Do you have the problem of a freezer not making ice? You are not alone, but there are ways to solve the problem, as we discuss in this article.
Table of Contents
Freezer Not Making Ice Fast Enough – What to Do
Do the following if you find that your freezer is not making ice fast enough:
1. Load the Freezer
Ensure the freezer is filled at least halfway, not less. Also, keep it only three-quarter filled if you must go over the halfway mark. That is because keeping the freezer too full or too empty will affect how well it freezes. And if it does not freeze, the ice maker will not work. Proper circulation of cold air will encourage the ice maker to make ice fast enough.
2. Check the Temperature Setting
Ensure the freezer’s temperature is set low enough to freeze food items and for the ice maker to work. Adjusting the temperature to a warm point will slow ice production and affect the freezing of items.
Ideally, the freezer should always be set at 0 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal food safety and fast ice production. But you can set it a few degrees higher if you have reasons for not setting it too low. However, it must not go higher than 5 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Rearrange Items
Inspect the contents of the freezer to see if one or more items are restricting the ice maker arm from moving freely. Sometimes, putting too many things in the freezer and too close to the ice maker impedes its functions. Reduce and rearrange the contents if it will improve the speed of the ice maker.
4. Reduce Door Opening
Frequently opening and shutting the freezer door will affect the cool temperature. Over time, the ice maker will not have enough cold air to make ice fast enough. The ice maker is not the only affected content of the freezer; food items will not freeze as they should. Therefore, reduce the number of times you open the door, especially during ice production. Keep it as tightly shut as possible.
5. Replace the Water Filter
Check and replace the water filter if nothing else seems to fix the problem. A filter that is overdue for a change is usually clogged with impurities that slow the flow of water. You will find the water filter housing in the refrigerator; the filter will freeze if it is located in the freezer. Replace it with the correct type for the unit; most brands are filter-specific. Afterward, run water from the dispenser or straight from the water line to flush air from the system.
Freezer Not Making Ice After Power Outage – Solved
You may need to give the freezer some time to cool enough and freeze before making ice. After a power outage, it may take some time for the freezer to run and cool. But if the freezer does not begin to make ice after about two hours, it means it is not getting power.
Check the circuit breaker to see if it tripped during the outage if nothing else seems to be working in the freezer. Turn the breaker on if it is off or reset it. If that does not fix the problem, ensure there is no burnt fuse in the breaker box. You may need an electrician to check this part.
But if the circuit breaker is not the problem, check the wall outlet. Typically, a freezer needs its outlet and cannot share it with another appliance. Otherwise, there will not be enough power output for the appliances. Avoid using extension cords for a refrigerator or freezer. Connect another appliance to the outlet, and if it comes on, the problem may be the outlet. Consider replacing it. But if it is a GFCI outlet, press the reset button and try the freezer again.
If all the above is in place, ensure the feeler arm is in the On position, which is down. Your ice maker may be the type with a power cord that connects to the back of the freezer. Be sure the cord is entirely in the socket. Next, check the fill tube at the back of the freezer. Ice may be clogging it, and you will need to melt the ice with a hairdryer.
Finally, ensure the freezer’s temperature is low enough for the ice maker to work. Adjust it to 0 degrees Fahrenheit or -18 degrees Celsius if it is higher than that. Then, give the freezer about 24 hours to run and improve ice production. If none of the above works, your ice maker needs servicing. Consider hiring a service agent for the job.
Freezer Not Making Ice But Water Works – Quick Fix
Check the fill tube at the back of the freezer that feeds water into the ice maker. It may be clogged with ice, and if that is the case, use a hairdryer to melt the ice. Then, ensure the freezer temperature is not too cold. Keeping the freezer too cold will cause the fill tube to freeze frequently.
Next, check the water line; debris or ice may clog it and prevent water from flowing. Pull it out of its connection and blow air through it. If the air does not go through it, it is clogged. Squirt warm water into it to melt the ice or push the debris out. Ensure the line is not damaged; replace it if it is.
