Appliance Repair > Ice Machine Repair > Ice Machine Producing Ice That Is Too Small or Too Large

Ice Machine Producing Ice That Is Too Small or Too Large

If your ice machine is producing ice that is either too small or too large, it could be due to several issues, including a malfunctioning ice thickness probe, clogged water valve, or inadequate cooling. These components play key roles in regulating the ice-making process, and if they fail, the ice size can be compromised. Regular maintenance every six months is vital to ensure all parts are functioning correctly, preventing issues that affect ice quality and machine performance. Learn more about our ice machine repair services:

Ice Machine Repair

Main Issues When Ice Machine Producing Ice That Is Too Small or Too Large

Water valve is malfunctioning
Ice thickness probe is malfunctioning
Compressor is not cooling sufficiently
Circulation pump is malfunctioning
Repair Cost

Description and Troubleshooting of Problems

Water Valve Is Malfunctioning

In some ice machine models, ice drops when the water reservoir is empty. The machine assumes that once the water has frozen, the ice is ready to be released. However, if the water valve is clogged and restricts water flow, the reservoir may only fill partially within the allotted time. This results in smaller ice cubes since there wasn’t enough water for full-sized cubes. This issue often occurs due to mineral buildup from hard water, which reduces water pressure and flow.

Solution

If the water valve is not damaged, our technicians can clean it and restore water flow using specialized tools. However, if the valve has been in a poor condition for a long time, cleaning may not restore its proper function, and replacement will be necessary. After cleaning or replacing the water valve, the entire ice machine should be cleaned, and other components checked. Regular ice machine cleaning every 6 months helps ensure its long-term efficiency.

Ice Thickness Probe Is Malfunctioning

The ice thickness probe is a sensor that monitors ice formation and triggers the ice-dumping process once the ice reaches the correct size. However, constant contact with water can cause buildup, which may interfere with its accuracy, resulting in ice that’s too small or too large. If the probe malfunctions entirely, it may not respond, leading to excessive ice buildup and the ice machine entering a safety mode, shutting down. The machine may restart after some time or require manual intervention but will stop again if the sensor remains faulty.

Solution

Our technicians will first check the ice thickness probe to see if it’s responding. If the sensor is working, we’ll clean and calibrate it to measure the correct ice size, testing it afterward. A common issue with the probe is water scale buildup, which affects its accuracy. However, if the probe isn’t responding, it will need to be replaced.

Ice-thickness probe is malfunctioning — ***Ice thickness probe is malfunctioning***

Compressor Is Not Cooling Sufficiently

The compressor not cooling adequately can lead to undersized ice, often tied to issues in the cooling system. This may occur if the evaporator coil is cold but insufficient for proper ice formation. Causes include:

System restriction: A blockage preventing proper refrigerant flow
Freon leak: A slow leak that worsens over months, eventually impairing performance
Faulty fan or sensor: If the fan fails, the condenser coil overheats, reducing cooling efficiency

A professional inspection is essential to diagnose and resolve the issue effectively.

Solution

When an ice machine’s cooling system experiences a restriction or leak, it can still cool, but not sufficiently. Our technicians will inspect the system, measure the pressure, and check for leaks or blockages. We’ll clean the system and recharge it with a new refrigerant. If there’s a leak, we use a special gas stop leak to seal it. If the fan or sensor is faulty, they will need to be replaced.

***Compressor is not cooling sufficiently***

Circulation Pump Is Malfunctioning

Solution

The circulation pump is responsible for moving water over the coil where the ice forms. It draws water from the reservoir and remains submerged, which requires regular cleaning, as dirt often collects and obstructs its proper function. Common issues include clogs in the pump, tubes, or spray, reducing water flow and affecting ice formation. Initially, this causes slight pressure drops, but over time, it leads to severe clogging, eventually halting the pump’s operation completely.

***Circulation pump is malfunctioning***

Repair Cost

Water valve cleaning or replacing	$280 — $380
Ice thickness probe repairing	$280 — $385
Compressor repairing	$350-$480
Circulation pump cleaning or replacing	$280-$485

The cost of fixing an ice machine varies based on factors like the brand, model, and the complexity of the problem.

Contact Us For Any Ice Machine Repair Service

We’re here to fix any ice machine issue, from minor cycle glitches to major breakdowns. If calling isn’t your preference, simply fill out the quick form below. Schedule your ice machine repair today with our skilled technicians!

Call us today: (863) 594-1784
or fill out the form and we will contact you ourselves.

Teodor Appliance Repair delivers exceptional appliance repair services across Florida. Renowned for our dependability and dedication to excellence, we handle a broad spectrum of appliance maintenance. Our technicians are adept at diagnosing and fixing problems with refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, ovens, and more. For convenient location access, check us out on Google Maps using these links:

Tampa

St.Peterburg

Sarasota