Whirlpool Refrigerator Ice Maker On/Off Switch Location (And How to Use It)

You bought a Whirlpool refrigerator because it’s reliable, efficient, and modern—but when it comes to using the ice maker, things can get a little confusing. You might be asking: “Where is that on/off switch for the ice maker?” Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Whether you’re trying to save energy, troubleshoot a problem, or just don’t need ice all the time, finding the on/off switch can feel like a mini treasure hunt. In this article, we’ll walk you through exactly where to find it and how to use it effectively.

Understanding the Different Types of Whirlpool Ice Makers and Their Switch Locations

Not all Whirlpool refrigerators are built the same, and neither are their ice makers. That’s why the location of the ice maker’s on/off switch depends largely on the model and design of your fridge. Let’s look at the different types and how their switch setups might vary. Knowing this can save you a lot of frustration.

Side-by-Side Refrigerators

One of the most popular Whirlpool refrigerator styles is the side-by-side model, where the freezer is on the left and the refrigerator is on the right. In many of these models, the ice maker is mounted in the upper part of the freezer compartment. Locating the on/off switch involves a little peeking and sometimes even removing the ice bucket.

In most side-by-side Whirlpool models, once you open the freezer door and remove the ice bin, you’ll spot the ice maker assembly attached to the freezer wall. On the bottom or side of this assembly is where you’ll likely find the on/off switch. It may be a simple toggle switch or a wire arm.

If it’s a toggle switch, it will usually have “ON” and “OFF” labeled. You just flip it accordingly. But in other models, especially older ones, the switch is replaced by a metal wire arm. If the arm is up, the ice maker is off. If the arm is down, it’s on. This type of switch isn’t always obvious, so many users miss it entirely. Gently pull down or lift the wire arm depending on whether you want to start or stop ice production.

French Door Refrigerators

French door Whirlpool fridges have become more common thanks to their stylish design and spacious interiors. These models often come with the freezer on the bottom and a smaller ice maker built into the refrigerator section.

In these models, the ice maker is typically located in the left-side door of the fridge. To locate the switch, open the fridge doors and find the ice maker compartment—usually behind a door on the left interior wall. Once you open that little compartment, look toward the back or bottom for a small switch.

Sometimes it’s labeled “I” and “O,” where “I” stands for ON and “O” stands for OFF. If there’s no clear switch visible, you may see a tiny button that needs to be pressed and held for a few seconds to toggle the function.

Be aware that some French door models rely on digital controls accessed through the front panel. You may have to use the screen to navigate to the ice maker settings and toggle it on or off from there. This can often be done by selecting “Options” or “Settings,” then scrolling through until you find “Ice Maker.” From here, you’ll have the option to enable or disable it.

Bottom Freezer Models

In Whirlpool bottom freezer models, the ice maker is typically located inside the freezer drawer. These configurations are a bit different from French door models but still follow a similar logic.

To find the switch, first open the freezer drawer completely. You might need to remove the upper freezer basket to fully access the ice maker, which is usually mounted to the back wall or side. Once visible, look for a simple toggle switch or the familiar wire arm.

Some bottom freezer models are equipped with a sliding switch or even a push button tucked behind the ice bin. In rare cases, you may need to refer to your user manual to find the switch since it can be placed in discreet locations not immediately visible.

One thing to note with bottom freezer models is that turning off the ice maker doesn’t necessarily stop water flow. If you’re doing maintenance or going on vacation, you should also consider turning off the water supply to avoid potential leaks.

Built-In or Panel-Ready Models

If you have a built-in or panel-ready Whirlpool refrigerator—those fancy models that blend into your cabinetry—you may have an ice maker that operates a bit differently. These often have the ice maker built into the ceiling of the refrigerator section or mounted behind a panel.

In many cases, the on/off switch is located inside the ice maker compartment or is controlled digitally via the main control panel on the front of the fridge. Press the “Ice Maker” button once to toggle the power. If the model supports it, an LED indicator will confirm whether the unit is on or off.

If there’s no control button on the exterior, open the internal compartment where the ice bin is stored and look for either a toggle switch, a wire arm, or a small button labeled appropriately.

It’s always a good idea to check the user manual for your specific model to confirm the location of the switch. Whirlpool manuals are available online using your model number.

How to Turn Off the Whirlpool Ice Maker (Step-by-Step Instructions for Every Model)

Knowing where the switch is located is just the first step. Understanding how to safely and effectively turn the ice maker off is just as important—especially if you’re trying to avoid jams, save energy, or prepare your fridge for a trip or cleaning. Let’s go through each type of switch and how to use it properly.

Using a Toggle Switch

Many Whirlpool ice makers use a standard toggle switch that looks like a mini light switch. If you see one labeled “ON” and “OFF,” you’re in luck—it’s one of the easiest types to operate.

To turn the ice maker off, simply slide the switch to the OFF position. You should hear a soft click. When turned off, the ice maker will no longer produce ice, and in some cases, you might hear a short mechanical sound as it finishes its current cycle.