Take a look at the water inlet valve if the water line and fill tube do not solve the problem. Mineral deposits may be affecting its functionality. Or the water pressure may be too low to operate it. Additionally, the inlet valve may be faulty, impeding water flow. To test the valve, check for dirt clogging it at the entrance. Try cleaning the valve to see if it improves water flow.
If cleaning the valve does not work, check the water pressure. Dispense water from the dispenser if your unit has one or directly from the water line if it does not. If the force cannot fill a water glass in ten seconds, the water pressure is low. An old water filter can affect the pressure, but an in-home water filtration system can also lower the pressure. Otherwise, consider replacing the water inlet valve.
Freezer Not Making Enough Ice – What to Do
Check the setting of the thermostat in the freezer. It may be too warm, reducing the cold air in the freezer. The ice maker cannot make enough ice if the temperature is not low enough. Set the thermostat to a middle point, five being ideal. Use a thermometer to check the temperature; leave it in the freezer for about 24 hours. That way, you will know whether or not it is low enough.
Ensure the water filter is not due for a change. Sometimes, the filter indicator will alert you, but other times, you may need to determine the replacement time. No refrigerator water filter should be in use longer than six months unless you have clean water in your area or hardly use the ice maker and water from the unit. If you are changing the filter, ensure you purchase one using the unit’s model number.
The water filter can affect how much water gets into the ice maker. The water inlet cannot open to supply water when the water pressure is too low, lower than 20psi. So, check to see if the valve works and supplies enough water to the ice maker after replacing the water filter. Ensure dirt does not clog the valve and it opens to fill the ice maker. Otherwise, you may have to replace it.
Freezer Not Making Ice – How to Fix
Check the following and fix the faulty ones if your freezer is not making ice:
1. Power
First, be sure the freezer is receiving enough voltage to turn on. Check the circuit breaker to see if it is on. If it is off, turn it on and check for burnt fuses. Employ the services of a qualified electrician if you are unsure how to do it.
But if the freezer’s internal light is on and other appliances in the house are working, then check the ice maker’s power button if it has one. Turn it off and back on, and wait for the blades to turn. If the ice maker does not have a power button, toggle the feeler arm up and down, to the On position. Then, wait for the ice maker to start working.
Another part to check is the power cord. Some ice makers have power cords that connect to the freezer’s back. If your ice maker has that cord, ensure to connect it fully into the socket. Next, check the freezer’s or refrigerator’s power cord. It should be fully plugged into a dedicated wall outlet and the outlet must be working.
2. Freezer Temperature
The next thing to check and fix is the internal temperature. If the power supply is in place, ensure the freezer’s temperature does not exceed 5 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideally, a freezer should be at 0 degrees or a little lower for the ice maker to work.
Sometimes, the set temperature may indicate the correct setting, but the freezer is not cooling as it should. Use a thermometer to check it; place one in the freezer and close the door for about 24 hours. Adjust the temperature setting to a lower point if the thermometer shows a high reading. Then, give the freezer another 24 hours to adjust to the setting.
3. Water Supply Valve
Check the water valve that supplies water from the main source to the refrigerator. Sometimes, you may accidentally turn it off or leave it only partially open. If that is the case, the water flow will be restricted and the ice maker will not function accordingly. Turn the valve off and on, making sure to open to the end. If the force is high, you can close it a little.
4. Fill Tube
Disconnect the freezer from electric power and turn the water supply off. Then, find the fill tube at the back of the freezer, just behind the ice maker. Check to see if a fragment of ice is obstructing it. That will explain the lack of water and no ice maker functionality.
You can manually defrost the freezer by leaving it disconnected and opening the door to thaw the frozen tube. You can also use a hair dryer to dissolve the ice and free the tube. But tread carefully if you use a dryer so that you do not damage any plastic part with the heat.
