Ice makers<\/a> are commonly used at restaurants, bars, sports events, picnics, parties, and almost everywhere. Having said that, irrespective of the occasion, if you\u2019re the one who\u2019s responsible to host your guest then this appliance is surely the one to befriend.<\/p>\nMoving forward, Ice Makers just like any other appliance is subject to faults and repairs. However, before you conclude that your appliance needs maintenance or a repair, it\u2019s a must that you know \u201cHow to Test the Ice Maker?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/span>What Is a Water Valve?<\/span><\/h2>\nA Water Valve, also known as the water inlet valve, is a valve based on electro-mechanical components. The valve allows the water to flow freely or as required by the Ice Maker.<\/p>\n
Having an issue revolving around Water Valve is an uncommon occurrence. However, there are many instances where the real problem lies in the Water \u2018Inlet\u2019 Valve. Having said that, it is always good to conduct an inspection and know How to Test the Ice Maker Water Valve.<\/p>\n
<\/span>How to Test Ice Maker Water Valve?<\/span><\/h2>\nUsually, it is quite concerning when water fails to reach the ice cube tray. This can serve as a potential indicator that there\u2019s a problem with the Water Valve of your Ice Maker.<\/p>\n
Although not quite common, there\u2019s a possibility that your Ice Maker may have choked the water line attached to the water valve. If not that then it may be the water filter that\u2019s clogged causing low to no water to flow in your appliance.<\/p>\n
In case, if none of these reasons is the real culprit behind the poor performance of your Ice Maker then you may have to dig in deep and take a good look at the Water Valve.<\/p>\n
<\/span>How to Check the Water Inlet Valve for Electrical Failure?<\/span><\/h2>\nStep 1: Shut Off the Water Supply and Unplug Your Ice Maker<\/h3>\n
Before you begin, make sure that you\u2019ve stopped the water supply from reaching your appliance. Also, be sure to have your Ice Maker unplugged from its power source in order to avoid any serious mishap.<\/p>\n
Allow your appliance to rest for around 30 minutes to drain any stored surge of energy before conducting an inspection.<\/p>\n
Step 2: Make Sure You Have All the Required Tools and Gears<\/h3>\n
The right tools can help you conduct a reliable test. That said, while dealing with any electronic appliance, it is a must that you take proper precautions and wear proper protective gear. Following are things you will require while conducting the test.<\/p>\n
\n- Dry Cloth or a rag<\/li>\n
- Multi-meter<\/li>\n
- A bucket<\/li>\n
- Pliers<\/li>\n
- Screwdriver<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Step 3: Make Your Way to the Water Inlet Valve<\/h3>\n
Pull your Ice Maker to a place where you can easily access the Water Valve. Place a bucket under the valve to avoid the drain from making a mess. Once that\u2019s taken care of, you will need to loosen the nuts commonly situated on the brass fitting. You can also use a wrench to help you loosen the flare nuts.<\/p>\n
Now make your way to the water inlet valve. The inlet valve is mostly held in place by a metal bracket; therefore, you may need to make use of a screwdriver to remove it. Carefully remove the screws from their respective brackets and gently take out the valve from its cabinet.<\/p>\n
While doing so, make sure to also remove the water tube from the outlet port.<\/p>\n
Step 4: Pull Out the Wires Carefully<\/h3>\n
Generally, you will find the terminals of the water inlet valve connected by two wires. In case if your Ice Maker has a double solenoid water valve then you will find four wires connected to the terminal.<\/p>\n
Now before you remove each wire from its terminal, make sure to label it so you place it back in the correct order.<\/p>\n
To safely remove the wires from their place, firmly hold the metal connector and gently pull the wire out. In some instances, you may require assistance from needle-nose pliers.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Step 5: Make Use of the Multi-Tester<\/h3>\n
To begin the test for continuity you will have to make use of the Multi-meter. Start by setting the meter to R X 1 ohms. Now place the lead of your tester in each terminal. The multi-tester will evaluate and will display its readings for the respective terminal.<\/p>\n
The readings should range between 200 and 500 ohms. Although the reading range is mostly marked on the valve by the manufacturer, therefore, carefully examine the water inlet valve for such markings.<\/p>\n
Step 6: Compare Your Findings<\/h3>\n
Note the readings for each terminal. Compare those readings and see if they fall between a range of 200 and 500 ohms. In case if the water inlet valve fails to produce results that fall in the given range then you will need to replace that component.<\/p>\n