How to Fix a Bosch Refrigerator Ice Maker That Isn’t Working

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Fleet Appliance
July 31, 2023
Bosch Repair

The ice maker is one of the best parts of having a high-end refrigerator! Having constant access to unlimited ice is amazing, but it can be incredibly frustrating when something goes wrong. Our guide helps you figure out what’s wrong with your Bosch refrigerator ice maker – with our advice, you’ll soon have it working again!

This guide refers to all major models of Bosch refrigerators, including:

  • B22CS30SNS/01
  • B22CS30SNS/02
  • B22CS50SNS/01
  • B22CS50SNS/02
  • B22CS50SNS/03
  • B22CS50SNS/04
  • B22CS80SNS/01
  • B22CS80SNS/02
  • B22CS80SNS/03
  • B22CS80SNS/04
  • B26FT70SNS/01
  • B26FT70SNS/02
  • B26FT70SNS/04
  • B36ET71SNS/01
  • B36IT70NNP/01
  • KFU5750
  • KFU5755
  • KGU6465BS
  • KGU6651
  • T18BF70FSE
  • T24BR70FSE

Check the Freezer Temperature

This sounds almost too obvious, but make sure your freezer is set to the correct temperature. It won’t be able to make ice if it’s not cold enough. The freezer should be set to between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit. Check the thermostat to make sure the freezer is set correctly, then wait a few hours to see if this fixes the problem with your ice maker.

Check the Water Line

The water line is how your ice maker gets its water supply. If the line is disconnected or has a blockage, the ice maker won’t work. You’ll also notice that water isn’t flowing from the water dispenser. Here’s how to check for a problem with the line:

  • Firstly, make sure the water line is properly connected! It should be joined to the back of the fridge and a water valve, usually located on the wall. 
  • If the line is not connected properly, set it firmly in place, then check to see if the water is flowing again. 
  • If the line appears firmly in place on both ends, but water still isn’t flowing, there could be a blockage.
  • Remove the water line from the wall valve and the refrigerator, then try blowing air through the line. If you can’t blow through the line, there’s a blockage. 
  • The most common blockage in a water line is an ice blockage. You can thaw out the line by leaving it at room temperature for a while or try using a hair dryer on a low setting. 
  • Once the line blockage has thawed, reconnect it to the fridge and the water valve. Water should now be able to flow freely into the ice maker!

Change the Water Filter

In some cases, the water filter on a Bosch refrigerator can get blocked, preventing the ice maker from filling. The filter is responsible for purifying the water before it reaches the ice maker, but over time the filter can get clogged with particles and minerals from the water. This can restrict the flow of water or even stop it completely. 

If the filter is to blame, you’ve probably noticed your ice maker producing smaller and smaller ice cubes before stopping completely. Thankfully, this is an easy fix – you just need to change the old filter. Ideally, your filter should be changed every six months to prevent this issue from occurring. 

To change the filter:

  • Purchase a replacement filter from Bosch.
  • Locate the old filter – the location can vary based on the model, so check your user manual.
  • Remove the filter and put the new one in its place.
  • Flush the system by running a few gallons of water through your fridge’s water dispenser. 

Once the filter is replaced, your ice maker should be working properly again. But if not, move on to the next step!

Check the Ice Maker Assembly

The ice maker assembly itself could be to blame for your ice maker not working. The ice maker assembly consists of several components, including a motor to rotate the ice ejector and a heater to loosen the ice from the molds. If any part of this process fails, your ice maker won’t work. 

If you suspect a problem with the ice maker assembly, the first thing to try is to defrost it, as the motor may be iced up. Try using a blow dryer on a low setting to melt any ice that could be preventing the mechanism from working. 

If this doesn’t work, there could be a deeper issue with the assembly itself. In general, ice maker assemblies are usually replaced as one entire unit rather than piece by piece. You may want to call in a professional, but you can also purchase a replacement ice maker unit online and try replacing it yourself. 

It’s worth noting that if your Bosch refrigerator is nearing the end of its lifespan (about 14-19 years) that it might make more sense to replace the entire fridge. 

Check the Door Switch

The door switch in your refrigerator sends the signal to the fridge that the door is closed. When the door is open, the circuit to the ice maker and water dispenser is interrupted, so the ice maker doesn’t work.

You can test if your fridge door switch is faulty by locating it (usually at the top or side of the fridge compartment) and pressing it. When you press it, the light in the fridge should turn off. If it doesn’t, it’s faulty and will need to be replaced. 

To replace the door switch:

  • First, order a replacement door switch online, ensuring it matches your model Bosch refrigerator.
  • Unplug the fridge.
  • Remove the door switch – you might need to remove some screws or clips. You’ll also need to disconnect the switch from the wire harness. 
  • Put the new switch in place, connect it to the wiring harness, and put back any screws, panels, or clips. 
  • Plug in the fridge, then perform the same test to see if the fridge light goes off when the switch is pressed. 
  • You should now find that your water dispenser and ice maker are working again.
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