Refrigerator ice makers: Types, features & comparison

Ice spheres (also called round or ball ice) are large, round ice shapes typically used in specialty beverages and artisan cocktails because they keep drinks chilled longer and melt slowly to minimize dilution. They’re crafted using special silicone molds, automated refrigerator ice makers (like some Samsung models with Sphere Ice™) or dedicated countertop ice sphere makers.

A typical refrigerator ice maker works by automatically filling a mold with water, freezing it and dispensing the ice cubes into a storage bin. The cycle looks like this:

1. Water Inlet Valve opens: Supplies a measured amount of water into the ice mold.

2. Freezing: The freezer cools the mold to around 16°F (-9°C) until the water is solid.

3. Heating Coil or Flex Mold: A small heater or flexible tray loosens the cubes.

4. Ejector Arm: Dispenses the ice cubes into the storage bin.

5. Shut-off Arm: Detects when the bin is full and stops ice production until space is available.

This automated process continues in cycles until the ice bin is full.

The time it takes for a fridge ice maker to start producing ice may vary by refrigerator model and installation conditions. For Samsung refrigerators, the ice dispenser will typically begin producing ice within 6 to 12 hours of installation. After a new Samsung fridge installation, we also recommend discarding the first three batches of cubes (about 30 cubes) to ensure the water lines are flushed and the ice you use is made from clean water.

Ice making
After you install your refrigerator and plug it in, follow these instructions to ensure proper ice making and to keep the ice bucket full of ice.

For first-time use:
• Let the ice maker make ice for 1-2 days.
• Discard the first 1-2 buckets of ice to remove impurities in the water supply system.

Yes, most refrigerators with ice makers benefit from a water filter, which removes contaminants that can affect taste, slow production or clog internal components.

For Samsung refrigerators specifically, ensuring your fridge dispenses clean, fresh water and ice involves using a clean water filter. We recommend replacing the filter every six months for optimal performance. Many Samsung refrigerators include a built-in water filter light that serves as a convenient reminder and should be reset each time you install a new filter. For guaranteed quality and compatibility, it’s best to use only Samsung Genuine Water Filters.

Regular refrigerator ice maker cleaning helps keep your refrigerator ice maker working properly and ensures the ice tastes fresh. The exact steps may vary by refrigerator model, but generally you’ll want to:

1. Turn off the ice maker or unplug the refrigerator before cleaning.

2. Wipe the ice dispenser: Use a damp cloth to clean the ice and water dispenser, then dry with a soft cloth to prevent streaks or residue.

3. Remove the ice container: Depending on your model, gently lift the bin or use its handle to pull it out.

4. Clear clumped ice: If ice cubes are stuck together, discard them into the sink. Replace the empty container so the ice maker can create a fresh batch.

5. Clean and dry the bin: Wash the bin with warm water and mild soap. Dry thoroughly before reinserting.

6. Check drainage and seals: Keep the drainage grid dry and ensure no water is left behind to avoid mold or clogs.

Tip: If you know you won’t use the ice maker for a long period of time, it’s best to turn the ice maker off to prevent ice buildup.

With proper care and regular filter changes, most refrigerator ice makers can work for up to 10 years or more. Lifespan can vary and depends on factors like water quality, usage and maintenance. Signs it may be time for ice maker replacement include slow or low ice production, odd tastes or odors, leaks or frequent repairs. If you are experiencing fridge ice maker issues and troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the problem, you can request Samsung refrigerator ice maker service for professional diagnosis and repair.

Ice maker performance can be affected by a variety of issues, and the exact causes may vary by refrigerator model. Common ice maker issues include:

• No ice or not enough ice: Often caused by the ice maker not being turned on, the freezer not being cold enough, or water supply issues such as low pressure, clogged lines or a faulty inlet valve.

• Small, cloudy, dirty or clumped ice: This can be linked to a dirty or expired water filter, low water pressure or high mineral deposits. Ice clumping may also occur if cubes stick together in the bin after long storage or fluctuating freezer temperatures.

• Frozen or stuck ice bucket: When cubes freeze together or block the dispenser, the ice bucket may need to be removed and cleared before reinstalling.

• Ice tastes or smells bad: Often due to stale ice, unclean bins or not replacing the filter every six months.

• Crushed ice not dispensing correctly: Sometimes cubed ice dispenses when you select crushed ice or vice versa. This may indicate a dispenser mechanism issue.

• Ice maker producing too much ice: If the ice bucket overflows, it usually means the shut-off arm or sensor is malfunctioning and not signaling the unit to stop production.

• Mechanical issues: Such as a faulty shut-off arm, motor or heating element inside the ice maker module.

A variety of factors can contribute to a non‑working ice maker, and the specific cause often may vary by refrigerator model. Below are key reasons why your refrigerator ice maker is not working:

• Startup delay: After installation or reset, it may take 6-12 hours before ice production begins.

• Incorrect temperature: Freezer should be set to 0°F or lower; warmer settings can prevent ice from forming.

• Water supply issues: Low water pressure, a blocked line or a faulty inlet valve can stop ice production. Old or clogged filters can also restrict flow — replace them every 6 months.

• Ice maker turned off: Check that the ice maker is switched on and not in “Ice Off” or Child Lock mode.

• Obstructions: Ice can clump together or block the bucket and dispenser, preventing new cubes from being made.

• Mechanical faults: In some cases, faulty sensors, ejector arms or motors may require service.

If basic refrigerator ice maker troubleshooting doesn't fix your issue, Samsung recommends running a test cycle on the ice maker or scheduling service for further assistance.

If your refrigerator ice tastes or smells bad, it’s usually caused by a few common ice maker issues. This can happen right after installation, when filters need replacing, or if odors from food or minerals in the water supply affect the ice. Here are common causes of bad tasting ice:

• New installation: The first water and ice batches may taste odd. Dispense 2-3 gallons of water and throw out the first 1-2 batches of ice to flush the system.

• Clogged filter: Old filters allow odors and minerals through. Replace every 6 months and flush with 2-3 gallons of water.

• Stale ice or food odors: Ice absorbs smells from uncovered food or when it sits too long in the bucket. Empty the bin often and store food in sealed containers.

• Dirty parts: Residue in the bin, chute or dispenser can affect taste. Wash with warm, soapy water.

• Water supply: If taste issues remain, minerals in your home’s water supply may be the cause. A plumber may be needed.

Tip: If your fridge isn’t new and ice suddenly tastes bad, start with ice maker troubleshooting, replacing the filter and cleaning the ice bucket.

If your fridge ice maker isn't producing ice and basic troubleshooting hasn't helped, resetting it may resolve the issue. Here's how to do it properly:

• Test using the reset button: Locate the Test/Reset button, usually found behind or on the ice maker module (often requires removing the ice bucket). Press and hold the button for about 3-10 seconds until you hear a chime or the ice maker initiates a cycle. This applies to almost all configurations — top freezer, bottom freezer, side-by-side, fridge compartment or dual ice systems.

• Wait for a cycle to complete: A single blade cycle may take up to 6 minutes, while full ice-making resumes over several hours. Be patient — pressure build-up and ice generation may take time to restart fully.

• Only reset as a last resort: Resetting should be used only after you’ve tested and ruled out common issues like low water pressure, clogged filters, temperature settings or a stopped ice maker.

• Model-specific notes: Some models, like Samsung's Dual Ice Maker or Bespoke Refrigerators, have separate reset functions for cubed ice and Ice Bites™ — be sure to press the correct button.