GE Café Refrigerator Ice Maker Freeze-up: Thawing the... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The Main Control Unit (MCU) controls the ice maker function, including the fill cycle. When the ice maker module signals for water, the MCU energizes the water inlet valve with 120V AC. A faulty valve or frozen fill tube prevents water from reaching the ice maker.

Symptoms:

The homeowner reports the ice maker is not producing ice, and there is a visible ice blockage in the fill tube.

Possible Causes:

Faulty ice maker water inlet valve
Low freezer temperature setting
Defective ice maker module
Clogged or restricted water filter
Damaged or kinked water supply line
Air leak into the freezer compartment

Solution:

1

Disconnect power to the refrigerator at the breaker panel. Verify 0V AC at the outlet.
2

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

Locate the ice maker fill tube. Use a hair dryer on low heat to gently thaw the ice blockage. Avoid excessive heat to prevent damage.
4

Check the water inlet valve for proper operation. With power restored, initiate an ice harvest cycle (see expert tip). Use a multimeter to check for 120V AC at the valve during the fill cycle. If no voltage is present, the ice maker module may be defective.
5

Inspect the water filter and replace if necessary. A clogged filter restricts water flow and can contribute to freezing.
6

Verify the freezer temperature is set between 0°F and 5°F. Adjust if needed.
7

Once thawed, observe the ice maker during several harvest cycles to ensure proper function and water fill level.

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 when the unit is energized.

Prevention:

• Replace the water filter every 6 months.
• Maintain a consistent freezer temperature between 0°F and 5°F.
• Inspect the water supply line for kinks or damage.

Expert Tip:

To force an ice harvest cycle on some GE Café models, press and hold the freezer light switch and the ice maker test button (usually located on the bottom of the ice maker) simultaneously for 3-5 seconds. The ice maker should begin a harvest cycle.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the ice maker water inlet valve?

With the refrigerator powered off, use an ohmmeter to check the valve's coil for continuity. A reading of around 200-500 ohms typically indicates a good coil. You can also apply 120V AC to the valve briefly to see if it opens and allows water to pass (exercise caution when working with electricity).

•What is the correct water pressure for a GE Café refrigerator?

The recommended water pressure is between 40 and 120 PSI. Low water pressure can cause the ice maker to malfunction or produce small, misshapen cubes.

•How often should I replace the water filter?

GE recommends replacing the water filter every 6 months, or sooner if you notice a decrease in water flow or ice production.

GE Café Refrigerator Ice Maker Freeze-up: Thawing the Fill Tube Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the ice maker water inlet valve?

•What is the correct water pressure for a GE Café refrigerator?

•How often should I replace the water filter?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: