Whirlpool Side-by-Side Ice Maker Not Harvesting Cubes:... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The ice maker MCU controls the harvest cycle, energizing the heater element to release the cubes. The thermostat monitors the ice mold temperature, signaling the control board when to initiate the next fill cycle. Voltage flows through the ice maker module, heater, and then to neutral. Any break in this circuit will prevent harvesting.

Symptoms:

The ice maker in my Whirlpool side-by-side refrigerator is making ice, but the cubes are not dropping into the ice bin. The ice seems to be stuck in the mold.

Possible Causes:

Faulty ice maker heater
Defective ice maker module
Water inlet valve failure (preventing sufficient water fill)
Low freezer temperature (causing excessive ice adhesion)
Icemaker thermostat malfunction
Wiring harness issue

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 heater for continuity using a multimeter. A reading of infinity indicates a failed heater. Replace if needed.
4

Check the water inlet valve by momentarily applying 120V AC. Listen for a click, indicating the valve is opening. If not, replace the valve.
5

Verify freezer temperature is between 0-10 degrees Fahrenheit using a thermometer. Adjust the freezer temperature control if needed.
6

Examine the wiring harness for any loose connections or damage. Repair or replace as necessary.
7

Reassemble the ice maker and restore power. Monitor ice production.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power to the refrigerator at the breaker panel before attempting any repairs. Electrical shock hazard exists. Use caution when working with electrical components. Lock-out/Tag-out procedures must be followed.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the ice maker and freezer to prevent ice buildup. Replace the water filter every 6 months to ensure proper water flow to the ice maker. Check freezer door seals for air leaks.

Expert Tip:

Many Whirlpool ice makers have a service mode that can be accessed by pressing and holding the ice maker test button for 3 seconds. This forces a harvest cycle, which can help diagnose the problem.

Follow-up Questions:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the ice maker heater with a multimeter?

Set your multimeter to the ohms setting (resistance). Place the probes on the heater terminals. A reading close to zero indicates continuity, while an infinite reading indicates a faulty heater.

•Where is the ice maker water inlet valve located?

The water inlet valve is typically located on the back of the refrigerator, near the bottom, where the water supply line connects. It is often behind a service panel.

•How do I replace the ice maker module?

Disconnect power. Remove the ice maker cover. Disconnect the wiring harness from the module. Remove the screws holding the module in place. Install the new module, reconnect the wiring, and reassemble the ice maker.

Whirlpool Side-by-Side Ice Maker Not Harvesting Cubes: Heater Assembly Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the ice maker heater with a multimeter?

•Where is the ice maker water inlet valve located?

•How do I replace the ice maker module?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: