KitchenAid KTRS20KAAL00 Refrigerator — Common Problems and What Parts Fix Them
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Understanding the Problem
This guide covers the most common problems owners report with KitchenAid KTRS20KAAL00 refrigerators — fridge not cooling, freezer frosting/ice maker failure, water leaks, and unusual noises — and gives step‑by‑step diagnostic and repair actions you can take. Follow the numbered diagnostic steps for each symptom, then perform the repair steps listed. Always unplug the fridge before performing any electrical repairs. 1) Symptom: Refrigerator or Freezer Not Cooling - Diagnostic steps: 1. Confirm temps: check the internal temperatures (fridge should be ~37°F / 3°C, freezer ~0°F / -18°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, place one in each compartment for an hour. 2. Check airflow: remove food blocking air vents between freezer and fridge. Verify evaporator fan runs when doors are closed and compressor is running (you may need to open back access panel to see it). 3. Inspect condenser coils: locate coils (rear or under fridge) and check for heavy dust/ lint; if dirty, cooling performance drops. 4. Listen to compressor and check start relay: if compressor tries to start and clicks or runs hot with very little suction, the start relay or capacitor may be failing. 5. Check evaporator frost pattern: excessive frost on evaporator or a solid frost wrap suggests defrost system failure (heater/thermostat/defrost control or timer). 6. Test thermistor/temperature sensors and control board (use multimeter/resistance specs from service manual). - Repair steps (how to fix): 1. Clean condenser coils and kickplate: unplug fridge, vacuum coils and brush away dust. This often restores performance. 2. Replace evaporator fan motor if it doesn’t run: remove evaporator cover in freezer, inspect motor, replace if dead or noisy. 3. Replace start relay/overload if compressor won’t start: unplug fridge, remove relay from compressor, test with multimeter or swap with known good part and replace if faulty. 4. Repair defrost system: test defrost heater and thermostat for continuity; replace failed heater assembly, thermostat/thermistor, or defrost control/board as needed. After replacing, perform a manual defrost then verify cycle runs correctly. 5. If compressor is seized or has low compression, call a certified technician — compressor replacement and refrigerant recovery require certified service. 2) Symptom: Ice Maker Not Making Ice or Water Dispenser Not Working - Diagnostic steps: 1. Confirm water supply: check that the household water valve to the fridge is fully open and the water line isn’t kinked. 2. Check water filter: a clogged filter will reduce or stop water flow. Note filter replacement schedule (usually every 6 months). 3. Inspect water inlet valve: the solenoid valve behind the fridge opens to let water into the ice maker; check for continuity and for water pressure at the valve. 4. Verify ice maker operation: manually advance the ice maker’s harvest lever or use the test button (if present) to check cycle operation. - Repair steps (how to fix): 1. Replace clogged water filter: install OEM or certified equivalent and flush new filter per instructions. 2. Replace water inlet valve if it doesn’t open or has low flow: shut off water, unplug fridge, remove back panel, test valve solenoids with multimeter and replace if defective. 3. Replace ice maker assembly or module if motor/harvest fails: remove ice bin, disconnect module wiring and water line, unbolt assembly and install replacement. 4. If dispenser paddle is unresponsive, check door switch and actuator and replace if defective. 3) Symptom: Water Leaks (Under Fridge or Inside) - Diagnostic steps: 1. Inspect door gaskets: torn or compressed seals let warm humid air in causing excess frost and water pooling. 2. Check defrost drain: a clogged defrost drain under evaporator causes water to overflow and drip into cabinet — usually located at the back interior bottom. 3. Inspect water line connections and filter housing for drips. - Repair steps (how to fix): 1. Clear clogged drain: unplug fridge, remove drawer and access panel in freezer, pour warm water or use a small brush to clear drain hole. Use a turkey baster to flush warm water down the drain into the drain pan. 2. Replace door gasket if torn or not sealing: remove gasket and install new OEM gasket, ensure proper seating. 3. Tighten or replace leaking water line fittings or replace the water inlet valve if leaking at the valve. 4) Symptom: Excessive Noise (Humming, Clicking, Rattling) - Diagnostic steps: 1. Identify source: determine if the noise is from back (compressor/relay), bottom (condenser fan), or inside (evaporator fan/ice maker). 2. Inspect condenser and evaporator fans for debris and for proper mounting. - Repair steps (how to fix): 1. Clean and secure fan blades; replace condenser or evaporator fan motor if bearings are noisy or motor doesn’t run smoothly. 2. Replace start relay/overload if the compressor is clicking repeatedly. 3. Secure loose panels, tubing, or shelves that may vibrate. Safety note: Always unplug the refrigerator and turn off the water supply before doing electrical or plumbing repairs. Refrigerant and compressor work must be done by a licensed HVAC/refrigeration technician. Use OEM replacement parts and consult the specific service manual for wiring diagrams and resistance specs when testing components.
Common Symptoms
Fridge or freezer not cooling, ice maker or water dispenser not working, water leaks, excessive frost buildup, loud humming or clicking noises.
Common Causes
- Dirty condenser coils reducing heat rejection
- Failed evaporator or condenser fan motor
- Faulty start relay/overload or failed compressor
- Defrost system failure (heater, thermostat, or control)
- Clogged defrost drain or faulty door gasket
- Faulty water inlet valve or clogged water filter (for ice/water issues)
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at ProsourceParts.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
If the compressor is running but the evaporator fan is not, defrost the unit and test the evaporator fan motor — a bad fan is a common, inexpensive fix that restores cooling quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reset the ice maker on a KitchenAid KTRS20KAAL00?
Many KitchenAid ice makers have a test or reset button on the module. Remove the ice bin, locate the ice maker module (usually in the freezer) and press/hold the test button for 5–10 seconds to initiate a harvest cycle. If there’s no button, unplug the refrigerator for 5 minutes to perform a basic reset. If the ice maker still won't cycle, check the water supply, filter, inlet valve and the ice maker motor/assembly and replace any failed components.
When should I call a technician instead of attempting the repair myself?
Call a licensed appliance or refrigeration technician if the compressor is seized or you suspect a refrigerant leak, if you’re uncomfortable working with electrical components, or if a repair requires refrigerant recovery/charging. Tasks involving refrigerant or sealed-system repairs legally require certified technicians. For fan motors, water valves, gaskets, filters and ice maker modules, homeowners with basic mechanical skills and the right tools can often perform the replacement safely.
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Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to ProsourceParts.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.