LG Ice Maker: not producing ice, unusual noises

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your LG ice maker not producing ice and making unusual noises like rattling or humming? This common problem can stem from a variety of issues, including the ice maker switch being turned off, warm freezer temperatures, or clogged water filters. Understanding these symptoms can help you troubleshoot effectively and restore ice production.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for LG Models

  • Normal operational noises include rattling during ice dropping and periodic motor/gear sounds; loud noises with doors open may indicate fan issues.

Possible Causes

Ice maker switch/off position

How to Identify: Check if the ice maker is switched off or the metal control arm is in upward/off position

Part: Ice maker on/off switch/control arm

Freezer temperature too warm

How to Identify: Measure freezer temperature; above ~10°F will inhibit ice production

Part: Freezer thermostat/temperature setting

Clogged water filter or low water flow

How to Identify: Filter overdue for replacement or visible low water flow; water pressure <20 psi

Part: Water filter and water line

Ice clog/ice buildup blocking mechanism

How to Identify: Listen for rattling and check for ice blockages in mold or chute

Part: Ice mold and chute

Faulty water inlet valve

How to Identify: No water entering ice maker despite correct settings and good water supply

Part: Water inlet valve

Ice maker assembly failure (motor/gears/sensors)

How to Identify: No action during test/reset cycle, persistent no ice, unusual operational sounds

Part: Ice maker assembly

DIY Solutions

Check and toggle ice maker switch/control arm

Easy 5 minutes
  1. Locate the ice maker switch or control arm inside freezer.
  2. Ensure it’s in the ON position and lower the arm if lifted.
  3. Wait several hours for ice production to resume.
⚠️ Safety First: No safety hazards

Adjust freezer temperature

Easy 5 minutes
Tools Needed: Freezer thermometer (optional)
  1. Check current freezer temperature setting on panel.
  2. Set to ~0°F for optimal ice production.
  3. Allow 12–24 hours for ice production to resume.

Replace water filter

Easy 10 minutes
  1. Locate water filter per manual.
  2. Replace with new LG-compatible filter.
  3. Reset ice maker if required and allow time for ice production.
⚠️ Safety First: Discard water from first batch of ice

Clear frozen water line or ice clog

Moderate 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: Warm cloth or hairdryer on low, Towels
  1. Locate water line near back of fridge.
  2. Use warm cloth or gentle low heat to thaw frozen spots.
  3. Check ice mold and chute for blockages and remove carefully.
⚠️ Safety First: Avoid high heat to prevent damage

Reset ice maker/test cycle

Easy 10 minutes
  1. Locate Reset/Test button on ice maker unit.
  2. Press and hold for ~3–10 seconds until cycle begins.
  3. Wait to see if ice making resumes.

Next step

Choose the next step for not producing ice, unusual noises

Confirm the diagnosis before ordering. An error code can identify the system involved, but it does not prove that a specific part has failed.

Check during diagnosis

Most relevant component to inspect

Thermostat

Regulates temperature by turning the heating or cooling system on or off.

Typical part-only price
$15 - $40
DIY difficulty
Easy
Estimated time
15-30 mins
Where can I find the model number?

Check the rating label around the door, lid, frame, rear panel, or inside the appliance cabinet. Use the complete model number, including suffixes.

Find a part that fits my model

Verify the complete model and part number on the retailer's compatibility page before ordering.

Other parts options

Check related components first; use model search as a fallback.

Possible related component

Water Inlet Valve

Controls the flow of hot and cold water into the appliance.

$25 - $60 · Easy · 15-30 mins

Check fit & price
Model number required

Model-compatible Ice Maker parts

Enter the complete model number to browse compatible replacement parts. This is a model-based parts search, not a diagnosis that a specific component failed.

Find a part that fits my model

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission from other qualifying purchases or service requests made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. Recommendations are based on repair relevance, not commission rate.

Professional Repairs

Replace water inlet valve

Estimated Cost: $50 - $120 for part

Replace ice maker assembly

Estimated Cost: $80 - $200+

When to Call a Professional

Water line freezing inside walls/back requiring specialist access
Persistent unusual loud noises not alleviated after clearing ice/clutter
Electrical or component replacements beyond safe DIY level

Preventive Maintenance

  • Replace water filter: Low water flow and ice production issues
    Frequency: every 6 months
  • Check freezer temperature: Ice production slowdown due to improper temperatures
    Frequency: monthly
  • Clear ice bin and mold of buildup: Ice clogs and jams
    Frequency: quarterly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my LG Ice Maker not producing ice, unusual noises?
Common causes include an ice maker switch being off, warm freezer temperature, or clogged water filters.
How do I fix LG Ice Maker not producing ice, unusual noises myself?
Check the ice maker switch, adjust the freezer temperature, replace the water filter, or clear ice clogs.
How much does it cost to fix not producing ice, unusual noises?
Professional repairs may cost between $50 - $200+, depending on whether you need to replace the water inlet valve or ice maker assembly.
When should I call a technician for not producing ice, unusual noises?
Call a technician if DIY fixes don't work or if you suspect a serious issue like a faulty ice maker assembly.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Guidance from available sources; statistical claims are shown only for samples of at least 10 discussions

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Clogged water line or filter
  • Faulty ice maker assembly
  • Malfunctioning water inlet valve
  • Freezer temperature too high
  • Mechanical issues in the ice maker (e.g., motor failure)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and clear the water line and filter. Ensure the water supply is connected and flowing. Replace the filter if clogged.

  2. Inspect the ice maker assembly for any visible damage or blockage. Replace the assembly if necessary.

  3. Test the water inlet valve for functionality. If it is defective, replace it to restore water flow to the ice maker.

  4. Check the freezer temperature settings and ensure they are set to the optimal level (0°F or lower). Adjust if needed.

  5. Listen for unusual noises and inspect the ice maker for mechanical issues. If the motor is failing, consider replacing the unit.

Limited-source guidance; percentages and success-rate claims are not shown
View Sources

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

  1. Repair an LG ice maker or let it go?

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