Why Does My Ice Maker Produce Small Cubes And How To Reset It

If your refrigerator’s ice maker is suddenly producing undersized or incomplete ice cubes, you're not alone. This common issue affects many households and can compromise the quality of your drinks, slow down cooling, and even indicate deeper mechanical problems. Small cubes often result from restricted water flow, low temperatures, or system malfunctions. The good news is that most causes are fixable with basic maintenance and a proper reset procedure. Understanding the root causes and knowing how to respond ensures your appliance returns to peak performance—without unnecessary service calls.

Understanding Ice Cube Formation in Modern Refrigerators

Ice makers rely on a precise combination of water volume, freezing temperature, and cycle timing to produce full-sized, solid cubes. When any part of this system is compromised, the result is often partial, hollow, or tiny cubes. Most home ice makers operate on a 90-minute cycle: filling the mold with water, freezing it, then ejecting the cubes into the bin. If water doesn’t fill the mold completely before freezing begins, the resulting cube will be smaller than intended.

The size and shape of ice cubes also depend on the design of the mold. Some models produce crescent-shaped cubes, others make bullet-style or square cubes. Regardless of shape, consistently small output indicates an underlying issue rather than normal variation.

Tip: Always check the owner’s manual for your specific model’s expected ice cube size and production rate before assuming there’s a problem.

Common Causes of Small Ice Cubes

Several factors can interfere with the ice-making process. Identifying which one applies to your situation is key to resolving the issue quickly.

1. Low Water Pressure or Flow Rate

Inadequate water supply is the leading cause of small ice cubes. Most ice makers require a minimum of 20–40 psi (pounds per square inch) of water pressure to fill the mold fully. If pressure drops below this threshold, the valve won’t open long enough to deliver sufficient water.

• Clogged or kinked water supply line
• Faulty water inlet valve
• Sediment buildup in the filter or line
• Partially closed shutoff valve behind the fridge

2. Faulty or Clogged Water Filter

Refrigerators with built-in water filters must have them replaced every six months. An old or clogged filter restricts water flow, directly impacting the amount of water reaching the ice mold. Even if the filter isn’t due for replacement, mineral deposits or debris can reduce efficiency over time.

3. Freezer Temperature Too High

If the freezer isn't cold enough—typically below 0°F (-18°C)—the freezing cycle takes longer. In some models, this triggers premature ejection of partially frozen cubes, leaving behind weak or undersized results. Warm temperatures may stem from poor door seals, overloading, or compressor issues.

4. Malfunctioning Ice Maker Assembly

Over time, internal components like the mold thermostat, motor, or solenoid can degrade. A failing solenoid may not open the water valve fully or long enough, while a misaligned sensor might signal completion too early.

5. Air in the Water Line After Filter Changes

After replacing a water filter, air pockets can get trapped in the line. These pockets disrupt consistent water delivery, causing inconsistent fills and small cubes for several cycles until the air clears.

“Many service calls for ‘broken’ ice makers are actually resolved by simply checking the water pressure and ensuring the supply valve is fully open.” — Daniel Reyes, Appliance Technician with 15 years of field experience

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Reset Your Ice Maker

Resetting your ice maker clears temporary glitches, resets sensors, and forces a new production cycle. While procedures vary slightly by brand, the following general method works for most Whirlpool, Samsung, LG, GE, and Frigidaire models.

1. Lift the metal feeler arm located on the side of the ice maker. Hold it up for 3 seconds, then release. You should hear a click.
2. Wait 10 seconds, then push and hold the arm down for another 3 seconds.
3. Repeat the up-down motion two more times to complete the reset sequence.
4. Listen for a humming sound—this indicates the unit has restarted and is beginning a new cycle.
5. Wait 24 hours for the first batch of ice to form and eject.

For electronic models without a physical arm (e.g., Samsung or LG with front controls):

1. Press and hold the “Ice Type” or “Power” button for 3–5 seconds.
2. Look for flashing lights indicating reset mode.
3. Release the button and allow the system to reboot.

Tip: Unplugging the refrigerator for 5 minutes can also force a hard reset of all electronic components, including the ice maker.

Troubleshooting Checklist: Fix Small Ice Cubes Fast

Use this actionable checklist to diagnose and correct the issue efficiently.

• ✅ Ensure the water supply valve behind the fridge is fully open
• ✅ Inspect the water line for kinks or crushing under the unit
• ✅ Replace the water filter if it’s older than 6 months
• ✅ Flush the water system by dispensing 6–10 cups of water after filter changes
• ✅ Check freezer temperature with an independent thermometer; adjust setting if above 0°F
• ✅ Clean the ice mold with warm water and mild vinegar solution to remove mineral deposits
• ✅ Listen for the water valve \"click\" during refill—if silent, test voltage or replace valve
• ✅ Confirm the ice maker is level; tilt can cause uneven filling

Do’s and Don’ts When Dealing With Ice Maker Issues

Do’s	Don’ts
Replace water filters on schedule (every 6 months)	Ignore persistent small cubes—early action prevents bigger failures
Keep freezer organized to maintain airflow and temperature	Use chemical cleaners inside the ice mold—they can contaminate future batches
Reset the ice maker monthly as preventive maintenance	Force the ice tray manually if stuck—risk of damaging gears
Check water pressure with a gauge if problems persist	Assume the ice maker needs replacement—many issues are repairable

Real Example: Resolving a Persistent Issue in a Busy Household

A family in Denver reported their Samsung refrigerator had been producing pea-sized ice chunks for weeks. They assumed the unit was failing and considered buying a new fridge. However, after running through the checklist, they discovered the root cause: the water filter hadn’t been changed in over a year, and the shutoff valve under the sink was only half-open due to recent plumbing work. Once they replaced the filter and opened the valve fully, water pressure normalized. After resetting the ice maker, full-sized cubes returned within 24 hours. This case highlights how simple oversights can mimic major malfunctions.

When to Call a Professional

While most small-cube issues are user-fixable, certain symptoms warrant expert attention:

• No water enters the mold despite correct valve position and pressure
• Ice maker makes loud buzzing but no movement
• Mold fills correctly but cubes remain stuck or only partially eject
• Visible leaks around the inlet valve or tubing

A licensed technician can test the solenoid, measure water pressure accurately, and inspect electrical signals using diagnostic tools. Attempting to disassemble complex valves or wiring without experience risks further damage or safety hazards.

FAQ: Common Questions About Small Ice Cubes and Resets

How long does it take for an ice maker to resume normal operation after a reset?

Most units begin a new cycle immediately after resetting, but it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours for the first batch to freeze. Full recovery—including consistent cube size—may require 24 to 48 hours, especially after changing filters or clearing airlocks.

Can I use my fridge’s water dispenser to test water pressure?

Yes. If the dispenser releases water slowly or in a weak stream, it’s a strong indicator of low pressure affecting the ice maker. Compare flow rate to when the fridge was new. A significant drop suggests a blockage or valve issue.

Is it safe to bypass the water filter temporarily to test ice production?

Some refrigerators allow a bypass plug to be installed, letting water flow without filtration. This can help isolate whether the filter is the culprit. However, avoid prolonged use without filtration, as sediment and chlorine can damage internal components and affect taste.

Preventive Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Performance

Regular care keeps your ice maker functioning reliably and reduces the risk of recurring issues.

• Schedule filter changes on your calendar or set phone reminders every six months.
• Inspect the water line annually for cracks, bulges, or signs of wear—especially if connected with plastic tubing.
• Clean the ice bin and mold quarterly with a mixture of warm water and baking soda to prevent odor absorption and buildup.
• Monitor freezer temperature with a standalone thermometer; digital displays aren’t always accurate.
• Run a diagnostic cycle monthly if your model supports it—many Samsung and LG units offer self-tests via button sequences.

Tip: Keep spare water filters on hand. Running out at the wrong time leads to delays and diminished ice quality.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Ice Quality Today

Small ice cubes are more than just an annoyance—they’re a signal that something in your refrigerator’s system needs attention. Whether it’s a simple reset, a forgotten filter change, or a kinked water line, most fixes are within reach of the average homeowner. By understanding how your ice maker works and performing regular maintenance, you ensure consistent, high-quality ice for daily use. Don’t wait for a complete failure. Address small cubes early, follow the steps outlined here, and keep your kitchen appliance running smoothly for years to come.

💬 Have a tip that fixed your ice maker? Share your experience in the comments below—your insight could help someone avoid a costly repair!