Home Garden

How to Replace a Kenmore Ice Maker

Whirlpool manufactures the Kenmore brand of refrigerator with an automatic ice maker. The component is designed for removal to repair or replace with a new ice maker. Replacing an ice maker typically takes less time than installing the component for the first time, as the water line is already hooked up to the existing ice maker. Use basic hand tools to remove the old unit and install the new one yourself, saving money on a plumber or repair technician.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdrivers
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Twist the knob clockwise on the valve built into the water line that attaches to the rear of the Kenmore. Turn the knob until it is tight.

    • 2

      Unplug the Kenmore electrical cord.

    • 3

      Open the freezer door to move frozen items from the existing ice maker so you can work around the unit. Slide out the ice bin below the unit and remove it from the freezer.

    • 4

      Take out the screws below the unit on the support rail along the left wall.

    • 5

      Push upward on the unit from the bottom to release it from the support rail. Pull forward gently.

    • 6

      Grip the plug on the end of the wires behind the ice maker and remove it from the freezer wall.

    • 7

      Pull the rubber tube out of the cup at the top of the ice maker. Leave the tube connected to the freezer wall. You can now remove the old unit.

    • 8

      Insert the power plug on the new unit into the socket on the freezer wall. The plug fits in one direction only.

    • 9

      Line up the bottom edge of the new unit with the support rail and push downward on the unit to set it on the rail. Secure with the screws removed in Step 4.

    • 10

      Push the end of the rubber tube into the cup at the top of the new unit.

    • 11

      Dry your hands before plugging in the Kenmore power cord.

    • 12

      Twist the knob on the water valve to the left as far as it will turn.

    • 13

      Slide the empty ice bin under the new unit.

    • 14

      Raise the sensor bar extending from the right side of the unit to the top position. The bar lifts and locks at the highest point.

    • 15

      Press the power switch on the end of the unit to start a cycle.