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  1. Repair
  2. Whirlpool
  3. Whirlpool Refrigerator
  4. Refrigerator will not make ice

Whirlpool refrigerator won't make ice

Common reasons your Whirlpool refrigerator won’t make ice

The most common reasons your Whirlpool refrigerator won't make ice are a locked compressor, old water filter or a malfunctioning dispenser.

  • 59%

    59% of the time it's the
    Compressor

  • 8%

    8% of the time it's the
    Water Filter

  • 5%

    5% of the time it's the
    Dispenser

  • 28%

    28% of the time it's the
    Something else

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    Most common repairs needed to fix a Whirlpool refrigerator

    Compressor Replacement

    A locked refrigerator compressor can exhibit several symptoms indicative of a malfunction. The most noticeable sign is a lack of cooling in the refrigerator compartment, leading to elevated temperatures and the potential for food spoilage. The freezer may also fail to maintain the desired freezing temperatures, resulting in no ice production from the ice maker or dispenser. Additionally, you'll observe that the compressor is unusually silent or fails to produce its typical humming sound during operation. In some cases, the compressor may attempt to start but fail, resulting in repeated clicking noises. The inability of the compressor to circulate refrigerant properly can affect the defrosting process, leading to ice buildup in the freezer. Furthermore, a faulty compressor could send a sudden influx of melting frost to the drain line, causing it to back up, preventing adequate draining, and potentially causing water leaks.


    Water Filter Replacement

    Using an old water filter in a refrigerator can lead to a reduction in water to the ice maker and water dispenser. The filter's capacity to effectively remove impurities diminishes over time, causing a decrease in the water flow rate. You may also notice a decline in the quality of the water and ice dispensed. An old water filter may no longer effectively remove contaminants, leading to a potential change in taste or odor of the dispensed water. This can be particularly noticeable if the filter has been in use beyond its recommended lifespan, typically 6 months.

    Dispenser Replacement

    When a refrigerator dispenser malfunctions, it can lead to various issues including the dispenser's failure to dispense water or ice, regardless of user input. This malfunction may stem from problems with the dispenser water supply, dispenser controls, or mechanical components within the dispenser assembly. There may be slow or insufficient water flow, inconsistent ice dispensing, or even complete non-functionality. A malfunctioning dispenser may also leak, causing water to pool around the dispenser area or even inside the refrigerator. For a thorough diagnosis and resolution of these issues, it is advisable to have a Sears Home Services professional address the situation.

    What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool refrigerator won't make ice issue

    How is the won't make ice problem fixed?

    Correcting most won't make ice problems usually involves replacing the compressor, water filter or dispenser. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

    Sears Home Services recommendations for a refrigerator that won't make ice

    When the refrigerator won't make ice it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts, we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of refrigerator failures, including issues that require Whirlpool refrigerator repair ice maker services.

    What to look out for with a refrigerator won’t make ice diagnosis

    Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your refrigerator problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

    Why Your Whirlpool Refrigerator Isn’t Making Ice

    When your Whirlpool refrigerator stops making ice, it can be due to a range of issues. Identifying the exact problem requires understanding the symptoms and potential causes. Here are some common scenarios that might help you troubleshoot and resolve the issue efficiently.

    Whirlpool Ice Maker Stopped Working: Causes and Solutions

    If your Whirlpool ice maker stopped working, the first thing to check is whether it has an on/off switch or a bail arm. Ensure the switch hasn’t been turned off or, if it has a bail arm, that the arm isn’t stuck in the off position. Also, check the water supply line to make sure it’s not kinked or blocked, as this can prevent water from reaching the ice maker. Another common cause is a faulty ice maker motor or a jammed ejector arm. These components are crucial for the ice-making process, and if they malfunction, the ice maker won’t operate correctly. Inspect the control board and wiring for any faults that might interrupt the ice maker's functionality.

    Troubleshooting a Whirlpool Refrigerator That Stopped Making Ice

    If your Whirlpool refrigerator stopped making ice, it can often be traced back to a malfunctioning water inlet valve or a clogged water filter. The water inlet valve controls the flow of water into the ice maker, and if it’s defective, it may not fill the ice tray. Replacing an old or clogged water filter can also improve water flow and ice production. Ensure your freezer is set to the correct temperature, as too warm or too cold settings can affect ice production.

