How to Troubleshoot the Ice Maker Water Valve on a GE Refrigerator

Inadequate Ice Production

• 1

  Pour 1/2 cup water into the ice maker mold if your GE ice maker is either not producing ice or is producing less ice or smaller cubes. If the ice maker produces ice properly within about two hours, it is functioning properly and the problem is probably in the water valve. If it does not produce ice, the ice maker may be malfunctioning.

• 2

  Pull the refrigerator out to access the water valve. Close the water valve and open it again. A restriction at the valve such as ice or scale can reduce the water supply, which results in smaller cubes. This opening and closing causes the valve to pierce the opening in the water line and may remove the blockage.

• 3

  Remove the water filter and replace it with a new one. Clogged water filters can also cause decreased ice production.

• 4

  Test the water valve to determine whether it is functioning properly by first disconnecting the power supply to your refrigerator.

• 5

  Close the main water supply shut-off valve located on the water line that feeds the water inlet valve.

• 6

  Remove the access panel on the back of your refrigerator using a screwdriver. Disconnect the fill tube connected to the valve.

• 7

  Loosen the nut on the brass fitting located on the inlet side of the valve. Use an adjustable wrench and remove the screws in the metal bracket that holds the water valve in place to pull the valve out of the refrigerator.

• 8

  Remove the filler tube from the valve port. Disconnect the wires connecting the valve to the refrigerator. Label each wire as you disconnect it to remember where it goes later.

• 9

  Test the valve’s terminal using a multimeter. If it reads 200 to 500 ohms, or the reading indicated on the valve itself, the terminal is functioning fine. If it does not read in this range, replace the valve.

Leaks

• 10

  Remove the ice maker from the refrigerator and inspect the fill tube, which is the plastic tube above your GE icemaker. If the tube is frozen, it may cause the icemaker to leak water inside the ice bucket or onto the floor.

• 11

  Warm the fill tube using a hair dryer set on its lowest setting or wrap it in a warm cloth to thaw the ice. If the tube is frozen solid, you may have to replace the water inlet valve and tubing.

• 12

  Make sure all connections to the water valve and ice maker are secure and are not leaking water.

• 13

  Pull out your refrigerator from the wall and disconnect the power supply. Remove the access panel at the back of your refrigerator using a screwdriver. Inspect the water fill valve for moisture or cracks.

• 14

  Try to close the valve manually. If it is stuck open, the valve is malfunctioning or blocked and should be replaced by a qualified technician.