Caloric Ice Maker in refrigerator compartment frosting up
If your Caloric ice maker is frosting up inside the refrigerator compartment, the most likely cause is warm, moist air getting in through a twisted, torn, or misaligned door gasket. After checking the gasket, inspect the dispenser components that control the ice compartment door: a failed dispenser solenoid or a bad dispenser door motor can keep the flap from operating and allow frost to build, and a clogged or broken funnel guide or damaged dispenser door can trap ice and cause frosting that will stop the ice maker from making ice. Less commonly, the dispenser door can be stuck open and let warm air in continuously. Start by visually inspecting the gasket and dispenser flap, test the solenoid and motor for continuity if you have a multimeter, and clear any obstructions in the funnel guide or actuator. If you need replacement parts, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact part for your refrigerator and get step by step repair help.
01 - Caloric Refrigerator Door Gasket
A door gasket should form an airtight seal around the appliance's frame to keep the cold air in and the warm air out. If the door gasket is twisted or torn, gaps can form that will allow warm air in, which can result in frost building up on the ice maker compartment. Inspect the door gasket for any damage and replace with a new one if necessary.
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The dispenser funnel guide is the component that allows the ice from the ice maker to be properly dispensed. If the guide is obstructed or broken, the ice may not dispense as expected. Inspect the funnel guide or any obstruction or damage and replace if necessary.
The dispenser door motor opens and closes the dispenser door to prevent cold air from escaping the refrigerator. If the dispenser door motor is defective, the dispenser door won’t open. As a result, the dispenser will not dispense ice. To determine if the motor is defective, first determine if the motor is getting power. If the motor is getting power, but it won’t run, replace it. You can use a multimeter to test the motor for continuity. If the dispenser door motor does not have continuity, replace it.
The dispenser solenoid opens a door flap to release the ice and then closes the door flap once the dispenser finishes dispensing ice. If the dispenser solenoid is defective, the dispenser door won’t open. To determine if the dispenser door solenoid is defective, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. In addition, check the dispenser actuator pin to ensure that it moves freely. If the dispenser door solenoid does not have continuity, or if the actuator pin does not move freely, replace the dispenser solenoid.
The dispenser door is opened by a motor, solenoid or actuator arm to dispense the ice, but if the door is broken, it may not open properly in order to release the ice. You should inspect the dispenser door for damage to determine if the component should be replaced. You may have to remove the dispenser control panel or frame to access and inspect the dispenser door.
If the dispenser door is stuck open, warm air can enter the ice maker compartment causing frost buildup and potentially stopping the ice maker. Remove any items that may be keeping the dispenser door from closing.
Less Common
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the ice maker in my refrigerator compartment frosting up?
Freezer is cold but ice maker area is frosting or fridge feels warm — what should I check?
My ice dispenser is not dispensing ice — which parts commonly fail?
How do I test a dispenser solenoid or dispenser door motor?
How do I find the correct replacement part for my model on RepairClinic.com?
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