LG Refrigerator Ice Maker is Not Working and How to Fix It

You love having fresh ice right from your LG refrigerator, right? But what if one day you open the freezer, and the ice maker just stopped making ice? That can be super annoying, especially when you need cold drinks fast. Don’t worry! This article will help you understand why your LG refrigerator ice maker is not working and show you simple, easy steps to fix it yourself. No confusing tech talk — just clear and friendly advice.

Common Reasons the LG Refrigerator Ice Maker Stops Working

Ice Maker Switch Is Off or Paused

Sometimes, the ice maker isn’t broken — it’s just turned off. Many LG refrigerators have a switch or a button that turns the ice maker on or off. This switch might be located on the ice maker itself or inside the fridge. If it’s off, no ice will be made. It’s like turning off a lamp — no power means no light.

To check, open the freezer door and look at the ice maker. See if the switch is in the “on” position. If not, flip it on and wait for a few hours. Ice making can take some time to start again, so be patient. If you don’t find a switch, check your user manual — sometimes, the ice maker has a “pause” function that can stop ice production.

Water Supply Is Blocked or Off

Your ice maker needs water to make ice, of course. If the water line going to your fridge is blocked or turned off, ice won’t form. This is one of the most common reasons ice makers stop working.

First, find the water valve that supplies water to the fridge. This valve is usually located behind the fridge or under the sink. Make sure it’s fully open. Sometimes, during cleaning or maintenance, this valve gets accidentally closed. If the valve is open, check if the water line is kinked, bent, or pinched. Even a small bend can block water flow.

Also, ice or debris inside the water line can stop water from flowing. You might need to disconnect the water line and flush it out carefully or call a technician if you’re unsure.

Ice Maker Is Frozen or Jammed

Believe it or not, sometimes the ice maker itself can freeze up. When ice builds up in the wrong places, it stops the machine from making more ice. This can happen if the freezer temperature is too low or if warm air enters the freezer too often.

To fix this, turn off the ice maker and unplug the fridge for a few hours. Let the ice inside melt completely. When you turn the fridge back on, the ice maker should start working again. Also, check the freezer door seal to make sure cold air stays inside. If the seal is broken or damaged, warm air sneaks in and causes frost buildup.

Faulty Ice Maker Parts

If the above simple fixes don’t work, some parts of your ice maker might be broken. Common parts that fail include the water inlet valve, ice mold thermostat, or the ice maker motor.

The water inlet valve lets water into the ice maker. If it doesn’t open, no water goes in, and no ice forms. The thermostat controls the temperature in the ice mold. If it’s not working, the ice won’t freeze properly. The motor controls the ice ejector — the part that pushes the ice cubes out. If the motor fails, ice cubes get stuck and the machine stops.

Replacing these parts usually requires some technical skill. You can buy replacement parts online using your fridge model number and follow detailed video guides or contact a professional.

How to Reset the Ice Maker on an LG Refrigerator

Why Resetting Can Help

Resetting the ice maker is like giving it a fresh start. Sometimes, the machine stops working because of a small glitch or an error in the system. Resetting clears these errors and helps the ice maker start making ice again.

Step 1: Locate the Ice Maker Reset Button

Most LG refrigerators have a reset button for the ice maker. This button is usually found near the ice maker itself inside the freezer. It might be a small, round button or a toggle switch.

Check your LG fridge manual if you are not sure where the reset button is. If you lost the manual, you can find one online by searching your fridge’s model number.

Step 2: Press and Hold the Reset Button

Once you find the reset button, press and hold it for about 10 to 15 seconds. You might hear a click or see the ice maker start to move, which means the reset worked.

Some models have a reset sequence where you need to press the button multiple times or hold it longer. Follow your fridge’s instructions carefully.

Step 3: Wait for the Ice Maker to Restart

After resetting, give the ice maker some time to restart. It might take a few hours before you see new ice cubes forming. Don’t open the freezer door too often during this time, as it can slow down the freezing process.

Step 4: Check the Ice Maker After a Day

After about 24 hours, check if the ice maker is working again. If you still don’t see ice, try resetting one more time or move on to checking the water supply or other parts.

Resetting is a simple fix that often works when the ice maker just needs a little “nudge” to get back on track.

Troubleshooting LG Ice Maker Water Supply Issues

Check the Water Filter

Your LG refrigerator has a water filter that cleans the water before it reaches the ice maker. If this filter is clogged or old, it can block water flow and stop ice from being made.

Check the water filter inside the fridge. Usually, it is near the bottom or in the front inside the fridge door. The filter needs to be changed every 6 months or according to your manual.

To change it, twist or pull out the old filter carefully. Then insert a new, compatible LG water filter. After replacing, run water through the dispenser for a few minutes to clear any air bubbles.

Inspect the Water Line for Damage

Water travels through a small tube or pipe from the wall to your fridge. This water line can get kinked, pinched, or damaged behind the fridge or under the sink.

Pull your fridge gently forward to look behind it. See if the tube is bent sharply or if there are any leaks or cracks. If damaged, you might need to replace the tube. Replacement tubes are affordable and easy to install with a quick connect fitting.

Test the Water Inlet Valve

The water inlet valve controls the flow of water to the ice maker. If it’s broken or clogged, water won’t reach the ice maker.

To test it, you’ll need a multimeter and some basic tools. First, unplug the fridge. Locate the valve behind the fridge where the water line connects. Remove the valve and check for any blockages or damage.

You can test the valve’s electrical coil with a multimeter to see if it’s working. If it’s faulty, you’ll need to buy a new valve and install it. If you’re not comfortable doing this, call a professional.

Flush the Water Line

Sometimes, tiny bits of dirt or minerals build up inside the water line. Flushing the line clears these blockages.

Turn off the water supply and disconnect the water line from the fridge. Place the end in a bucket and turn the water on briefly to flush out any debris. Be careful to catch the water and don’t let it spill.

Reconnect the water line and turn everything back on. This simple step can fix water flow problems quickly.

Ice Maker Not Making Ice But Water Dispenser Works

Understand the Difference

If your water dispenser works but the ice maker does not, the problem is likely inside the ice maker itself, not with the water supply.

The dispenser gets water straight from the filter and line, but the ice maker needs to freeze that water and push the ice cubes out. This means different parts work for each function.

Check the Ice Maker’s Power

Make sure the ice maker is getting power. Check if the ice maker switch or control arm is turned on. If there’s a light or indicator, see if it’s lit. If the ice maker has a control board or display, see if it shows error messages.

Inspect the Ice Maker’s Motor and Ejector

Inside the ice maker, there’s a motor that turns the ice ejector — the part that pushes ice cubes out into the bin. If this motor stops working, ice can freeze but won’t be pushed out.

Listen for humming or clicking sounds when the ice maker tries to cycle. No sound could mean the motor or control board is broken. Sometimes, ice jams block the ejector. Remove ice chunks carefully to clear jams.

Test the Thermostat and Sensor

The ice maker has sensors or a thermostat that tells it when the ice is ready to be ejected. If these sensors are faulty, the ice maker might not complete the cycle.

Testing these parts usually requires a multimeter or professional help. Faulty sensors need replacing to get your ice maker working again.

Clean the Ice Maker

Sometimes dirt, mold, or old ice buildup stops the machine from working properly. Clean the ice maker carefully using a soft cloth and warm water. Don’t use harsh chemicals, as they can damage parts or leave bad tastes in your ice.

Cleaning also helps if the ice maker has a stuck ice cube that’s blocking normal operation.

When to Call for LG Refrigerator Service or Replacement Parts

Try Simple Fixes First

Before calling a technician, try the simple steps we talked about: check switches, reset the ice maker, inspect water supply, and clean the ice maker.

If none of these work, you might need help.

Identify Broken or Worn Parts

Some ice maker parts wear out over time, such as the water valve, thermostat, motor, or control board. If you know the part that’s broken, you can order a replacement online by searching your fridge’s model number plus the part name.

Replacing parts yourself can save money but requires patience and some tools.

When to Call a Professional

If you don’t feel comfortable opening your fridge, using tools, or testing electrical parts, call a professional technician. They can diagnose problems quickly and safely.

Also, if your fridge is still under warranty, contact LG service to avoid voiding your warranty by trying repairs yourself.

Prevent Future Problems

To keep your ice maker working well, change the water filter regularly, avoid leaving the freezer door open for long, and clean the ice maker at least once a year.

Regular maintenance helps prevent frozen tubes, broken parts, and ice jams.

I hope this guide helps you get your LG ice maker working again quickly and easily.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it normal for the ice maker to stop making ice for a few hours?

Yes, it is normal for an ice maker to pause making ice for a short time. The ice maker cycles on and off to keep ice fresh and prevent jams. If you just used a lot of ice, the machine might need time to freeze more cubes. However, if the pause lasts more than 24 hours, you should check for problems like water supply or freezing issues.

Can I use any water filter for my LG refrigerator ice maker?

No, you should use a water filter that is compatible with your LG refrigerator model. Using the wrong filter can reduce water flow, cause clogs, or affect ice taste. LG filters are designed to fit properly and filter water well. Always check your manual or the LG website for the correct filter part number.

Do I need to unplug the fridge to reset the ice maker?

In most cases, you don’t need to unplug the fridge to reset the ice maker. Many LG models have a reset button inside the freezer that works with the power on. However, if the ice maker doesn’t reset with the button, unplugging the fridge for a few minutes can help clear some errors. Always be careful when unplugging and plugging your fridge back in.

Is it possible that cold freezer temperatures cause the ice maker to stop?

Yes, if your freezer is too cold (below 0°F or -18°C), the ice maker can freeze up and stop working. Excessively cold temperatures cause ice to build up inside the machine, jamming the moving parts. Try adjusting the freezer temperature to the recommended level (usually around 37°F for fridge and 0°F for freezer).

Can I fix a broken water inlet valve myself?

If you are handy and have the right tools, you can replace the water inlet valve yourself. It usually involves unplugging the fridge, disconnecting water lines, removing the old valve, and installing the new one. However, if you are unsure or uncomfortable, it’s better to call a technician to avoid leaks or damage.

Do I need to clean the ice maker regularly?

Yes, cleaning your ice maker regularly helps prevent mold, bad odors, and blockages. Use warm water and a soft cloth to clean the ice mold and surrounding parts. Avoid harsh cleaners. Cleaning every 6 months or when you notice bad tasting ice is a good habit.

Is it safe to remove ice jams by hand?

Yes, but be gentle. If ice cubes are stuck and blocking the ejector or sensor, carefully remove them by hand or with a soft tool. Avoid sharp objects that can damage plastic parts. If ice is hard to remove, turn off the ice maker and let it thaw for a while before trying again.

Can low water pressure affect ice maker performance?

Yes, low water pressure can cause slow or no ice production. Ice makers need a steady flow of water. If your home water pressure is low, or if the water filter is clogged, the ice maker might stop making ice. Check and replace the water filter and ensure your home water pressure is normal.