In addition, ensure the fill cup and tube align with each other. Push them back into place so that water can fill the ice mold at the start of an icemaking cycle.
5. Door Switch
Find the switch on your freezer or refrigerator model. Some have them at the top of the door, while others have them on the side frame inside the unit. When you close the door, it pushes the switch in to turn the internal light off. But in some models, the switch also controls the functions of the ice maker. The freezer manufacturer will let you know if your model operates this way.
Open the door and press the switch a few times if it operates that way. The internal light should respond to the switch by going off and turning it back on. That tells you the switch is working. But if the light does not respond or responds irregularly, replace the switch to get the ice maker working again.
6. Water Inlet Valve
Before testing the inlet valve, unplug the unit from the wall receptacle and turn off the water supply at the supply valve. Then, move the freezer from the wall to find the valve at the bottom back of the unit. You will need to remove the bottom rear access panel to gain access to the valve.
Next, inspect the connections to be sure none is loose. Tighten loose connections or replace damaged fittings. Ensure the valve has no damages on it; you need to replace it if it does. Check the water pressure if the valve seems to be in good working condition. The pressure must be at least 20psi for the valve to work. If it is too low or too high, the inlet valve will not function appropriately.
Dispense water from the water line or dispenser if your unit has one. Typically, you should get a full glass of water within ten seconds if the pressure is sufficient. But if you do not get that amount in time, fix the water pressure. You may need the services of a plumber to fix the water pressure issue.
Replacing the water filter may also fix the water pressure issues if the filter is due for a replacement. Endeavor to use the correct type of filter any time you replace it. But if your home uses a reverse osmosis water filtration system, it may be reducing the water pressure. In such a case, run a separate water line to the ice maker and use the standard refrigerator type of filter.
If the valve keeps malfunctioning even though all the above is in place, check the screen filter inside the valve. It may be clogged with a lot of debris filtered from the water. Remove the small filter and soak it for several minutes in a water and vinegar solution. Afterward, thoroughly wash and rinse it. Then, dry it before replacing it.
Run a continuity test on the inept valve if cleaning the filter does not fix the problem. Remove the screw that holds the valve to the freezer’s frame and unmount the valve. Take a multimeter and set it to R X 1. Then, touch the probes to the valve’s solenoid coil. You should get 200 to 500 ohms as reading on the meter. Replace the inlet valve if the needle on the meter does not move or the reading does not correspond to these numbers.
7. Ice Maker
Finally, the ice maker may be faulty. If nothing else works, consider replacing the entire assembly. Usually, it is not an expensive replacement, but you can avoid it if you run regular maintenance checks on the ice maker and freezer. That way, you will notice and fix faults and errors before they mature to become serious problems.
Check out these other articles…
Refrigerator Noise [Problems Solved]
Refrigerator Sticking Out too Far [Solutions]
Freezer Noise [Problems Solved]
Ice Maker Noise [Problems & Solutions]
Dispenser Noise [Problems & Proven Solutions]
Freezer Leaking and Not Making Ice – Solved
You need to find out where the leak stems from so that you can fix it permanently. Sometimes, the leak originates from somewhere around the ice maker, making it look as if the ice maker is leaking. Disconnect the refrigerator from electric power and turn the water shut-off valve off. Check to see if the valve is leaking; hire a plumber for repairs if it is.
Next, check the water line’s connections for leaks. The connections may be loose, needing just a slight tightening. Then, check the water line for damage. A heavy object like the freezer itself may have been resting on it, or the water line has kinks that damaged it. Whichever is the case, replace the water line if it is leaking.
Also, check the defrost drain inside the freezer. When the drain is covered with a layer of ice and water does not flow out, it will leak out through other channels. Sometimes, the channel may look as if it is coming from the ice maker. So, ensure the drain is free of debris and ice.
If you are sure the leak is from the ice maker, check for cracks on the ice maker. Ensure the connections on the water inlet valve are tight and secure. Replace worn-out pipes and pumps, ensuring they are correctly installed.
Check the fill cup and tube for proper alignment. If the cup and tube are not aligned, the water will pour outside the ice mold and leak from the ice maker. Lower the freezer temperature to the appropriate point so that the ice maker can work. Otherwise, the water will sit in the ice unfrozen and eventually leak out.
An ice jam inside the ice maker can cause the ejector blades to stick and freeze in the ice. With time, the ice will melt and leak out, then freeze again. The ice maker will keep leaking until you free the blades and get the cycle running smoothly again.
Lastly, the freezer may not be level. An unbalanced freezer or refrigerator causes several errors and faults, including a leaking ice maker. Set a laser level or bubble on top of the freezer and check the leveling. If the leveling is incorrect, turn the adjustment screws on the feet until you achieve the proper level.
Deep Freezer Not Making Ice – How to Fix
The following are ways to fix a deep freezer that is not freezing:
1. Check the Start Relay
Unplug the freezer and move it a little away from the surrounding walls. Find the compressor at the bottom back of the freezer and unmount the small device on it; that is the relay. The relay is fixed to the side of the compressor.
There are two ways to test the start relay of a compressor. One is the shake and rattle test, and two is the multimeter test. When you unmount the relay, shake it and see if it rattles. If it does, the relay is defective and needs a replacement.
Some relays may need a second test, the multimeter test. So, take a multimeter and run a continuity test if the relay does not rattle. Replace the relay if the multimeter does not show continuity from it.
2. Check the Lid
Ensure the lid closes and seals tightly. Dirt on the gasket or a worn gasket will keep the lid from tightly sealing. Clean the gasket with warm soapy water if it is dirty and thoroughly dry it afterward. If the gasket is loose, it is pretty easy to fix it with a small flat-blade screwdriver.
But if the gasket is worn, it cannot seal at all. Cold air will keep escaping, thereby reducing the freezer’s capacity to freeze. Set a dollar bill or a thin sheet of paper between the lid and frame, and close the lid. If you can pull the bill or piece of paper out, replace the gasket.
Reduce the number of times you open the freezer’s lid if the gasket issue does not apply. Also, close the lid as quickly as possible after using the freezer; avoid holding it open for too long. You compromise the internal temperature that way.
Rearrange items to keep them from raising the lid even a little. You may not have too many items in the freezer, but poor arrangement affects the freezing capacity. Endeavor to keep the freezer three-quarter full for optimal cooling
3. Check the Temperature Setting
Ensure the freezer’s temperature is low enough to carry the ice maker. Sometimes, you accidentally move the dial to a warmer point. So, keep as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit; that is the recommended food-safe temperature setting. The same temperature will freeze the water in the ice maker. Note that an ice maker does not generate its own temperature; it relies on that of the freezer for ice production.
The thermostat may be malfunctioning. Turn the dial to a warmer point, which is a lower number, and wait for the compressor to turn off. If the compressor keeps running, the thermostat is likely faulty. Replace it.
But if the temperature setting is correct, yet the freezer is not freezing, something else may be causing the problem. However, place a thermometer in the freezer for a couple of hours; it should read 0 degrees to correspond with the setting. Otherwise, check other possible factors causing the temperature to rise.
4. Check the Location
Positioning the freezer in the direct path of sun rays or other heat sources affects its cooling capacity. It is pretty easy to relocate a deep freezer unless you do not have enough space. If you can, move it to another part of the house with better room temperature. But if you cannot, adjust the set temperature to a lower point to accommodate the heat. Then, find a way to shield the freezer from the heat.
5. Check the Condenser Coils
Some freezers have condenser coils within their walls. If your model does, you cannot check them; they do not need cleaning. But if the coils are visible, vacuum the dirt and other debris from them. Leave them as clean as possible. Ensure the compressor and condenser fan are clean and working. Additionally, create sufficient space around the freezer for optimized air circulation; heat affects the freezer’s capacity to cool.