Before flipping the switch, make sure that the ice bin is not full or jammed. If it is, it’s a good idea to remove some ice to allow the unit to cycle down smoothly. Also, consider placing a towel or container under the ice bin to catch any stray cubes that might drop during the shutoff.

Lifting the Wire Arm

Older or more traditional Whirlpool ice makers often use a metal wire arm as an on/off control. This small arm moves up and down with the bin and detects whether the ice bucket is full.

To turn the ice maker off, gently lift the metal arm until it clicks into the upright position. This tells the ice maker to stop producing ice. Lowering the arm back down will reactivate it. Make sure not to force the arm—doing so can damage the mechanism.

Many people don’t realize that the wire arm acts like a float. When ice pushes it up, the ice maker stops automatically. Manually raising it simulates this effect, so the unit assumes the bin is full and shuts off. Simple but clever!

Using the Control Panel

For newer models with a digital control panel, disabling the ice maker is usually done via the touch screen on the front of the refrigerator. This panel controls temperature, lighting, and sometimes the ice and water functions.

To turn off the ice maker using the panel:

• Tap the “Options” or “Settings” button.
• Navigate to “Ice Maker” or a similar menu.
• Tap “Off” or toggle the switch icon to the off position.
• Wait a few seconds for the command to register. A status light may turn off to confirm.

Some models may require holding the “Ice Maker” button for 3 seconds to toggle it. If in doubt, check your manual or Whirlpool’s website for model-specific directions.

Hidden or Push Button Switches

Some Whirlpool fridges use tiny push buttons that serve as the on/off switch. These are often located behind the ice bucket or under a small plastic flap in the ice compartment.

To use this kind of switch, first remove the ice bucket for better access. Look for a small round button labeled “ON/OFF” or “ICE.” Press it once to turn the ice maker off. In some models, you’ll need to hold the button for three to five seconds until you hear a beep or see a light change.

Be careful not to press other nearby buttons related to cleaning or reset functions. Always read the labels carefully and refer to your model’s instructions when in doubt.

Why You Might Want to Turn Off Your Ice Maker (And When You Should)

Turning off your ice maker isn’t just about not needing ice—it can be an important maintenance step or even an energy-saving measure. Let’s explore the key reasons why you might want to turn off the ice maker and what scenarios call for it.

You’re Going on Vacation

If you’re leaving town for a while, especially for more than a week, turning off your ice maker is a smart move. When the ice maker continues to operate with no one around to use the ice, it can lead to the bin overflowing or even clogging. In rare cases, melted ice can refreeze in strange shapes and jam the unit.

Before your trip:

• Turn off the ice maker using your model’s method.
• Remove any remaining ice from the bin.
• Dry the inside of the bin to prevent odors or mold.

If you’re extra cautious, you might also consider turning off the water supply to the fridge to prevent leaks.

You Don’t Use Much Ice

If you’re not a big ice user, having the ice maker running constantly may be overkill. Not only does it use power, but it also puts unnecessary wear on the motor and internal parts. Turning it off when not needed extends the lifespan of the components and keeps your freezer space more manageable.

Plus, ice left sitting for a long time tends to absorb freezer odors or develop a stale taste. Shutting off the ice maker when not in use keeps your ice fresher when you do need it again.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

If your Whirlpool ice maker is acting up—making too much ice, making no ice, or leaking—it’s best to turn it off until you can investigate the problem. This prevents further damage and gives you time to check for clogs, leaks, or faulty sensors.

Turning it off also helps when performing a manual defrost or when replacing parts like the water filter, valve, or motor. Always shut off the ice maker before doing any kind of hands-on maintenance to stay safe.

Saving Energy

Even though modern Whirlpool ice makers are energy-efficient, they still consume electricity to operate. If you’re looking to reduce your energy bill or are using your fridge as a secondary unit in a garage or rental property, turning off the ice maker when not needed makes good financial sense.

You’ll not only save on power but may also reduce the load on your water filter and prolong its useful life, saving money in the long term.

What to Do If You Can’t Find or Operate the Ice Maker Switch

Sometimes, no matter how hard you look, the switch just isn’t where it should be—or it’s not working as expected. Don’t worry. Let’s look at what you can do if the on/off switch is missing, hidden, or malfunctioning.

Check the User Manual

The first and most reliable step is to check the user manual that came with your refrigerator. If you no longer have the paper copy, Whirlpool offers digital versions online. Simply go to the Whirlpool website and enter your fridge’s model number. You’ll get a full PDF manual with diagrams and troubleshooting steps, including the ice maker switch location.

Look for Digital Controls

If you don’t see a physical switch or wire arm, chances are your model uses a digital control. Check the front control panel and tap through the settings. If the display shows options like “Ice Maker,” “Filter Reset,” or “Cooling Options,” there’s probably a software switch for the ice maker hidden in one of these menus.

