Amana Refrigerator Ice Maker Overflow: Freezing Bin... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The ice maker's MCU (Microcontroller Unit) controls the water inlet valve based on input from the ice level sensor and a timer. Voltage is applied to the valve solenoid to allow water to fill the ice mold. If the valve stays open too long, or the fill cycle is too frequent, overflow occurs. The thermistor provides temperature data to the MCU.

Symptoms:

US homeowner reports the Amana refrigerator ice maker is overflowing, resulting in a frozen ice bin guide and ice buildup in the ice bin area.

Possible Causes:

Faulty ice maker water inlet valve.
Low water pressure to the refrigerator.
Defective ice level sensor.
Clogged or frozen fill tube.
Malfunctioning ice maker module.
Freezer temperature too warm.

Solution:

1

Disconnect power to the refrigerator at the breaker panel.
2

Inspect the ice maker fill tube for ice blockage. Use a hair dryer to thaw if necessary.
3

Check the water inlet valve using a multimeter for continuity. Should read approximately 200-500 ohms. Replace if open or shorted.
4

Verify water pressure to the refrigerator is at least 20 PSI. Check the water filter and replace if clogged.
5

Examine the ice level sensor for damage or obstruction. Clean or replace as needed.
6

Test the ice maker module by forcing a harvest cycle (consult service manual or manufacturer's website). Monitor for proper water fill volume.
7

Ensure the freezer temperature is between 0-10 degrees Fahrenheit. Adjust the temperature control if necessary.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the refrigerator before performing any repairs. Use proper Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures. Be aware of 120V AC electrical circuits inside the refrigerator.

Prevention:

Replace the refrigerator's water filter every 6 months. Periodically check the ice maker fill tube for ice buildup. Ensure adequate water pressure to the refrigerator.

Expert Tip:

To force a harvest cycle on many Amana ice makers, press and hold the ice maker test button for 3-5 seconds. The ice maker should initiate a harvest cycle, including water fill. Observe the water fill volume for excessive fill, pointing to a faulty water inlet valve or module.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the water inlet valve with a multimeter?

Disconnect the refrigerator from power. Locate the water inlet valve, usually at the back of the refrigerator. Disconnect the electrical connector from the valve solenoid. Set your multimeter to the ohms setting. Place the meter probes on the two terminals of the solenoid. A reading between 200-500 ohms indicates a good solenoid. An open or shorted reading indicates a faulty solenoid.

•Where is the ice maker test button located?

The location of the test button varies by model. It is often located on the bottom or side of the ice maker module. Consult your refrigerator's service manual or the manufacturer's website for the exact location and procedure.

•What is the proper water fill time for the ice maker?

The fill time varies by model, but is typically between 5-10 seconds. Consult the service manual for your specific Amana model for the correct fill time. If the water fills for significantly longer, suspect a faulty water inlet valve or ice maker module.

Amana Refrigerator Ice Maker Overflow: Freezing Bin Guide Troubleshooting

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the water inlet valve with a multimeter?

•Where is the ice maker test button located?

•What is the proper water fill time for the ice maker?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: