Dont know if you could see my comment posted after you awarded the Fixya, but I am reposting it here:
OK, in that case, it could be that the ice chute door is frozen or the chute door solenoid is rusty. Look for little rust stains or drip stains on the recess on the freezer door where you put your glass to get ice and water.
It could also be that the micro switch controlling the dispenser is stuck in the 'closed' or on position. If you are familar with fridge repairs, read on, or else, best call the repairman..
First get yourself an ohm meter or multimeter for testing purposes. Remove the hinge cap on the freezer door and disconnect the harness if you haven't already done that. Remove the drip tray from the dispenser area and you should see a couple of screws holding the frame on the freezer door. Carefully remove the frame from the door face because there is a ribbon connector attached to it. You can either disconnect the ribbon or have someone hold it out of the way for you. You should now have a fair view of the dispenser paddles. One controls the water and the other the ice dispenser. The micro switch for the ice dispenser has a brown and slate coloured wire connected to it. Remove at least one of these wires and test the switch with an ohm meter - you should have an open circuit when the paddle is not being pressed, if not then the switch is stuck. You could also visually inspect the switch to see if the button will push in and out. If the switch is ok than you could have a bad relay board, but I would check the switch out first.
Hope this helps
Comments:
Nov 15, 2008
- If the motor is running, then I would think the fault would be a faulty chute door. But that does not mean that the micro-processor or the gears running the auger are faulty.
In any case, I think this is a job for the repairman. (This is the max I can do from long distance:)
Nov 15, 2008
- Well, you can try the "repair service" box at the right to find a repairman near you. (Just put in your Zip code in the box to get a list). Best would be to call around for prices. (maybe even suggest that you were referred by Fixya, and they just might offer a discount ;) The cost of the part itself may not be that much, but repair costs can vary.
Compare the cost of repair (with parts) to a new unit, and if your unit is quite old, then the better option would be to buy a new fridge. However, if your fridge is relatively new and has never had any other problem so far, then its better to get it repaired..
Clarification Request
Posted by miminew on Nov 15, 2008
I think you are right. Prior to posting I did a lot of research and did everything I could find to do. Now I need to decide whether to buy a new ice maker or use a repairman. Any thoughts? Again, thank you so much.
Posted by miminew on Nov 15, 2008
Thank you so much, but I am not prepared at this stage (I don't have a meter) to take the door apart. The motor is running--or at least I have a sound that seems like a motor. But now I don't think the auger is turning. So does that mean that it is dead? Thank you so much for your assistance.
