Last updated: 2026-10-30 · By Fix It or Replace editorial team
LG Refrigerator Ice Maker Not Working? Test Button, Reset, Filter and Water Fixes — Costs and Repair vs Replace (2026)
Quick answer
LG's own checklist says most "no ice" problems come from settings, temperature, or water supply, not a broken ice maker. Start here:
- Is the ice maker on? Unlock the panel (hold Lock for 3 seconds), then press Ice On/Off, In-Door Ice, Cubed Ice, or Craft Ice. Some models need a 3-second hold. Older models have an ON/OFF switch on the left side of the ice maker.
- Is the freezer cold enough? LG says to lower the freezer temperature 1 to 2 degrees and watch for 24 hours. LG's older guidance gives -4°F as the minimum recommended setting for ice production and says the freezer must hold below 19°F.
- Is water getting there? Open the supply valve fully, check the line for kinks, and replace a water filter that's 6 months or older. After a new filter, LG says to dispense about 2.5 gallons to clear trapped air.
- New fridge? LG says to wait 12 hours to two days for the first ice, and two to three days to fill the bin.
- Run the test: remove the bin, put a towel down, and hold the test button for 3 seconds. LG says if the motor doesn't turn or there's no water or ice in the tray, the fridge most likely needs service.
If none of that works, the usual failed parts are the ice maker assembly, the water inlet valve, a frozen fill tube, or (on in-door ice models) the ice maker fan. LG's IF, IS, and It codes point to the fan, sensor, and motor.
Repair or replace? An ice maker is a part, not a fridge. Repairing usually wins unless the fridge also has cooling or sealed-system problems. See the calculator below.
Our partner pro call line is coming soon. Until then: if your appliance may still be under warranty, contact the manufacturer first. Otherwise, get two or three written quotes from local appliance repair companies, and ask about the diagnostic fee and the parts-and-labor warranty.
Which LG ice maker do you have?
Find the model and serial number on the label inside the fridge compartment, usually on a side wall. Where the ice maker sits changes the likely problem.
| Ice maker location | Common on | How to spot it | Typical trouble spots |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-door ice room (top-left fridge door) | French-door and some side-by-side models with an in-door dispenser | Ice room behind a small inner door in the fridge door | Ice maker fan, ice room seal, frozen fill tube, clumped ice in the chute |
| Freezer ice maker | Bottom-freezer and top-freezer models; second ice maker in some French-door models | Ice maker inside the freezer drawer or compartment | Freezer temperature, water valve, ice maker assembly |
| Craft Ice (round ice) | Many newer French-door models, often with a second ice maker | Craft Ice button on the panel; separate bin in the freezer | Bin position, longer production time |
Two ice makers? LG's troubleshooting chatbot guide says to first identify which ice maker isn't working (in-door or freezer) before you troubleshoot.
Five-minute checks before you call anyone
LG's own steps, in order:
- Turn the ice maker on. Unlock the control panel (hold Lock 3 seconds). Press Ice On/Off, In-Door Ice, Cubed Ice, or Craft Ice; some models need a 3-second hold. On models with an ice maker switch, LG says it's on the left side of the ice maker.
- Lower the freezer temperature. LG says to drop it 1 to 2 degrees and watch ice production for 24 hours. Water takes longer to freeze when the freezer is warm.
- Make sure the doors close completely. Move food that's in the way and wipe residue off the door gasket so cold air can't escape.
- Turn on Express Freeze or Ice Plus, if your model has it, to temporarily boost cold air and ice production.
- Check the water supply. If the fridge has an internal water tank, make sure it has water. If it's on a water line, open the supply valve under the sink or behind the fridge fully, and make sure the hose isn't kinked or compressed.
- Check the water filter's age. LG says to replace it after six months; an old or clogged filter reduces water flow and gives smaller or fewer cubes. LG adds that well water can clog filters faster.
- Purge the air after a new filter. LG says air trapped in the line right after a filter change can interrupt the water supply; dispense about 2.5 gallons (9.5 liters) to clear it.
- Break up clumped ice. Remove the bin and gently shake it to separate the ice. Discard clumps that won't separate, clean and dry the bin, and reinstall it.
