If you are currently having issues with your whirlpool refrigerator ice maker not working then you are at the right place to have this issue solved, as we provide solutions on how you can diagnose and fix this issue with your Whirlpool refrigerator and restore it back to normal and making ICE.
Whirlpool is a common brand, their refrigerators are known to be durable, as they can last for years if the product is well maintained. Well, maintenance won’t prevent your appliances from getting faulty but it would increase their lifespan.
If you have issues with your whirlpool refrigerator that the ice maker is not working it could be due to a blocked or clogged water filter. Dirty particles that have been sieved from water moving through the water filter must have accumulated to block the flow of water. Several other causes that we would be discussing include a defective water inlet valve, misaligned control arm, Frozen water inlet tube, and improper temperature settings or a faulty thermostat.
However, in this article, we will discuss why and how to fix the whirlpool refrigerator ice maker not working.
Why is My Whirlpool Refrigerator Not Making Ice
There are several reasons why your Whirlpool refrigerator not making ice could occur. These issues include:
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- Clogged water filter.
- Defective water inlet valve.
- Check the control arm.
- Check the water inlet tube.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Ice Maker Not Working
Since you know the reason why your whirlpool refrigerator ice maker not working. We would now proceed to provide solutions to these problems.
Press the on/off Switch
To locate the on/off switch in your whirlpool refrigerator: Remove the ice tray and if there is a cover plate it should also be removed.
- Turn off the switch.
- Wait for a few minutes.
- Then turn the switch back on.
- Return the ice tray and cover plate to the ice maker.
Now check the working operation of the ice maker, and if this resolves the issues.
Press the Reset Button
You can easily reset your whirlpool refrigerator. You can locate the reset button at the bottom or top of the ice maker unit depending on your Whirlpool refrigerator model. Then press the reset button on the Whirlpool refrigerator.
Whirlpool Ice Maker Reset Button Location
- Locate the reset button on your whirlpool refrigerator
- Now press and hold the reset button till you hear a beep sound.
- Leave the button, when you hear the beep.
- Your refrigerator will be automatically reset.
Power Reset Your Whirlpool Refrigerator
You need to power reset your refrigerator if this issue is due to a surge in the power supply. You should unplug your whirlpool refrigerator to reset the whole unit, this process will help the compressor and other hot parts to get cooled.
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Follow these steps to reset your whirlpool refrigerator:
- Unplug your refrigerator from a power outlet.
- Leave your refrigerator unplugged for at least 10 minutes.
- Then plug back into the power source outlet.
- Turn your refrigerator back on.
- Locate the feeler arm and press it down a couple of times The ice tray should be filled with water and ice should be produced again.
Clean Water Filter
A water filter helps to sieve particles in the water and can get blocked in the process. When the water filter gets blocked water won’t get to the ice maker. Ice won’t be produced if water or enough water doesn’t get to the ice maker.
For whirlpool refrigerators, the water filter is located in the base grille below the refrigerator compartment door or inside the refrigerator compartment. You should change the filter at least once in 6 months. Check the water filter for clogs and replace the blocked filter.
For whirlpool refrigerators with water dispensers, follow these steps:
- Dispense water using the water dispenser, and take notice of the amount of water flow.
- Locate the water filter at the base grille below the refrigerator compartment door or inside the refrigerator compartment.
- Remove and thoroughly clean the water filter.
- Dispense water without the filter. If water flow is not increased.>
- Replace the water filter with a new filter.
Make sure you flush the water system to remove the air in the water lines after you replace the water filter. Ensure you always flush the system every time you change the water filter.
Defective Water Inlet Valve
Water flows through to the ice maker when the right amount of pressure is exerted on the valve. The valve opens and closes with a pressure of more than 20 psi. Any pressure value lesser than that amount won’t be enough to feed the ice maker with water.
You can test the water inlet valve for pressure using a multimeter and ensure the terminals are well connected. If the pressure is lesser than 20 psi, then you have to replace the water inlet valve.
Check Temperature Settings
The inner compartment of the refrigerator must be low to keep up with the rate of ice production. When the temperature gets high ice won’t be produced. Ensure the temperature of your refrigerator is set at a range between 33–40°F (0–4°C).
The thermostat regulates the temperature of the refrigerator and should be tested for continuity using an ohm meter or multimeter. If the ohm meter or multimeter fails to read then the thermostat is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Check Control Arm
Depending on the model of the whirlpool refrigerator, the ice maker control arm is, made of a large plastic or metal handle. The control arm will turn the ice maker off until the ice level is lowered. The arms flip up and down if it is misaligned, loosened, or broken, the production of ice would stop.
Ensure the control arm is placed in the “on” position and tighten the control arm if it is loose. If the arm is completely broken, ensure you contact a professional to have it fixed.
Check Water Inlet Tube
When the temperature of your refrigerator gets too low or when the insulation around the water line stops preventing freezing, the water line can get frozen
The water line is found behind the ice maker and requires complete removal of the ice bin and maker to access the water line. Unfreeze the water line using warm water or air.
Faulty Water Pump
The water pump circulates the water over the evaporator for the production of ice. If water is not flowing over the plate, you will encounter issues with your Whirlpool refrigerator ice maker not working. Make sure you replace a faulty water pump.
Check Door Light Switch
The door of your whirlpool refrigerator should be well closed or properly aligned. Take notice of the white door light switch in the control panel section of your refrigerator. The light will turn on when the refrigerator door is opened or not properly aligned. The contacts in the switch can also get burned out and should be replaced.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Not Making Ice But Water Works
If your Whirlpool refrigerator is not making ice but the waterworks, then this could be due to the following:
- Improper temperature settings.
- Faulty thermostat
- Frozen water inlet tube.
- Damaged control arm.
- Damaged wiring harness.
Where is the Reset Button on my Ice Maker
Depending on the model of your Whirlpool refrigerator, you can locate the reset button at the bottom or top of the ice maker unit. Completely remove the ice tray and if there is a cover plate it should also be removed from your refrigerator.
How do You Reset Whirlpool Ice Maker
After you locate the reset button at the bottom or top of the ice maker unit.
- Now press and hold the reset button till you hear a beeping sound.
- Leave the button, when you hear the beep.
- Your refrigerator will be automatically reset.
Will Unplugging Refrigerator Reset Ice Maker
Yes if your whirlpool refrigerator ice maker, not working issues are due to a power surge. Unplugging the power cord of your whirlpool refrigerator from the power outlet can help to fix such problems. This will allow the compressor and other hot working parts to cool and power is reset in the process.
This article has taught you how to fix the whirlpool refrigerator ice maker not working and the possible troubleshooting steps you can take. And in summary, to fix this you need to locate and press the on/off ice maker switch, unplug the power cord, or press the reset button on your whirlpool refrigerator.
Ensure you clean or replace the blocked water filter, replace the water inlet valve, replace or reposition the control arm, unfreeze the water inlet tube and change the faulty thermostat.