When you need ice cubes to make drinks cold or preserve food in transit, an ice maker can serve you well. These stand-alone machines make ice on demand and are used in homes and for commercial or industrial purposes. But ice makers are made up of multiple electronic and mechanical parts that can malfunction over time. While a plumber can check for issues and fix them, you might need a new ice machine altogether.  

When to Repair or Replace Your Ice Maker

1. No Ice

If your ice maker isn’t producing ice, the machine likely has an electrical or mechanical problem. An ice maker often stops working because the plug was yanked out of the socket unwittingly, so check first that the machine is plugged in. Sometimes, you can reset a malfunctioning ice maker by unplugging it from the electrical outlet for a few minutes then plugging it back in. If that doesn’t work, call a technician for repairs.

Mechanical issues, such as a damaged control arm, blocked or frozen water line, or faulty water inlet valve, can stop your machine from producing ice as well. Instead of attempting to troubleshoot, let a plumber inspect and diagnose the issue.

2. Not Enough Ice

Maybe you’re still able to get ice from the maker, but the amount it produces is less than normal. After ruling out the water inlet valve and line, a plumber will check the water filter for signs of clogging. Blockages in this part reduce the water pressure coming into the ice maker, which causes it to produce less ice. Lack of ice may also be due to weak overall water pressure on your property.

3. Unusual Taste or Smell

If the ice has an unpleasant taste or smell, check the water coming out of your tap. If it has the same quality, have a plumber inspect your supply line. If that’s not the problem, a dirty filter or rotting food in the freezer could be causing the odor.

4. Loud Noises

A telltale sign of trouble in your ice maker is noisy operation. When it creates loud sounds, it’s an indication of more significant mechanical problems to come, which may require a full replacement if ignored. But the racket may also be due to a poor connection or a clogged water supply line.

5. Leaking or Flooding

You should never find puddles of water around the machine. If you do,  call a plumber right away. The active leak may come from several sources, including damaged plastic tubing, a loose or faulty water inlet valve, or a busted supply line.  

At the first signs of trouble with your ice maker, have a plumber from Murphy’s Plumbing Company in Mebane, NC, inspect the machine. Since 1988, they’ve provided a range of top-notch plumbing services, including clogged drain removal and water heater repair to customers throughout Orange County. Call (919) 563-5165 for an emergency plumber or visit them online to see why they’re the preferred plumbing contractor.