- Craft Ice models: install the bin with the handle facing forward, seated in the grooves below the upper drawer, and store nothing but ice in it.
- Test or restart (next section).
Check the dispenser too. If the fridge dispenses water slowly or not at all, LG's chatbot guide says that can indicate a water supply problem rather than an ice maker fault.
LG ice maker test and reset (5 minutes)
Test button (most models):
- Open the ice room or freezer and remove the ice bin.
- Put a towel under the ice maker to catch water or ice. LG says the tray holds only about 4 or 5 ounces of water.
- Find the test button or recessed test switch on the lower-left side or front of the ice maker. LG suggests using your phone camera if you can't see it.
- Press and hold it for about 3 seconds. The ice maker should turn, dump, and refill.
What the test tells you (per LG):
- Did the motor run?
- Was there water or ice in the tray?
If the answer to either is no, and the water supply is good, LG says the refrigerator most likely needs service.
No test button, or the test did nothing: LG says to unplug the refrigerator or turn off its breaker, wait at least 3 minutes, and restore power to restart the system.
LG's older manual reset:
- Remove the bin.
- Grasp the ice maker and shake it up and down a couple of times, firmly but gently.
- Replace the bin and power the fridge off for 30 seconds (breaker or unplug).
- Power it back on.
LG says that if it still isn't producing or harvesting ice after 4 to 6 hours, the unit requires repair service.
LG refrigerator ice codes: IF, IS, It, gF
LG's US error-code guide lists these ice-related codes. LG says to request service for the fault codes.
| Code | LG's meaning | What it points to |
|---|---|---|
| IF | Ice maker fan error: the fan that moves cold air from the freezer to the ice maker is blocked or faulty | Ice maker fan or ice buildup around it |
| IS | Ice maker sensor error: fault in the ice maker temperature sensor; the ice maker may stop dropping ice into the bucket | Ice maker sensor / assembly |
| It | Ice maker motor error | Ice maker motor / assembly |
| gF | Flow sensor error: water flow problem; can be a closed water tap, a kinked hose, or incorrect water pressure | Supply line, valve, pressure, or the flow sensor |
For gF, LG's steps: unplug the fridge, wait 60 seconds, plug it into a direct outlet (no power strip), and wait up to 5 minutes for it to restart. Then make sure the tap is fully open, the hose isn't kinked, and the water pressure is within the range in your manual. LG's chatbot guide also says to check whether the home has a reverse osmosis system or water softener, which can affect supply to the fridge.
Show stored codes: LG says you can make the fridge display an error code (for example after a power failure) by pressing Freezer Temperature + Express Frz together for at least 3 seconds on models with that panel.
Diagnose by symptom → likely part
Before you touch parts: Unplug the refrigerator or switch off its breaker, and turn off the water supply valve before disconnecting any water line. Don't use sharp tools, a hair dryer, or a heat gun near plastic ice room parts or wiring.
1. Test button: motor doesn't turn
Likely causes: a failed ice maker assembly (motor or control module), an It or IS fault, or no power to the ice maker.
| Part | What it does | DIY difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Ice maker assembly | Fills, freezes, and dumps ice | Easy–moderate (usually 1–3 screws and a plug) |
2. Motor turns, but the tray stays empty
Likely causes: no water reaching the tray: a closed or partly closed supply valve, an old filter, air in the line, low water pressure, a failed water inlet valve, or a frozen fill tube to the ice maker.
Signs: the water dispenser is also slow or dead (supply, filter, or valve); the dispenser works fine but the ice maker gets no water (fill tube or the ice maker side of the valve); a gF code.
| Part | What it does | DIY difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Water filter | Filters water to the dispenser and ice maker | Easy |
| Water inlet valve | Opens to send water to the ice maker and dispenser | Moderate (back panel; water line) |
| Fill tube / water line | Carries water to the ice maker | Moderate |
HomeGuide's refrigerator cost guide notes that the water inlet valve is typically the first part to break on an ice maker, and that a clogged or failing valve gives fewer cubes than usual.
