Why Ice Size and Quality Matter
Properly formed ice cubes should be fully filled, solid, and relatively clear. Small, hollow, or misshapen ice means the ice-making process was incomplete — usually due to insufficient water, temperature issues, or water quality problems.
Low Water Pressure
Ice makers require a minimum of 20 PSI water pressure to fill the ice mold completely. Low pressure results in molds that only partially fill, producing small or hollow cubes. Check that the supply valve is fully open and the line is not kinked. If you suspect low water pressure in your home, a plumber can test it with a pressure gauge.
Partially Clogged Water Filter
A filter that is past its replacement date restricts water flow even if it is not completely blocked. This reduces the volume of water that reaches the ice mold during each fill cycle. Replace the filter every 6 months and allow 2-3 harvest cycles after replacement before judging ice quality.
Inlet Hose Screens
The water inlet valve has small mesh screens that catch sediment from your water supply. Over time, these screens partially clog, restricting flow. Turn off the water, disconnect the supply hose, and inspect the screens. Clean or replace them if they are not clear.
Temperature Too Warm
If the freezer is slightly too warm (above 5 degrees F), ice forms but does not solidify completely — resulting in soft, hollow cubes that look formed but are partially empty inside. Verify the temperature and clean the condenser coils if the freezer is struggling to maintain 0 degrees F.
Cloudy Ice
Cloudy ice is caused by dissolved minerals and air trapped in the water as it freezes. This is cosmetic and does not affect safety. In areas with hard water, a water filter helps. If your refrigerator filter is fresh and ice is still cloudy, the mineral content of your water supply is the cause. A whole-house water filtration system can improve clarity.
When to Call for Service
If ice is consistently small or hollow after replacing the filter and verifying water pressure, the inlet valve or ice maker module may need replacement. A qualified Maytag service technician can test the valve and measure the actual fill volume to identify the issue.
Why Professional Service May Be the Right Choice
While many Ice Maker issues can be addressed with the steps in this guide, there are situations where attempting a DIY repair can make the problem worse or void your warranty. If you've followed the steps above and the issue persists, or if you're not comfortable working with electrical components or water connections, calling a factory-certified technician is the safest and most cost-effective path forward.
Maytag Appliance Solutions technicians are trained directly to Maytag's service specifications. They arrive with the most common OEM replacement parts already on the vehicle, which means most repairs are completed in a single visit — no waiting for parts to be ordered.
Preventing the Problem from Recurring
Most Ice Maker issues that require repair are preventable with regular maintenance. Key habits that extend appliance life and reduce fault frequency:
- Clean filters regularly. Lint filters, drain pump filters, and water inlet screens accumulate debris over time. A clogged filter is one of the most common causes of performance issues and error codes.
- Don't overload. Consistently running your Ice Maker beyond its rated capacity puts extra stress on the motor, drum bearings, and suspension components.
- Use the correct detergent and amounts. Excess detergent — especially non-HE detergent in HE appliances — causes buildup, mold, and sensor errors over time.
- Check hoses and connections annually. Inspect inlet and drain hoses for cracks, kinks, or loose connections at least once a year, especially if your appliance is more than five years old.
- Level the appliance. An unlevel Ice Maker vibrates excessively during operation, accelerating wear on internal components and causing noise and balance errors.
Maytag Warranty and Service Coverage
Maytag offers a standard one-year parts and labor warranty on most appliances, with extended coverage on specific components. If your appliance is still within its manufacturer warranty period, contact Maytag directly before scheduling an independent repair, as unauthorized service may affect warranty coverage.
For appliances outside the warranty period, Maytag Appliance Solutions provides a 30 day parts and labor warranty on every repair we complete. All replacement parts are genuine Maytag OEM components sourced directly from Maytag's authorized parts network.
Stuck or unsure? Don't risk it.
If at any point a step doesn't match what you're seeing, stop and call in a pro. DIY gone wrong can cost more than a professional diagnosis — and our techs carry most Maytag parts on every vehicle.