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  1. Repair
  2. Kenmore Elite
  3. Kenmore Elite Refrigerator

Kenmore Elite Refrigerator ice maker not working

Common reasons your Kenmore Elite Refrigerator ice maker not working

The most common reasons your Kenmore Elite refrigerator icemaker is not working are a seized compressor, a faulty icemaker assembly, or a clogged water valve.

  • 43%

    43% of the time it's the
    Compressor

  • 33%

    33% of the time it's the
    Icemaker Assembly

  • 5%

    5% of the time it's the
    Water Valve

  • 19%

    19% of the time it's the
    Something else

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    Most common repairs needed to fix a Kenmore Elite refrigerator

    Compressor Replacement

    A seized refrigerator compressor can exhibit several symptoms indicative of a malfunction. The most noticeable sign is a lack of cooling in the refrigerator compartment, leading to elevated temperatures and the potential for food spoilage. The freezer may also fail to maintain the desired freezing temperatures, resulting in no ice production from the icemaker or dispenser. Additionally, you'll observe that the compressor is unusually silent or fails to produce its typical humming sound during operation. In some cases, the compressor may attempt to start but fail, resulting in repeated clicking noises. The inability of the compressor to circulate refrigerant properly can affect the defrosting process, leading to ice buildup in the freezer. Furthermore, a faulty compressor could send a sudden influx of melting frost to the drain line, causing it to back up, preventing adequate draining, and potentially causing water leaks.


    Icemaker Assembly Replacement

    A faulty refrigerator icemaker can have diverse effects, impacting various aspects of the refrigerator's operation, including its ability to make ice. Increased noise during the ice-making process could indicate a problem in the icemaker's components. A malfunctioning icemaker may lead to water leaks around the icemaker assembly, potentially causing water puddles in and around the refrigerator. If the bail arm fails to shut off ice production, it could result in the icemaker drawer jamming due to an overproduction of ice, potentially leading to damage to the drawer or adjacent shelf. The failure of other components in a refrigerator that stops cooling will affect ice production, so a thorough inspection of the refrigerator by a Sears Home Services professional is recommended for an accurate diagnosis.

    Water Valve Replacement

    When a water valve is clogged or defective, it impacts the proper functioning of the water dispenser and icemaker. If the water valve fails to open, the icemaker won't receive the water necessary to produce ice, and the dispenser won't dispense water. Additionally, a defective valve may lead to water leakage, particularly near the water valve assembly. In some instances, a malfunctioning water valve can cause the water dispenser or icemaker to cease working entirely. If the water valve fails to close, water flowing into the icemaker may leak to the evaporator and fan, subsequently freezing into a solid block of ice. This impedes airflow, compromising the proper cooling of the refrigerator and freezer compartments.

    What to expect when you experience a Kenmore Elite refrigerator icemaker not working issue

    How is the refrigerator icemaker not working issue fixed?

    Correcting most refrigerator icemaker not working issues involves replacing the compressor, icemaker assembly, or water valve assembly. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

    Sears Home Services recommendations for a refrigerator icemaker not working problem

    When a refrigerator icemaker is not working, it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts, we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of refrigerator failures.

    What to look out for with a refrigerator icemaker not working diagnosis

    Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your refrigerator problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

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    Glossary Terms

    A French-door refrigerator features two doors that open side-by-side on the top section for the refrigerator compartment, with a bottom freezer drawer, combining style, efficiency, and easy access to both refrigerated and frozen goods.

    Refrigerant is a chemical compound used in HVAC systems and refrigerators to absorb heat from the environment by cycling through states of evaporation and condensation, enabling the cooling process through its cycle of evaporation and condensation.

    R-12 refrigerant, also known as Freon-12, is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) compound that was once widely used in air conditioning systems, refrigerators, and aerosol propellants before its phase-out due to environmental concerns.

    CFC certification refers to the credentialing process that qualifies HVAC technicians to handle chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other refrigerants in a manner that complies with environmental regulations. It is essential for professionals who install, maintain, or repair HVAC systems and refrigeration equipment.

    Additional possible Kenmore Elite refrigerator symptoms you may experience

    • Kenmore Elite refrigerator won't make ice
    • Kenmore Elite refrigerator water dispenser not working
    • Kenmore Elite refrigerator stopped working
    • Kenmore Elite refrigerator not working
    • Kenmore Elite refrigerator not cooling
    • Kenmore Elite refrigerator light not working
    • Kenmore Elite refrigerator leaks water
    • Kenmore Elite refrigerator leaking water

    These refrigerator brands may also experience ice maker not working