Whirlpool Ice Maker Not Harvesting Cubes: Optic Sensor... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

Whirlpool ice makers use an optic sensor to detect the ice level in the ice bin. The sensor consists of an emitter and a receiver. When the ice bin is full, the beam between the emitter and receiver is blocked, signaling the MCU to stop ice production. The harvest cycle is initiated by the main control board based on a timer and temperature feedback. Voltage paths are typically 5V DC for the sensor and 120V AC for the ice maker motor.

Symptoms:

The homeowner observes that the ice maker is producing ice, but the ice is not being ejected into the ice bin. The ice cubes remain frozen in the ice maker tray, and the ice maker does not seem to be going through its harvest cycle.

Possible Causes:

Faulty optic sensor (emitter or receiver).
Ice buildup blocking the optic sensor's path.
Defective ice maker control board.
Wiring harness issues between the optic sensor and control board.
Ice maker motor failure to initiate harvest cycle.
Low freezer temperature affecting harvest timing.

Solution:

1

Disconnect power to the refrigerator at the breaker panel.
2

Locate the ice maker assembly in the freezer compartment.
3

Inspect the optic sensor area for ice buildup. Manually defrost if necessary.
4

Using a multimeter, check the voltage to the optic sensor (typically 5V DC) with the refrigerator powered on.
5

If voltage is present, replace the optic sensor board. Ensure correct part number.
6

If voltage is absent, check the wiring harness between the optic sensor and the main control board for continuity and shorts.
7

If wiring is good, replace the main control board.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the appliance at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. Verify the circuit is de-energized using a multimeter. High voltage (120V AC) is present in some areas of the ice maker.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the ice maker assembly and surrounding areas to prevent ice buildup. Replace the water filter every 6 months to ensure optimal ice quality.

Expert Tip:

Some Whirlpool ice makers have a service mode that allows you to manually initiate the harvest cycle for testing purposes. Consult the technical service manual for the specific model to access this mode. It often involves pressing a specific sequence of buttons on the control panel.

Follow-up Questions:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I access the service mode on my Whirlpool refrigerator to force a harvest cycle?

The service mode access varies by model. Typically, you need to press a specific combination of buttons on the control panel (e.g., Freezer Temp Down - Freezer Temp Up - Freezer Temp Down). Consult the refrigerator's service manual or the Whirlpool technical support website for your specific model number.

•What is the acceptable voltage range for the optic sensor?

Typically, the optic sensor operates on 5V DC. A reading between 4.8V DC and 5.2V DC is generally considered acceptable. Lower or higher readings may indicate a problem with the power supply or the wiring.

•How can I test the ice maker motor independently?

Carefully disconnect the ice maker motor wiring harness. Using a jumper wire and appropriate voltage (usually 120V AC, verified by the wiring diagram), briefly apply power to the motor terminals. If the motor does not run, it is likely faulty. Exercise extreme caution when working with line voltage.

Whirlpool Ice Maker Not Harvesting Cubes: Optic Sensor Board Replacement Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I access the service mode on my Whirlpool refrigerator to force a harvest cycle?

•What is the acceptable voltage range for the optic sensor?

•How can I test the ice maker motor independently?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: