Some Kenmore refrigerators feature ice maker model M1 SA8868. When this ice maker works properly, it converts water into ice cubes when the ice cube tray gets low. Depending on your style of refrigerator, the ice can either be scooped out manually or dispensed through the door. Whether you're experiencing performance issues with this specific ice maker or a similar model, you can try a few do-it-yourself troubleshooting steps before calling the Kenmore customer service line at 1-844-553-6667 or an appliance repair technician.
To avoid electrical shock while working on your refrigerator, unplug it before continuing with Kenmore ice maker repair.
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Ice Maker Not Getting Water
An ice maker can't produce ice without a water supply. Check to make sure the water supply line's valve is in the "on" position just in case it was recently turned off to service or move the fridge. Next, inspect the water supply line behind the fridge for any kinks that would prevent water from traveling into the fridge. Then, remove the water filter inside the fridge (typically located on the refrigerator's ceiling or back wall) to check for a clog.
Above the ice maker, you'll see the water supply tube that delivers water. The water inside this tube can freeze solid, preventing any water from entering the machine. Dislodge the ice, adjust the freezer's temperature up a little, and wait to see if the problem persists.
If it happens again, there may be a problem with the water supply line leaking water into the tube when it's not supposed to, leading to that frozen build up. The electrical component that turns the water on and off could also be malfunctioning. Consider calling in an appliance technician to investigate and replace these parts.
Ice Maker Doesn't Make Ice
Other factors besides a faulty water supply line can affect an ice maker's ability to produce ice. The ice maker contains a series of mechanisms that signal when water should be supplied and when the ice should be harvested. For example, if your family doesn't use a lot of ice, the ice maker won't produce more ice cubes until it senses that the supply tray is running low.
Sometimes mechanisms get stuck in the wrong position, effectively telling the ice machine to stop making ice even when the tray is empty. A rectangular metal arm provides one of the major signals for ice production. The "down" position is neutral and closes the electrical circuits, whereas the "up" position is only triggered when ice is ready to be harvested and opens the electrical circuits.
If the arm gets stuck in the "up" position, the electrical circuit remains open, shutting down power to all of the other ice maker functions. Fortunately, it's very easy to reach in and push down on the handle to reset the ice maker. However, if the arm gets stuck regularly, a gear or electrical component may need to be replaced.
Ice Not Being Harvested
An ice maker that produces ice but does not harvest or dispense it may have an electrical problem or a broken harvesting arm. The temperature sensor, which tells the ice maker that the water has frozen into cubes and can be harvested, may also be implicated in this problem.
It can be difficult to pinpoint the exact malfunctioning component, so consider calling in an appliance repair technician or purchasing a replacement ice maker.