Disconnect the water supply and unplug the refrigerator first

Before you touch the ice maker, turn off the water valve that feeds it. On most Samsung models, this valve is behind the refrigerator or under the sink — look for a small shutoff knob on the water line running to the fridge. Turn it clockwise until it stops. Then unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet. Wait a few minutes for any remaining water pressure to release.

If you are not sure where the water valve is, check your Samsung model's manual — you can find it on Samsung's support website by entering your model number. The manual will show you exactly which valve controls the ice maker line.

Key Takeaways

  • Always shut off the water valve and unplug the refrigerator before starting, to prevent water leaks and electrical shock.
  • Most Samsung ice makers are held in place by two screws at the top and slide out toward you once those screws are removed.
  • You will need to disconnect the water inlet tube from the back of the ice maker before it comes free.
  • The entire removal takes about 15 to 20 minutes if you work slowly and keep track of small parts.

Locate and remove the screws holding the ice maker in place

Open the freezer door and look at the top of the ice maker unit. You should see two screws — usually Phillips head — one on each side. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove both screws completely. Set them somewhere you will not lose them, since you will need them if you ever reinstall the ice maker.

Once the screws are out, gently pull the ice maker toward you. It should slide out smoothly. If it does not move, check that both screws are fully removed and that nothing else is holding it in place. Some models have a small clip or catch on one side — look for it before you force anything.

Disconnect the water inlet tube

Once the ice maker is pulled out far enough, you will see a plastic or rubber tube connected to the back of the unit. This is the water inlet line. Pinch the small clip or collar on the tube fitting and pull the tube straight out. You may see a small amount of water drip out — this is normal. Have a towel ready to catch it.

If the tube is stuck, do not yank it. Gently wiggle it side to side while pulling, or use a small flathead screwdriver to carefully pry the clip open. Once the tube is free, you can pull the ice maker all the way out of the freezer compartment.

Cap or plug the water line to prevent leaks

With the ice maker removed, the water inlet tube is now open. Before you plug the refrigerator back in, cap the end of that tube with a small plastic cap or plug — most hardware stores sell these for a few dollars. This prevents water from spraying into your freezer the next time the refrigerator tries to make ice.

If you do not cap the line and the refrigerator is plugged in, water will leak into the freezer compartment every time the ice maker cycle runs. Capping it takes 30 seconds and saves you from a flooded freezer.

Restore water and power

Once the water line is capped, plug the refrigerator back into the wall outlet. Then turn the water valve back on by rotating the shutoff knob counterclockwise. Turn it slowly until you feel resistance — do not force it. The refrigerator is now back to normal operation, just without ice production.

Check under the refrigerator and behind it for any water leaks over the next hour. If you see dripping, turn the water valve off again and make sure the cap on the water line is seated properly.

What to do with the removed ice maker

If you are removing the ice maker because it is broken, you can recycle it at most electronics retailers or municipal hazardous waste facilities. Do not throw it in the trash — it contains refrigerant and electrical components that need proper disposal.

If you think you might reinstall it later, store it in a dry place with the screws and any small clips in a labeled bag. Keep the water inlet tube coiled loosely so it does not kink or crack while in storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my refrigerator still work without an ice maker?

Yes. The refrigerator and freezer will function normally. You just will not have automatic ice production. You can still make ice manually in ice cube trays if you want to.

Can I reinstall the ice maker later?

Yes, as long as you kept the screws and the water inlet tube is not damaged. Uncap the water line, reconnect the tube to the back of the ice maker, slide it back into place, and reinstall the two screws. The process is the same in reverse.

What if water leaks after I cap the line?

The cap may not be seated fully, or the tube fitting may be cracked. Turn off the water valve, remove the cap, and inspect the tube end for damage. If it looks fine, try a different cap or wrap the tube end with plumber's tape before capping it again.

Do I need to turn off the water valve if I am just removing the ice maker temporarily?

Yes. Even if you plan to reinstall it soon, turning off the water prevents leaks while the tube is disconnected. It takes 10 seconds and protects your freezer from water damage.