Understanding Appliance Services

If your icemaker suddenly stops producing ice, then the refrigerator's water-inlet valve may the source of the problem. This valve is electronically controlled and is subject to fail due to repeated on-and-off action over time. Fortunately, this is a fairly easy problem to repair for most homeowners who are handy with basic hand tools. Below is how you can remove and replace a defective inlet valves.

Step-by-step procedure

1. Disconnect the electrical connection and water supply from the refrigerator - Before beginning, you will need to unplug the refrigerator from its outlet to prevent a possible electrical shock. In addition, be sure to turn off the water supply to the refrigerator to prevent water leaks. Locate the water-supply valve for the line, which will be beneath your kitchen sink connected to the cold-water plumbing. In some cases, there may be a dedicated water valve installed in the wall behind the refrigerator, and you may turn this off instead.

2. Locate the inlet valve - Once the refrigerator is disconnected from your home's electrical circuit and plumbing, the next step is to find the inlet valve that is connected to the water supply line. This valve is typically blue in color to signify it is a cold-water connection, and it will have either two or four wires attached to it. On the back side of the inlet valve will be the water line leading to the icemaker.

3. Remove the defective inlet valve - To remove the inlet valve, unscrew the connector that holds the water supply line to the valve. Be careful not to damage the supply line during the process, especially if it is made of copper. Next, remove the screws that fasten the inlet valve to the refrigerator frame. Once the screws are removed, firmly grasp the water line attached to the back of the inlet valve and pull it free from the nipple. Then, detach the wires connected to the inlet valve; these may be connected in a plastic harness or separately, but in either case, they can be removed by simply pulling them straight from the terminals. Be cautious not to use twisting or bending force, as you may break the metal tabs from the wires by doing so.

4. Install a new inlet valve - After the old inlet valve is removed, install its replacement by following the above instructions in reverse order. It is important to attach the wires to the correct terminals on the new valve, so double-check your work before finishing. After reconnecting the power and water supply, monitor the icemaker for production and also be on the alert for water leaks from loose connections.

For professional help, contact a company such as Affordable Appliance Repair.