Overview
The ice mold heater ensures that the ice cubes do not stick to the mold during the ejection cycle. If the ice cubes are not releasing properly, the mold heater may be faulty and should be tested.
Caution
Please read our safety information before attempting any testing or repairs.
Before testing the mold heater, unplug the refrigerator to avoid an electrical shock hazard.
Identifying Your Ice Maker Type
- Modular Units: Have holes in the module’s face plate for test probes. If you see several holes, each marked with a letter, it is a modular unit. Follow the control module instructions for testing.
- Component Units: Usually have exposed gears and don’t have holes for test probes.
Testing the Ice Mold Heater (Component Units)
- Unplug the Refrigerator:
- Ensure the refrigerator is unplugged to avoid electrical shock.
- Access the Ice Maker:
- Remove the outer face plate of the ice maker. If there is a knob, pull it off first, then pry off the face plate with a small screwdriver.
- Identify the Ice Mold Heater:
- Locate the ice mold heater in the ice maker. It is typically a small metal rod or strip that runs along the bottom of the ice mold.
- Disconnect the Heater:
- The heater will be connected by two wires. Label the wire placement on the heater before disconnecting the wires.
- The wires are connected with slip-on connectors. Firmly pull the connectors off of the heater terminals (do not pull on the wire). You may need to use a pair of needle-nose pliers to remove the connectors.
- Test the Heater for Continuity:
- Use a multitester set to the ohms setting X1.
- Place a probe on each terminal of the heater.
- The multitester should display a reading between zero and infinity, indicating continuity. The exact reading will depend on the specific heater model, but it should not show a reading of zero (indicating a short) or infinity (indicating an open circuit).
- Evaluate the Results:
- If the reading is within the expected range, the heater is likely functioning correctly.
- If the reading is zero or infinity, the heater is faulty and should be replaced.
Reassembling the Ice Maker
- Reconnect the Heater:
- Reattach the wires to the heater terminals, ensuring they are securely connected.
- Reinstall the Face Plate:
- Replace the face plate and knob (if any), ensuring all components are properly secured.
- Restore Power:
- Plug the refrigerator back in and restore power.
- Test the ice maker to ensure it operates correctly with the functioning mold heater.
By following these steps, you can effectively test the ice mold heater in your ice maker and determine if it needs to be replaced to restore proper function.
