The fastest way to reset your KitchenAid ice maker

Most KitchenAid ice makers reset by holding a button for three to ten seconds—usually the power button on the ice maker itself, or a dedicated reset button if your model has one. The exact location and hold time depend on whether your ice maker is built into the refrigerator or installed as a standalone unit. Before you reset, turn off the water supply to the ice maker by closing the shut-off valve under the sink or behind the refrigerator; this prevents water from flowing while the system restarts.

A reset clears the ice maker's memory and tells it to start a new freeze cycle. This solves most common problems: ice production that has stopped, cubes that are too small or misshapen, or a machine that runs but produces nothing. If the ice maker still does not work after a reset, the issue is usually a frozen water line, a clogged filter, or a part that needs replacement—not a software problem.

Key Takeaways

  • Turn off the water supply before resetting to prevent water from flowing during the restart.
  • Hold the power or reset button for three to ten seconds; your model's manual will specify the exact time.
  • After reset, wait 24 hours for the ice maker to produce its first batch of cubes.
  • If reset does not restore ice production, check the water line for ice blockages and the filter for clogs before calling a technician.

Locate the reset button or power switch on your model

The reset mechanism varies by KitchenAid model year and type. On most built-in refrigerator ice makers, the reset button is a small red or black button on the ice maker's front panel, usually near the bottom. On some models, you reset by holding the power button itself. Check the inside of your refrigerator's freezer compartment first—the ice maker is typically mounted on the right or left wall, and the button should be visible on its face.

If you cannot find a dedicated reset button, consult your model's manual or the KitchenAid website. You can search by your refrigerator's model number, which is printed on a sticker inside the fridge, usually on the back wall or under the top shelf. The manual will show you exactly where the button is and how long to hold it. If you have lost the manual, KitchenAid's support site lets you read a PDF by model number at no cost.

Turn off the water supply before you reset

Locate the water shut-off valve that feeds your ice maker. On most installations, this valve is under the sink in the kitchen, where the cold water line branches off. It looks like a small knob or lever on a copper or plastic tube. Turn it clockwise (or pull the lever toward you, depending on the type) until it stops. This prevents water from entering the ice maker while it restarts.

If you cannot find the valve under the sink, check behind the refrigerator. Some installations have a second shut-off valve there. If neither location has a valve, your ice maker may be fed from the main water line—in that case, you can skip this step, but turning off water is safer and takes only seconds. Leave the valve off for the entire reset process and for at least 30 minutes afterward, then turn it back on slowly to avoid air in the line.

Hold the button and wait for the reset to complete

Press and hold the reset button (or power button, depending on your model) for the time specified in your manual. Most KitchenAid ice makers require three to ten seconds of continuous pressure. You will usually hear a click or see a light blink when the reset takes effect. Do not release the button early—hold it for the full duration even if you hear a sound partway through.

After you release the button, the ice maker will begin its startup sequence. You may hear water flowing briefly as the system primes itself. This is normal. Leave the water shut-off valve closed for at least 30 minutes to let the ice maker stabilize, then turn it back on slowly. The ice maker will now begin a new freeze cycle and should produce its first cubes within 24 hours.

What to check if reset does not restore ice production

If the ice maker still produces no ice after 24 hours, the problem is usually not software but a physical blockage or part failure. The most common culprit is a frozen water line—the plastic or copper tube that carries water from the shut-off valve to the ice maker. If this line freezes solid, water cannot reach the maker even after a reset. Look behind and under the refrigerator for the water line. If it feels hard or cold to the touch, or if you see frost on it, the line is frozen.

To thaw a frozen line, unplug the refrigerator and let it sit for several hours, or use a hair dryer on low heat to warm the line gently. Do not use boiling water or a heat gun—these can crack plastic tubing. While the fridge is unplugged, also check the water filter, which is usually located inside the fridge or under the sink. A clogged filter blocks water flow just as effectively as a frozen line. Replace the filter if it is more than six months old or visibly discolored.

When to call a technician instead of resetting

Call a repair technician if you have reset the ice maker, waited 24 hours, checked the water line for ice, replaced the filter, and the machine still produces no ice. At that point, the issue is likely a failed water inlet valve, a broken pump, or a defrost cycle that is stuck. These parts require tools and informed to replace safely, and attempting them yourself can damage the refrigerator or void the warranty.

You should also call a technician if the ice maker leaks water inside the freezer, produces ice that tastes or smells wrong even after you have replaced the filter, or makes loud grinding or squealing sounds during operation. A reset will not fix any of these problems. KitchenAid's customer service can recommend a local authorized repair center, or you can search for independent appliance repair shops in your area that service KitchenAid refrigerators.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for ice to appear after I reset?

The ice maker usually produces its first cubes within 24 hours of a reset. The exact time depends on your freezer temperature and how cold the ice maker's mold is when the cycle begins. If nothing appears after 48 hours, the reset did not solve the problem and you should check the water line and filter.

Do I need to unplug the refrigerator to reset the ice maker?

No. Holding the reset button restarts the ice maker without unplugging the whole refrigerator. Unplugging is only necessary if the water line is frozen and you want to thaw it by letting the fridge sit unpowered for several hours.

Will resetting the ice maker erase my refrigerator settings?

No. Resetting the ice maker affects only the ice maker's cycle and memory. Your refrigerator's temperature settings, dispenser preferences, and any other features remain unchanged.

What if my KitchenAid ice maker has no visible reset button?

Some models reset by holding the power button instead. Check your manual for your specific model number. If you cannot find the manual, KitchenAid's website has downloadable PDFs organized by model number, or you can contact their customer service for guidance.

Can I reset the ice maker while the water supply is on?

You can, but it is safer to turn off the water first. Turning off the valve prevents water from flowing into the system while it restarts and reduces the risk of leaks or water backing up into the line.