Refrigerator ice is dirty: Common Causes & How to Fix

Repair Instructions:

The water tubes in an ice maker stay clean because water normally flows through them when being used. If the water gets turned off or sits in the tubes without being used for 6 to 12 months, it can change color. If the water at the other faucets in your home is fine and you have put in a new water filter, you might need to replace the water tubing that goes to the ice maker to fix the issue.

How to Replace Refrigerator Water Supply Tube

1. Disconnect power by unplugging the refrigerator from the wall outlet.

2. Locate the fridge water supply tube between the refrigerator and water supply line.

3. Using wrenches, disconnect the tube fittings from the water valve and supply line.

4. Remove retaining clips or ties securing the tube along its run inside the fridge.

5. Withdraw the existing tube by pulling it completely out of the refrigerator.

6. Clean the fitting connections where the new tube will attach using a rag.

7. Insert one end of the replacement tube into the water valve fitting and tighten.

8. Connect the other end to the water supply line and secure tightly with a wrench.

9. Secure the tube run inside the fridge using fresh clips/ties along its path.

10. Reconnect power and check for leaks with water line pressure applied.

Repair Instructions:

The ice maker tray may have a protective coating that can wear off over time. If you notice pieces or chunks in your ice, take a look at the tray. If the coating on the tray is corroded and peeling away, it could be getting into your ice. When this happens, bits of the coating end up in the ice cubes. To fix this issue, you will need to replace the entire ice maker.

How to Replace Refrigerator Ice Maker Assembly

1. Prepare the Refrigerator:

   • Unplug the refrigerator and locate the water shut-off valve to ensure a safe working environment during the replacement process.
   • Empty the contents of the freezer and remove any items obstructing access to the ice maker assembly.

2. Locate the Ice Maker Assembly:

   • Consult the user manual or search online to pinpoint the exact location of the ice maker assembly in your specific refrigerator model.
   • Typically, it is found within the freezer compartment, attached to the freezer wall or ceiling.

3. Turn off the Water Supply:

   • Shut off the water supply to the refrigerator to prevent any leaks or spills during the replacement process.

4. Remove the Old Ice Maker Assembly:

   • Use a screwdriver to detach any screws or fastenings securing the old ice maker assembly in place.
   • Disconnect any wiring harnesses and the water supply line, carefully noting their positions for the installation of the new assembly.

5. Install the New Ice Maker Assembly:

   • Connect the wiring harnesses and the water supply line to the corresponding terminals on the new ice maker assembly.
   • Secure the new assembly in place by fastening the appropriate screws or attachments.

6. Turn on the Water Supply and Test:

   • Turn the water supply back on and monitor the connections for any signs of leaks.
   • Run a test cycle to ensure that the new ice maker assembly is functioning correctly and producing ice.

7. Clean Up:

   • Dispose of any packaging from the new ice maker assembly and return the freezer's contents to their original positions.
   • Wipe down the area to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated during the replacement process.

8. Regular Maintenance:

   • Maintain regular cleaning of the ice maker assembly and check for any issues that may affect its performance over time.

Always refer to the specific user manual for your refrigerator model and consider seeking professional assistance if you encounter difficulties during the replacement process.

Repair Instructions:

The ice maker uses the same water that comes into your house through the main line. Sometimes the water can get dirty from things like a fire hydrant being flushed or a water main breaking. When this happens, the dirty water can get into your ice cubes. To fix it, run the water from your faucets for a while to clear out the lines. Also throw away any ice made during the time the water was dirty. Once the water runs clear at your faucets, the ice maker will start making clean ice again.

How to Replace Refrigerator Water Filter

1. Identify the Water Filter Location:

   • Refer to the user manual or search online to locate the water filter in your specific refrigerator model.
   • Typically, it is situated in the grille at the base of the refrigerator or in the back upper-right corner inside the refrigerator compartment.

2. Turn Off the Water Supply:

   • Shut off the water supply to the refrigerator to prevent any leaks or spills during the replacement process.

3. Remove the Old Water Filter:

   • Depending on the model, twist counterclockwise or push the release button to disengage the old water filter.
   • Pull the old filter straight out and set it aside for proper disposal.

4. Prepare the New Water Filter:

   • Remove any packaging or protective caps from the new water filter.
   • Check for any seals or plugs that may need to be removed before installation.

5. Install the New Water Filter:

   • Align the new filter with the slot, making sure it is facing the correct direction according to the arrows or indicators on the filter and the housing.
   • Push the filter firmly into place and turn it clockwise to lock it into position.

6. Flush the Water System (if required):

   • Run water through the dispenser for a few minutes to flush out any air or carbon particles from the new filter.

7. Reset the Filter Indicator (if necessary):

   • If your refrigerator has a filter indicator light, press and hold the reset button for a few seconds to reset it after installing the new filter.

8. Check for Leaks:

   • Monitor the area around the new filter for any signs of leakage or drips.

9. Regular Maintenance:

   • Establish a regular schedule for replacing the water filter, typically every six months, or as recommended by the manufacturer.

Always follow the specific guidelines outlined in your refrigerator's user manual for the appropriate filter replacement process and consider seeking professional assistance if you encounter difficulties.

Repair Instructions:

Dirty ice could mean old residue from your water filter is getting into the ice maker. Water filters need to be replaced every 6 months to properly filter the water. If you have an old filter, bits of residue can break off and contaminate the water going to the ice maker. This results in dirty looking ice cubes. To fix this, put in a new water filter and discard any ice made with the old filter.

How to Replace Misaligned Water Filter

1. Turn Off the Water Supply:

   • Locate the water supply valve connected to the refrigerator and shut it off to prevent any leaks or spills during the replacement process.

2. Identify the Water Filter:

   • Refer to the user manual or search online for the exact location of the water filter in your specific refrigerator model.
   • Typically, it is positioned either in the grille at the base of the refrigerator or inside the refrigerator compartment.

3. Remove the Misaligned Water Filter:

   • Gently twist or turn the water filter counterclockwise to detach it from the housing.
   • Pull the misaligned filter out carefully, taking note of its position for proper realignment.

4. Clean the Filter Housing:

   • Inspect the filter housing for any debris or obstructions that might have caused the misalignment.
   • Wipe down the housing with a clean, damp cloth to remove any dirt or residue.

5. Align the New Water Filter:

   • Match the arrows or other indicators on the new water filter with those on the housing.
   • Slide the new filter into the housing and twist it clockwise until it locks securely in place.

6. Turn On the Water Supply and Test:

   • Turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks around the newly installed water filter.
   • Run water through the dispenser or into a container to ensure proper water flow and quality.

7. Check for Proper Alignment:

   • Verify that the new water filter is correctly aligned and seated firmly in the housing without any gaps or misalignments.

8. Regular Maintenance:

   • Schedule regular checks to ensure the water filter remains aligned and continues to effectively filter the water for your refrigerator.