Look for anything that says “Enable Ice Maker” or “Ice Maker ON/OFF.” These digital options can sometimes replace the need for a physical switch entirely.

Inspect Behind the Ice Bin

If your ice maker is hidden behind a bucket or drawer, take it out gently and look behind or beneath it. Many Whirlpool models hide the on/off mechanism in these hard-to-see spots. You might spot a small switch tucked behind a plastic flap or hidden on the base of the assembly.

Use a flashlight for better visibility, and remember—never force anything open or press unknown buttons randomly. That can sometimes reset the system or interrupt normal operation.

Contact Whirlpool Customer Support

If all else fails and you still can’t find or operate the switch, don’t hesitate to contact Whirlpool’s customer support. They’re trained to help you with your specific model and can even walk you through the process step-by-step over the phone or via chat.

Make sure to have your model number and serial number ready, usually found on a sticker inside the fridge door or freezer wall.

I hope this guide helped you find and understand the Whirlpool refrigerator ice maker on/off switch location. Whether you’re troubleshooting, conserving energy, or just want a break from ice cubes, now you know exactly how to handle your appliance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it normal for my Whirlpool ice maker to not have a visible switch?

Yes, it is normal. Some Whirlpool models use a digital control system instead of a physical switch. In these models, the ice maker is controlled through the touch panel on the front of the fridge. You’ll need to go into the settings and look for an option labeled “Ice Maker” or “On/Off.” If you don’t see it immediately, check the user manual or look for hidden compartments inside the fridge or freezer that might contain a button or toggle. Remember, Whirlpool designs their fridges to look sleek and seamless, so some controls are deliberately hidden.

Can I turn off the ice maker if I don’t use ice at all?

Yes, you absolutely can—and should—turn off the ice maker if you don’t use ice regularly. Leaving it on wastes energy and can cause stale or freezer-burned ice to build up. It may also put unnecessary wear on the appliance’s components. Turning it off is as simple as flipping the switch, lifting the wire arm, or using the control panel—depending on your model. Always remove any remaining ice from the bin and dry it out to prevent odor buildup or mold. Keeping it off also reduces the frequency with which you need to change the water filter.

Do I need to unplug the refrigerator to turn off the ice maker?

No, you do not need to unplug the refrigerator. The ice maker has its own power control system separate from the main refrigerator function. Simply use the appropriate method—whether it’s a toggle switch, wire arm, or digital panel—to turn it off. Unplugging the whole refrigerator just to stop the ice maker is unnecessary and could cause other issues, like food spoilage. However, if you’re performing maintenance or repairs, unplugging the unit for safety reasons is a good idea. But for simply turning off ice production, there’s no need to disconnect the power.

Is it okay to leave the ice maker on when I’m not home?

It’s okay, but not ideal. If you’re away for a short trip, like a weekend, you can leave it on. But for longer absences, especially more than a week, it’s safer to turn it off. This prevents overflow, stale ice, or potential mechanical problems. Some users also turn off the water supply to avoid leaks during extended trips. If your fridge has a vacation mode, enabling that might also pause the ice maker. Always remove any leftover ice from the bin before leaving, so you return to a clean, fresh-smelling freezer.

Can the ice maker keep working if the bin is full?

No, most Whirlpool ice makers have a built-in sensor or a mechanical wire arm that stops production when the ice bin is full. The wire arm gets pushed up by the pile of ice, signaling the unit to stop. In newer models, an optical sensor detects when the bin is full and shuts off production automatically. However, if either the sensor or the arm malfunctions, it might keep producing ice even when full. This can cause jams, overflow, or motor strain. If that happens, turn off the ice maker manually and contact support.

Do I need to turn off the ice maker before replacing the water filter?

Yes, it’s a good idea to turn off the ice maker before replacing the water filter. Doing so prevents the unit from trying to make ice while the water flow is interrupted, which can lead to mechanical errors or empty cube trays. Once the new filter is installed, turn the ice maker back on and discard the first batch or two of ice, as it might contain air bubbles or carbon residue from the filter. Always refer to your user manual for the correct replacement process and safety steps.

Is it hard to reset the Whirlpool ice maker after turning it off?

No, resetting your Whirlpool ice maker after turning it off is usually very easy. If you’ve used a switch or wire arm to disable it, just flip it back or lower the arm to resume normal operation. If you’ve used the digital control panel, simply return to the settings and enable it again. Some models might require you to press and hold the “Reset” or “Ice Maker” button for a few seconds to fully reactivate the cycle. Wait a few hours for ice production to restart, especially after a full shutdown.

Can I still use the water dispenser if the ice maker is turned off?

Yes, the water dispenser and ice maker are two separate features in your Whirlpool refrigerator. Turning off the ice maker does not affect the water dispenser. You’ll still have access to cold, filtered water at any time. This is useful if you don’t use ice but still want the hydration benefits your fridge provides. However, remember that both systems use the same water filter, so even if you don’t use ice, you should still replace the filter every 6 months or according to your model’s guidelines to ensure clean water.