Informational Guide

GE Ice Maker Not Working

by Ian Haynes

Ice makers in our fridge are revolutionary  - ice is ready for you when you need it and makes more than enough for everyone in your household. Unfortunately, sometimes our ice machines can also cause headaches when they stop working. If you find that your ice maker isn't doing what it’s supposed to, then follow this guide on the full GE Ice Maker troubleshooting, and get your ice back in action.  

Occasionally, the problem could be the simplest; check that your ice machine is turned on. It may also be that the ice bin is too full and needs emptying. If it’s on and emptied, and your GE ice maker is still not working, it could be some of the reasons below:  

fridge

High Freezer Temperature 

Your refrigerator needs to be at 37F to function, along with the freezer being at 0F, and the ice maker should be 16F. If the temperature is above 16, then it will not work. Check the temperature settings and adjust them accordingly, and this should start up your ice maker again.  

Alternatively, it could be debris clogging the condenser coils. Clear away and mess from the coils and reset the ice maker to check if this was the issue.  

Filter Requires Replacement 

If the filter needs replacing, the ice machine will stop working. This is to ensure the ice and water is safe to consume, and the filter should be replaced every 6 months. Some GE models come with a sensor to alert you when they need changing. Check and replace your water filter as required, and run the ice maker through once before using it to clear away debris from the filter.  

Blocked Ice Chute 

If there’s a buildup of ice on the chute, then ice can’t make its way to the ice bin. You should check the chute for any buildup. It may need defrosting, which can be done with a warm dishcloth or, if your GE ice maker has it, the defrost setting. If not, simply remove the ice maker and let it naturally defrost.  

There are frozen waterline tools available to buy if the waterline has frozen, which should clear the lines up.  

Cracks In Ice Tray 

If your GE ice maker has a rotating tray, then any cracks will stop the movement. If this is the case, you’ll need to order a replacement. A non-rotating ice tray can also become cracked, which will affect the freezing process. It’ll need replacing before you can make ice again.  

Defective Component 

The water inlet valve allows water into the ice maker to freeze, and if it’s not getting enough pressure or it’s blocked with mineral deposits, then the ice maker won’t function. If your ice maker is making a humming noise, then it’s a good sign the water inlet is blocked. This will need clearing or replacing before it can work again. 

The mechanical arm (or feeler) to make ice will also need to be functioning properly, and if the spring is broken or the arm is defective, then the ice machine won’t work. Check to see if the spring needs replacing or the arm works correctly.  


Troubleshooting Popular GE Refrigerator Ice Maker Models 

If you’re still having problems or the machine is not working at all, check which model you have below for GE Ice Maker troubleshooting.   

GE Profile Ice Maker 

Check that the unit is plugged in all the way, as it could be loose. If the fuse is blown, this will need replacing.

Make sure you check the temperature dials; they will need to be at 37F for the fridge, 0F for the freezer, and 16F for the ice maker. If you have just installed the refrigerator, wait 24 hours before running an ice cycle. You should also check the water connection is firmly in place.  

ge profile

GE Monogram Ice Maker 

The water connections need to be connected tightly; check that their connections aren't loose. If the refrigerator is on a tilt, it won't operate, so make sure the machine is level as well. If the ice bin is full, the ice cycle won't work, and you'll either need to level it by hand or empty it completely.  

GE Adora Ice Maker 

In order to avoid foul-tasting or smelling ice, make sure you use your ice maker regularly. Adora models come with an LED indicating if it’s in operation. If the LED is flashing, the ice maker is faulty and would require servicing to determine the issue. Make sure the ice bin isn’t full or the ice chute is clear of ice or frost.  

GE Cafe Ice Maker 

Make sure the ice maker switch is in the ON position, located at the side of the ice maker. The water line is located at the back at the bottom of the refrigerator; make sure it's connected properly and not leaking. The LED on this model will flash when the ice bucket is full and needs leveling or emptying.  

GE Side By Side Ice Maker 

To reset, switch off the ice maker for at least 30 seconds. During this time, locate the mechanical arm, which is a thick wire at the back of the ice machine. Once located, turn the icemaker back on and push the arm 3 times to reset and initiate a cycle. If it still isn’t making ice after, check to see if there are any blockages in the chute or if the ice bucket is full.  


How To Reset GE Ice Makers 

There are 3 main methods to try resetting your built-in ice maker: adjusting the arm (or feeler), pushing the reset button, or switching off your refrigerator completely.  

  • 1
    Adjust Feeler 
    Locate the arm or feeler in the ice maker, and make sure it isn’t obstructed. If it is, push it away from the obstruction or carefully lift it up or down to the ice-making position.  
  • 2
    Reset Button 
    Locate the reset button in the ice maker. It should be near the switch or inside. Once found, press and hold the button for 10 seconds, which should reset the icemaker. You may need a pin or hair clip to press it. 
  • 3
    Restart Your Refrigerator 
    Simply turning your refrigerator on and off again may solve the issue. Find the on/off switch, and turn off the refrigerator for 10 seconds before switching back on. If you don’t have one, unplug and wait 15 minutes before plugging it back in. If none of these methods have worked, you may have to contact GE directly to have your ice maker serviced or replaced.  
ice cubes

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Why is the water dispenser working but the ice maker isn’t on my GE refrigerator? 

If your water inlet valve is defective or has no pressure, the water won’t be able to get to the ice maker. Make sure the pressure is up to the correct measurement of 20psi, and if it’s malfunctioning, contact GE directly for replacements or maintenance.  

How do I force my GE ice maker to cycle? 

Turn off the ice maker for 15-30 seconds, and locate the feeler. Once you switch it back on, push the feeler 3 times within 15 seconds of turning it back on. The ice should then begin to fall into the bin, or it will start a new ice cycle.  

Where is the water filter reset button on the GE refrigerator? 

The button is usually located on the front of the ice maker, labeled FILTER RESET. If there’s no such button, then it could be within the filter chamber in your fridge.  

How do I unfreeze a GE ice maker? 

Apply a warm, wet cloth to your ice maker, or allow it to unfreeze naturally by taking it apart. You can also use a hairdryer, but you should keep a safe distance from the ice maker so droplets don’t splash into your dryer, which could short circuit.  


Conclusion

Our ice makers are a handy addition to our kitchens, and it’s infuriating when they stop working. With these handy tips now at your disposal, you can get back to making ice for you and your household and perfect drinks to chill out with. Remember, if none of these tips work, always contact a professional for advice.  

Ian Haynes is an expert writer who has successfully deployed over 500 plumbing pages and other related content. He has an excellent understanding of home plumbing issues and translates his experiences via Plumbing Lab so readers can have a better understanding of common household problems. Outside of his work, Ian likes exploring Brooklyn with his Labrador.

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