Quick Answer
An ice maker usually stops for one of a few reasons: a raised shutoff arm, a frozen or kinked water line, a clogged filter, or a freezer that is not cold enough. Check the arm and the water line first.
When an ice maker stops working, the cause is usually one of a few simple things: a raised shutoff arm, a frozen or kinked water line, a clogged water filter, or a freezer that is not cold enough to freeze ice. Check the arm and the water line before assuming the worst.
Check the shutoff arm and switch
Most ice makers have a wire arm or a sensor that stops production when the bin is full. If the arm is stuck in the up position, the unit thinks it is full. Lower it and confirm it moves freely.
Water line and filter
No water means no ice. A kinked or partly frozen supply line, or a filter that is overdue for changing, can choke off the flow. Replace the filter on schedule and inspect the line behind the fridge. If you also see water pooling, our guide on a refrigerator leaking water covers the related parts.
Freezer temperature
Ice makers need the freezer at roughly 0 F to work well. ENERGY STAR recommends keeping the freezer near that mark, which also keeps food safe.
When to call a local pro
If the arm, water line, filter, and temperature all check out, the ice maker module or inlet valve may have failed. Get connected with a local Fairfield technician or see our refrigerator repair page.
Frequently asked questions
How long should an ice maker take to make ice?
Most produce a fresh batch every couple of hours once the freezer is at the right temperature.
Could a new water filter fix it?
Often, yes. A clogged filter is a common and easy-to-miss cause of weak or no ice.