Whirlpool Ice Maker Not Harvesting Cubes: Bin Full... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The main control unit (MCU) monitors the bin full sensor to determine when to stop ice production. The sensor typically works by detecting the presence of ice in the bin, either mechanically (a lever) or optically. A voltage signal is sent from the sensor to the MCU. If the MCU receives a signal indicating the bin is full, it will halt ice production. When the signal indicates the bin is not full, the ice maker cycle should start.

Symptoms:

US homeowner reports that the Whirlpool ice maker is not producing ice. The homeowner has confirmed that the freezer is cold and the water line is connected, but no ice cubes are being harvested. The ice bin may appear empty, but the ice maker acts as if it's full.

Possible Causes:

Faulty bin full sensor
Wiring harness damage or disconnection
Ice buildup interfering with sensor operation
Defective main control board (MCU)
Stuck ice maker arm

Solution:

1

Disconnect power to the refrigerator at the breaker panel.
2

Locate the ice maker bin full sensor, typically located near the ice bin. It may be a mechanical arm or an optical sensor.
3

Visually inspect the sensor for any physical damage or obstructions from ice buildup. Remove any ice accumulation.
4

Use a multimeter to test the sensor's continuity. A working sensor should show continuity when the bin is full and no continuity when the bin is empty (or vice versa, depending on the sensor type). Refer to the service manual for specific resistance values.
5

Check the wiring harness connecting the sensor to the main control board for any loose connections or damage. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to tighten any loose connections. Check for 12V DC at the sensor connector with the refrigerator powered on (after re-connecting temporarily for testing).
6

If the sensor tests faulty, replace it with a new Whirlpool-approved sensor. Ensure the replacement is the correct part for the model.
7

Restore power to the refrigerator at the breaker panel and monitor ice production. It may take up to 24 hours for the ice maker to resume normal operation.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the refrigerator at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. High voltage is present within the appliance and can cause serious injury or death. Follow Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures.

Prevention:

Regularly empty the ice bin to prevent ice from clumping together and interfering with the sensor. Periodically check the sensor for ice buildup and remove it.

Expert Tip:

Many Whirlpool ice makers have a diagnostic mode. Locate the service manual for your specific model to learn how to force a harvest cycle. This can help determine if the issue is truly the sensor or another part of the ice maker system. A common sequence is to press and hold the ice maker test button for 3 seconds.

Follow-up Questions:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I access the diagnostic mode on my specific Whirlpool model?

The procedure varies by model. Refer to the service manual for your specific Whirlpool refrigerator. You can often find the service manual online by searching for your model number followed by 'service manual'.

•Where can I purchase a replacement bin full sensor for my Whirlpool ice maker?

You can purchase a replacement sensor from appliance parts retailers like AppliancePartsPros.com, RepairClinic.com, or directly from Whirlpool's website. Make sure to use your model number to find the correct part.

•What voltage should I expect to see at the bin full sensor connector?

Typically, you should see 12V DC at the connector. Use a multimeter set to DC voltage to measure between the positive and negative terminals of the connector when the refrigerator is powered on. Be careful not to short the terminals.

Whirlpool Ice Maker Not Harvesting Cubes: Bin Full Sensor Troubleshooting

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I access the diagnostic mode on my specific Whirlpool model?

•Where can I purchase a replacement bin full sensor for my Whirlpool ice maker?

•What voltage should I expect to see at the bin full sensor connector?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: