Frigidaire Gallery French Door Refrigerator: Loud... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The refrigerator's main control unit (MCU) sends a 120V AC signal to the ice maker fill valve solenoid when the ice maker calls for water. The water fills the ice mold. The MCU then activates the ice mold heater to loosen the ice cubes. Finally, the ice ejector motor pushes the ice cubes out into the ice bin. Failures in any of these components or the water supply can cause abnormal operation and noises.

Symptoms:

The homeowner reports a loud jackhammer noise coming from the Frigidaire Gallery French Door refrigerator specifically when the ice maker is attempting to make ice. This noise is unusual and indicates a problem within the ice maker system.

Possible Causes:

Ice maker fill valve malfunction
Ice mold heater failure
Ice ejector motor failure
Water supply line blockage or low pressure
Ice maker assembly loose or damaged

Solution:

1

Disconnect power to the refrigerator at the breaker panel.
2

Remove the ice maker cover using a 1/4-inch nut driver.
3

Inspect the ice maker assembly for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or broken parts.
4

Check the water fill tube for ice blockage. If blocked, thaw it with a hairdryer on a low setting.
5

Verify the water pressure to the refrigerator is at least 20 PSI. Check the water filter and replace if needed.
6

Use a multimeter to test the ice maker fill valve solenoid for continuity. A reading of approximately 200-500 ohms is normal. If open or shorted, replace the valve.
7

If the fill valve is good, manually cycle the ice maker by pressing the test button (if equipped) or forcing the ejector arm to move. Listen for the motor and heater operation.

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. Internal components operate at 120V AC, which can cause serious injury or death.

Prevention:

Replace the refrigerator's water filter every 6 months. Periodically inspect the ice maker for ice buildup and manually defrost if necessary. Ensure the water supply line is free of kinks and obstructions.

Expert Tip:

Many Frigidaire refrigerators have a diagnostic service mode. Check the service manual for the specific model. Typically, holding down the “Freezer Temp Up” and “Freezer Temp Down” buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds will enter the service mode. Use this to run ice maker self-tests.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the ice maker heater element?

Use a multimeter to check for continuity across the heater element terminals. A reading of around 50-100 ohms is typical. If the reading is open, the heater is faulty and needs replacement.

•What is the proper water pressure for a Frigidaire refrigerator?

The recommended water pressure is between 20 and 100 PSI. Low water pressure can cause slow ice production and affect the performance of the water dispenser.

•How do I replace the ice maker fill valve?

Disconnect the water supply line and electrical connector from the old valve. Remove the valve from its mounting location. Install the new valve, reconnect the water line and electrical connector, and secure the valve in its mounting location. Restore power and test for proper operation.

Frigidaire Gallery French Door Refrigerator: Loud Jackhammer Noise When Making Ice Troubleshooting

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the ice maker heater element?

•What is the proper water pressure for a Frigidaire refrigerator?

•How do I replace the ice maker fill valve?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: