Whirlpool K40 Ice Maker Not Making Ice Manual

The Whirlpool K40 is a built-in or under-counter ice maker designed for reliable ice production. If your K40 model has stopped making ice, this guide provides step-by-step troubleshooting, maintenance procedures, and safety information to help restore operation. Common issues include water supply problems, clogged filters, faulty components, or incorrect temperature settings. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation checks, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting specific to ice production failure.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Precautions 3. Installation & Water Supply Check 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Indicators 6. Normal Operation Cycle 7. Maintenance & Cleaning 8. Troubleshooting: No Ice Production 9. Component Testing & Replacement 10. Regulatory Information 11. Warranty & Support

Features at a Glance

Key components: Ice-making assembly, water inlet valve, evaporator plate, thermostat, harvest heater, bin thermostat, water filter, and control board.

Feature	Description
Ice Production Capacity	Up to [X] lbs per 24 hours (check model sticker)
Water Inlet Valve	Solenoid-controlled; opens to fill water reservoir
Evaporator Plate	Freezes water into ice cubes
Thermostat (Ice Thickness)	Senses ice thickness to initiate harvest cycle
Harvest Heater	Warms evaporator to release ice cubes
Bin Thermostat	Stops ice production when bin is full
Water Filter	Removes impurities; requires periodic replacement
Control Board	Manages timing of freeze/harvest cycles
Power Switch	Turns ice maker on/off
Indicator Lights	Show status (power, ice full, add water, etc.)

Safety Precautions

Before troubleshooting, ensure safety.

Unplug the ice maker from the electrical outlet before inspecting internal components.
Shut off the water supply at the shut-off valve before checking water lines.
Allow the unit to warm up if frozen; do not use sharp tools to remove ice.
Use only manufacturer-approved replacement parts.

WARNING! Risk of electric shock. Do not operate with damaged power cord or if unit has been dropped. Keep area well-ventilated.

Installation & Water Supply Check

If ice maker is not making ice, first verify installation and water supply.

Check water supply: Ensure shut-off valve is fully open. Verify water line is not kinked or frozen.
Water pressure: Must be between 20-120 psi for proper operation.
Water filter: Replace if clogged or older than 6 months.
Leveling: Unit must be level for proper water distribution.
Ambient temperature: Operate between 50°F-100°F (10°C-38°C).

CAUTION! Use only potable water supply. Incorrect water pressure can cause failure.

Specifications

Model: Whirlpool K40 Ice Maker.
Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz, [X] Amps.
Water Supply Pressure: 20-120 psi.
Ice Production: [X] lbs per 24 hours.
Storage Capacity: [X] lbs in bin.
Refrigerant Type: R-134a or as specified.
Dimensions: Check installation guide for exact measurements.
Operating Environment: 50°F to 100°F (10°C to 38°C).

Controls and Indicators

Front panel or control area includes power switch and status lights.

Power Switch: Turns ice maker on/off. Ensure it is in the ON position.

Indicator Lights: - Power/On: Solid light indicates unit is powered. - Ice Full: Illuminates when bin thermostat senses bin is full; production stops. - Add Water: Flashes if water supply is low or inlet problem. - Clean/Service: Indicates need for cleaning or component fault.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes to reset control board.

Normal Operation Cycle

Understanding the cycle helps diagnose where it fails.

Fill: Water inlet valve opens, filling the mold or reservoir.
Freeze: Compressor runs, evaporator plate freezes water into cubes (typically 15-30 minutes).
Harvest: Thermostat senses ice thickness; harvest heater warms evaporator; cubes release into bin.
Repeat: Cycle continues until bin is full (bin thermostat opens).

Tip: Listen for water filling sound and compressor hum. Lack of either indicates a problem.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance prevents ice production issues.

Monthly Cleaning: Use approved ice maker cleaner. Run cleaning cycle per manual.
Water Filter: Replace every 6 months or as needed.
Condenser Coils: Vacuum dust every 3-6 months for proper heat exchange.
Ice Bin: Wash with mild detergent; rinse thoroughly.
Exterior: Wipe with damp cloth; do not use abrasive cleaners.

WARNING! Never use sharp objects to remove ice. Unplug before cleaning interior.

Troubleshooting: No Ice Production

Systematic approach to diagnose no-ice issues.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No ice, no sound	Power issue; switch off	Plug in unit; ensure outlet works; turn power switch ON.
No ice, but compressor runs	Water supply problem	Check water valve is open; inspect for kinks; replace filter.
No ice, water fills but doesn't freeze	Compressor/refrigerant issue; low ambient temp	Ensure room temp >50°F; listen for compressor; may need service.
Ice forms but doesn't harvest	Faulty thermostat; harvest heater	Test thermostat continuity; check heater for open circuit.
"Ice Full" light on (empty bin)	Faulty bin thermostat; obstructed sensor	Ensure ice isn't piled against sensor; test bin thermostat.
Unit cycles but makes little/no ice	Dirty condenser; low refrigerant	Clean condenser coils; contact authorized technician.
Odd-tasting or cloudy ice	Old filter; minerals in water	Replace water filter; consider water softener if hard water.

Component Testing & Replacement

For advanced users with multimeter. Unplug unit first.

Water Inlet Valve: Disconnect wires; check solenoid resistance (typically 200-500 ohms).
Thermostat (Ice Thickness): Remove; place in freezer; check for continuity change when cold.
Harvest Heater: Measure resistance (should be low, e.g., 20-50 ohms). Infinite = open, replace.
Bin Thermostat: At room temp, should have continuity. If open, replace.
Control Board: Inspect for burnt spots. If all components test good, board may be faulty.

CAUTION! If unsure, contact a qualified technician. Incorrect repair can cause further damage.

Regulatory Information

This appliance complies with FCC Part 15 and relevant safety standards. Manufactured for household use. Copyright © Whirlpool Corporation. All trademarks are property of Whirlpool Corporation, USA. For technical specifications and updates, refer to the model-specific label on the unit.

Warranty & Support

Limited warranty provided by Whirlpool Corporation. Check your original purchase documents for warranty period and terms.

Before Calling for Service: 1. Review this troubleshooting guide. 2. Ensure unit is plugged in, power switch ON, water supply on. 3. Perform a reset by unplugging for 5 minutes.

Customer Support: - Whirlpool Customer Service: 1-800-253-1301 - Online Support: www.whirlpool.com - Authorized Service Centers: Visit website for locator.

Note: Have model and serial number (located on unit label) ready when contacting support.