Samsung Refrigerator Not Making Ice? Try These 8 Proven Fixes

Nothing’s worse than reaching for fresh ice on a hot day—only to find your Samsung refrigerator isn’t making ice.

The good news? Most ice maker issues are quick and easy to fix.

From clogged filters to frozen components, this guide will walk you through eight proven troubleshooting steps to get your ice maker working again. Let’s dive in!

How a Samsung Ice Maker Works (And Why It Stops Making Ice)

A Samsung ice maker is designed to automate ice production, but when it stops working, understanding its process can help pinpoint the issue.

Here’s how it works:

1. Water Supply – Water is pumped from the fridge’s water line, passing through a filter to remove impurities.
   
   
2. Filling the Ice Tray – The filtered water flows into the ice mold inside the ice maker.
   
   
3. Freezing Cycle – The internal thermostat monitors the temperature until the water freezes solid.
   
   
4. Ice Release – The system slightly warms the cubes before the ejector arm pushes them into the bin.
   
   
5. Bin Level Control – A control arm or sensor detects the ice level. When the bin is full, the ice maker stops production until more space is available.

Why It Stops Making Ice:

• Clogged water filter restricts water flow.
• Low water pressure prevents proper filling.
• Frozen components block ice production.
• Malfunctioning thermostat or control arm disrupts the cycle.

Samsung Refrigerator Not Making Ice? Troubleshoot with This Quick Fix Table

If your Samsung refrigerator isn’t making ice, don’t worry—most issues have simple fixes.

Whether it’s a clogged water filter, a frozen ice maker, or a faulty inlet valve, this troubleshooting table will help you identify the problem and get your ice maker working again fast.

8 Easy Fixes for a Samsung Refrigerator That Won’t Make

If your Samsung refrigerator isn’t making ice, don’t panic! Most issues—like a clogged filter, frozen parts, or water supply problems—are easy to fix. Follow these quick troubleshooting steps to get your ice maker working again! 

1. Ice Maker is Turned Off

Your ice maker may be accidentally turned off, preventing ice production.

✅ How to Fix:

• Check for an on/off switch inside the freezer (varies by model).
• If your fridge has a digital control panel, navigate to the ice maker settings and turn it on.
• Ensure the control arm is in the correct position—if it's raised, the ice maker is off. Lower it to activate ice production.

Pro Tip: Accidentally pressing the off button while organizing the freezer is a common issue—always double-check!

2. Freezer Temperature is Incorrect

If your freezer is too warm or too cold, the ice maker won’t function properly.

✅ How to Fix:

• Set your freezer to 0°F (-18°C) for optimal ice production.
• If your freezer is too warm, check that the door seals are tight and not letting in warm air.
• If your freezer is too cold, ice can build up and freeze over the components—defrost if needed.

Did You Know? Ice makers have built-in thermostats, and incorrect temperatures can disrupt the ice-making cycle.

3. Ice is Stuck in the Ice Maker

Ice cubes can get jammed between the control arm and the bin, stopping the ice-making process.

✅ How to Fix:

• Manually remove any ice cubes blocking the ejector arm.
• If the ice is stuck, pour a cup of warm water over the ice buildup to melt it.
• Use a plastic utensil (never metal) to gently break apart any stubborn ice chunks.

Prevent Future Ice Jams: Avoid opening and closing the freezer door frequently, as this can cause condensation that leads to ice buildup.

4. Ice Maker is Not Level

A tilted refrigerator or improperly installed ice maker can disrupt ice production.

✅ How to Fix:

• Check if your refrigerator is level—adjust the bottom glides to stabilize it.
• Ensure the ice maker itself is securely installed and level.
• Reset the ice maker after adjustments and wait a few hours for it to start producing ice.

Why It Matters: If the ice maker isn’t level, water may not flow properly, leading to inconsistent ice production.

5. Water Line is Blocked or Damaged

Your ice maker is connected to a water supply line at the back of your fridge. If it’s clogged or damaged, water won’t reach the ice tray.

✅ How to Fix:

Inspect the water line for kinks, bends, or leaks.
Disconnect the line and flush it with water to clear any blockages.
If the line is damaged, replace it with a new one.

Quick Tip: If your water dispenser is also not working, the issue is likely with the water supply line.

6. Expired or Clogged Water Filter

A clogged water filter can block water flow to the ice maker, preventing ice production.

✅ How to Fix:

• Check if your water filter is past the recommended replacement period (usually every 6 months).
• Replace the filter with a Samsung-approved water filter to avoid compatibility issues.
• Run a few gallons of water through the dispenser after replacing the filter to clear any trapped air.

Did You Know? Hard water can cause mineral buildup, clogging the filter faster. Regular replacements prevent this issue.

7. Faulty Ice Ejector Arm

The ejector arm pushes ice cubes into the bin. If it’s broken, ice won’t be released.

✅ How to Fix:

• Check if the ejector arm is stuck or frozen—gently move it to see if it’s obstructed.
• Look for signs of wear and tear on the arm, gears, or motor.
• If damaged, replace the ejector arm assembly or contact a technician.

Warning: Forcing a stuck ejector arm can damage the motor—always defrost first if ice buildup is the issue.

8. Water Inlet Valve is Faulty

The water inlet valve controls water flow into the ice maker. If it’s faulty, water won’t reach the ice tray.

✅ How to Fix:

• Locate the water inlet valve at the back of the refrigerator.
• If water flow is weak, replace the valve to restore proper function.
• If the valve is clogged with mineral deposits, clean it with a descaling solution or vinegar.

Common Sign of a Bad Inlet Valve: If your water dispenser is working but your ice maker isn’t, the inlet valve could be the culprit.

Samsung Refrigerator Not Making Ice - Replacement Fridge Options

If troubleshooting hasn’t fixed your Samsung ice maker issues, it may be time for a new refrigerator with a high-capacity ice maker.

Check out these top-rated Samsung refrigerators with reliable ice production, advanced cooling, and smart features to keep your drinks cold and your kitchen running smoothly. 

Refrigerator Recommendation #1:

Samsung 27.0 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel 3-Door French Door Refrigerator

Samsung 3 Door French Door refrigerator

This oversized Samsung French door refrigerator fits up to 10% more groceries than the average fridge!

Flexible storage options, spill-proof shelving, and humidity-controlled drawers keep food fresher for longer. Check out all these amazing features included in the refrigerator such as:

✅ Bright LED Lighting – Illuminates every corner for better visibility and easy organization.
✅ Advanced Water Filtration – Removes impurities for cleaner, better-tasting water and ice.
✅ High-Capacity Ice Maker – Produces and stores over 4 lbs of ice, perfect for entertaining and daily use.

Refrigerator Recommendation #2:

Whirlpool 21.4 Cu. Ft. Black Side-by-Side Refrigerator

Whirlpool Black Side by Side Refrigerator

Side-by-side fridges make it easy to stay organized! This Whirlpool refrigerator has wide doors, bright lighting, and flexible storage.

Store plenty of meat and cheeses in the convenient deli drawer. Or use the adjustable gallon door bins to keep your favorite drinks cold and fresh. This refrigerator is designed to keep up with busy families. Top rate features included in this model are: