How to Unclog an Ice Maker Water Line
If you need the convenience of near-instant ice from your refrigerator, you can unclog the water line for your ice maker by following these steps.
If you need the convenience of near-instant ice from your refrigerator, you can unclog the water line for your ice maker by following these steps.
Checking and replacing the water supply filter
First, turn off the water supply. Then, unplug the refrigerator and roll the refrigerator away from the wall so you have room to work. Find the water filter. It will be part of the water supply system (following the water supply line); most look like a cylinder or canister. Take an adjustable wrench and disconnect the end of the filter that runs to the refrigerator. For now, leave the portion that is attached to the water supply. Hold the water filter over a gallon bucket, have some dry work towels handy just in case, and ask a helper to (gently) turn on the water supply. The filter is still good it the water runs freely. Ask your helper to turn off the water supply and reconnect your still-good water filter. The filter must be replaced if the water does not flow or just dribbles out. Ask your helper to turn off the water supply and remove the water filter from the supply line. Take your bad water filter to the appliance and purchase a replacement. Install the replacement filter and firmly tighten the connections. Ask your helper to turn on the water and gently double-check for leaks. Tighten the connections if needed. Replug in the refrigerator and roll it back into its normal position.
Dealing with a damaged water line
Roll the refrigerator away from the wall and unplug it. Locate the water supply valve for the refrigerator ice maker. It may be under the kitchen sink or connected to a cold water pipe in the basement. Turn off the supply of water at this value. Follow the entire length of the water supply line to the refrigerator, checking for crimps or kinks. If you locate a kink or crimp, use your hands to straighten out the line. If you cannot correct using hand pressure, you must replace the water supply line. Disconnect the water line at the supply value and refrigerator with an adjustable wrench. Take all (or at least part) of the water line to the appliance store to purchase a replacement. If you took only part of the old line with you, measure the line length to ensure your replacement is long enough. Install the replacement line, firmly tighten the connections, and gently turn on the water supply to double-check for leaks. If all is well, plug the refrigerator back into the wall and roll it back into place.
Cleaning a clogged inlet valve
Shut off the water supply, unplug the refrigerator, and roll the refrigerator away from the wall. At the back of the refrigerator, remove the access panel, generally attached with screws. Using a nut-driver and socket, remove the water inlet valve. Take the valve apart and clean the screen. Reassemble the value, and then reinstall it. Reattach the back panel. Replug in the refrigerator and roll it back into position.
Mr Fixer takes pride in providing quality refrigerator repair, washing machine repair, dryer repair, and stove repair services in Atlanta, Georgia, and surrounding areas. Call us today at 404-924-4606 for written estimates. We repair appliances of all makes and models.
