KitchenAid Refrigerator Not Making Ice But Water Works

KitchenAid refrigerators are known for their quality and reliability, but like all appliances, they occasionally experience issues. One common problem is when the water dispenser functions normally, but the ice maker stops producing ice.

This specific issue can be particularly frustrating because it indicates that water is reaching the refrigerator, but something is preventing the ice maker from functioning properly. This guide will help you understand why your KitchenAid refrigerator’s ice maker isn’t working and help you fix the issue.

Why Your KitchenAid Refrigerator Might Not Be Making Ice but Water Still Works

Here are the most likely reasons why your KitchenAid refrigerator is dispensing water but not making ice.

1. The Ice Maker Is Turned Off

Sometimes the simplest explanation is the correct one. Your ice maker might be turned off, either accidentally or intentionally. KitchenAid refrigerators have an on/off switch for the ice maker that can be bumped into the off position.

Follow these steps to check if your ice maker is turned on:

1. Locate the ice maker arm or switch. In most KitchenAid models, this is a wire arm on the side of the ice maker.
2. If the arm is pushed up or the switch is in the “off” position, the ice maker is turned off.
3. Lower the arm or flip the switch to the “on” position to activate the ice maker.
4. Wait 24 hours for the ice maker to complete a full cycle and produce ice.

2. The Water Filter Needs Replacing

While the water dispenser might still work with a partially clogged filter, the ice maker requires good water flow to function properly. If your water filter is old or clogged, it may restrict water flow to the ice maker without completely stopping water to the dispenser.

To check and replace the water filter:

1. Locate your water filter. In most KitchenAid refrigerators, it’s either in the upper right corner of the refrigerator compartment or at the base grille.
2. Check when you last replaced the filter. KitchenAid recommends replacing the filter every six months.
3. If it’s been longer than six months, replace the filter with a compatible KitchenAid filter.
4. After replacing the filter, discard the first few batches of ice and water to clear any carbon residue.

3. The Water Line Is Frozen

The water line leading to the ice maker can freeze if the freezer temperature is set too low or if there’s a kink in the line that causes water to stagnate and freeze.

To thaw a frozen water line:

1. Unplug the refrigerator or turn off the circuit breaker.
2. Locate the water line leading to the ice maker.
3. Use a hair dryer on low heat or a warm, damp cloth to gently thaw the frozen section of the line.
4. Check for and remove any kinks in the water line.
5. Plug the refrigerator back in and wait 24 hours to see if ice production resumes.

4. The Water Inlet Valve Is Faulty

The water inlet valve controls the flow of water into the ice maker. If this valve is defective or has insufficient pressure, water may still reach the dispenser but not the ice maker.

To check the water inlet valve:

1. Unplug the refrigerator.
2. Locate the water inlet valve, usually found at the back of the refrigerator near the bottom.
3. Inspect the valve for any visible damage or mineral buildup.
4. Ensure the water pressure to the valve is at least 20 psi, as lower pressure can prevent the valve from opening fully.
5. If you suspect the valve is faulty, it’s best to have it replaced by a professional.

5. The Ice Maker Assembly Is Defective

If the ice maker assembly itself is defective, it won’t produce ice even if water is reaching it. Common issues include a faulty motor, broken gears, or a non-functioning heating element that fails to release ice from the mold.

To check the ice maker assembly:

1. Inspect the ice maker for any visible damage.
2. Look for ice stuck in the ejector arms or mold.
3. If you see ice frozen in the mold, the heating element might be defective.
4. For a thorough inspection, consider removing the ice maker cover (if your model allows) to check for broken components.
5. If you identify a defective part, the entire ice maker assembly may need replacement.

6. The Freezer Temperature Is Too High

Ice makers require a specific temperature range to function properly. If your freezer temperature is too high, the ice maker won’t produce ice even though the water dispenser works fine.

Follow these steps to check and adjust the freezer temperature:

1. Verify that your freezer temperature is set between 0°F and 5°F (-18°C to -15°C).
2. Use a refrigerator thermometer to confirm the actual temperature inside the freezer.
3. If the temperature is too high, adjust the freezer temperature setting to a colder level.
4. Ensure the freezer vents aren’t blocked by food items, as this can affect temperature distribution.
5. Wait 24 hours after adjusting the temperature to see if ice production resumes.

7. The Ice Maker Module Is Defective

Modern KitchenAid refrigerators have an electronic module that controls the ice maker functions. If this module is defective, the ice maker won’t cycle properly to produce ice.

To check if the module is the issue:

1. Look for any error codes on your refrigerator’s display panel.
2. Consult your owner’s manual to interpret any error codes.
3. Try resetting the ice maker by turning it off for 30 seconds and then back on.
4. If reset doesn’t work, the module may need to be replaced by a professional.

8. The Ice Level Control Board Is Faulty

Some KitchenAid models use an infrared beam to detect ice levels. If the control board or sensors for this system fail, the ice maker might stop producing ice because it falsely detects that the ice bin is full.

To check the ice level control board:

1. Locate the infrared emitter and sensor (usually on opposite sides of the ice bin).
2. Clean both the emitter and sensor with a soft, dry cloth.
3. Check for any visible damage to the sensors or wiring.
4. If cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue, the control board may need replacement.

Summary

When your KitchenAid refrigerator’s water dispenser works but the ice maker doesn’t, the problem could range from simple issues like the ice maker being turned off to more complex problems like a defective component.

Start troubleshooting with the simplest solutions first, such as checking if the ice maker is turned on and replacing the water filter. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, you can move on to checking the water line, inlet valve, and other components.

For more complex repairs involving electrical components or refrigerant systems, it’s best to consult a professional appliance technician to save time and stay safe.