Replacing an ice maker in a refrigerator is a common repair that many homeowners need to make. An ice maker that stops producing ice or produces low quantities of ice is usually a sign that the ice maker needs to be replaced. When an ice maker goes bad, it can be a frustrating inconvenience, but replacing it is usually a straightforward repair. In this article, we’ll discuss the factors that affect the cost of replacing an ice maker and provide average price ranges so you know what to expect.
Page Contents
- 1 What is an ice maker?
- 2 Why do ice makers need to be replaced?
- 3 Cost factors
- 4 DIY vs professional replacement
- 5 Average cost to replace an ice maker
- 6 Factors that increase cost
- 7 Factors that decrease cost
- 8 Should I repair or replace the ice maker?
- 9 New vs. refurbished replacement ice makers
- 10 How long do ice makers last?
- 11 How to prevent ice maker issues
- 12 Troubleshooting common ice maker problems
- 13 Conclusion
What is an ice maker?
An ice maker is the component inside a refrigerator that produces ice. It is typically located in the freezer compartment. Most ice makers contain these main parts:
– Ice mold – This is the part where water freezes into ice cubes. The ice cubes are then ejected into the ice bucket.
– Water inlet valve – Allows water into the ice mold.
– Heating element – Warms the ice mold just enough to release the frozen ice cubes.
– Control module – The “brains” of the ice maker that controls the cycle of water filling, freezing, and ice ejection.
– Shutoff arm – Stops ice production when the ice bucket is full.
– Ejector blades – Push the ice cubes out of the ice mold.
The ice maker is powered by an electric motor and gets its water supply from the refrigerator’s main water line. As the control module runs the cycle, water enters the ice mold, freezes into ice cubes, then gets ejected into the ice bucket.
Why do ice makers need to be replaced?
There are several common reasons why an ice maker may need to be replaced:
– Worn-out mold. Over time, the ice mold can get coated in mineral deposits from water. This prevents the water from freezing properly. Replacing the ice maker is the only fix.
– Faulty control module. If the control board malfunctions, it cannot run the ice making cycle correctly. It’s usually more cost-effective to replace the entire ice maker than to try and repair the control module.
– Broken ejector mechanism. The ejector blades can wear out or break over time. A damaged ejector will prevent ice cubes from getting pushed out into the ice bucket.
– Bad shutoff arm. If the shutoff arm breaks, the ice maker won’t know when the ice bucket is full. It will keep producing ice, overflowing the bucket.
– Clogged or damaged water inlet valve. A clogged valve prevents water from entering the ice mold. A damaged inlet valve will leak and cause ice production issues.
– Refrigerant leaks. If the refrigerator has lost refrigerant, the freezer won’t get cold enough for the ice maker to function.
Replacing a malfunctioning ice maker is usually simpler and more cost-effective than trying to repair the individual components that have failed.
Cost factors
Several factors affect the total cost to replace an ice maker:
Type of refrigerator
Ice makers for side-by-side refrigerators are typically less expensive than ice makers for bottom-freezer refrigerators. That’s because bottom-freezer ice makers are usually more integrated into the refrigerator design and may require more disassembly to access and replace.
Brand of refrigerator
Replacement parts for premium brands like Sub-Zero and Viking tend to be more expensive than parts for mainstream brands like Whirlpool or GE. The increased cost comes from more specialized parts and fewer third-party replacements available.
New vs aftermarket ice maker
You can purchase a brand new OEM (original equipment manufacturer) ice maker designed specifically for your refrigerator model. These are typically $120-$350. Aftermarket universal ice makers made by third parties are also available for $50-$150. They may require some modification to fit your refrigerator.
Labor costs
If you hire a technician to replace the ice maker, labor will account for a large portion of the total cost. Labor rates for appliance repair technicians usually range from $65 to $125 per hour. The job can take 1-3 hours.
Accessibility of ice maker
On some refrigerators, accessing and replacing the ice maker is simple. On other models, substantial disassembly may be required to get to the ice maker. More complex repairs equate to higher labor costs.
Additional repairs
If the technician discovers other issues like a leaking water line or a failing control board, it will add to the total repair cost. Any additional repairs identified will get bundled into the price.
