Admiral Refrigerator Ice Maker Not Working:... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The ice maker operates based on signals from the main control unit (MCU). The MCU initiates the ice-making cycle, energizes the ice maker water inlet valve, and monitors the temperature sensor. The ice maker module itself controls the harvest cycle, ejecting the ice cubes. Voltage is supplied to the ice maker via a dedicated circuit, typically 120V AC. The inlet valve requires sufficient voltage to open and allow water to flow into the ice maker tray.

Symptoms:

US homeowner observes that their Admiral refrigerator's ice maker is not producing ice, but the water dispenser is functioning correctly.

Possible Causes:

Faulty ice maker module
Frozen or clogged ice maker fill tube
Defective ice maker water inlet valve (even if dispensing water)
Low freezer temperature setting (too warm)
Stuck or broken ice maker ejector arm
Damaged wiring harness or connector to the ice maker

Solution:

1

Disconnect power to the refrigerator at the breaker panel (LOTO).
2

Locate the ice maker assembly inside the freezer. Remove the ice maker cover plate using a 1/4-inch nut driver.
3

Inspect the ice maker fill tube for ice blockage. If blocked, use a hair dryer on low heat to carefully melt the ice plug. Avoid overheating the plastic.
4

Using a multimeter, check the voltage at the ice maker water inlet valve during the ice maker harvest cycle. You should see 120V AC for a few seconds. If no voltage, the ice maker module is likely faulty.
5

If voltage is present, test the ice maker water inlet valve for continuity using a multimeter. If there is no continuity, replace the valve.
6

Check the freezer temperature using a thermometer. It should be between 0 and 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Adjust the temperature setting if necessary.
7

Inspect the ice maker ejector arm for any damage or obstructions. Manually cycle the ice maker to observe its operation. Replace the ice maker if the ejector arm is broken or not functioning properly.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the appliance at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures should be followed. High voltage is present in the appliance; exercise caution to avoid electrical shock.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the refrigerator coils (every 6 months) to ensure proper cooling. Replace the refrigerator water filter every 6 months to prevent mineral buildup in the ice maker fill tube and valve.

Expert Tip:

Many Admiral refrigerators have a service mode that allows you to manually initiate the ice maker harvest cycle. Consult the service manual for your specific model to find the correct button sequence (usually involving holding down one or two buttons for a few seconds). This can help diagnose whether the ice maker module is functioning.

Follow-up Questions:
• What is the voltage reading I should expect at the water inlet valve?
Answer: You should see 120V AC for a few seconds when the ice maker is calling for water during the harvest cycle.
• How do I manually cycle the ice maker?
Answer: Some models have a test button on the ice maker. Otherwise, carefully remove the ice maker and gently turn the gear on the side. Exercise extreme caution.
• What is the correct resistance reading for a working ice maker water inlet valve?
Answer: A typical ice maker water inlet valve should read between 200 and 500 ohms. Consult the service manual for your specific model.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the voltage reading I should expect at the water inlet valve?

You should see 120V AC for a few seconds when the ice maker is calling for water during the harvest cycle.

•How do I manually cycle the ice maker?

Some models have a test button on the ice maker. Otherwise, carefully remove the ice maker and gently turn the gear on the side. Exercise extreme caution.

•What is the correct resistance reading for a working ice maker water inlet valve?

A typical ice maker water inlet valve should read between 200 and 500 ohms. Consult the service manual for your specific model.

Admiral Refrigerator Ice Maker Not Working: Troubleshooting Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the voltage reading I should expect at the water inlet valve?

•How do I manually cycle the ice maker?

•What is the correct resistance reading for a working ice maker water inlet valve?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: