It’s a hot summer day, and you fancy a tall glass of iced tea, or maybe you want to enjoy a frozen margarita after a day of running errands. You saunter over to your refrigerator, only to quickly find out that there is no ice in the ice maker. While there are much larger problems in the world, a broken ice maker can really put a damper on a perfectly problem-free day.
Having a broken ice maker in the dead of summer isn’t exactly ideal. Especially when you’ve paid top dollar and invested in a world-class Sub-Zero refrigerator. Sub-Zero refrigerators are the crème de la crème of kitchen appliances, manufactured from the very finest parts and built to last. But even they can run into trouble every once in a while. Fortunately, there may be some simple fixes that will get your Sub-Zero ice maker up and running again.
Troubleshooting Tips for Sub-Zero Ice Maker
All Sub-Zero refrigerators and appliances are tested for a minimum of four hours before they roll off the factory floor. Some even go through a more rigorous 24-hour to 48-hour testing before they are cleared to sell to consumers. Even with all of the quality control tests, appliances still malfunction.
The reason your Sub-Zero ice maker isn’t working properly may be due to several easily remedied problems. If your Sub-Zero ice maker is not making ice and isn’t working, here are some troubleshooting tips you may want to explore before calling a licensed Sub-Zero repair technician.
Confirm Ice Maker is On
Occam’s razor suggests that “the simplest explanation is most likely the right one”. That may very well be the case when it comes to your Sub-Zero refrigerator’s ice maker. Now don’t go beating yourself up too much, your ice maker turned to the OFF position is a simple thing to overlook.
Since there are multiple Sub-Zero refrigerator models that have ice makers, you may want to refer to the owner’s manual to find out where the ON/OFF switch is located. If you have lost the owner’s manual that came with your refrigerator, you’re in luck. There are digital Sub-Zero refrigerator manuals available online.
Your owner’s manual will explain, in detail, the error codes and icons to look for, as well as where to locate the ON/OFF switch. If you notice that your ice maker was indeed turned off, simply turn it back on and wait a full 24 hrs to see that it begins to make ice again before looking into other troubleshooting solutions.
Water Filter Issue
Let’s face it, not all of us are on top of routinely changing our refrigerator’s water filters. If it’s been a while since you last changed the water filter on your Sub-Zero refrigerator, that may lead to your ice maker not receiving a steady flow of water.
The issue arises when sediment and mineral deposits begin to build up in the water filter, leading to the slowing of water passing through it, and eventually, if it isn’t replaced, the water stops flowing through the filter altogether.
To fix the issue, you’ll need to change the water filter. Refer to your Sub-Zero ‘Use & Care’ manual to get step-by-step instructions on how to replace the water filter on your model of Sub-Zero refrigerator. The manufacturers at Sub-Zero recommend that you change the water filter every 6 months, with 12 months being the maximum suggested time to let your water filter go unchanged.
It is imperative that you purchase a certified Sub-Zero water filter. Beware of off-brand sellers that offer deals on counterfeit Sub-Zero water filters. They not only aren’t the same caliber of water filter, but could contain toxic materials that are a hazard to you and your family. Always be sure to turn the power off on your Sub-Zero refrigerator before removing the water filter, and only turn your unit back on when you have successfully replaced the water filter.
Freezer Temperature
Depending on where you live, summer can be a taxing time on any refrigerator. Even though Sub-Zero refrigerators are built to last with state-of-the-art temperature controls and world-class insulating technology, there are moments when the temperature in your freezer could exceed 10 degrees Fahrenheit or -12 Celsius. When this happens, the ice maker will stop making ice.
To fix this problem, check the temperature on your Sub-Zero freezer. It should be set between 0 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit or -18 to -15 Celsius. If you notice the temperature isn’t decreasing even after you’ve turned it down, you may want to take a look at the condenser coils and clear them of any debris that is resting on them. The condenser coils are responsible for regulating the temperature of the Sub-Zero and regulating the temperature. When they aren’t clean, it may cause the temperature inside your Sub-Zero refrigerator and freezer to rise, ultimately disabling the ice maker.
Frozen Ice Maker
If your ice maker freezes up, it could also lead to it malfunctioning. To fix a frozen ice maker, simply unplug your Sub-Zero refrigerator. Then remove the ice bin or tray and allow it to thaw in the sink. Lastly, you can try the hairdryer life hack. Direct your hairdryer to warm-up the water hose and surrounding components. This should help to thaw any stubborn frost that has accumulated on the unit.
Ice Bin/Ice Bucket
This is a rather easy thing to overlook and is easily fixed. If you have recently removed the ice bucket or ice bin to clean it, make sure it was replaced correctly. The ice maker will not turn back on if the ice bin is not properly aligned. Models vary, and some ice buckets are equipped with a sensor that needs to contact its receiver for the ice maker to activate. Refer to your owner’s manual to see how the ice bin on your Sub-Zero model should be aligned.
Check the Fill Tube
First things first, locate the fill tube. The fill tube is a long thin tube that runs from the back or side wall of the refrigerator, or can be found above the ice maker itself. When the water pressure drops, it can sometimes cause the water to freeze inside the tube. You can check to see if this is the case by punching the fill tube. If you notice it’s stiff, chances are there is frozen water obstructing the flow of water.
To fix this, you’ll need to bust out the hairdryer again and run it along the fill tube to thaw any frost inside the tube. Be sure to use fluid movements with the hairdryer so as not to melt the plastic piping. If you don’t feel confident in this method, you can opt to turn the entire unit off to thaw all components.
Check Water Supply Line
The water supply line supplies water to the dispenser and ice maker. If the water supply line has become kinked, you’ll want to readjust it so water can flow freely through it again. Another problem with the water supply line is that it may become disconnected. You’ll be able to spot that if you see pooling water behind or under your Sub-Zero refrigerator. To fix, either unkink your water supply line or refer to your owner’s manual to reattach the supply line to your ice maker and water dispenser.
Obstructions
The best part about this fix is that you’ll be able to confirm it at first glance. Ice makers can get jammed if ice cubes get backed up in the dispenser. Check the ice chute or where the ice gets delivered into the bin to see if any ice cubes have frozen together and are creating an obstruction.
Remove the obstruction by hand or with a warm dishrag. After you have cleared the obstruction, make sure to turn the ice maker off and back on again to reset the unit. Remember that it can take up to 24 hours for the ice maker to start producing ice again.
Still Having Ice Maker Issues? Contact a Sub-Zero Professional
If you are unable to fix your Sub-Zero ice maker with the above troubleshooting measures, it may be time to call a licensed Sub-Zero repair technician. Wilshire Refrigeration is trained and certified to work on Sub-Zero appliances. We can help you resolve any issue you may be having with your ice maker.
In light of the recent COVID-19 pandemic, Wilshire Refrigeration is abiding by all of the CDC recommendations so that we can continue to provide the high-quality service our clients are used to. We have stepped up our safeguards. All of our Sub-Zero appliance repair technicians are fully outfitted in the appropriate preventative gear and are closely monitored for any symptoms of the coronavirus. Wilshire Refrigeration will go above and beyond to ensure that your environment is left unaffected when we come to service your appliances.
Wilshire Refrigeration is the only factory-certified service provider for Wolf Appliances in Los Angeles and surrounding areas. If you need to get your Sub-Zero serviced, we’re the people to call, at (800) 427-3653.
