How to reset Kenmore bottom freezer ice maker?
On Kenmore bottom-mount refrigerator model 11173022710, there is not a separate “reset” button sequence listed for the ice maker; the model-specific way to restart it is to turn the ice maker OFF, then ON again using the Ice Maker button (press and hold about 5 seconds each time). See the 11173022710 use & care manual.
Quick reset (power-cycle the ice maker)
- Press and hold the Ice Maker button for 5 seconds to turn the ice maker OFF (LED on).
- Wait 30 to 60 seconds.
- Press and hold the Ice Maker button for 5 seconds to turn the ice maker ON (LED off).
- Allow time for production to resume (often several hours; up to 24 hours after a full restart or new install).
Checks that matter if it still won’t make ice
- Confirm the household water shutoff valve is fully open.
- Make sure the refrigerator is connected to a cold water supply.
- Verify freezer temperature is cold enough (target is typically 0°F).
- Look for a kinked water line behind the refrigerator.
- If you use reverse osmosis, water pressure may be too low for steady ice production.
- If ice is clumped or stale, empty and wash the ice storage bin, dry it fully, then reinstall.
What “reset” means on this model (common scenarios)
| Situation | What to do | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Ice maker is ON but not producing | Toggle Ice Maker OFF then ON | Production resumes after a delay |
| After vacation or long non-use | Turn OFF, empty/clean bin, then turn ON | First batches may be discarded |
| After water line work | Turn ON and discard first batches | Clears air/particles from line |
Why it matters
Restarting the ice maker correctly helps clear minor control glitches and prevents jammed, fused cubes that can stop production and strain the ice maker mechanism.
Related help: common refrigerator ice maker problems and solutions
Last updated: January 2026
How do I know what water filter my Kenmore refrigerator needs?
For Kenmore model 11173022710, the correct water filter type is not identified by a specific filter number in the model’s documentation we can verify. The most reliable way is to check your refrigerator for a filter housing or an inline filter on the water line, then match by the markings on that part and your model number; see the 11173022710 use & care manual.
What we can confirm for model 11173022710
This model supports a water supply connection for the automatic ice maker; the manual specifies a required water pressure range of 30 to 125 psi. It also notes that a water filter may be involved when diagnosing taste, odor, or discoloration issues, but it does not list a filter model number.
How to identify the correct filter on your refrigerator
Use these checks at home to determine what your 11173022710 is actually equipped with:
- Look inside the fresh food section for a filter head, cover, or cartridge slot (often upper area or along a side wall)
- Check behind the refrigerator for an inline filter installed in the plastic water tubing
- Read any printed markings on the filter cartridge, filter cap, or inline filter label
- If you have a bypass plug installed, note its shape and any part markings
- If there is no filter present, your home may be using a separate filtration system (for example, under-sink)
Quick decision table
| What you find | What it means | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Cartridge or housing with a printed filter number | You can match the exact replacement | Order by that printed number and confirm it fits model 11173022710 |
| Inline filter on the rear water line | Filtration is external to the cabinet | Replace the inline filter using its label/markings and match tubing size |
| No filter housing and no inline filter | Filtration may be handled elsewhere | Consider adding filtration if taste/odor is an issue; keep ice maker water pressure within spec |
Why it matters
Using the correct filter style (or confirming you do not have one) helps prevent low water flow to the ice maker, reduces taste and odor complaints, and avoids leaks caused by forcing the wrong cartridge into a housing.
Helpful next step
For common Kenmore filter styles and how to replace them safely, use how to replace the water filter in a Kenmore refrigerator.
Last updated: January 2026
How long should a Kenmore freezer last?
Kenmore doesn’t publish a set “expected lifespan” for the freezer section on model 11173022710, so we can’t confirm an exact number of years for your specific unit. In practice, service life varies most with installation conditions, maintenance, and how hard the compressor has to work; see the care and troubleshooting guidance in the 11173022710 use & care manual.
What most affects freezer life on model 11173022710
These are the biggest real-world factors that typically shorten or extend freezer performance:
- Ventilation and heat: hot rooms and tight clearances increase compressor run time
- Door and drawer sealing: worn or dirty gaskets let warm air in and create frost
- Condenser area dust: buildup makes heat removal harder and stresses the cooling system
- Usage patterns: frequent openings and warm food loads add moisture and heat
- Power quality: repeated outages can lead to temperature swings and extra run time
Model-specific habits that help it last longer
The 11173022710 manual includes several practices that directly reduce wear:
- Keep the freezer near the recommended 0°F setting; adjust one step at a time and wait 24 hours between changes
- Allow airflow clearance behind the refrigerator (the manual calls for at least 2 inches)
- If you will not use ice for a week or more, turn off the ice maker and empty/clean the ice bin
- Avoid storing high-moisture items right at cold air vents to reduce freezing and airflow issues
Signs your freezer may need service soon
Use this quick guide to decide whether to troubleshoot, maintain, or schedule repair.
| What you notice | What it can indicate | First step to take |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer temperature won’t hold near 0°F | Air leak, airflow restriction, or cooling system strain | Check drawer closure and gasket seal; reduce openings |
| Heavy frost/ice buildup | Warm air intrusion or defrost/airflow issue | Inspect gasket; confirm drawer closes evenly |
| Runs almost constantly | Heat load, dirty condenser cover/vents, or control setting | Improve ventilation; clean dust; verify settings |
| Cooling seems off but lights work | Demo mode may be enabled | Follow the demo mode steps in the manual |
Why it matters
A freezer that has to run longer than normal uses more electricity and can lead to food quality problems (soft ice cream, freezer burn, or thaw-refreeze cycles). Preventive maintenance often delays costly repairs.
Last updated: January 2026