DIY vs professional replacement
Replacing an ice maker is a project a handy homeowner can DIY in some cases. However, there are a few downsides to consider:
– It can be difficult to properly diagnose the issue. You may replace the ice maker and find out it didn’t fix the problem.
– Accessing the ice maker often requires disassembling internal components. If you don’t have experience with refrigerator repairs, you risk damaging something.
– DIY repairs usually void the refrigerator’s warranty. Any future issues will have to be paid for out of pocket.
Hiring an appliance repair technician ensures proper diagnosis of the issue, professional disassembly and reassembly of the refrigerator, and retention of your warranty coverage. However, you’ll pay more for labor costs.
Average cost to replace an ice maker
Here are the typical price ranges to expect for ice maker replacement:
DIY:
– Parts cost: $50 – $350
– Total cost: $50 – $350
Professional replacement:
– Parts cost: $120 – $350
– Labor cost: $125 – $250
– Total cost: $250 – $600
As you can see, DIY replacement can save $100 or more in labor costs. But professional installation reduces the risk of wasting money on the wrong part or damaging the refrigerator.
Factors that increase cost
Here are some scenarios that can drive the cost of ice maker replacement higher:
– Premium refrigerator brand like Sub-Zero or Viking ($450+ parts)
– Difficult access requiring substantial disassembly ($150+ extra labor)
– Additional repairs needed like leaking water line ($75+ parts plus $125+ labor)
– Weekend or holiday appointment when rates are higher (add $50+ to labor rate)
– Multiple service calls if misdiagnosis occurs (double the labor time)
Getting an accurate diagnosis and cost estimate upfront prevents unexpected charges down the road. Be sure to ask the technician about anything that may drive the price higher before authorizing the repair.
Factors that decrease cost
You may be able to save money on ice maker replacement by:
– Purchasing aftermarket replacement part ($50-$150 parts)
– Scheduling appointment on a weekday if possible (lower labor rates)
– Choosing a technician with lower hourly rate (could save $50+ in labor)
– Performing DIY replacement if comfortable (eliminate $125+ for labor)
– Providing model number upfront for quick parts identification (saves technician time)
– Cleaning mineral deposits from ice mold instead of replacing (could extend ice maker lifespan)
Ask the technician if an aftermarket or refurbished part is available. Confirm you won’t void the refrigerator warranty with a DIY repair. Schedule on a weekday and provide the model number upfront to maximize potential savings.
Should I repair or replace the ice maker?
In most cases, replacing the entire ice maker assembly is preferable to repairing individual components like the mold, ejector, or control module:
– Full replacement is typically more cost-effective than repairs
– Repair success rate is low for DIYers without proper equipment
– Repaired parts often fail quicker than new replacement parts
– You still have to disassemble the unit for repairs, which carries inherent risks
– Repairs won’t address any additional issues like leaks or damage
However, repairs make sense in some situations:
– If mineral deposits are preventing ice formation, try cleaning the mold first
– Make simple ejector repairs if the mechanism is just jammed or otherwise working
– Check for wiring issues before replacing the module
– Replace a single part like the inlet valve if that is the clear point of failure
Start with basic troubleshooting before deciding between repairs and replacement. Overall, replacing the entire ice maker usually provides the most reliable fix.
New vs. refurbished replacement ice makers
You can choose between buying a new or refurbished ice maker. Here’s how they compare:
New OEM ice maker
– Higher cost, usually $120-$350
– Designed by manufacturer specifically for your refrigerator
– Fits perfectly and interfaces with refrigerator controls
– Full warranty, usually 3-5 years from defects
– Longest expected useful life
– No modifications needed for installation
Refurbished ice maker
– Lower cost, typically $80-$250
– Remanufactured from existing ice maker cores
– Rebuilt with cleaned/repaired components
– General fit but may require adjustments
– Shorter warranty, usually 1-2 years
– Potential for faster failure than new unit
– May require modifications for proper fit
For the greatest reliability and longest lifespan, choose a new OEM ice maker. But refurbished units cost less while still providing decent performance and moderate warranty coverage.
How long do ice makers last?
The average lifespan for an ice maker is 3-5 years for models with plastic mold assemblies and 5-8 years for those with metal molds:
– Plastic mold: 3-5 years
– Metal mold: 5-8 years
Factors impacting lifespan:
– Quality of water – Mineral deposits build up faster with hard water
– Frequency of use – Constant ice production wears parts faster
– Door openings – Heat enters each time the freezer is accessed
– Refrigerant charge – Low refrigerant reduces ice production performance
– Door seal – A leaking door seal reduces cooling in the freezer
To maximize the lifespan of your ice maker:
– Use a water softener or filtering system if you have hard water
– Add a water filter inline with the ice maker to remove minerals
– Limit freezer access to reduce heat intrusion
– Maintain proper refrigerant charge via yearly tune-ups
– Replace worn door seals to ensure optimal freezer temperatures
Following this preventative maintenance routine will help your ice maker last longer before needing replacement.
How to prevent ice maker issues
You can help prevent premature ice maker failure and extend its lifespan by:
– Changing refrigerator air filters every 6 months to maximize airflow and cooling efficiency.
– Replacing water filters every 6 months to reduce mineral deposits and sediment buildup.
– Having an HVAC technician verify the room temperature is less than 90°F. Excessive heat shortens the lifespan of all refrigerator components.
– Adjusting the freezer temperature to 0°F to -10°F for optimal ice production. Monitor temperatures with a thermometer.
– Cleaning condenser coils every 12 months to maintain proper heat transfer and compressor function.
– Keeping the door seals clean and flexible to prevent cold air leaks.
– Checking that the refrigerator is properly leveled so doors close completely.
– Avoiding placing hot items in the refrigerator which forces the compressor to work harder.
– Listening for abnormal noises which could indicate a larger problem.
– Having a technician perform preventative maintenance annually.
Following a proactive maintenance routine keeps your refrigerator working efficiently and can extend the operating life of the ice maker significantly.
Troubleshooting common ice maker problems
Try these troubleshooting tips if your ice maker stops working properly before replacing it:
Not making ice
– Ensure the freezer temperature is between 0°F to 10°F. Use a thermometer to check.
– Check that the water supply valve is open and water line is not frozen, pinched, or leaking.
– Make sure the freezer door closes completely and seal is intact.
– Test the shutoff arm to confirm it moves freely.
– Inspect the ejector mechanism for jammed ice or other obstructions preventing ice from being pushed out.
– Remove any ice buildup or frost from the ice mold assembly.
Not dispensing ice
– Rule out ice jammed in the ejector blades or ice mold. Carefully remove built-up ice.
– Confirm the ice bucket is properly installed underneath the ice maker.
– Check for frost, ice chunks or other debris blocking the chute.
– Test the shutoff arm to make sure it moves up and down.
– Inspect the ejector and make sure it can move ice through the chute.
Small or hollow ice cubes
– Make sure water pressure to the ice maker is between 20 psi and 120 psi.
– Check that the freezer temperature is around 0°F. Higher temps produce smaller cubes.
– Change the water filter if it’s clogged. Low water flow makes hollow cubes.
– Remove mineral deposits or dirt buildup from the ice mold assembly.
– Make sure the water fill tube is properly positioned at the back of the ice mold so water distributes evenly.
Slow ice production
– Set freezer temperature to 0°F to -10°F range for faster freezing.
– Inspect the water supply and tubing for leaks, clogs or kinks limiting water flow.
– Clean out any dirt or mineral buildup from the ice mold.
– Make sure refrigerator is properly ventilated and condenser coil is clean.
– Check for excessive frost or ice buildup in freezer compartment.
– Ensure door seals are intact with no cold air leaks.
Conclusion
The cost to replace an ice maker runs anywhere from $100 for a DIY repair up to $600 or more if hiring a professional. Factors like refrigerator model, part source, repair complexity, and labor rates all contribute to the total replacement cost. With some minor troubleshooting, you may be able to revive your existing ice maker. But in most cases, replacing the entire ice assembly is the best solution for restoring reliable ice production. Considering the fridge’s value and your budget, decide whether to tackle replacement yourself or hire an appliance repair technician to get your ice maker functioning again.