How much does it cost to repair an ice maker?

Reviewed by Adam Graham remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

Ice makers are convenient appliances that provide instant ice, and they come in many forms, from simple freezer ice makers to freestanding units. They rely on a range of components to operate, and issues arise, causing your ice maker to stop functioning. When this happens, call in a professional to deal with leaks, blockages, or system breakdowns.

The national average cost range to repair an ice maker is $150 to $250. Most homeowners pay around $200 to fix a leaking, freestanding ice maker. The low cost for this project is $75 to replace a valve on a portable ice maker. The cost is $400 to replace the motor on a high-end, built-in ice maker.

Ice Maker Repair Costs

Ice Maker Repair Cost by Type of Machine

The ice maker type is one of the biggest factors affecting the ice maker repair cost. You might have a freestanding ice maker, which is different from built-in ice makers on refrigerators and freezers. Many ice makers have similar problems, such as clogs, leaking valves, or issues with the motor. However, the way that the machines are built impacts the cost of the repair.

A portable ice maker can become clogged, stopping it from making ice. A built-in ice maker may have the same issue. However, the built-in unit is more difficult to access, resulting in higher repair costs. Likewise, freezer-based ice makers are usually more complex than portable units. Therefore, there are more potential issues such as a blockage in the water line or the mold getting blocked. Freestanding units and built-in units have the highest costs because they have larger motors that develop problems in addition to the issues such as clogs or leaking valves that can be common in all types of units. The table below shows common ice maker types, complete with the average repair costs for each.

Cost to Fix an Ice Maker by Type of Repair

The repair type also affects the ice maker repair cost. Various issues arise with ice makers. The motor might get damaged or stop working, or the water line might get clogged or blocked. Depending on the repair, different levels of work and pricing may be required. The table below shows a few common forms of repair and their average costs.

Ice Maker Valve Repair

Fixing an ice maker valve costs between $75 and $125. The water inlet valve occasionally encounters issues, preventing your ice maker from functioning. It might get restricted or clogged, spring a leak, or encounter an electrical failure. A professional technician checks and tests the ice maker to determine the issue with the valve. It may require tightening, patching, or adjusting.

Ice Maker Line Repair

Fixing your ice maker line costs $100 to $200. The line feeds water into the ice maker, and problems happen if it gets clogged, blocked, or damaged. The maker may not make much or any ice, or it could start leaking water in your cabinets and on the kitchen floor, causing damage if left unchecked. Repairmen may need to patch, clean, or adjust the line to fix these common problems.

Ice Maker Motor Repair

Repairing the motor of your ice maker ranges from $100 to $350. This is one of the biggest issues that might affect your ice maker, especially if you have a freestanding or built-in model. The motor might need rewiring or require extensive repairs to get it working again, and your ice maker could overheat, burn out, or die if the motor is not functioning correctly.

Ice Maker Repair Cost by Type of Replacement

It can be impossible or counterintuitive to repair your ice maker in some cases. Instead, damaged or broken parts must be replaced with new ones. This can be a good way to breathe new life into old ice makers and get them working reliably. The costs depend on the replacement parts and how easy they are to replace. The table below shows common costs.

Ice Maker Fill Tube Replacement

Replacing the fill tube in your ice maker costs between $85 and $125. The fill tube transfers water from the supply line to the ice maker’s interior. It can get cracked or damaged, leading to leaks and preventing the ice maker from functioning normally. Fill tubes are fairly simple to replace, but they may be difficult to reach in some ice makers. This can lead to higher costs if other parts need to be removed to reach the broken line.

Ice Maker Drive Blade Replacement

Replacing a drive blade in your ice maker ranges from $85 to $150. The drive blade pushes the ice out of the dispenser. Drive blades are less likely to break than other parts but can corrode or dull over time. When this happens, it causes the ice maker to back up and stop working. Replacing the blade solves this problem. To replace the drive blade, a repairman removes the housing, unscrews the section holding the blade, takes the old blade off, and reassembles everything with the new blade.

Ice Maker Water Valve Replacement

Replacing a water valve for your ice maker costs $85 to $175. The valve is one of the most common sources of leaks in an ice maker. The valve wears out over time, allowing water to escape. The water then freezes in other parts of the ice maker, causing it to jam. Also, it can leave the appliance and cause water damage elsewhere in the home. Replacement valves are cheap and easy, but you might have to pay extra, depending on how difficult it is to access. Reaching the valve is harder with a built-in ice maker than a portable countertop machine.

Ice Maker Solenoid Valve Replacement

Replacing a solenoid valve in your water filter costs between $85 and $250. The solenoid valve is a special water inlet valve with an electrical control system that operates more reliably than a manual valve that works with pressure. However, the solenoid coils can get damaged or wear down, so the valve might need replacing. Common symptoms of this issue are leaks, unresponsiveness, or slow performance.

Ice Maker Filter Replacement

Replacing a water filter for your ice maker costs $85 to $250, depending on the filter type. Some filters are cheap and easy to remove and replace. Others are high-end and offer deeper filtration levels, last longer, output higher volume, and remove a wider range of contaminants, but can be more difficult to remove and replace. Filters come with instructions on changing, and you may notice the ice has a strange smell or taste if you wait too long between changes.

