How to reset a KitchenAid refrigerator ice maker?
For the KitchenAid KUID508ESS1 freestanding ice maker, the most reliable “reset” is a power reset: turn the unit off, disconnect power for 1 minute, then restore power and turn it back on. This clears many control glitches and restarts the harvest and fill sequence; use the KUID508ESS1 owner's manual for the exact control steps.
Quick reset steps (safe first)
- Turn the ice maker OFF at the control panel.
- Unplug the unit (or switch off the breaker) for 60 seconds.
- Restore power.
- Turn the ice maker ON.
- Wait 10 to 15 minutes to see if it begins a normal cycle (water fill, circulation, freeze, harvest).
If it still will not make ice after a reset
These checks solve the most common “runs but no ice” and “not running” complaints:
- Confirm the water supply valve is fully open and the supply line is not kinked.
- Make sure the unit is level; poor leveling can affect water flow and harvest.
- Clean the condenser area; restricted airflow can slow or stop ice production.
- Look for standing water or slow draining; a weak drain system can interrupt cycles.
- If the unit is warm inside, check for condenser fan operation.
What a reset does (and does not) fix
| Situation | A reset helps most when | A reset usually will not fix |
|---|---|---|
| Ice maker stopped unexpectedly | Control logic is “stuck” after a power event | Failed pump, valve, or sensor |
| No ice after cleaning or moving | Cycle needs to restart and re-prime | Low water pressure or a blocked inlet |
| Intermittent operation | Temporary control glitch | Ongoing overheating or drainage problems |
Parts that commonly relate to “no ice” symptoms
If basic checks point to a component issue, these model-matched parts are common suspects:
- Water not filling correctly: valve W10897719
- Poor water circulation over the evaporator: ice maker recirculation pump W11542867
- Unit not sensing temperature correctly: thermistor WPW10511923
Why it matters
Resetting restarts the control sequence, but consistent ice production depends on steady water supply, proper drainage, and good airflow across the condenser. Fixing those basics prevents repeat shutdowns and protects major sealed-system components.
Related help: freestanding ice maker troubleshooting. For parts ordering by model, use the parts list for KUID508ESS1 or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
Can you run a KitchenAid ice maker without a filter?
Yes. On the KitchenAid KUID508ESS1 freestanding ice maker, the unit can still run and make ice with the water filter removed because water can bypass the filter. Ice quality and taste can change without filtration, so we recommend installing the correct filter when you can (see the KUID508ESS1 owner's manual for your model’s filter and replacement guidance).
What to expect if you run without a filter
- The ice maker can continue normal operation if water supply pressure is adequate.
- Ice can pick up more taste or odor from the household water supply.
- Sediment can build up faster in the water circuit, which can increase cleaning needs.
- If you previously had slow fill or low ice production from a clogged filter, removing it can restore flow.
- You still need a properly connected water line and an open shutoff valve.
Quick checks before you decide
Use this checklist to avoid “runs but no ice” symptoms:
- Confirm the water shutoff valve is fully open.
- Check the supply line for kinks or pinches behind the cabinet.
- Make sure the unit is level (important for proper water distribution and harvest).
- Clean the condenser area so the refrigeration system can cool efficiently.
- If the unit drains to a pump, verify the drain path is clear.
Filter in vs. filter out: practical comparison
| Setup | Best for | Tradeoffs |
|---|---|---|
| Filter installed | Best taste and clarity; reduced sediment | Needs periodic replacement |
| Filter removed (bypass) | Temporary operation; troubleshooting low flow | More cleaning; possible taste/odor changes |
Why it matters
Running without a filter is a useful short-term workaround, but filtration helps protect the water system from sediment and helps keep ice tasting clean. If you’re ordering parts for your KUID508ESS1, start with the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
Why is my KitchenAid icemaker not making ice?
If your KitchenAid KUID508ESS1 freestanding ice maker isn’t making ice, the most common causes are a water supply problem, a drain or recirculation issue, dirty condenser airflow, or a failed sensor/control. Start with the quick checks below; then move to the most likely parts.
Quick checks we recommend first
- Confirm the unit is powered on and set to make ice.
- Verify the household shutoff valve is fully open; straighten any kinked water line.
- Make sure the ice bin is seated correctly and not jammed.
- Clean dust and lint from the condenser area so the compressor can remove heat.
- Run the cleaning cycle and descale if mineral buildup is present.
What to check next (most likely causes)
Water in, water out
If water can’t enter, circulate, or drain, the freeze cycle won’t complete.
- Inlet fill problem: a sticking valve W10897719 can prevent proper fill.
- Drain problem: a weak ice maker drain pump W11542868 can leave water in the reservoir and interrupt cycling.
- Recirculation problem: a failing ice maker recirculation pump W11542867 can’t move water over the evaporator.
Temperature sensing and controls
If the unit can’t sense temperature or run the cycle logic, it may run but never harvest.
- Sensor issue: a bad thermistor WPW10511923 can misread temperature.
- Control issue: a failing ice maker electronic control board W11034363 can stop the freeze or harvest sequence.
Symptom-to-cause guide
| What you notice | Most common cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Runs but no ice | Not filling or not circulating | Check water supply; inspect valve and recirculation pump |
| Water left in reservoir | Drain not clearing or scale | Check drain pump; clean and descale |
| Intermittent batches | Sensor or control issue | Check thermistor; inspect control board |
Why it matters
KUID508ESS1 needs steady water flow, good condenser airflow, and accurate temperature feedback to freeze and harvest on schedule. When one of these fails, the machine often sounds normal but produces little or no ice.
For model-specific operating steps and cleaning intervals, use the KUID508ESS1 owner's manual. You can order model-matched parts from the parts list for this model or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026





