LG Refrigerator Ice Maker Problems

The most common LG refrigerator ice maker problems are caused by a lack of water or an ice blockage. Depending on the model, you may be able to run a diagnostic test or use the error code to determine the problem. Many problems can be solved by using a hairdryer on low heat to thaw out ice blockages.

There are also some simple solutions, such as adjusting the temperature or changing the water filter. For a quick fix, the ice maker can be reset. If you have recently installed the refrigerator, wires may need to be connected or the water system flushed out.

This guide applies to the following models:

LFX21976ST

LFX25950SB

LFX25950SW

LFX25950TT

LFX25976ST

LFX25991ST

LFX28978SB

LFX28978SW

LFX28979ST

LFX31925ST

LFX31935ST

LFX31945ST

LMX25984SW

LMX25986ST

LMX28988SB

LMX28988ST

LMX28988SW

LRDC22743ST

LRDC22744ST

LRSC26980SB

LSFS213ST

Error Codes

Most LG refrigerators will display an error code if there is a  problem with the ice maker. Error codes are usually displayed as either a letter and/or a number. Error codes can be checked online or in the refrigerator’s manual. The most common ice maker error codes are Er IS or I5, which indicates a problem with the ice maker sensor, or Er IF, F1, and IS, which indicates a problem with the ice maker fan.

Verify the Ice Maker Is On

If the ice maker is not working, it could be because the ice maker has been turned off. With most LG ice makers, the on/off switch is located on the top front of the ice maker panel inside the refrigerator. On other LG ice makers, the on/off switch can be found on the digital display panel.

Check the Temperature

LG recommends that the refrigerator temperature be set to 37 degrees Fahrenheit and the freezer be set to zero degrees Fahrenheit. The minimum recommended freezer temperature is -4 degrees Fahrenheit, which can produce ice at a faster rate but is not likely to make that much difference compared to if the freezer temperature was set to zero.

LG also advises that the ice maker compartment temperature should be less than 19 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a thermometer to measure the temperature of the ice maker compartment. Lowering or increasing the refrigerator or freezer temperature should adjust the ice maker compartment temperature.

Reset the Ice Maker

Sometimes, an issue with the ice maker can be solved by performing a reset. Of course, if a defective part is causing the issue, the part will still need to be repaired or replaced. Often the ice maker will have a reset button or a way to reset it through the digital display panel. Other models may have a “test” button or a place to insert a pin to reset the ice maker. Turning the power to the refrigerator off for five minutes can also reset the ice maker. Check the refrigerator’s manual for ice maker reset instructions.

New Installations

If the refrigerator has been recently installed, be aware that it can take the ice maker 24 hours to begin to make ice.

When installing the refrigerator, were the refrigerator doors removed? Depending on the model, removing the refrigerator doors may have disconnected wires that tell the ice maker that the door is closed. If those wires have not been reconnected, the ice maker may not be working because it thinks the door is not closed.

Is the Ice Maker Getting Water?

The ice maker requires water to make ice. Check that water is getting to the ice maker by pouring a glass of water from the refrigerator. If the ice maker is not making any ice or is making small chunks of ice, check that the water line is connected and turned on. These symptoms also indicate that there may be an ice blockage that is restricting the water supply to the ice maker.

Defrost the Ice Maker

Ice maker problems are often caused by an ice blockage inside the dispenser chute, ice bucket, or around the ice maker housing. The water supply line can also freeze and not allow water to reach the ice maker.

Depending on where the ice blockage or freeze has occurred, you may be able to use a dishcloth with hot water, a hairdryer, the defrost function, or a defrost tool to fix the issue. To defrost the ice maker with a hairdryer, use a low heat to spread hot air over the affected area. Be careful not to melt plastic components of the ice maker. A frozen water line tool can also be purchased to clear a frozen water line. Removing the ice maker from the refrigerator and allowing it to defrost may also solve the issue.

Check the Water Pressure

LG ice makers require between 20 and 120 psi for the ice maker to work correctly. The water supply line can be removed from the back of the refrigerator and the pressure checked. A water pressure gauge can be purchased from most hardware shops and then attached to the water line to check the water pressure. Water lines should also be checked to make sure they are not kinked, which would restrict the water supply to the ice maker.

Check the Water Filter

Some LG refrigerators have a sensor or timer that will stop the ice maker from working if the water filter needs to be changed. This is a safety feature to ensure the ice and water are safe to consume. The water filter should be replaced every six months to ensure that the ice maker continues to function.

After replacing the water filter, the system needs to be flushed out to remove trapped air and residue. The system also needs to be flushed out after the refrigerator is installed to the water supply line for the first time. LG recommends pouring out 2.5 gallons of water before drinking the water or making ice. Make sure replacement filters are LG filters to avoid problems.