    Addressing Issues with a Whirlpool Refrigerator Ice Maker Not Making Ice

    If you find your Whirlpool refrigerator ice maker not making ice, it might be due to problems with the ice maker’s motor or the ejector arm. These parts are responsible for moving the ice through the cycle, and any failure here can halt production. Also check the fill tube for blockages or freezing, which can prevent water from entering the ice tray. Regular maintenance and ensuring the ice maker is free from obstructions can often resolve these issues.

    Solutions for Whirlpool Gold Series Refrigerator Not Making Ice

    A Whirlpool Gold Series refrigerator not making ice could be due to an issue with the ice maker module. This component controls the ice-making cycle, and any malfunction here can stop ice production. Inspect the module for any visible damage or wear and consider replacing it if necessary. Ensure the ice maker is receiving power by checking for blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers. Restoring power can often resolve this problem quickly.

    What to Do When Your Whirlpool Refrigerator Has No Ice

    Experiencing a Whirlpool refrigerator no ice scenario can be frustrating, but several common solutions might help. Ensure that all components, including the water line, inlet valve, and filters, are functioning correctly. Regularly replacing the water filter and maintaining the correct freezer temperature can prevent many ice production issues. If these steps don’t resolve the problem, it may be time to seek professional assistance to identify and fix less obvious issues.

    By understanding these specific scenarios and performing regular maintenance, you can prevent and address ice maker issues in your Whirlpool refrigerator effectively. If problems persist, contacting a professional technician for a thorough inspection and repair is recommended.

    Icemaker Not Making Ice in a Whirlpool Refrigerator: Expert Troubleshooting Tips

    When the icemaker is not making ice in your Whirlpool fridge, follow these basic troubleshooting tips to help fix the problem.

    1. Check the metal level detector arm on the side of the icemaker assembly to make sure it is in the down position. Lower that arm if you find it stuck in the up position. The ice maker won’t make ice with that level arm in the up position.
    2. Check the fill tube above the ice maker for a freeze plug that could be blocking water going to the ice maker. Defrost the fill tube to allow water to flow into the ice maker ice mold.
    3. If you haven’t replaced the water filter in the last year, replace the refrigerator water filter to restore water flow to the ice maker.
    4. Check freezer temperature. The ice maker won’t cycle if freezer temperature isn’t below 15 degrees. Adjust freezer temperature if necessary to keep the freezer at 0 degrees.
    5. Check the water supply going to the refrigerator. Make sure the water supply cut-off valve is fully open. If you find that valve shut open it. If your refrigerator still isn’t getting water, shut the water supply valve and disconnect the water supply line going to the fridge. Place the end of the water line in a bucket and briefly open the water supply cut-off valve to check the water flow from the end of the water supply line. If no water flows from the water supply line, have a plumber fix the water supply going to the fridge.

    If these basic troubleshooting tips don’t help fix the icemaker not making ice in your Whirlpool refrigerator, a failed water valve, broken ice maker assembly, defective control board, freezer cooling issue or wiring failure could be causing the ice production issue. Schedule refrigerator repair service and we’ll send a Sears Home Services technician to your home to fix the ice maker.

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    Glossary Terms

    Refrigerant is a chemical compound used in HVAC systems and refrigerators to absorb heat from the environment by cycling through states of evaporation and condensation, enabling the cooling process through its cycle of evaporation and condensation.

    R-12 refrigerant, also known as Freon-12, is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) compound that was once widely used in air conditioning systems, refrigerators, and aerosol propellants before its phase-out due to environmental concerns.

    CFC certification refers to the credentialing process that qualifies HVAC technicians to handle chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other refrigerants in a manner that complies with environmental regulations. It is essential for professionals who install, maintain, or repair HVAC systems and refrigeration equipment.

    A refrigerator thermostat is a device within a refrigerator that regulates its temperature by turning the cooling system on and off based on the interior temperature compared to the set desired temperature.

    Additional possible Whirlpool refrigerator symptoms you may experience