Whirlpool Ice Maker Not Ejecting Cubes: Ejector Arm... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The ice maker's MCU (Microcontroller Unit) controls the harvest cycle. The MCU signals a motor to rotate the ejector arm, pushing ice cubes out of the mold. The ice maker's thermistor monitors ice mold temperature to initiate the harvest. Voltage to the motor is typically 120V AC. A broken ejector arm prevents proper ice ejection.

Symptoms:

The homeowner reports the ice maker is making ice, but the cubes are not being ejected into the ice bin. They observe a broken ejector arm.

Possible Causes:

Physical damage to the ejector arm (cracked or broken).
Ice buildup preventing arm movement, leading to stress and breakage.
Motor malfunction not rotating the ejector arm.
Faulty ice maker module.
Defective ice mold thermistor, not initiating harvest.

Solution:

1

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

Locate the ice maker in the freezer compartment.
3

Visually inspect the ejector arm for cracks or breaks. Confirm it's the primary cause.
4

Using a 1/4-inch nut driver, remove the ice maker cover or front panel to access the ice maker module.
5

Replace the broken ejector arm with a new Whirlpool OEM part. Ensure proper alignment and secure attachment.
6

If the motor appears seized, use a multimeter to check for 120V AC at the motor terminals during a simulated harvest cycle (if applicable - see expert tip).
7

Reassemble the ice maker, plug in the refrigerator or turn on the breaker, and verify proper ice ejection.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the appliance before performing any repairs. Use proper Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures. Ice makers operate with 120V AC; avoid contact with live wires.

Prevention:

• Regularly empty the ice bin to prevent ice from clumping and stressing the ejector arm.

• Check the freezer temperature. Too warm a freezer can lead to incomplete freezing and ice jamming.

• Inspect the ejector arm for signs of wear or cracks during routine refrigerator maintenance.

Expert Tip:

Many Whirlpool ice makers have a service mode. Press and hold the light switch 3 times within 10 seconds (or consult the service manual for the specific model) to force a harvest cycle for testing purposes. This can help diagnose motor issues.

Follow-up Questions:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I manually test the ice maker motor?

Using a multimeter, check for 120V AC at the motor terminals during a harvest cycle (either forced or naturally occurring). If voltage is present but the motor doesn't run, the motor is likely faulty.

•What is the correct freezer temperature for optimal ice production?

The ideal freezer temperature for ice production is between 0°F and 5°F (-18°C to -15°C). Use a thermometer to verify the temperature.

•How often should I replace the water filter for my ice maker?

Replace the water filter every 6 months or as indicated by the refrigerator's filter status light. A clogged filter can reduce water flow and affect ice production.

Whirlpool Ice Maker Not Ejecting Cubes: Ejector Arm Repair Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I manually test the ice maker motor?

•What is the correct freezer temperature for optimal ice production?

•How often should I replace the water filter for my ice maker?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: