Ice Maker Basics - How They Work

Most household ice makers are actually small appliance that reside within your freezer and are usually independent of the other refrigerator systems. The ice maker works together with a water-inlet valve in the operation cycle. Free standing ice makers are also available for those who need more ice making capacity.

Components:

• Electric Motor - spins the gears that eject the ice.
• Water Valve - in most designs the water valve is positioned behind the refrigerator, but it is connected to the central circuit via electrical wires. When the circuit sends current down these wires, the charge moves a solenoid, which opens the valve for just a few seconds.
• Ice Mold - plastic well, with several connected compartments.
• Cooling Unit - the freezing of the ice is actually done by the refrigerator and not the ice maker.
• Thermostat - measures the temperature level in the ice molds, when it reaches the correct. temperature a switch is closed to the cooling unit, which allows current to flow to the heating unit.
• Heating unit - warms the bottom of the ice mold, loosening the ice cubes from the mold surface.
  

To provide power to all these elements, you have to hook the icemaker up to the electrical circuit powering your refrigerator. You also have to hook the icemaker up to the plumbing line in your house, to provide fresh water for the ice cubes. The power line and the water-intake tube both run through a hole in the back of the freezer.

Ice Maker Buying Tips

• When you are out researching an ice maker for your home, consider how much ice you want to make in a given day as the key factor. Most newer refrigerators have an ice maker that is adequate for normal household use.
• The larger home free standing ice machines will give you over 40 lbs of ice in 24 hours which is usually plenty for parties.
• Look for models that have water filters so you get "clean and clear" ice cubes and if you want to get really fancy consider ice makers that produce a variety of sizes in cubes.

Tricks to Keep Your Ice Maker Maintained

Keep the Ice Cube Bin Smelling Fresh
Over time, the ice cube bin can absorb difficult-to-remove odors from the freezer. We recommend that you replace the bin every 2 to 3 years--whenever it seems to be retaining objectionable odors and transferring them to the ice cubes. RepairClinic.com can help find the correct bin for your ice maker.

Water filter replacement
We recommend that you replace your ice maker's water filter twice a year.

Old cubes in the ice bin
To help keep your ice tasting its best, empty out the ice and wash the ice bin every 2 to 3 months. Also try to keep the foods in your refrigerator covered, because the ice cubes absorb many odors and tastes (baby formula, onion, and so on).

Cubes too small
If the cubes coming from your icemaker are too small, it may be time to replace the water filter. Or the shut-off water-supply valve may be clogged. Check the water-supply valve first, to see if there is an obstruction. If the cubes are still small when you're sure that the water supply is good, try replacing the water filter.