What To Know
- If the water inlet valve that supplies water to the ice maker becomes clogged, it can restrict the flow of water, preventing the ice maker from producing ice cubes.
- To do this, disconnect the refrigerator from the power source, remove the ice maker assembly, and carefully replace the auger motor following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- If the water inlet valve is clogged, you can try to clean it by removing the valve and soaking it in a solution of warm water and vinegar.
A malfunctioning ice maker auger in your Kenmore refrigerator can be a frustrating inconvenience, especially during hot summer months. When the auger fails to turn, it can disrupt the ice-making process, leaving you without a steady supply of ice cubes. This blog post delves into the common causes behind a Kenmore refrigerator ice maker auger not turning and provides step-by-step instructions to troubleshoot and resolve the issue effectively.
Understanding the Kenmore Refrigerator Ice Maker Auger
The ice maker auger is a crucial component of your Kenmore refrigerator’s ice-making system. It is a rotating spiral-shaped device that moves ice cubes from the ice maker mold to the ice bin. When the auger stops turning, ice cubes can get stuck in the mold, preventing the production of new ice.
Common Causes of Kenmore Refrigerator Ice Maker Auger Not Turning
1. Frozen Auger Gear: Over time, frost and ice buildup can accumulate on the auger gear, causing it to freeze and become immobile. This can prevent the auger from rotating smoothly, resulting in a lack of ice production.
2. Damaged Auger Motor: The auger motor is responsible for powering the auger’s rotation. If the motor fails or becomes damaged, it can cause the auger to stop turning, leading to ice-making issues.
3. Faulty Ice Maker Control Board: The ice maker control board is the electronic component that regulates the ice-making process. A malfunctioning control board can send incorrect signals to the auger motor, causing it to stop operating.
4. Clogged Water Inlet Valve: If the water inlet valve that supplies water to the ice maker becomes clogged, it can restrict the flow of water, preventing the ice maker from producing ice cubes. This can, in turn, cause the auger to stop turning.
5. Defective Ice Maker Assembly: In some cases, the entire ice maker assembly may be defective or damaged, leading to auger malfunction. This can require a replacement of the ice maker unit.
Troubleshooting and Solutions for Kenmore Refrigerator Ice Maker Auger Not Turning
1. Thaw Frozen Auger Gear: If the auger gear is frozen, you can try to thaw it by using a hair dryer to gently blow warm air onto the affected area. Be careful not to apply excessive heat, as it can damage the plastic components of the ice maker.
2. Inspect and Replace Damaged Auger Motor: If the auger motor is damaged or faulty, you will need to replace it with a new one. To do this, disconnect the refrigerator from the power source, remove the ice maker assembly, and carefully replace the auger motor following the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Test and Replace Faulty Ice Maker Control Board: To test the ice maker control board, you can use a multimeter to check for continuity between the terminals. If the control board is defective, you will need to replace it with a new one.
4. Clean Clogged Water Inlet Valve: If the water inlet valve is clogged, you can try to clean it by removing the valve and soaking it in a solution of warm water and vinegar. Once cleaned, reinstall the valve and check if the ice maker is functioning properly.
5. Replace Defective Ice Maker Assembly: If the entire ice maker assembly is defective, you will need to replace it with a new one. To do this, disconnect the refrigerator from the power source, remove the old ice maker assembly, and install the new one following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Additional Tips for Maintaining a Properly Functioning Kenmore Refrigerator Ice Maker
1. Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean the ice maker and its components to prevent frost and ice buildup. This will help ensure that the auger and other parts operate smoothly.
2. Proper Water Filtration: Use a high-quality water filter to remove impurities and contaminants from the water supply. This will help prevent clogs in the water inlet valve and ensure a steady flow of water to the ice maker.
3. Avoid Overfilling the Ice Bin: Avoid overfilling the ice bin, as this can put strain on the auger and other ice maker components, leading to potential malfunctions.
4. Regular Refrigerator Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance checkups for your Kenmore refrigerator to ensure that all components, including the ice maker, are functioning properly.
Wrapping Up:
A Kenmore refrigerator ice maker auger not turning can be a frustrating issue, but with proper troubleshooting and solutions, you can restore the ice maker’s functionality and enjoy a steady supply of ice cubes. Remember to follow the safety guidelines and manufacturer’s instructions when performing any repairs or maintenance tasks. If you encounter any difficulties or uncertainties, consider seeking professional assistance from a qualified appliance repair technician.
FAQ:
Q: Can I replace the auger gear separately, or do I need to replace the entire auger assembly?
A: The availability of replacement auger gears may vary depending on the model of your Kenmore refrigerator. In some cases, you may be able to find replacement gears, while in others, you may need to replace the entire auger assembly. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions or contact a repair technician for specific guidance.
Q: How often should I clean the ice maker and its components?
A: Regular cleaning is essential to prevent frost and ice buildup and ensure proper functioning of the ice maker. Aim to clean the ice maker and its components, including the auger, at least once every six months.
Q: What are some signs that the ice maker control board may be faulty?
A: If the ice maker is not producing ice, the ice cubes are misshapen or hollow, or the auger is not turning, these could be indications of a faulty ice maker control board. Additionally, if the control panel displays error codes or malfunctions, it may be a sign of a defective control board.
