How to replace circulation pump W11542867 on a Whirlpool / KitchenAid ice machine

A Whirlpool or KitchenAid freestanding or under-the-counter ice machine has a circulation pump that circulates the water so the machine can produce ice. Over time, regular use can cause the circulation pump to become damaged.

You might need to change out the circulation pump if there’s reduced ice production, unusual noises coming from the ice machine or water leaks around the pump area. The machine may also not fill with water. Fortunately, you can replace the circulation pump with a few basic tools and a little bit of time.

You can find a replacement circulation pump here. If you need other replacement parts for your Whirlpool/KitchenAid freestanding ice machine, just enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to find them. It’s that easy! Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Disclaimer: The part replacement information provided in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

What you need

• Replacement circulation pump (make sure it’s compatible with your specific ice machine model before installing)
• 1/4-inch socket or nut driver
• Putty knife
• Needle-nose pliers
• Zip ties

Disclaimer: The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

Read more: Cleaning & maintenance tips for under-the-counter ice machines

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.

Read more:  5 Common Mistakes That Shorten The Lifespan Of Appliances

How to replace the circulation pump

Follow these steps to change out a faulty circulation pump on a Whirlpool or KitchenAid ice machine.

1. Unplug the ice machine from the power outlet.
2. Shut off the water supply to the machine.
3. You should see several wire connectors going up into the control panel. Disconnect the wire connectors for the ice bin thermistor and cutting grid by gently pulling them apart.
4. Use a 1/4-inch socket or nut driver to remove the screws that hold the access cover to the control panel. If the cover is difficult to remove, you can use a putty knife to help pry it free.
5. Remove the two 1/4-inch socket mounting screws that secure the grid to the bracket and liner.
6. Slide out the grid from its position.
7. Find the drain cap, which is used to drain any water that may be in the reservoir tray.
8. Remove the drain cap to release any water.
9. Detach the reservoir fill tube, which is connected to the circulation pump cover.
10. Pull the circulation pump cover forward to remove it.
11. Remove the screw that secures the reservoir assembly, then remove the assembly.
12. Find the distribution tube, which is connected to the circulation pump. Depress the tab on the distribution tube to disconnect it from the circulation pump.
13. Find the wire connector for the circulation pump and depress the tab to disconnect it.
14. Use needle-nose pliers or a similar tool to cut the zip ties that secure the circulation pump mounting tray to the reservoir distribution tray.
15. Depress the tabs on the mounting tray to release it from the reservoir distribution tray.
16. Disconnect the wire connector for the reservoir drain pump with needle-nose pliers to detach it from the tray.
17. Remove the old circulation pump from the mounting tray.
18. Snap the new circulation pump into the mounting tray.
19. Snap the drain pump wire connector in the tray and reconnect the wire connector.
20. Reposition the tray on the reservoir distribution tray and snap it in place.
21. Use a new zip tie to secure the circulation pump mounting tray to the reservoir distribution tray.
22. Reconnect the circulation pump wire connector by aligning the tab and connector and pushing them together.
23. Attach the distribution tube to the circulation pump by aligning them and pushing them together.
24. Position the reservoir assembly and replace the mounting screw.
25. Position the circulation pump cover and secure it in place.
26. Make sure that the right-side spacer is intact before reinstalling the cutting grid.
27. Align the cutting grid on the bracket and liner, then thread the mounting screws to secure it.
28. Reinstall the access cover by aligning the bottom edge first so the ice scoop housing rests on top of the cover.
29. Secure the access cover in place with the screws.
30. Reconnect the cutting grid wire connector and the thermistor wire connector.
31. Plug the ice machine power cord back in and restore the water supply to the ice machine.
32. Monitor the ice machine as it runs to check for any problems.

Read more: Why is my Whirlpool ice machine not making enough ice?

Additional information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the circulation pump on your ice machine.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

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