Cannot remove ice bucket from whirlpool refrigerator

Having a freezer with an ice maker is incredibly convenient. It allows you to enjoy icy cold drinks every day without having to refill ice trays at the kitchen sink. Whether you need a large supply of ice for the big game, a birthday party, or a regular family dinner, you count on your ice maker to work flawlessly. That’s why it’s such a big inconvenience if your ice maker gets stuck or fails to produce enough ice.

There are plenty of reasons why an ice maker might stop working, but here’s a look at two of the most common causes of a broken ice maker, how to fix them, and how to prevent the issues from happening again in the future. Remember to be careful as you attempt to fix the problem, so you don’t accidentally break the ice maker by applying too much force or due to unfamiliarity. If you start to lose your cool, call an expert for professional ice maker repair.

Ice Maker Gets Stuck

Problem: Ice clumps

If the ice storage bin gets too full or isn’t used often enough, slight melting and refreezing may cause ice cubes to stick together in clumps, making it impossible to dispense them.

Remove the ice storage bin from the freezer and break clumped up ice with your hands. Dump any clumps you can’t break up into the sink. Since inactivity causes ice clumps to form, the easiest long-term fix is to use the ice maker more frequently.

Problem: Ice caught in the raker

Most ice makers have a raking mechanism to disperse newly created cubes evenly across the storage bin. The raker bar may have ice caught in it, causing it to jam.

To fix this, clear off ice cubes from the raker bar by hand. Remove some ice from the storage bin if it ever starts getting too full.

Problem: Dispenser chute clogged

Ice and debris can clog the dispenser chute, causing the flap not to open all the way. If ice doesn’t come out, stop pressing the dispenser, open the freezer door, and look inside the chute. If it’s blocked, remove the obstruction.

Ice Maker Not Making Ice

Problem: The water supply valve fails

A direct water supply line into the freezer allows it to produce ice. If the valve that controls the supply line has become stuck, corroded, or worn out, the ice maker will stop working.

You’ll need to investigate the water supply line and possibly replace the valve to get the ice maker working again. This may require a professional’s assistance.

Problem: The filter is clogged

Ice makers use a filter to stop particles in the water from contaminating the ice or making it taste funny. If you never replace the filter, it can become clogged over time and block the flow of water into the ice maker. To keep your ice clean and the water flowing, change the freezer’s water filter as frequently as the manufacturer recommends.

When You Need an Expert, Call Mr. Appliance® for Ice Maker Repair

If the ice maker troubleshooting and repair tips here don’t work for you, contact Mr. Appliance for the professional services you need. We’ll get your ice maker up and running and take steps to help you avoid problems in the future. While the technician is at your home, you might as well request an entire freezer check-up. This will give you peace of mind, knowing the appliance is running reliably and efficiently.

For all your kitchen appliance repair needs, turn to Mr. Appliance. We’ll provide the quick, reliable repairs you expect.

Meanwhile, are you having trouble just across from the freezer with a clogged kitchen sink? Reach out to our fellow Neighborly brand, Mr. Rooter, for expert plumbing service.