6. Check the Contents
Arrange the contents of the freezer so that they do not restrict the flow of cold air. Avoid packing the freezer too tight, and do not leave it too empty either. Overloading the freezer may block the vents through which cold air enters and cause some items to freeze while others do not.
In addition, try to leave hot food out to cool before storing it in the freezer. Hot food takes time to cool and freeze, especially when it is plenteous. The longer it takes to cool, the more it affects the freezer. Besides, it is likely to build condensation that turns to frost when frozen. Frost affects how well the freezer freezes.
7. Check Refrigerant Level
The refrigerant may be insufficient to run the cooling cycle. However, you may not be able to tell if you are not trained to check. Therefore, it is crucial to hire a professional technician to check the refrigerant level and advise accordingly.
8. Check the Compressor
Similarly, you may not have the expertise to test a freezer compressor. But you can tell when a compressor is failing by a loud noise or constant running. Employ the services of a qualified technician to determine whether or not you need a new compressor or freezer.
Freezer Not Making Ice or Water – Quick Fix
If you find that your freezer is not making ice or water, check and fix any of the following:
1. Shut-off Valve
Check to be sure the main water supply valve is open. You will find it under the sink or on the wall at the back of the unit. Turn it off and back on, and check to see if the freezer has water. Hire a plumber to find out if the valve needs a replacement.
2. Water Inlet Valve
Ensure the valve is open. Sometimes, you shut it or leave it only partially open. It cannot supply adequate water to the freezer or refrigerator if it is not fully open. You may want to turn it off and on, ensuring to open it fully this time.
The water pressure may also be affecting the valve. Pressure lower than 20 or 30psi will not open the valve, so the freezer will not have water. Again, you may need the services of a plumber to determine whether or not the pressure is sufficient. But an old water filter affects the water pressure, just as an in-home water filtration system. Replace the water filter if it is older than six months in use.
If your area has hard water, be aware that the deposits in the water will clog the valve with constant use. The deposits will keep the valve from functioning, so there will be no supply of water. Examine the valve and replace it if it is clogged with too much dirt.
However, test the solenoid coil using a multimeter if none of the above applies. This is to find out if the valve is getting enough power to function. Replace the inlet valve if it is getting power but is not working.
3. Water Line
Ice or debris may be blocking the water line, preventing water from reaching the ice maker or water dispenser. Check the line and dissolve any ice obstructions with warm water or a dryer. Flush debris out with warm water and make sure the line is not kinked or damaged. Straighten it if kinked, but replace it if damaged.
4. Door
A few fridge freezers deactivate the water and ice dispensers if the doors are even slightly open. The units work with a sensor that turns of the functions of the water dispenser and ice maker. If it applies to your freezer, ensure you tightly close the door. It may help to open the freezer door and shut it again, to be sure. Afterward, recheck the dispenser and ice maker.
5. Lock
The lock function may disable the water and ice dispensers. Many models have this feature, and if your does, it is crucial to check it. The lock feature looks like a key icon on the control panel. It is active if the icon is illuminated. Press and hold it for about three seconds to deactivate it and get the water and ice working again.
Freezer Not Freezing or Making Ice – What to Do
Check the following if you find that your freezer is not freezing or making ice:
- Fill tube
- Water inlet valve
- Water filter
- Temperature setting
- Ice maker
- Content
- Door
- Evaporator coils
- Condenser coils
- Evaporator fan
- Condenser fan
- Start relay
- Thermostat
- Compressor
- Refrigerant
- Control board
You will find details in this article to test each component thoroughly and find the faulty ones.
Recap
Fixing a poorly-working ice maker is usually easy. The same is true for a freezer not making ice. Unless you do not have the skills or the repair steps are too complex, you will find steps to troubleshoot and fix each faulty component.
However, contact the manufacturing brand for further assistance and service if you still have an active warranty. But if you are doing the repairs yourself, turn the freezer off and ensure you preserve frozen perishable foods.
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