Icemaker Test Mode Symptoms
This article will discuss the failures you might experience while trying to run test mode on an icemaker and the tests that should follow to troubleshoot each issue.
If you need information on how to run test mode on your specific icemaker, click the button below for your icemaker type:
Click the buttons below beside the Issue Description to jump to that section in the article…
Icemaker Did Not Move At All
1. Make sure the icemaker is powered ON. (Remember that many models do not have physical power switches on the icemakers, instead they are powered on or off using the Display PCB).
2. Check wiring connections at the icemaker, door hinge (if in-door icemaker), and PCB that the icemaker is energized from to make sure all connectors are seated properly and inspect the connectors for bent pins.
3. If wiring connections are ok, check for voltage being output to the icemaker motor. Locate the icemaker motor on the wiring diagram and while holding the test button check for voltage being output to the motor.
Also, if the diagram shows the Icemaker Test Switch you can make sure the board is receiving the test mode command…
Icemaker Motor Voltage: 12Vdc when in test mode.
Icemaker Motor Ohm: 17-20Ω
Test Switch: 5Vdc when not pressed , 0Vdc when holding test button.
If test switch is working and PCB will not output voltage to the icemaker motor then replace the PCB that the icemaker is connected to.
Icemaker Cycled But Did Not Fill With Water
1. No water supply, no ice.
*If the unit has a dispenser make sure that water will dispense.
*Check that the water supply is on, and the water valve is plugged in properly.
*Check for any kinks or restrictions to the Ice valve water line.
*Check for frozen water pipe to icemaker. (If frozen check water pipe heater)
2. Check the Water Valve(s).
When pressing the test button, and cycling the Icemaker, the pilot and secondary water valves for the icemaker should both energize, this typically happens at the end of the test mode. Check the manual or valve label to see if it is 120Vac or 24Vdc Valves. If the icemaker cycles but the board does not supply voltage to the valve(s) replace the PCB board that valve connects to. (Please check the diagram for your individual model as valves can be energizer from the Main PCB, Display PCB, or Sub PCB based on model).
If there is voltage from the Main PCB and the fill valve still will not operate, check for a damaged connector at the Icemaker, Main PCB, and the cabinet connector where the valve plugs in.
If the Main PCB is supplying voltage to the valve and there are no wiring connection issues then replace the defective water valve.
Icemaker Did Not Fully Cycle
If you hold the test button and the icemaker starts to move but then goes back to home position quickly, this typically means the icemaker thinks the ice bucket is full.
- Check for obstructions around the feeler arm. This could be ice or other foreign objects.
- Check to make sure the feeler arm is not contacting the ice bucket and making the icemaker believe the bucket is full.
- If the ice bucket is removed and no obstructions are present and the icemaker still will not fully cycle, it would be wise to have an Icemaker and Main PCB with you as either can cause this issue.
Icemaker Cycled In Test Mode, But Will Not Cycle On Its Own
If the icemaker cycles in test mode and fills but will just not dump on its own the issue is normally temperature related.
- Check for Error Codes/Hidden Error Codes.
- Check the Freezer Temperature and make sure it is staying close to set temp. Temperature needs to be blow 15degreesF in most cases for the icemaker to cycle on its own.
- If the icemaker having the issue is located in the left refrigerator door then again verify the temperature is close to the same as the freezer temp. Again, the temp needs to be below 15degreesF for the door icemaker to cycle. (If freezer temp is checking fine but ice room temp is too high, then check for icemaker fan and other airflow issues).
- If all temps are checking correct while the tech is there but the icemaker will not cycle on its own… try a data logger for a few days to check the temperature trend.
- If temperature has been verified to be correct but the icemaker will not cycle on its own, replace the icemaker.
Tray Is Stuck Upside Down And Will Not Cycle In Test Mode
- Try to run test mode to see if the icemaker will move at all.
- Reset the unit by disconnecting power. Then try running test mode again.
- If the icemaker is still stuck in the upside down position and will not move, then replace the icemaker.
