Why is the ice maker on my fridge freezer not working?

Samsung RS8000 American Family Hub Fridge in a kitchen.

If your Samsung fridge freezer's ice maker is not working properly, several factors could be the cause, including a blocked water line or an activated Child Lock. Here's a more detailed step-by-step guide to help you troubleshoot and potentially resolve your issue:

Please note: The display images may differ from your model. A Samsung RS8000 Family Hub Fridge Freezer, Series 8/9 has been used in this example.

Make sure the ice maker function is enabled through the fridge freezer’s display. If it’s off, the ice maker won’t work. You can also select the type of ice you want from the display (e.g. cubed or crushed):

Fridge freezer display with “Cubed Ice” option selected. Fridge freezer display with “Cubed Ice” option selected.
Fridge freezer display with “Crushed Ice” option selected. Fridge freezer display with “Crushed Ice” option selected.

Ensure that Child Lock is deactivated, as this feature disables the ice dispenser and other controls on the fridge freezer. If it is activated, you can deactivate it by pressing and holding the Water/Lock button, usually for 3 seconds.

Fridge freezer display screen showing the “Water/Lock” option activated.

The freezer has an air hole to enable proper air circulation. If the freezer is overfilled or the air hole becomes blocked, the temperature inside the freezer will rise, causing the temperature reading on the ice maker sensor to increase, which can prevent the ice from dispensing.

To avoid this, customers should ensure that the air hole remains unblocked (UM content: an 80% load on each shelf) by re-arranging the food or removing the vegetable drawers:

1 Remove surrounding multipurpose drawers if necessary
Diagram showing how to remove multipurpose drawers.
2 If your fridge freezer has a cover (A) for the vegetable drawer, remove the cover. Slide out the cover while holding down the clips on either side of the cover, and gently pull out the vegetable drawer
Diagram showing how to remove the vegetable drawer cover.

Please note: It is recommended that your freezer temperature is set below -18℃.

The ice maker will not function properly if the fridge freezer door is not properly closed. Additionally, check that the fridge freezer is level by adjusting the door level or foot. An uneven fridge freezer can cause the door to misalign, preventing it from sealing properly.

Diagram showing how to re-align the fridge freezer door.

Ensure that the water connector is properly attached and aligned. The arrow on the connector should point in the same direction as the water flow, which is towards the fridge freezer. Additionally, inspect the water hose for any blockages, kinks or damage, which could restrict water flow.

Diagram of water hose, filter and valve’s connections to fridge freezer.

Check that the water valve is turned on and that the water pressure is sufficient. Low water pressure can prevent the ice maker from working correctly. To check the water pressure:

1 Remove the ice bucket
2 Press the button (A) on the bottom of the ice maker. Normally, the ice tray fills with water in a few minutes
Diagram showing how to check the water pressure.

If your fridge freezer uses a water tank to supply both drinking water and the ice maker, ensure that the tank is full. An empty tank will prevent the ice maker from producing ice.

A clogged or old water filter can block the water flow to the ice maker. It is recommended to replace the water filter every six months. If the filter hasn’t been changed in a while, it may need to be replaced to restore normal ice maker function.

Samsung refrigerators are equipped with a filter warning system that notifies you when it's time to replace the filter. When a new filter is required, the filter indicator will turn red, and an alarm will sound.

Graphic of Water Filter warning display.

If the ice maker hasn’t been used for a while, ice cubes can form and block the mechanism.

1 Remove the ice container and clear any ice buildup. If ice has stuck together or clogged the dispenser, carefully break it apart. You may also need to thaw the ice maker or ice bin if ice has formed inside the system
Diagram showing how to remove the ice container.
2 When done, turn the gear handle on the rear of the bucket by 90°, and then put the bucket back into position until you hear a clicking sound
Diagram showing how to turn the gear handle.

If there are no apparent blockages or issues, try resetting the ice maker. Refer to your user manual for specific instructions on how to reset your ice maker.

Once reset, give the system up to 24 hours to start producing ice again.

To prevent ice buildup or blockages, it’s a good idea to dispense ice regularly, even if you don’t need it. This helps keep the ice maker clear and functioning properly, preventing clogs or frozen parts.

We hope that these tips have helped solve your issues. However, if the problem persists, please contact Samsung Customer Support for further assistance.

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