ice Cubes Have Bad Odor And Taste
- Ice cubes have picked up an odor or flavor from foods stored in the refrigerator - Keep foods covered or boxed tightly. Also, be sure to discard stale ice when appropriate.
- Water running to the ice maker tastes bad / has a foul odor - Install a filter on the water supply line to improve the water quality.
Ice Dispenser Not Dispensing Ice
- No ice in the bin to dispense - Refer to the “Ice Maker Not Making Ice” section for troubleshooting information.
- Refrigerator doors aren’t completely closed - Check to make sure the doors are completely closed.
- Dispenser paddle was pressed for an extended period of time - Pressing the paddle for a long period of time will overheat the dispenser motor. To reset the motor overload protector, release the dispenser paddle and wait 3 minutes. Once the ice maker resets, it will dispense ice again.
Ice Dispenser Is Jammed
- Ice has melted and frozen around the auger - Ice may melt and freeze around the auger due to infrequent use, temperature fluctuations or power outages. If this occurs, remove the ice container, then empty, thaw, clean and reinstall it. This should allow the unit to dispense ice.
FAQs
Why is my Frigidaire ice maker not making ice even though the water dispenser works?
If the ice maker has a water-flow issue, temperature or control problem, it's possible that the water dispenser will still work. Check that the ice maker is on, that the freeezer is at the proper temperature and that the filter isn't clogged. If there's a defective inlet valve, sensor or ice maker assembly, it may require service.
How do I reset a Frigidaire ice maker?
The reset procesure depends on the exact model. Some units have a reset button while others require a control-panel command or poewr cycle. Find the model number and look up the instructions using the model's owner's manual.
Why is my Frigidaire countertop ice maker not making ice?
If the unit lacks water, detects a full basket, has blocked ventilation or contains buildup or minerals, it can cause the unit to stop making ice. Confirm that the water reservoir is filled, the basket is correctly in place and that the air vents are clear of debris.
Why is an ice maker producing small or hollow ice cubes?
When the unit is making small or hollow cubes, this typically means that there's too little water entering the ice maker. This can be caused by low water pressure, a clogged filter, partially frozen fill tube or a restricted water line.
Can a clogged water filter stop an ice maker from working?
Yes. When the water filter is clogged, it can restrict flow enough to slow the production of ice or prevent the mold from properly filling up. Replace the filter at each recommended interval and check that it's installed correctly.
If you need more troubleshooting information for your Frigidaire appliances, be sure to take a look at our extensive library of Frigidaire ice maker manuals online.