The icemaker has a water pump, which draws water from a collection sump and pours it over the chilled ice tray. As the water flows over the tray, it gradually freezes, building up ice cubes in the well of the tray. When you freeze water layer by layer this way, it forms clear ice.

How does an ice maker work?

The ice maker pumps water from a collection sump and slowly pours it over the ice tray. This gradually freezes the water in layers making clear ice. If you freeze the water all at once it makes cloudy ice. After several minutes the ice maker activates a solenoid valve that is connected to the heat exchanging pipes.

Where does the ice in the fridge come from?

Warm air outside the fridge can absorb more moisture than the cold air inside the fridge; a small hole in the door seal will continually allow warm air and moisture into the fridge, which will condense or form as ice on the inner wall.

How does an ice maker know to make ice?

Because this tray is inside the freezer, it gets cold, and the water begins to freeze. Nearby is a sensor which is measuring the temperature of the water, waiting for it to reach a certain temperature (usually about -12°C/10°F). Once it reaches this temperature, the water is solidly frozen and ready to remove.

How long does it take for a new ice maker to start working?

After you have installed your refrigerator it will take 6 to 12 hours for the fridge-freezers ice maker to produce ice. You should throw away the first three batches of ice cubes that the ice maker dispenses (approximately 30 cubes) to ensure that all the ice cubes you use are made from clean water.

How do I stop my ice maker from jamming?

Most ice makers have a raking mechanism to disperse newly created cubes evenly across the storage bin. The raker bar may have ice caught in it, causing it to jam. To fix this, clear off ice cubes from the raker bar by hand. Remove some ice from the storage bin if it ever starts getting too full.

Why is my ice maker making a noise?

A failing compressor, bad condenser fan motor or faulty drain pump can cause loud noise from the ice maker. The recirculation pump can be noisy if water level in the reservoir is low. A problem with the water supply or a failed inlet water valve can cause this problem.

Why does my ice maker keep jamming up?

Ice Maker Gets Stuck If the ice storage bin gets too full or isnt used often enough, slight melting and refreezing may cause ice cubes to stick together in clumps, making it impossible to dispense them. The raker bar may have ice caught in it, causing it to jam.