Amana Refrigerator Loud Jackhammer Noise When Making... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The refrigerator's Main Control Unit (MCU) controls the ice maker cycle. It sends 120V AC to the water inlet valve to fill the ice mold. After freezing, the MCU activates the ice mold heater briefly, then powers the ice ejector motor. Faulty sensors, motors, or valves can disrupt this sequence. Voltage paths include the power supply from the breaker panel to the refrigerator, then to the ice maker components via the MCU.

Symptoms:

The Amana refrigerator is producing a loud, jackhammer-like noise specifically when the ice maker is cycling and attempting to eject ice.

Possible Causes:

Ice maker water valve malfunction
Ice ejector motor issues
Ice mold heater problem
Ice thickness sensor failure
Physical obstruction in the ice maker assembly

Solution:

1

Unplug the refrigerator or turn off the breaker at the breaker panel.
2

Remove the ice maker cover (usually held by screws or clips). Use a 1/4-inch nut driver.
3

Inspect the ice maker assembly for any visible obstructions. Remove any ice buildup.
4

Test the water inlet valve for proper operation. Use a multimeter to check for 120V AC when the ice maker calls for water.
5

Check the ice ejector motor. Manually cycle the ice maker and listen for unusual sounds or resistance.
6

Inspect the ice mold heater. A failed heater can cause ice to stick and the motor to strain, causing noise.
7

Replace any defective components (water valve, motor, heater, or ice maker assembly).

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power before working on any electrical components. Use proper Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures. High voltage is present in the refrigerator's electrical system.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the ice maker assembly. Ensure the water supply line is free from kinks and blockages. Replace the water filter every 6 months.

Expert Tip:

Many Amana refrigerators have a service mode accessible through a specific button sequence (check the tech sheet behind the kick plate). This mode allows you to manually cycle the ice maker for diagnostic purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I manually cycle the ice maker?

Many ice makers have a test button underneath the ice maker. Pressing and holding this button for a few seconds will start a test cycle.

•What voltage should I expect at the ice maker water valve?

You should see approximately 120V AC when the ice maker is calling for water. Use a multimeter set to AC voltage to check.

•Where can I find the tech sheet for my Amana refrigerator model?

The tech sheet is usually located behind the kick plate at the bottom front of the refrigerator or sometimes taped to the back panel. It contains wiring diagrams and troubleshooting information.

Amana Refrigerator Loud Jackhammer Noise When Making Ice: Troubleshooting Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I manually cycle the ice maker?

•What voltage should I expect at the ice maker water valve?

•Where can I find the tech sheet for my Amana refrigerator model?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: