Overview
There are two types of ice makers: modular units and component units. Modular units cluster several parts together into a control module. To determine which type you have, remove the outer face plate. If there is a knob, pull it off first, then pry off the face plate with a small screwdriver.
Caution
Please read our safety information before attempting any testing or repairs.
Before testing the control module, unplug the refrigerator to avoid an electrical shock hazard.
Identifying the Control Module
A modular unit will have several holes in the module, each marked with a letter (similar to the one pictured below). These holes are for test probes. If there are no holes, then the ice maker is a component model, and the components can be tested individually. For component models, refer to the individual components in the diagnostic table.
Control Module Testing
In this section, we will test the ejector motor and mold heater. The thermostat is a separate component and covered in another article.
Note: Testing should be done with the power off, the shutoff arm in the down, “on” position, and the ejector blades in the “start” position. The position of the blades will vary among ice makers, but the start position is always with the blades over (not in) the ice mold tray. If the ejector blades are in the mold, it will not be possible to properly test the control module. Furthermore, if the blades are in the mold area, then they did not complete their cycle, and may suggest a failure of the modular unit.
Steps to Test the Control Module
- Disconnect the Power: Unplug the refrigerator or shut off the power at the fuse box or breaker panel to avoid an electrical shock hazard.
- Remove the Face Plate:
- If there is a knob, pull it off first.
- Pry off the face plate with a small screwdriver.
- Inspect the Control Module:
- Identify the holes marked with letters for test probes.
- Set Up for Testing:
- Ensure the power is off.
- Make sure the shutoff arm is in the down, “on” position.
- Verify the ejector blades are in the “start” position (over the ice mold tray).
- Test the Ejector Motor and Mold Heater:
- Insert the probes into the corresponding test holes on the control module.
- Use a multimeter set to the ohms setting to measure continuity.
- For the ejector motor, touch the probes to the terminals marked for the motor. A reading between 50 and 200 ohms indicates the motor is functioning properly.
- For the mold heater, touch the probes to the terminals marked for the heater. A reading between 50 and 200 ohms indicates the heater is functioning properly.
- Evaluate the Results:
- If the readings are within the specified ranges, the components are likely functioning correctly.
- If the readings are outside these ranges, the components may need to be replaced.
- Reassemble the Ice Maker:
- Replace the face plate.
- Plug the refrigerator back in or restore power at the fuse box or breaker panel.
By following these steps, you can effectively test the control module of your ice maker and diagnose any issues related to the ejector motor and mold heater. If the control module fails the tests, consider replacing the entire unit. If only specific components fail, replace those as needed.
