Why is my Whirlpool refrigerator ice maker not filling with water?

Author: Ava O'Kon  |  Last update: Sunday, November 30, 2025

If water is coming out of the fridge spigot but not filling the ice maker, it could indicate a problem with the ice maker itself. There might be a blockage in the water line leading to the ice maker, a malfunctioning water inlet valve, or an issue with the ice maker's mechanism.

Why is my ice maker not filling up with water in my Whirlpool?

Make sure the water supply is properly connected to a cold water supply and the water shutoff valve is fully opened. Check to make sure there are no kinks in the water supply line. A kink in the line can reduce water flow. Straighten the water source line to restore adequate water flow and pressure.

What controls water flow in a Whirlpool ice maker?

When the icemaker calls for ice, its switch closes an electrical circuit and energizes the solenoid-operated water valve. This allows water to flow through the valve and into the ice cube tray.

What would cause an ice maker to not fill with water?

  • Clogged Water Line : A blockage in the water supply line can cause water to back up and freeze.
  • Low Water Pressure : Insufficient water pressure can prevent the ice maker from filling properly, leading to freezing.
  • Faulty Thermostat
  • Dirty Components
  • Temperature Fluctuations

How do I know if my water line is clogged with an ice maker?

If your ice maker isn't producing ice at all or is producing crescents or cubes that are smaller than usual, it's typically indicative of a clog somewhere along the supply line. Cause: A common cause for a clog is frozen water in the line. Fix: To repair a frozen line, slide the refrigerator and unplug it.

Whirlpool Refrigerator Repair - Icemaker Not Receiving Water - Diagnostics & Troubleshooting

How do you unclog a Whirlpool ice maker?

Some ice clumps may be too large or lodged to break up without damaging the unit. In this case, remove and defrost the ice bin or, if ice is lodged in the dispenser, place a towel and dish below the chute and allow the ice to thaw naturally.

How do you clear an ice maker water line?

Once the line is disconnected, pour 3-4 cups of vinegar with a small funnel into the line and let it soak for 5-10 minutes, clipping shut the open end of the line to avoid the vinegar from draining out. Rinse out the line with clean water before reconnecting the dispenser and ice maker.

Does unplugging a refrigerator reset the ice maker?

If you don't hear a chime, but you can see movement from the ice maker, then the ice maker was reset. If you don't hear a chime and there is no movement from the ice maker, unplug the fridge or turn it off at the circuit breaker for 2 minutes. Then, power it back up and try again.

How to make an ice maker fill with water?

If the icemaker mold is empty you can pour about 4 oz. of water in the icemaker mold. Wait about 2 hours. If the icemaker kicks the ice cubes out, it is working properly.

How do I reset my Whirlpool ice maker?

Locate the reset button on the ice maker. It's located on the bottom of the ice maker on most Whirlpool models. Push and hold the reset button for five seconds. You may need to use a pen or a similar tool to press the reset button if it is recessed.

Why does my ice maker work but not my water dispenser?

If the refrigerator water dispenser is not working but the ice maker is, your water pressure could be to blame. Your fridge needs less pressure to make ice than it does to dispense water. Check your refrigerator's manual to see the necessary water psi for both to function.

How to unclog a water line in a Whirlpool refrigerator?

If the water line is clogged, it can usually be cleaned out by running vinegar and baking soda through the line. Clogs are likely to occur if there is a flaw in the water line or if the water filter is not updated.

Why is my ice maker dispenser not working on my Whirlpool refrigerator?

If the dispenser paddle or pad is not fully engaged, the dispenser will not dispense ice and/or water. Check to make sure the glass is engaging the paddle or switch by firmly press the pad or paddle. Select water or ice on the display (Depending on Model). Firmly press a sturdy glass against the dispenser paddle.

Why is my Whirlpool machine not taking water?

Check the inlet screens on the back of the water inlet valve. If they appear to be clogged, without removing the screen or disturbing the placement of the screen, clean them with a brush (an old toothbrush works great) and mild soap and water. Please note that fill hoses should be replaced every five years.

How do I fix my ice maker not getting water?

Check the water fill tubes

Check the fill cup and the tube at the back of the ice maker. If they are covered in ice, look for a blockage. If you see an obstruction, check out our guide on how to clean your refrigerator water line for detailed steps. If that doesn't work, consider replacing the water fill tubes.

How do you adjust the fill on a Whirlpool ice maker?

If you remove the plastic cover from the ice maker's control head, you will see a small plastic screw on the right side. Turning that screw clockwise will lessen the amount of water that fills the mold. However, it will not decrease it a whole lot if it is really overfilling.

What controls water flow to ice maker?

Yes, the water inlet is controlled thru a circuit in the ice maker control module on the front of the assembly. the fill circuit in the control activates the water valve solenoid for 7.5 seconds(on average)and usually allows 4.0 to 4.5 oz. of water to fill the ice maker mold.

How long to leave a refrigerator unplugged to reset?

Reset your refrigerator: First, unplug it (or turn off the power at the circuit breaker), and then wait about five minutes for the electrical charge to clear out of it. Then, power it back on again.

Why would my Whirlpool refrigerator stop making ice?

A clogged water filter, kinked water line hose, or defective water inlet valve can restrict the water flowing to an ice maker. When this happens, ice production will be limited or completely stop.

Will a Whirlpool ice maker work without a filter?

With the filter removed, the water system will continue to operate, bypassing the filter, and the clogged filter will not cause slow water dispensing or low ice production. However, you will need to install a new filter to have filtered water. REMINDER: Make sure you flush the system after replacing your water filter.

What triggers the ice maker to fill with water?

To begin the ice-making process, a timer triggers the water valve, which fills the ice mold with water.

Why is my fridge water not working but ice is?

Sometimes, when a water filter becomes clogged and needs replacing, it can allow enough water through at low pressure for ice-making but not enough for the water dispenser; hence, you get ice but no water. Replacing the water filter is simple and should be done every six months, regardless.

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