3. Makes a little ice, slowly, or small/hollow cubes
Likely causes: a freezer that's too warm, a clogged filter or low water pressure, doors left open, or (on in-door models) an ice maker fan that isn't moving enough cold air into the ice room (IF code).
Signs: small or hollow cubes (water flow); frost or ice buildup in the ice room; fridge and freezer temps also running warm (see our LG refrigerator not cooling guide).
| Part | What it does | DIY difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Ice maker fan motor | Moves freezer air to the in-door ice maker | Moderate–hard (access varies) |
4. Bin is full, but ice won't dispense
Likely causes: clumped ice blocking the opening (LG's most common dispense cause), a bin that isn't seated, or, less often, a failed auger motor.
LG explains that ice left unused for a while can partly melt and refreeze, sticking together. Shake the bin, discard clumps, and turn the ice maker off if you won't use ice for a long time.
| Part | What it does | DIY difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Auger motor | Turns the auger that pushes ice to the chute | Moderate |
In-door ice room keeps icing up or the IF code comes back? That's usually a fan, seal, or airflow problem inside the door, and it tends to return if only the ice is cleared. Have it diagnosed before you buy parts.
Partner pro call line coming soon. See “who services” below for your options.
Independent partner service, not LG. We may be paid when you call.
If you own a Samsung, see our Samsung ice maker not working guide; the ice room design and fixes differ.
What LG's warranty covers on a refrigerator
LG's US refrigerator limited warranty (see Sources):
| Period | What's covered | Who pays labor |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Parts and labor on defective parts | LG |
| Years 1–5 | Sealed system and compressor (parts and labor) | LG |
| Years 6–10 | Linear / inverter compressor (part only) | You |
What this means for an ice maker: the ice maker, water valve, fans, sensors, and auger motor are covered only in the first year. After that, you pay parts and labor. Water filters are a maintenance item, not a warranty part. Keep your proof of purchase.
→ Check your model's warranty on LG's site · Schedule an LG repair
What it costs: repair parts and pro service (2026)
How we price this table: DIY part prices are OEM LG part numbers listed on Sears PartsDirect public search pages (S-list under Sources), USD before tax and shipping; ranges span several part numbers because the right part depends on your model number. Pro costs tagged [GUIDE] come from two US cost guides (Fixr = G1, HomeGuide = G2): national averages for refrigerators in general, not LG-specific quotes. "Varies — get a quote" means neither guide itemizes that repair, so we don't show a number.
| Repair | Part cost (DIY) | Typical pro cost (parts + labor) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turn on, colder freezer, open valve, shake bin, test button | $0 | — | Do these first |
| Water filter | $58.86–$73.01 (LG LT500P, LT600P, LT700P, LT1000P, ADQ73613401) [S3] | [GUIDE] new filter $30–$60 (G2; general, not LG-specific) | Every 6 months per LG |
| Ice maker assembly | $150.32–$385.24 (LG 5989JA1002D to AEQ57518211) [S1] | [GUIDE] ice maker repair or replacement $350–$500 (G1); repair $100–$225, replacement $250–$600 (G2) | Most common part replacement |
| Water inlet valve | $63.51–$209.20 (LG MJX41178908 to 5221JB2006K) [S2] | [GUIDE] water valve $100–$250 (G2; not itemized in G1) | Often the first part to fail (G2) |
| Water / ice maker tubing | Varies — order by model number | [GUIDE] water dispenser and ice-maker tubing $140–$200 (G2) | Frozen or cracked fill tube |
| Ice maker fan motor | $134.81–$202.20 (LG EAU61843015, EAU60784231) [S4] | Varies — get a quote (not itemized in G1/G2) | IF code |
| Auger motor | $203.38–$460.09 (LG EAU60784228 to EAU60783827) [S5] | [GUIDE] water dispenser $170–$500 (G1; dispenser system, not auger-specific) | Dispensing only |
| Service call / diagnostic fee | — | [GUIDE] $70–$120 service call (G1); $70–$130 minimum service fee incl. up to 1 hr (G2) | Often credited toward the repair |
| New comparable LG refrigerator | — | [GUIDE] $1,000–$3,000 (G1); $675–$2,500 (G2); all refrigerator types | French-door and Craft Ice models cost more |
Part prices checked 2026-10-30 on Sears PartsDirect public search pages (S1–S5). Pro-cost cells tagged [GUIDE] from G1 (Fixr) and G2 (HomeGuide), re-read 2026-10-30; [GUIDE] figures are national averages, not LG-specific quotes. Prices change; confirm with your model number.
