Why is my ice maker not making ice?

Start with the four usual causes

An ice maker that stops is usually switched off, short of water, too warm or waiting on a filter. All four take minutes to check and none involve opening panels.

Is it on?

Whirlpool says a common reason an ice maker does not make ice is that it was accidentally turned off.^[1] LG describes the switch this way: "Power to the Icemaker is controlled by an ON/OFF switch located on the left side of the Icemaker."^[2] If your Icemaker doesn't have a power switch, the Control Panel should have an Ice On/Ice Off Option.^[2] Also look at the bin: if it is full, the maker may have nothing to do.

Is water getting to it?

Whirlpool calls the water supply one of the most frequent causes. If the water supply to your refrigerator is restricted or turned off, it can prevent the ice maker from functioning correctly.^[1] Ensure the water line is securely connected and the valve is fully opened, and check for any kinks or blockages in the water line.^[1] A line pinched behind the refrigerator is common, so do not push the refrigerator too far back against the wall or cabinet.^[1]

The filter is the other half of that. An improperly installed water filter could reduce or stop water flow, decrease ice production, cause leaks from the filter housing, or lead to other concerns.^[1] Check to make sure the water filter is locked in place and creating a proper seal.^[1] An overdue filter does the same job slowly: Whirlpool's guidance is that its filter be replaced every 6 months, though your manual sets the interval for your model.^[1]

Is the freezer cold enough?

LG says the minimum recommended temperature for ice production is -4°F (-20°C), and that a warmer setting means ice is produced at a slower rate.^[2] Whirlpool gives 0 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit as its setting for optimal ice production.^[1] Brands differ, so read the figure in your manual, lower the setting if it is above it and wait. After a new install or a big temperature change, LG says it may take up to 24 hours for each compartment to reach the desired temperature and for the ice maker to begin making ice.^[2]

Run the test

If the basics check out, run the maker's test mode. Take out the bin, put a towel underneath and hold its test button. On an LG, hold its test button for about three seconds and the ice maker begins to turn; the tray only holds about four or five ounces of water, so expect a small spill.^[2] The point is to learn two things: "Did the motor run? Was there water or ice in the tray?"^[2] Samsung adds a caution: "Do not press Test repeatedly after the ice tray is filled with ice or water. The maker may overflow or the ice may jam."^[3]

Motor runs and the tray has water: the maker is probably fine and the freezer or the wait is the issue. Motor runs and the tray is empty: the water path is the problem. Motor does not run: it needs a reset or service. How to reset an ice maker walks through each brand's reset. LG says that if the unit is still not producing ice after 4 to 6 hours, it requires repair service.^[2]

One more trap: an ice maker left on with no water supply line connected can cause a buzzing noise, and can make the refrigerator too cold.^[1] Switch it off if no line is connected.

Stop and call a pro if

• The motor does not run on test. LG says a unit that fails the test needs service.^[2]
• Water is leaking at the filter housing, the back of the refrigerator or under the ice maker. Turn off the water valve and unplug the refrigerator.
• The tray is empty after you have confirmed the valve, line and filter. LG says that if the motor does not run or the tray has no water or ice, the refrigerator most likely needs service.
• You would have to open panels or touch wiring. Leave that to a technician.

Next steps

Weigh the bill before booking: what ice maker repair costs in Virginia and whether it is worth fixing. For related questions, see appliance repair answers or browse ice maker repair pros.

When you are ready, describe the problem and local pros quote it.