An ice maker that stops working is incredibly frustrating. Whether your ice maker isn't making any ice, makes small or hollow ice cubes, or the ice dispenser isn't working, most ice maker problems are caused by a few common parts that you can replace yourself.
The water supply line to the ice maker can freeze, especially if the freezer is set too cold or if there's a kink in the line. A frozen line prevents water from reaching the ice maker.
The water inlet valve controls water flow to the ice maker. If it fails, clogs, or doesn't get enough water pressure (needs at least 20 psi), the ice maker won't fill with water and won't make ice.
The ice maker assembly includes the motor, mold, thermostat, and ejector mechanism. If any component fails, the ice maker stops working.
The ice level sensor detects when the ice bin is full and stops ice production. If it fails, the ice maker thinks the bin is always full and won't make ice.
Ice makers need at least 20 psi of water pressure to work properly. Low pressure results in small, hollow, or incomplete ice cubes, or no ice at all.
The freezer must be at 0-5°F for the ice maker to work properly. If it's warmer, ice won't freeze properly or at all.
Many ice makers have an on/off switch or wire shut-off arm. If it's accidentally turned off or the arm is raised, the ice maker won't run.
We stock Complete Ice Maker Assemblies, Water Inlet Valves, Ice Level Control Boards & Sensors, Ice Maker Motors & Modules, Ice Dispenser Motors & Augers, Water Filters, and Ice Maker Thermostats for all major brands.
Need a replacement instead of a repair?
Sometimes the repair cost isn’t worth it. XPart Supply carries Certified Pre-Owned washers, dryers, and major appliances that have been inspected, repaired, cleaned, and tested — available for local pickup or in-town delivery in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, Brantford, and Hamilton.
View Certified Pre-Owned AppliancesDIY parts typically cost $30-$150. Complete ice maker assembly $80-$150, water inlet valve $30-$60, ice level sensor $40-$70, dispenser motor $50-$80, water filter $20-$40. Professional repair costs $150-$350+ including labor.
After installing a new ice maker, it takes 6-12 hours for the first batch of ice. Discard the first 2-3 batches as they may taste like plastic.
Small or hollow ice cubes are caused by low water pressure (needs at least 20 psi), a clogged water filter, or a partially clogged water inlet valve. Replace the filter first, then check water pressure.
Yes - ice maker assemblies are designed to be replaced. It's a straightforward repair that costs $80-$150 in parts versus $1,500-$3,000+ for a new refrigerator.
Need Help? Our appliance parts experts are here to help you diagnose the ice maker problem and find the exact part you need. Call us or use the chat - we're Canadian-based and ready to help.