Repair vs. replace calculator
1. What's the repair quote? → R (subtract anything LG's warranty covers)
2. What does a comparable new refrigerator cost, installed? → N
3. How old is your fridge, and how long should it last? → Age and Life (use about 15 years, the middle of HomeGuide's 10–20-year range, if you don't know)
Step A — Cost ratio: R ÷ N
Step B — Life used: Age ÷ Life
| Life used under 50% | Life used over 50% | |
|---|---|---|
| Repair under 50% of new | ✅ Repair | 🤔 Repair is usually fine. Check that cooling is healthy |
| Repair over 50% of new | 🤔 Get a second quote first | ❌ Replace |
Worked example 1 (illustrative numbers): A 1-year-old LG French-door stopped making ice after a filter change. Dispensing 2.5 gallons cleared the air. R = $0.
→ Not a repair.
Worked example 2 (illustrative numbers): A 6-year-old LG fridge: the test button turns the motor but the tray stays dry, and the tech finds a failed water inlet valve. R = $250; N = $2,000.
250 ÷ 2,000 = 13%; life used 6 ÷ 15 = 40% → Repair.
Worked example 3 (illustrative numbers): A 14-year-old LG fridge has no ice and is running warm; the tech quotes a sealed-system repair plus a new ice maker. R = $1,300; N = $1,500.
1,300 ÷ 1,500 = 87%; life used 14 ÷ 15 = 93% → Replace.
Tips toward replacing: the ice problem comes with cooling or sealed-system problems, the fridge is near the end of its life, or the in-door ice room has needed repeated service.
Tips toward repairing: it's the filter, valve, or ice maker assembly; cooling is otherwise fine; or the compressor is still within LG's longer coverage.
Living without the ice maker: if the fridge is otherwise healthy, turning the ice maker off and using trays is a free option. LG's FAQ suggests turning the ice maker off if you won't use it for a while.
Who services LG refrigerators near you
1. LG (warranty or official service). In year 1, or for a sealed-system problem within LG's longer coverage, start with LG.
→ LG US: schedule a repair
2. A partner appliance pro (out of warranty).
Our call line connects you with an independent appliance repair provider in your area. Tell them what the test button did (motor turned or not, water in tray or not) and any code; it speeds up the diagnosis.
Our partner pro call line is coming soon. Until then: if your appliance may still be under warranty, contact the manufacturer first. Otherwise, get two or three written quotes from local appliance repair companies, and ask about the diagnostic fee and the parts-and-labor warranty.
3. A plumber. If the supply line or shutoff valve is the problem (no water to the fridge at all, low house pressure, or a leaking saddle valve), a plumber can fix the supply side.
4. DIY with the right part. Filters and many ice maker assemblies are DIY-friendly. Order by your exact model number.
Questions to ask any technician:
- Did the motor run and did water reach the tray during the test?
- Did you check water pressure and the filter before condemning the valve?
- On in-door models: is the ice room fan or seal involved, and will the icing come back?
- Can you split the quote into part, labor, and trip fee?
- What warranty do you give on your labor?
Optional: is an appliance warranty worth it?
A home warranty (service contract) can cover repairs for a yearly fee plus a per-visit service fee. Read the exclusions carefully: some plans limit ice maker coverage or exclude it unless you add an option, and many exclude water lines and filters. A fridge that's already broken is usually not covered.
FAQ
Why is my LG ice maker not making ice?
LG lists the usual causes: a fridge that's newly installed and not cold enough yet, a freezer set too warm, the ice maker turned off, a closed water valve or old filter, clumped ice, or a Craft Ice bin that isn't seated right.
