A number of refrigerators have a built-in ice maker, which provides icy cold drinks all year long and whenever you want it. The components of the ice maker are fairly simple. However, it’s the ice maker that always seems to be the first to break inside the refrigerator. This is both inconvenient and annoying. For those whose ice maker suddenly stops working correctly, Southwest Appliance Repair of San Antonio will share a few suggestions when it comes to locating the problem to see if it can be easily repaired, or if you need to contact a professional appliance repair service.
Ice Maker Troubleshooting
Ice Clumps – For those who don’t frequently use their ice or ice sets for an extended period of time, it can begin to melt slightly. As the ice melts, it will refreeze together. This is a common occurrence that is often referred to as clumping. If the ice clumps in large chunks, the rest of the ice maker will not function properly. If the ice maker stops working, and you see the ice has clumped together, remove the ice tray and dump out all of the ice. Rinse the ice tray with warm water and when it is dry, place it back inside the freezer.
Ice Raker is Obstructed – Most ice makers use a mechanism called the ice raker. It is the raker that dispenses the freshly made ice evenly into the ice try. If the ice raker becomes jammed or obstructed, this could cause the ice maker to stop making ice. Check to see if ice is caught in the raker and clear all of the ice away.
Dispenser Chute is Clogged – Ice, along with other forms of debris, can clog the dispenser chute. Most often, the flap won’t open when this occurs. If ice doesn’t come out at all, look inside the freezer and see if something is in the chute.
Failure of the Water Supply – There is a tube that connects to the valve of the freezer that supplies the ice maker with water to create the ice. Several things often go wrong with the water supply. One common problem is the valve could have become corroded, stuck, or simply worn out. Check the valve and assess its condition. You may need to replace the valve. Another problem can occur with the tube or hose that supplies the water. Calcium from hard water can build-up inside the hose, or the hose can crack and break over time as well. Check the condition of the hose and see if it needs to be replaced.
Water Filter – In many cases, the water filter doesn’t get changed as often as it should. There are a number of sediments and particles in tap water which is used for ice. The filter will help supply the ice maker with clean water. However, if the filter is never changed out or cleaned, this can create problems with the ice maker. Check the filter regularly to prevent problems from occurring.
Appliance Repair & Inspections in CEDAR PARK, AUSTIN, ROUND ROCK, GEORGETOWN, FRISCO, ALLEN PLANO, DALLAS & SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS
If the problem with the ice maker is mechanical, contact a professional appliance repair company. Southwest Appliance Repair of San Antonio can help repair your home appliances. Contact us today!
