How to Fix a Maytag Ice Maker That Isn’t Working

If the ice maker in your Maytag refrigerator has stopped working, there is no need to panic, as there is often a simple fix. In most cases, the ice maker stops working because of ice build-up or the need for a new water filter. The next most common cause is a fault with the water inlet valve, which is relatively easy to check and replace. Read on to get your Maytag ice maker working again.

This guide applies to the following Maytag models:

12001294

12001302

ERCQ24-001A/P55420-3C

ERCQ30-001A/P55420-4C

ERCQ36-001A/P55420-5C

ERCQ42-001A/P55420-6C

MSD2552VEA00

MSD2552VEA01

MSD2552VEB01

MSD2552VEW00

MSD2552VEW01

MSD2552VEY00

MSD2552VEY01

MSD2554VEA01

MSD2554VEB01

MSD2554VEQ01

MSD2554VEW01

MSD2554VEY01

MSF25C2EXB00

MSF25C2EXM00

MSF25C2EXS00

Try a Simple Reset

The old turn it off and on solution can work for your ice maker just like your computer. Before continuing down this list, turn off the power to the refrigerator for a minute, and then turn it back on. If it is not a mechanical or parts failure, this simple fix may get your ice maker working again.

Most ice maker models also have a reset button. Models with a display panel can be reset by consulting your manual for the reset instructions. Other models may have a “test” button or a place to insert a pin to reset the ice maker. Do not press the reset button repeatedly, as it can cause damage to the ice maker or water to overflow.

Make Sure the Ice Maker Is On

This simple solution is more common than most people would want to admit. Most Maytag ice makers have either an on/off switch or a mechanical arm that needs to be down for the ice maker to work. Depending on the model, the on/off switch may be located on the ice maker or be accessed through the digital display on the front of the refrigerator. If you have a digital display, check that the “ice on” icon is selected, and also check that the child lock feature has not been enabled.

Check the Mechanical Arm

As mentioned above, if your ice maker has a mechanical arm, it needs to be down for the ice maker to work. The arm can also fail if the arm’s spring has broken. Check the arm for signs that the spring has broken, and replace the arm if it is found to be defective.

Is There a Diagnostic Function?

Some Maytag refrigerators will have a diagnostic function that may be able to identify the problem for you. Check the refrigerator’s manual or tech sheet for instructions to operate the diagnostic mode and interpret the results.

Check the Water Filter

Another simple and often overlooked solution is that the water filter needs to be replaced. The water filter needs to be replaced every six months to ensure that the ice maker continues to function.

Also, when you replace the water filter, you need to flush out the system before it will work correctly. If the system has not been flushed out, air may be trapped, which stops the ice maker from working properly. The system also needs to be flushed out after the refrigerator is installed to the water supply line for the first time.

Is the Water Supply Line Connected to the Ice Maker?

Check that the water supply line is connected to the ice maker. Also, check that the water is turned on.

Check for Cracks in the Ice Tray

If your model features a rotating ice tray, a crack in the ice tray can stop the tray from rotating and emptying the ice. If cracked, it should be replaced.

Does It Need Defrosting?

Often the ice maker is not broken; it is just unable to function because of a build-up of ice. Ice may be blocked up inside the dispenser chute, ice bucket, or around the ice maker housing. The water supply line may also be frozen and not allowing water to reach the ice maker.

Depending on where the ice blockage or freeze has occurred, you may be able to use a dishcloth with hot water, a blow dryer, a defrost tool, or a defrost function—or remove the ice maker from the refrigerator to allow it to defrost—to solve the issue.

A blow dryer can be used to defrost the ice; however, make sure to set it to a low heat and be careful not to melt any of the ice maker components. Also, beware of electrocution from using the blow dryer if there is any spilled water around the refrigerator. A frozen water line tool can also be purchased to clear a frozen water line. Your refrigerator may also have an ice maker defrost function that you can activate.

Is the Temperature Correct?

For your Maytag ice maker to work correctly, the freezer temperature should be between 0 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 to -15 degrees Celsius). Checking and adjusting the refrigerator and/or freezer temperature may get the ice maker working again. If the temperature is too high, cleaning debris off the refrigerator condenser coils will often fix the issue.

Water Inlet Valve & Water Pressure

Ice makers require water, which is controlled by the water inlet valve. If your water inlet valve is defective or not getting enough pressure, you will have problems with your ice maker. The water inlet valve can become defective if the valve becomes blocked with mineral deposits, which stop the part from opening. An unusual hum coming from the refrigerator when the ice maker should be filling up with water indicates a blocked valve. If the valve is blocked, it is recommended that the valve be replaced.

It is also possible for the valve to fail electrically. The valve can be tested with a multimeter to determine if it needs replacing.

The water inlet valve requires at least 20 pounds of water pressure per square inch to operate properly. The water supply line can be removed from the back of the refrigerator and the pressure checked. Kinks in the supply water line may also restrict the water supply to the ice maker.

Other Less Common Issues to Troubleshoot

Refrigerator Door Switch

A fault with the refrigerator door switch will not allow the ice maker to operate. The door switch can be tested with a multimeter to determine if it needs replacing.

Ice Tray Thermostat

If there is a fault with the ice tray thermostat, the ice maker will not know when water is required or when ice should be emptied from the ice tray. If you suspect the ice tray thermostat, test it with a multimeter for continuity. If defective, on most models the ice tray thermostat can be removed and replaced.

Ice Level Control Board

Some Maytag refrigerators have an ice level control board that operates an infrared beam that signals the ice maker to stop making ice when the ice bucket reaches a certain level. If there is a fault with the ice level control board, the ice maker will stop making ice. On most models, the ice level control board can be removed and replaced.

Ice Maker Switch

Occasionally, the switch to turn the ice maker on can become defective. If the ice maker switch seems defective, test it for continuity with a multimeter to determine if it needs to be replaced.