Dirty or discolored ice most often points to a water supply problem, not a failed freezer. Start by checking the water supply tube that feeds the ice maker: if it was disconnected or water sat unused for six to 12 months the tubing can discolor and stain new ice, and replacing the supply tube usually clears the issue. Next, inspect the ice maker tray and ice maker assembly for a corroded or flaking coating that can shed particles into the ice; a worn tray or assembly should be replaced. Less commonly, temporary dirty municipal water from a flushed hydrant or broken main will discolor ice, so discard contaminated ice and run the kitchen faucet until the water runs clear before refilling the icemaker. Finally, old filter residue can send particles into the system, so swap the refrigerator water filter every six months. You can handle these checks and repairs yourself, and if you need a replacement ice maker, water tubing, or filter, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact part for your refrigerator.
01 - RCA Refrigerator Water Supply Tube
During normal use the water supply tubes will have water flowing through them keeping them clean. If the water supply gets disconnected or water is left in the tube and not used for 6 to 12 months, it can become discolored. If the water at the other faucets in the house is ok and you have replaced the water filter you may need to replace the water tubing to the ice maker to resolve the issue.
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If the icemaker tray has a coating, the coating may be wearing off. If you are getting pieces or chunks of material stuck in the ice, check the ice maker tray. If the coating on the tray is corroded and flaking off, replace the icemaker.
A fire hydrant that was flushed or a broken water main can cause dirty water to enter the home. Since the ice maker uses the same water supplied to the kitchen or bathroom faucets, dirty water can discolor the ice. Discard the old ice and run the water for awhile at the kitchen or bathroom faucet until the water clears up before having the ice maker make new ice.
Less Common
04 - RCA Refrigerator Water Filter
If the ice being dispensed is dirty, it's possible that residue from an old water filter is getting into the water being supplied to the ice maker. Water filters should be replaced every six months for optimum water filtration.