How to Troubleshoot the Kenmore Elite Ice Maker Infrared Sensor

Kenmore Elite refrigerators have an automatic ice maker with an infrared sensor that monitors the ice level in the bin. If the ice bin gets too full, the sensor recognizes that no additional ice is needed and automatically shuts off the ice maker until enough ice is dispensed that more ice is needed. If there are problems with the ice maker, some troubleshooting of the infrared sensor may prove useful.

Clean cloth(s)

Instructions

- 1
  Verify that the ice maker is turned on if there is no or little ice in the ice bin and no ice is being produced; the sensor will not operate if the ice maker is not powered on. If the ice maker was off, turn the power switch to “On” and allow 12 to 24 hours for ice production to reach normal levels.
- 2
  Push down on the ice bin release lever or lift up on the ice bin to release the bin if it is full of ice and the sensor light is blinking. Empty out some of the ice and replace the ice bin firmly back into the freezer.
- 3
  Wipe the sensor with a clean, damp cloth if frost or other debris or residue is covering the sensor light and the ice bin is not operating properly. The sensor is located on the left side of the freezer. Dry the sensor with a cloth and turn the ice maker “On” and then “Off” to reset.
- 4
  Shut the refrigerator door firmly for ice production to resume; the ice maker will not operate with the door open.

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