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Kenmore Refrigerator ice maker overflowing

If your Kenmore refrigerator ice maker is overflowing, the most likely cause is a water inlet valve that will not shut off properly, often because the valve is stuck or the home water pressure is below the 20 psi needed to close it. Next check for something stuck in or jammed around the ice maker that prevents normal cycling, which can leave the mold full of water or ice. Low house water pressure is a close second to a bad valve, so test the kitchen faucet flow while you diagnose. If pressure and the inlet valve check out, a faulty ice maker assembly may be driving the problem since many internal parts are not sold separately. Less commonly, a burned out auger motor or a broken mounting clip can cause backups that lead to an ice maker overflowing or ice maker leaking water. Start by turning off the water and power, clearing any obstructions, and testing pressure and valve function. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement water inlet valve, ice maker assembly, auger motor, or clips that fit your refrigerator.

01 - Kenmore Refrigerator Water Inlet Valve

The water inlet valve requires a minimum of 20 psi to shut off properly. If the water pressure is too low, the valve may not close fully once the power is shut off. As a result, the valve will leak water into the ice maker and cause the ice maker to overflow. Check the water pressure to determine if it is at least 20 psi. If the water pressure is sufficient, the water inlet valve is likely defective. The valve may not shut off all the way or may be stuck open, causing water to leak through the valve. If the water pressure is sufficient, but the ice maker is still overflowing, replace the water inlet valve.
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02 - Obstructed Ice Maker

If there are food items stuck in or jammed around the ice maker, it may not cycle properly. The ice maker may get stuck in the middle of a cycle or overflow with ice or water. Inspect the ice maker and remove any items that may interfere with its operation.
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03 - Low Water Pressure from House Supply

The water inlet valve, which supplies water to the refrigerator ice and water dispenser, requires sufficient water pressure to work properly. If the water pressure is too low, the valve may not close fully when the power is shut off. As a result, the valve will leak water into the ice maker, causing it to overflow. You can check the water flow at the kitchen faucet to help determine if the home's water pressure is sufficient or not.
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04 - Kenmore Refrigerator Ice Maker Assembly

One component of the ice maker assembly might be defective. Since many of the ice maker components are not sold separately, you may need to purchase and replace the entire ice maker assembly.
Highly Likely

05 - Kenmore Refrigerator Auger Motor

The auger motor spins the auger blade and pushes the ice through the dispenser chute. If the auger motor is burned out or defective, the ice won’t move forward and, potentially, the ice maker assembly can start to overflow. To determine if the auger motor is defective, pull out the ice bucket and turn the bucket auger by hand. If the auger turns freely, use a multimeter to test the auger motor for continuity. If the auger motor does not have continuity, or if the motor is getting power but won’t run, replace the auger motor.
Highly Likely

06 - Kenmore Refrigerator Clip

Some refrigerator ice makers are secured with clips. If one or more of the clips break, the ice maker may become dislodged and start to overflow. If the ice maker assembly is not sitting flush against the wall, purchase a new clip or clips to secure and seal.
Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my refrigerator ice maker overflowing?
How can I tell if the water inlet valve is the problem?
Can a jam or a broken clip cause the ice maker to overflow?
How do I test the auger motor if ice is backing up in the dispenser?
How do I enter my model number on RepairClinic.com to find the correct replacement part?

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