Ice Maker Motor Replacement

Replacing a motor in an ice maker ranges from $200 to $400. This is one of the most expensive ice maker repair jobs. In some cases, the cost of a new ice maker and the cost of replacing a motor can be comparable. If the ice maker is older, you may want to consider investing in a new one. Suppose the unit is newer and built into your home or is a part of a larger appliance like a refrigerator. In this case, it would cost considerably more to replace, so replacing only the motor can be the best solution.

Cost to Fix an Ice Maker by Type of Problem

Many issues arise with ice makers, and you do not always know what needs repairing or replacing. You might notice a strange smell coming from the ice maker, or your ice maker is slow. The repair costs vary depending on the cause and how much work is required to fix it. The table below covers common ice maker issues, complete with average costs to repair each.

Ice Maker Flooding the Freezer

Fixing an ice maker that is flooding the freezer costs $75 to $175. Several things may cause this, and each requires a professional and experienced repairman. It could be an issue with the solenoid valve or circuit board. You might need a new valve, but in many cases, repairmen recommend getting a new ice maker when these issues arise.

Noisy Ice Maker

Repairing a noisy ice maker costs between $75 and $200. There are a few possible causes when the ice maker starts making loud noises. It might be an issue with the fan motor, drain pump, or compressor. These parts most likely need replacing if they are broken or damaged. Issues with the water supply and valve can cause excessive noise, so you need a professional to diagnose the issue.

Ice Maker Leaking

Fixing a leaky ice maker averages $75 to $250. The repair depends on the leak’s location and nature. In some cases, it might be the valve leaking or a leak coming from the line, which could need patching or replacing. You might also have a leak coming from the front or back of the unit because of issues with components like the fill tube or defrost drain.

Ice Maker Smells Bad

Fixing an ice maker that smells bad ranges from $75 to $250. Usually, your ice maker needs cleaning if it emits an unpleasant odor. There may be corrosion or grime, or the smell of your food might be interfering with a refrigerator/freezer ice maker. You can hire a professional to clean your system. Algae or chemicals could also be building in the line, or the filter might need replacing.

Mold in Ice Maker

Fixing an ice maker with mold inside costs around $75 to $250. This is usually a simple fix because the machine usually just needs to be cleaned. A new filter may also be needed because the old one might have worn out or clogged. A good quality filter reduces the risk of future mold.

Ice Maker Does Not Eject Ice

Fixing an ice maker that does not eject ice costs $75 to $350. Several things might cause this. It could be an ice clump in the bin, causing a blockage preventing fresh ice from falling. The raker or drive blade might also need replacing, the motor might have a problem, or there could be a deeper issue, and the maker might not be making ice from issues with the valve, line, or other components.

Water Pressure too High for the Ice Maker

Fixing water pressure that is too high ranges from $85 to $175. The pressure needs to be between 40 and 120 pounds per square inch (PSI) for the ice maker to function. If it is too high, additional filters or pressure regulating valves may need to be installed to lower the pressure and improve the ice maker’s performance.

Ice Maker Not Producing Enough Ice

Fixing an ice maker that is not producing enough ice costs between $85 and $200. Several reasons explain why the ice maker’s output might not be sufficient. It could be an issue with the drive blade or a kink in the line. It might be a more costly repair if you have issues with the valve or if your ice maker is difficult to access.

Ice Maker Water Line Frozen

Fixing a frozen water line for your ice maker costs $85 to $200. There are several causes, and it is common in ice makers built-in with fridges and freezers. The unit needs to be disconnected from electricity to fix it, and the frozen tube is thawed. Valve and line repairs may also be required, which can increase the cost.

Ice Maker Clogged

Fixing a clogged ice maker ranges from $85 to $200. This is a common problem in many ice maker types, including freezer units and portable ice makers. Often, the clog is an ice clump preventing ice cubes from flowing out of the dispenser unit. The maker has to be disassembled to break up the clog and free the passage. The machine might also need cleaning.

Ice Maker Not Producing Ice

Fixing an ice maker not producing ice costs $100 to $350, and there are several possible causes. It might be caused by something relatively minor, such as a faulty valve that needs replacing or a broken switch on the ice maker, or it could be a more serious issue like a blockage in the line or a problem with the motor, which might need to be replaced.

Cost to Repair an Ice Maker by Brand

Another factor that may affect the price of repairs for your ice maker is the brand. Some brands produce high-end ice makers with more expensive parts, increasing costs. Other brands offer cheaper and simpler models that might break down more often but cost less to fix. Some issues that may impact the cost of your repair may be exclusive brands, such as Kenmore, which requires you to use technicians from Sears. Other factors can arise with companies that make many different models or types of ice makers. For example, KitchenAid and Maytag make units that can be built-in or come in a freezer. A built-in repair will cost more than a freezer or a portable unit because built-in ice makers are more difficult to access. Some companies like Samsung and Sub-Zero may also have more expensive parts, increasing the cost of the repair. The table below shows popular ice maker brands and the average repair costs for each.

Labor Cost to Repair an Ice Maker

Appliance repair agencies assist customers who need to fix or repair an ice maker, and you can also call a plumber or handyman experienced with ice makers. Professional repair is preferred to DIY repair for several reasons. First, ice makers have complex mechanisms that are challenging to take apart and fix. And, certain precautions must be taken when working on an ice maker, including turning off the water and electricity.

Hourly rates are between $75 and $125 for most technicians. Other companies use a flat rate model of pricing for ice maker repairs and charge around $150 to $250 for each repair. They may also charge a call-out fee of $50 to $100, which may be waived if you hire them to carry out the repairs. You may have to pay extra if you live in an isolated location and the repairman has to drive far.

Ice Maker Troubleshooting

Before calling in a professional, there are several things you should do first to make sure that the ice maker is broken. First, make sure that the ice maker is turned on and that the thermostat is set to the correct temperature. Too high or too low could cause issues.

Next, examine the ice mold. Sometimes ice can become clogged in the mold, which stops the unit from working. If you notice ice in areas that it is not supposed to be, this indicates a leak. Water freezes up as it leaks from a valve or line. If there is a serious buildup of ice, you can try defrosting the unit and drying it to see if this solves the issue or allows you to see the water source.

Make sure that the unit is completely level. Sometimes a unit that is off level ceases to function because the bar that indicates the need to make ice will not move properly. You can also check to make sure this bar is moving freely and has not frozen in place.

Finally, check the lines and valves for clogs. If water cannot get through, then ice cannot be made. A clog may require cleaning. However, more serious clogs may require the replacement of the clogged part. Do not attempt to take apart the motor or the blades of the ice maker. If you suspect these parts are the issue, contact a professional for help.

Emergency Ice Maker Repair

Typically, unless the unit is causing water to flood into the home, an emergency repair call is not needed. However, an emergency service call should be considered if there is a flooding or leaking issue. Companies normally have a surcharge of 10-20% more for emergency service calls. Expect to pay an average of $150 per hour for emergency ice maker repairs.

Additional surcharges may also be applicable if the customer lives outside the company’s designated service area. Usually, technicians work within 50 miles of their location. Residences outside that area may be charged 10% more per hour on top of the normal rate.

Ice Machine Maintenance

Performing basic maintenance extends your ice maker’s lifespan and reduces the need for repairs. Turn the unit’s power off if you tend not to use the ice maker often to extend its lifespan. Luxury refrigerator models may have a control panel with a push button halting ice production, which can also be used. Keep the ice maker clean, inside and out. Periodically cleaning and drying the various components prevents mold and debris from clogging the unit. Water quality impacts how well an ice maker runs. The water fed into your ice maker might contain various contaminants, including chlorine and heavy metals, which could impact the ice’s quality. Many experts recommend installing a filter and changing it regularly. Monitor your freezer’s temperature if you have a freezer ice maker because temperature affects how well the unit works. If the freezer is not cold enough, the ice maker does not function properly. For optimal performance and food safety purposes, freezers should be kept at 0º Fahrenheit.

You can also call a professional for maintenance. Professional ice maker repair and maintenance companies perform general checkups, ensure everything is working smoothly, deal with issues before they mature, and clean the machine. Expect to pay between $75 and $125 for a general maintenance checkup.

Cost to Replace an Ice Maker

In some cases, it might be better to replace your ice maker altogether if it is broken and the repair costs are high. The costs of replacing an ice maker varies, depending on the type and brand. Expect to pay from $100 to $2,500 for a replacement ice maker. Weigh the repair and replacement costs and decide what is right for you. The table below shows ice maker types and replacement costs for each.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Permits. Most municipalities do not require a permit to repair or install a new ice maker. Plumbing permits are only needed in the rare case new piping is required.
• Professional organizations. When selecting an appliance repair agency, look for professional certifications through organizations like the International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians and the Institute of Appliance Service Technicians. These professional organizations confirm the repair technicians have met the training requirements to work on refrigeration parts, including an ice maker.
• DIY. Although most ice maker repairs require a professional, minor issues like food spills affecting quality can be handled at home. Cleaning a spill costs around $5 to cover the price of cleaning supplies. Changing the filter may also be another DIY repair and costs $20 to $40, depending on the model.
• Refrigerator warranty. Check the warranty before making repairs on an ice maker. Many refrigerator manufacturers include ice maker repair costs under a standard one-year limited warranty. Extended warranty plans may also cover ice maker replacements and repairs. Contact the warranty company before service calls because unauthorized repairs may void coverage.
• Off-brand parts. Ask for quotes with off-brand parts to reduce the cost of ice maker repairs. Generic replacement parts may cost as much as 50% less than branded versions. Factory refurbished parts may be another option to lower repair costs. However, warranty coverage may be voided if these parts are installed on the ice maker.
• Wait 24 hours after repairs. An ice maker is not likely to work properly immediately after the repair. You may need to wait up to 24 hours for full operation to return. Another service call is required if the ice maker is not working after 24 hours.
• Warranty for ice maker repairs. Check with the technician about the warranty for repairs made to the ice maker. For example, many appliance repair technicians guarantee their work up to 90 days after the service call.