How do I reset my LG ice maker?
Remove the bin and hold the test button on the lower-left side or front of the ice maker for about 3 seconds. If there's no test button, unplug the fridge or turn off its breaker for at least 3 minutes, then restore power.
Where is the test button on an LG ice maker?
LG says it's on the lower-left side or the front of the ice maker, sometimes recessed. Remove the bin first; a phone camera helps you find it.
How long does a new LG fridge take to make ice?
LG says 12 hours to two days for the first batch, and two to three days to fill the bin.
Why did my LG stop making ice after I changed the filter?
Air trapped in the line. LG says to dispense about 2.5 gallons (9.5 liters) of water to clear it.
How cold should my LG freezer be for ice?
LG says to lower it 1 to 2 degrees if ice is slow and watch for 24 hours. LG's older guidance gives -4°F as the minimum recommended setting for ice production.
What does the IF code mean on an LG refrigerator?
LG says IF is an ice maker fan error: the fan that moves cold air from the freezer to the ice maker is blocked or faulty. Request service.
Is it worth fixing an LG ice maker?
Usually yes. Ice makers, valves, and filters are parts, and a healthy fridge should last many more years. If the fridge is also not cooling, get that diagnosed first.
About the author
Fix It or Replace editorial team — We research appliance repairs using manufacturer documentation, parts-supplier data, and current US cost guides, and we cite every source below. We are not appliance technicians; for sealed-system work, wiring, or water lines you're unsure about, call a qualified pro.
Last updated: 2026-10-30.
Sources
- LG USA Support: "If Your LG Refrigerator Is Not Making Ice or Not Making Enough" (page dated 09/04/2026; causes list; 12 hours to two days for first ice, two to three days to fill; Lock 3 s; Ice On/Off, In-Door Ice, Cubed Ice, Craft Ice; lower freezer 1–2 degrees, 24 hours; door gasket; Express Freeze / Ice Plus; water tank, supply valve, hose; filter at six months; well water; clumped ice; Craft Ice bin position; test button 3 s; unplug at least 3 minutes; FAQ 2.5 gallons / 9.5 liters after filter change; turn off ice maker when unused). https://www.lg.com/us/support/help-library/if-your-lg-refrigerator-is-not-making-ice-or-not-making-enough--20155433198719 (accessed 2026-10-30)
- LG USA Support: "LG Refrigerator – Why is My Refrigerator Not Making Ice?" (test mode: did the motor run, was there water or ice; tray holds about 4–5 oz; shake-and-power-cycle reset, 30 s, 4–6 hours; freezer below 19°F, minimum recommended -4°F; ON/OFF switch on left side). https://www.lg.com/us/support/help-library/lg-refrigerator-why-is-my-refrigerator-not-making-ice--1400773605181 (accessed 2026-10-30)
- LG USA Support: "Tray Will Not Turn Upright" (ice maker test mode; no to either question → service). https://www.lg.com/us/support/help-library/tray-will-not-turn-upright--20150384450661 (accessed 2026-10-30)
- LG USA Support: "[LG Refrigerator] Digital and Analog Error Codes" (IF, IS, It, gF and gF steps; Freezer Temperature + Express Frz 3 s to display codes). https://www.lg.com/us/support/help-library/lg-refrigerator-digital-and-analog-error-codes--20154835849096 (accessed 2026-10-30)
- LG USA support chatbot reference: "LG Refrigerator: Troubleshooting No Ice Issue" (identify in-door vs freezer ice maker; reset button location; reverse osmosis or water softener for gF; dispenser flow check). https://www.lg.com/us/support/chatbot/ChatGPT/Ref_doc/REF/KbId_1078_Refrigerator_REF%20No%20Ice.pdf (accessed 2026-10-30)
- LG US refrigerator limited warranty (PDF): 1-yr parts and labor; 5-yr sealed system and compressor parts and labor; linear/inverter compressor parts only years 6–10. https://www.lg.com/us/PDF/warranty/ha/Warranty_REF.pdf (accessed 2026-10-25)
- LG US: warranty information. https://www.lg.com/us/support/warranty
- LG US: schedule a repair. https://www.lg.com/us/support/repair-service/schedule-repair
- Federal Trade Commission: endorsement and affiliate disclosure guidance. https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/resources/ftcs-endorsement-guides-what-people-are-asking
- Part prices: Sears PartsDirect public search pages, see S-list below (accessed 2026-10-30).
