Hotpoint Refrigerator Ice Maker Water Valve Humming, No... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The refrigerator's main control unit (MCU) sends a 120V AC signal to the water inlet valve solenoid when the ice maker calls for water. The solenoid opens the valve, allowing water to flow to the ice maker. If the solenoid is energized (humming) but no water flows, it indicates a problem with the valve itself or the water supply.

Symptoms:

US homeowner reports the ice maker water valve on their Hotpoint refrigerator is humming, but no water is being dispensed to the ice maker.

Possible Causes:

Frozen Water Supply Line
Clogged Water Filter
Defective Water Inlet Valve
Low Water Pressure
Faulty Ice Maker Module

Solution:

1

Disconnect power to the refrigerator at the breaker panel.
2

Locate the water inlet valve, usually at the back of the refrigerator near the bottom. Access may require removing the lower rear panel, using a 1/4-inch nut driver.
3

Disconnect the water supply line from the valve. Place a bucket to catch any residual water.
4

Using a multimeter, test the valve solenoid for continuity. A reading of OL (open loop) indicates a faulty solenoid. Typical resistance should be around 200-500 ohms.
5

With the power still disconnected, check the water pressure to the valve. It should be at least 20 PSI. You can use a water pressure gauge connected to the water line.
6

If the valve is receiving 120V AC when the ice maker calls for water but no water flows, replace the water inlet valve. To verify voltage, reconnect power (carefully) and use a multimeter to check for 120V AC at the valve terminals when the ice maker is cycling.
7

If the water pressure is low, check the house water supply and the water filter. Replace the filter if necessary.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the appliance at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures must be followed. High voltage is present in the refrigerator's electrical components.

Prevention:

Replace the water filter every 6 months. Check the water supply line annually for kinks or damage.

Expert Tip:

Some Hotpoint refrigerators have a service mode that allows you to manually activate the water valve. Consult the service manual for the specific key sequence for your model. This can help isolate the problem to the valve itself or the control board.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I force my ice maker to cycle to test the valve?

Many ice makers have a test button on the side. Hold it down for a few seconds to initiate a cycle. Consult your owner's manual for the exact procedure.

•What if I'm getting water to the valve but still no ice?

Check the ice maker's thermostat and heating element. The thermostat could be faulty, or the heating element may not be releasing the ice cubes.

•How do I know if my water filter is clogged?

If you're experiencing reduced water flow to the dispenser or ice maker, or if the filter is older than six months, it's likely clogged. Some refrigerators have an indicator light that will illuminate when the filter needs replacing.

Hotpoint Refrigerator Ice Maker Water Valve Humming, No Water: Troubleshooting

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I force my ice maker to cycle to test the valve?

•What if I'm getting water to the valve but still no ice?

•How do I know if my water filter is clogged?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: