GS6NBEXRY04 Whirlpool Ice Maker — What Causes Icemaker Problems and How to Fix Them
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Understanding the Problem
This guide covers common ice maker problems on Whirlpool refrigerators (model GS6NBEXRY04 and similar): no ice production, slow fills, small cubes, or ice maker that won’t cycle. The icemaker system is typically made up of the ice maker module/assembly, water inlet valve, water filter, fill tube, and related sensors and switches. Follow these numbered diagnostic and repair steps to identify the faulty component and repair it. 1) Confirm the symptom and basic settings - Remove the ice bin and look for formed cubes or water in the trough. Note whether the maker cycles, if cubes are small, or if there is a frozen fill tube. - Verify the refrigerator is cold enough: freezer should be 0°F to 5°F (-18°C to -15°C). If the freezer is warm, fix temperature problems first. 2) Check simple causes first - Make sure the ice maker is switched ON (some models have a power switch or arm). On models with a test button, use it. - Replace the water filter if it’s overdue — a clogged filter reduces water flow. - Ensure the water supply valve to the fridge is fully open. 3) Watch and listen during a harvest/fill cycle (diagnostic cycle) - Put the ice maker into its diagnostics/test mode or press the test button to force a harvest/fill cycle. Observe whether the motor tries to turn, the ejector moves, or the fill valve opens (you may hear a click or water flow). - If you hear the fill valve click and water flow into the tray, the fill system is OK and problem may be mechanical (heater/harvest, mold thermostat, or module). 4) If the ice maker does not fill with water - Inspect the water line to the fridge for kinks and the inlet valve for leaks. Turn off the water supply and remove the inlet valve to check for debris. - Test the water inlet valve solenoids with a multimeter for continuity. If coils are open or valve does not open under voltage, replace the water inlet valve. - Confirm household water pressure is adequate (usually >20 psi under load). Low pressure = small cubes or no fill. 5) If the ice maker fills but does not harvest (cubes form but are not ejected) - Check the ice maker module (motor/gear) and the ejector blades for broken gears or jammed parts. - Test the mold thermostat or thermistor (if present) which tells the module the ice is ready; a failed thermostat prevents the harvest cycle. Use an ohm meter to check continuity at low temp or follow manufacturer procedures. - Some models use a small heater under the mold to release the cubes; if heater fails, cubes won’t eject. 6) If the fill tube is frozen - A frozen fill tube prevents water flow. Defrost the tube by turning off the ice maker and unplugging the fridge for a few hours or carefully using a hair dryer on low (keep water away from electrical parts). - After defrosting, verify the anti-freeze clip/heater (if present) and make sure freezer temperature isn’t too low or airflow isn’t blowing directly on the tube. 7) If ice tastes bad or is discolored - Replace the water filter and flush water lines by dispensing several gallons of water through the dispenser. Clean the ice bin and discard old cubes. 8) Replace suspect parts when tests confirm failure - Typical replacement order: water filter (cheap and quick), water inlet valve, ice maker assembly/module, harness or thermostat/thermistor, then any heater or bracket parts. 9) Step-by-step replacement of the ice maker assembly (general procedure) - Tools: nut driver, screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, multimeter, bucket/towel. - Shut off water supply and unplug refrigerator. - Remove ice bin and any trim panels to access the ice maker. - Disconnect electrical connector at the ice maker and, if present, the water fill tube (have a towel ready for residual water). - Remove mounting screws and carefully lower the ice maker; swap with new unit, reconnect harness and water tube, and secure with screws. - Restore power and water, run a test cycle and discard the first 2–3 ice harvests. 10) Final tests and verification - Put the ice maker into test/diagnostic and observe fill and harvest cycles. Confirm water flow and proper cube ejection. Safety note: Always unplug the refrigerator and shut off the water supply before working on electrical or water components. Use caution near sharp sheet metal and refrigerant lines. If you’re uncomfortable with electrical tests or removing sealed panels, contact a qualified appliance technician.
Common Symptoms
No ice production, partial fills or slow fills, ice stuck in mold or not ejected, frozen fill tube, small or discolored cubes, or water leaking into the ice bin.
Common Causes
- Clogged/expired water filter or restricted water supply
- Failed water inlet valve (won’t open or low flow)
- Broken ice maker module, motor, or gears (won’t cycle or eject)
- Faulty mold thermostat/thermistor or heater preventing harvest
- Frozen fill tube or blockages in water line
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Helpful Repair Tip
Run the ice maker's diagnostic/test cycle while listening for a click from the water inlet valve. If you hear the click but no water flows, suspect a clogged line or low house water pressure; if you hear nothing, suspect the valve or ice maker module electrical feed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reset the ice maker on my GS6NBEXRY04 Whirlpool refrigerator?
Most Whirlpool ice makers reset by turning the power to the ice maker or refrigerator off for 30 seconds, or by using the ice maker's test/reset button (if equipped). To force a cycle, press and hold the test button for about 5 seconds until the motor runs. If that doesn't fix it, follow the diagnostic steps above to check water supply and inlet valve.
Why is my ice maker producing small or hollow cubes?
Small or hollow cubes are typically caused by low water flow or low fill volume. Causes include an old/blocked water filter, partially closed water supply valve, low home water pressure, or a failing water inlet valve. Replace the filter, confirm the water valve is fully open, and test the inlet valve; replace the valve if it doesn’t open properly under test.
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