- Repair cost guides: Fixr (G1) and HomeGuide (G2), see list below (accessed 2026-10-30).
Part price sources (Sears PartsDirect public search results, USD, accessed 2026-10-30; prices change, confirm with your model number):
- S1. Search "lg refrigerator ice maker assembly": 5989JA1002D $150.32, AEQ72909606 $150.55, AEQ72910411 $188.10, AEQ73110219 $208.08, 5989JA1005H $215.79, AEQ72909603 $221.10, AEQ73130006 $225.23, AEQ73110205 $251.76, 5989JA1005G $277.00, AEQ73110217 $297.40, AEQ73449910 $332.45, AEQ57518211 $385.24 (Whirlpool result excluded). https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=lg%20refrigerator%20ice%20maker%20assembly
- S2. Search "lg refrigerator water inlet valve": LG-labeled valves MJX41178908 $63.51, AJU72992603 $128.97, AJU73753101 $157.45, 5221JA2006D $164.05, MJX41178938 $206.24, 5221JB2006K $209.20. https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=lg%20refrigerator%20water%20inlet%20valve
- S3. Search "lg refrigerator water filter": LT500P ADQ72910911 $58.86, LT600P 5231JA2006F $63.06, LT1000P AGF80300704 $69.27, ADQ73613401 $73.01; search "ADQ36006101": LT700P AGF80300702 $65.17 (GE filters excluded). https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=lg%20refrigerator%20water%20filter and https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=ADQ36006101
- S4. Search "lg refrigerator ice maker fan motor": EAU61843015 $134.81, EAU60784231 $202.20 (other brands excluded). https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=lg%20refrigerator%20ice%20maker%20fan%20motor
- S5. Search "lg refrigerator auger motor": LG auger motors EAU60784228 $203.38, EAU60784212 $322.80, EAU61843013 $416.31, EAU60783827 $460.09. https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=lg%20refrigerator%20auger%20motor
Pro-cost guide sources [GUIDE] (US national averages, parts + labor, not brand-specific quotes; the guide pages carry 2023–2025 dates, so local quotes may differ):
- G1. Fixr, "How much does it cost to repair a refrigerator?" (updated August 29, 2025): ice maker $350–$500 (repair usually around $350, up to $500 for high-end models); water dispenser $170–$500; service call $70–$120; replacement $1,000–$3,000. https://www.fixr.com/costs/refrigerator-repair (accessed 2026-10-30)
- G2. HomeGuide, "How Much Does Refrigerator Repair Cost? (2026)" (byline April 5, 2023): ice maker repair $100–$225, replacement $250–$600; water inlet valve typically the first part to break on an ice maker; water valve $100–$250; water dispenser and ice-maker tubing $140–$200; new water filter $30–$60, replace every 6 months; minimum service fee $70–$130 incl. up to 1 hour and diagnostics; replacement $675–$2,500; refrigerators last 10–20 years on average. https://homeguide.com/costs/refrigerator-repair-cost (accessed 2026-10-30)
Disclosure
Fix It or Replace is an independent site. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by LG. "LG" is a trademark of its owner and is used here only to describe the products we cover.
- Affiliate links: Some part links go to retailers such as PartSelect and RepairClinic. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
- Call line: Phone numbers labeled "partner pro" are operated by a third-party lead service that routes your call to an independent repair provider in your area. We may be paid for calls. We don't employ the technicians, and we don't guarantee their work, pricing, or availability. Confirm licensing, insurance, and quotes directly with the provider.
- Prices are estimates and change often. Always get a written quote.
- Safety: Unplug the refrigerator and shut off the water before working on it. Don't use sharp tools or heat guns to clear ice. If you're unsure, call a qualified professional.
We don't publish fake reviews or testimonials, and we never present a tracking phone number as a specific local business.