Why Is the GE Ice Maker Not Working?

There are a few reasons why your GE ice maker may not be working properly. In most cases, you're able to repair the problem yourself. In addition, you can prevent potential repairs by regularly cleaning your ice maker.

Why Is the GE Ice Maker Not Working

If you own a GE refrigerator with an ice maker, there are several reasons why it might fail to produce ice. You can repair many of these problems without calling a service technician.

Warning

Always unplug your appliance before performing maintenance or cleaning it, to avoid the possibility of electric shock.

Water Supply Issue

Your GE ice maker may not produce ice if there is an issue with the water supply. Make sure that the water line has been installed according to the instructions in your refrigerator owner's manual. If it has been installed properly, check to see that the water supply valve is turned to the "On" position so water can reach the ice maker.

Feature Turned Off

Your ice maker will not operate if the feature is turned off. On standard models, there is usually an "On/Off" switch within the ice maker compartment itself, so check to make sure that it is in the "On" position. If your refrigerator model features a digital control panel, hit the "Ice Off/Lock" button on the panel to turn the ice dispenser back on. An icon appears in the display panel to let you know when the dispenser is on. On LCD models, you must access the ice maker's controls through the setting and system menus in order to turn it on.

Temperature Too High

If the temperature in your freezer is too high, water cannot freeze inside the ice maker to produce ice. Your freezer may be too warm if your refrigerator is newly installed. Allow the refrigerator to sit for approximately 24 hours so that the freezer unit cools down completely, and the ice maker should be able to dispense ice.

Clogged Filters

Keep in mind that your GE ice maker will not make ice if there is no water filter, or if the filter needs to be cleaned or replaced. Filters should be changed every six months to avoid clogging. Otherwise, if you do not need or want to use the filter, you can install a filter bypass plug to be used in its place. Note that if a filter is not in place and you do not have a filter bypass plug, the ice maker will not operate properly.

Ice Stuck in Maker

On some occasions, pieces of ice may become jammed in the ice maker, preventing it from making additional ice. Turn off the ice maker and remove any cubes that are stuck. If they are frozen to the sides of the ice maker, you can use a butter knife to gently pry them loose. When the ice blockage is removed, turn the ice maker back on so it can produce fresh ice.

Ice Piled Up

When ice piles up in the ice maker's storage container, the unit automatically turns off. Adjust the ice in the tray so that it is level, and see if the ice maker produces ice. In addition, if you do not plan to use ice for a prolonged period, turn off the ice maker so ice doesn't pile up in the container and freeze together in a block.

Tip

Because mineral deposits can build up and cause damage to your ice maker, proper cleaning and maintenance of your appliance is crucial.

It's important to be aware of the potential reasons why your GE ice maker is not functioning, so that you can perform your own repairs. In addition, sticking to a regular maintenance and cleaning schedule will help stave off repairs. However, don't hesitate to contact a professional if you aren't able to successfully fix the issue.