Caution:
Please read our safety information before attempting any testing or repairs.
Before replacing the water inlet switch, unplug the refrigerator to avoid an electrical shock hazard.
Steps to Replace the Inlet Switch:
Determine the Ice Maker Type:
- Remove the Outer Face Plate:
- If there is a knob, pull it off first, then pry off the face plate with a small screwdriver.
- Modular units will have several holes in the module’s face plate for test probes, each marked with a letter. If you see these holes, it is a modular unit.
- Component units usually have exposed gears and don’t have holes for test probes.
Component Ice Maker:
- Remove the Ice Maker:
- It is easier to work on a component unit by first removing the entire ice maker from the freezer compartment.
- The unit is usually mounted to the freezer case by two or more screws. Remove the bottom screws first. While supporting the ice maker, remove the remaining top screws.
- Unplug the ice maker from the freezer cabinet if you have not already done so.
- Reduce Tension on the Shutoff Arm:
- Along the edge nearest the shutoff arm, a pin protrudes through the cover plate (labeled “A” below). The arm pin has a spring under the cover plate.
- Reduce the tension on the spring by moving the shutoff arm into the “on” position, down, against the ice maker.
- Access the Inlet Switch:
- Once the ice maker is removed, locate the inlet switch within the ice maker assembly. The switch is usually near the water inlet valve.
- Remove the Inlet Switch:
- The inlet switch is typically secured with screws or clips. Remove any screws or clips to release the switch.
- Label the wires connected to the switch for proper reassembly.
- Disconnect the wires from the switch terminals. The wires are connected with slip-on connectors, which can be removed by firmly pulling on the connectors (do not pull on the wire itself). You may need to use needle-nose pliers to remove the connectors.
- Inspect the Connectors:
- Inspect the connectors and the terminals for corrosion. If the connectors are corroded, they should be replaced.
- Install the New Inlet Switch:
- Connect the wires to the new inlet switch, ensuring they are attached to the correct terminals as labeled.
- Secure the new switch in place with screws or clips.
- Ensure the shutoff arm is properly aligned and reduces the tension by moving it into the “on” position.
- Reassemble the Ice Maker:
- Reattach the ice maker to the freezer compartment by reversing the disassembly steps.
- Plug the ice maker back into the freezer cabinet.
- Secure the ice maker with screws.
- Replace the outer face plate and knob (if any).
- Restore Power:
- Plug the refrigerator back in to restore power.
- Test the ice maker to ensure proper operation and that the new inlet switch functions correctly.
By following these steps, you can successfully replace the water inlet switch in your ice maker, ensuring it functions properly.
