5 Reasons Your Samsung Refrigerator Not Making Ice
Samsung products are generally known for their durability and reliability, but sometimes the ice maker may encounter issues. Suppose you’re experiencing problems with the ice maker. In that case, it could be caused by several factors, such as ice accumulation, a faulty water inlet valve, low water pressure, an expired water filter, or a defective auger motor. Keep reading for solutions to these problems.
In this article, we will discuss five common reasons why your Samsung refrigerator is not making ice and the solutions to these problems.
Ice Buildup or Blockage
A common cause of Samsung ice maker malfunction is ice buildup or blockage, typically in the ice maker tray or ice dispenser tube.
Solution
To fix the ice buildup issue, the ice must be defrosted. If your model has an auto-defrost function, it can be used to defrost either the ice maker or the ice production of the entire fridge if necessary.
Suppose the ice maker tray or frozen ice bucket in your refrigerator is causing a problem. In that case, you may need to defrost the entire fridge, remove the ice tray or maker components to defrost them or apply low heat using a hairdryer to the affected component, depending on the severity of the ice buildup.
The dispenser tube may be located inside the ice maker, outside the fridge, or not have one, depending on the model. Dispenser tube blockages are more common when the tube is inside the ice maker. You can see if the tube is blocked, but if the ice maker appears to be working without expelling ice, a blocked tube is likely the culprit.
To clear the blockage, use low heat, ideally with a steam gun or steam shot, to melt the blockage without damaging the interior liner.
Defective Water Inlet Valve
The second most common reason for a malfunctioning Samsung ice maker is a faulty water inlet valve, which connects to the water supply line and provides water for the Samsung ice maker. When the Samsung ice maker requires water, the valve will open.
Over time, mineral deposits can accumulate and clog the water inlet valve, or it may fail electrically. If either of these problems occurs, the valve must be replaced.
Solution
Accessing the valve will depend on the type of Samsung fridge you have. Typically, you’ll need to remove the rear access panel on the back of the fridge to locate the valve. You may also need to remove screws and depress tabs to detach the valve from the refrigerator.
Before accessing the valve to replace it, turn off the water supply and disconnect the power. You’ll need to test the valve’s working condition by applying power.
Still, we strongly recommend leaving this task to a professional technician if you need to be more experienced in working with electricity.
Poor Water Pressure
Ensuring the proper functioning of ice makers, such as the Samsung ice maker, requires a water pressure of at least 20 psi. If you notice that the ice cubes are too small or broken, it could indicate low water pressure.
Solution
A water pressure gauge helps check the water pressure, but you can also check it by disconnecting the supply line and observing the water flow or measuring the amount of water dispensed in 10 seconds. At least ¾ cup of water should be dispensed.
The water supply line connects to the water inlet valve at the rear of the fridge. Before accessing the water line:
- Turn off the power and water supply to the refrigerator.
- Hold the rope over an ice bucket and turn on the water to check the water flow. If the water dribbles out, there is a problem, but if there is a strong, steady flow, the water pressure may not be the issue.
- Use a gauge to test the water pressure accurately.
Expired Water Filter
Samsung advises replacing the refrigerator’s water filter every six months if it has one. If you notice murky water or ice, it’s a sign that the filter needs changing. An old water filter can become clogged, preventing the Samsung ice maker from functioning correctly.
The location of water filters in refrigerators varies depending on the refrigerator model. Once you find the filter, you can twist it to remove and replace it.
Failed Auger Motor
The drill in an ice maker has the critical job of stirring and dispensing the ice. However, the Samsung ice maker won’t function properly if the motor responsible for producing ice or powering the auger fails.
If your ice maker is making a lot of noise and not dispensing ice, the motor is likely either failing or has already failed.
Solution
Remove the ice bucket from the Samsung ice maker assembly to diagnose the issue and manually turn the auger with minimal resistance. If this is the case, you should test the auger’s motor with a multimeter to check for continuity and determine if it has failed. However, remember that removing the motor can be quite challenging and should be done by a trained technician.
How do I reset my Samsung refrigerator ice maker?
To reset your Samsung refrigerator’s ice maker:
- Find and press the reset button on the control panel for about 10 seconds.
- Wait 24 hours for the ice maker to make fresh ice.
- If it still doesn’t work, check the water supply and filter or refer to the Samsung ice maker function user manual for troubleshooting tips.
How do I force my Samsung refrigerator to make ice?
To make your Samsung refrigerator produce ice, follow these steps:
- Turn on the ice maker if it has an on/off switch.
- Check the water supply and make sure it’s not blocked or kinked. Reset the water filter if necessary.
- Clean or remove any obstructions from the ice maker sensor, if applicable.
- To freeze water, the freezer temperature is between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 to -15 degrees Celsius).
Contact Samsung customer support or professional repair service if these steps don’t work.
Why did my Samsung ice maker stop working?
Possible reasons why your ice maker stopped working:
- No power: Check the electrical connection and power switch.
- Water supply: Ensure proper water supply.
- Clogged filter: Check and replace the water filter if necessary.
- Freezer temperature: Ensure freezer temperature is between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 to -15 degrees Celsius).
- Faulty parts: The ice maker’s motor, thermostat, or other parts may need to be replaced or repaired.
Why is my ice maker not making ice, but the waterworks?
Possible reasons why your ice maker isn’t making ice, but the waterworks:
- Clogged or frozen water line.
- Faulty water inlet valve.
Conclusion
If the above solutions don’t work, you may need to call a trained technician for further assistance. However, you can try running a test or reset as a temporary solution 1 month ago. Look for a small blue rectangular button on the front or side of the ice maker, press it, and wait for 6 minutes to see if it starts making ice. This button is usually the test switch on a Samsung refrigerator ice maker.
Nick’s Appliance Repair Service can provide you with professional repair service and help you fix these issues quickly and efficiently. Above are the five most common reasons why your Samsung refrigerator is not making ice.