Ice maker repair · Tulsa, OK
An empty bin, and a freezer that’s cold enough. Most of the time the ice maker isn’t getting water, or something told it to stop.
Before you call
What usually causes it
A shutoff valve turned off, a line kinked when the fridge was pushed back, or a clogged filter keeps water from the tray. The ice maker goes through its motions, but nothing fills.
Colby follows the water from the wall to the ice maker and finds where it stops.
The short tube where water enters the ice maker can freeze shut, often because a weak water valve lets water dribble in and freeze. You may see a small plug of ice at the back of the tray.
He thaws the tube and fixes whatever made it freeze.
This valve on the back of the fridge opens to fill the tray. When its coil fails, or the small screen inside clogs with grit, no water arrives; it also needs enough household pressure to open properly.
He tests the valve and the pressure reaching it, and replaces the valve if it has failed.
The ice maker has its own motor, thermostat and controls. When one fails, the tray stays full, ejects only partway, or nothing happens at all; on most models the ice maker is replaced as one unit.
He tests the ice maker and replaces it if it’s the part at fault.
Stand-alone ice machines have their own pumps, sensors and water systems, and they need regular cleaning. One Hoshizaki Colby repaired hadn’t been cleaned in years, and corrosion had ruined its gear motor and seal.
Colby works on ice machines too, and checks the water system, the sensors and the scale and corrosion inside.
Questions
ASmall, hollow or thin cubes mean the tray isn’t filling all the way. A tired filter, low water pressure or a weak water valve is the usual cause.
APlan on about a day before the first cubes. Throw out the first few batches, since they can carry loose bits from a new filter or line.
AYes. Besides the ice makers inside refrigerators, Colby repairs under-counter ice machines; his job files include a Scotsman and a Hoshizaki.
AYes. There’s a diagnostic fee for the visit, and if you have Colby do the repair, the diagnostic fee is waived.
AMost appointments are within 48 hours, many within 24, and often the same day. Call or text and Colby will give you the soonest time he has.
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Tell us what's wrong and how to reach you. Colby will call or text you back.
