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How to Fix an Ice Maker When Ice Sticks at the Top

Ice dispensers and ice makers work best when they're regularly used. If you use them fewer than once a week, you're more likely to encounter stuck ice. After a power outage, ice makers may not work for a period of time. If the ice bin is empty, you'll experience a delay while the unit makes new ice. Otherwise, most clogs should take a few minutes to clear. Regular maintenance can cut down on future stuck ice.

Things You'll Need

  • Plastic spoon or spatula
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make sure your ice dispenser is not locked, if your model has a lock function. This prevents the unit from operating, so it may seem like the ice is stuck. If you're not sure if your ice maker has a lock function or how to disengage it, consult your refrigerator's user guide. Typically, you press a button to lock or unlock the ice maker.

    • 2

      Test the ice maker on both crushed and cube ice setting. If you normally use it on crushed, a piece of crushed ice may be stuck in the chute. This can make it seem like your ice maker is stuck. Running it on cube for a few seconds should clear the jam.

    • 3

      Open the freezer door. Stick a plastic spoon or spatula down the ice chute, to see if anything feels like it's clogged. If you have an ice jam at the top, you may be able to see it. Pull the chuck of ice out the top of the chute with the spoon. Test your ice maker. Removing stuck ice should solve your problem.

    • 4

      Check the ice bin if your ice maker still appears stuck. If the ice in the bin is clogged, ice won't come out the ice maker when you depress the button or lever. Shake the bin to break apart clumps of stuck ice and test the machine again.

    • 5

      Empty the ice bin into your sink if the cubes do not break apart. Allow the freezer 24 hours to make a fresh batch of ice and test your ice maker again. With a clear chute and cubes that are not stuck together, your ice maker should function properly.