Kenmore Refrigerator: wanting to add an ice maker

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Are you looking to add an ice maker to your Kenmore refrigerator? If your model didn't come with one, retrofitting an ice maker can be a great upgrade. This process involves installing the ice-making unit and connecting a water line, ensuring you have the right compatible kit for your specific model.

Urgency: Low

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Many Kenmore top‑freezer models use optional ice maker kit IM116000; check model compatibility before buying kit
  • Some older Kenmore models use specific ice maker assemblies: replacement part numbers are model‑dependent

Possible Causes

Refrigerator does not have a built‑in ice maker or compatible wiring/hardware

How to Identify: Check if your specific Kenmore model lacks ice maker pre‑installed, see if there are mounting holes, wiring harness and waterline inlet

Part: Freezer compartment/ice maker wiring harness

Incompatible or incorrect ice maker kit for refrigerator model

How to Identify: Purchasing wrong kit, mounting holes don’t align, wiring harness doesn’t match

Part: Ice maker kit/parts

DIY Solutions

Install ice maker kit and connect water line

Moderate 2–4 hours
Tools Needed: adjustable wrench, screwdrivers, drill with bits, tubing cutter
  1. Verify refrigerator model compatibility and purchase the correct ice maker kit compatible with your Kenmore model
  2. Shut off water supply and disconnect refrigerator power
  3. Route and install a 1/4" water supply line from a cold water source to the fridge location, install shut‑off valve if not present
  4. Remove freezer shelf or mounting hole plugs and attach the ice maker mounting bracket
  5. Secure ice maker unit in freezer and connect wiring harness
  6. Connect water supply line to ice maker inlet valve and tighten fittings
  7. Restore power and water supply, test operation and check for leaks
⚠️ Safety First: Always shut off water supply and power before starting

Professional Repairs

Plumb water supply line and install shut‑off valve

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

Install ice maker kit and handle wiring

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

When to Call a Professional

If no cold water line exists and you need plumbing work
If you are uncomfortable drilling through cabinets/walls to route water line
If electrical wiring to fridge ice maker harness is not present

Preventive Maintenance

  • Inspect water line and connections: Leaks and water damage
    Frequency: annually
  • Clean ice maker components: Ice buildup and clogs
    Frequency: every 6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Refrigerator wanting to add an ice maker?
The likely reasons are that your refrigerator lacks a built-in ice maker or the necessary wiring and hardware.
How do I fix Kenmore Refrigerator wanting to add an ice maker myself?
To fix it, ensure you have the right ice maker kit, shut off water supply, and install a water line to connect to your fridge.
How much does it cost to fix wanting to add an ice maker?
Professional repairs for installing an ice maker and plumbing can range from $100 to $400 depending on the complexity.
When should I call a technician for wanting to add an ice maker?
Consider calling a technician if you're uncomfortable with DIY plumbing or electrical work, as it can become complex.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • The refrigerator model does not come with an ice maker kit pre-installed.
  • Lack of a water supply line connected to the refrigerator.
  • Incompatible or missing ice maker components for the specific Kenmore model.

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Purchase a compatible ice maker kit for your Kenmore refrigerator model. Follow the installation instructions provided with the kit, which typically include shutting off the water supply, connecting the water line to the refrigerator, and plugging in the ice maker. Test for leaks and ensure the ice maker is functioning properly.

  2. If your refrigerator lacks a water supply line, hire a plumber to install one. Once the water line is in place, proceed with the installation of the ice maker kit as described above.

  3. Consult the refrigerator's manual or contact Kenmore customer support to verify compatibility of the ice maker kit with your specific model. If necessary, return the incompatible kit and purchase the correct one.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Adding ice maker to 2003 Kenmore refrigerator

Community Discussions

want to add an ice maker

Adding an ice maker is feasible and could enhance the refrigerator's functionality.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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