How to Turn the Freestanding Ice Maker On
How to Turn the Ice Maker On or Off for your Whirlpool Refrigerator
Whether you're planning a vacation, aiming to conserve energy, or need to clean your Whirlpool refrigerator's ice maker, knowing how to turn the ice maker off is a good thing to know. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process with detailed instructions to ensure your ice maker is safely turned off. Additionally, we'll share some tips on maintaining your ice maker while it's not in use, so it's ready when you need it again. Let's dive in!
Understanding Your Ice Maker
Ice makers are a popular feature in many Whirlpool refrigerators, designed to automatically produce ice for your cold beverages. The process starts with water filling the ice maker's mold, where it freezes into cubes. After the heating element is activated, it slightly warms the mold to release the ice into the storage bin. The ice maker will continue this cycle to provide a steady ice supply. Your ice maker has an automatic shut-off. As ice is made, the ice cubes will fill the ice storage bin, and the ice cubes will raise the wire shutoff arm to the OFF (arm up) position.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Turn The Ice Maker On/Off
Start by locating the ice maker control switch or button, typically found on the ice maker unit or inside the refrigerator compartment, depending on your model. The method for turning on/off the refrigerator's ice maker may vary among Whirlpool models. Most models feature a lever or switch that can be toggled to the 'Off' position. If your refrigerator has a digital display, access the settings menu to disable the ice maker by following the on-screen instructions.
Below is a list of a couple of common ice makers and how to operate them, but refer to the user manual specific to your Whirlpool refrigerator model. Manuals often include visual aids and diagrams pinpointing the ice maker control location with step-by-step instructions. If you don't have the manual, search for your model number on the Whirlpool Manuals and Literature website to find it online.
| Style 1 | Style 2 | Style 3 | Style 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
Why Should You Turn Your Ice Maker Off?
There are a couple of common reasons why you would want to turn the ice maker off:
- The Ice Maker is not connected to a water supply line. If you have decided not to use the ice maker, turn it off. If the ice maker is not connected to water, it could cause a buzzing sound, the refrigerator section to become too cold, and food in the crisper drawers to freeze.
- Going on an extended vacation.
- Cleaning the ice bin.
Is the Ice Maker Turned On?
A common reason an ice maker does not make ice is that it was accidentally turned off. Sometimes, resetting the ice maker can resolve minor issues. Locate the reset button on your ice maker (consult your manual if unsure) and press and hold it for a few seconds. If your refrigerator doesn't have a reset button, perform a power cycle by unplugging it for one minute and plugging it back in. Refer to How to Turn the Ice Maker On for more information on using the ice maker.
If the Ice Maker is not connected to a water supply line but remains turned on, it could cause the following: a buzzing noise, the refrigerator may be too cold, food in the crisper drawers may freeze, and the freezer section may get too cold.