Can you run a KitchenAid ice maker without a filter?
Yes. On the KitchenAid KUIX335HPS00 freestanding ice maker, you can run the unit without a water filter installed; it will still make ice, but the incoming water will not be filtered. For the exact bypass steps, follow the instructions in the KUIX335HPS00 user manual.
How to run it without the filter (what we recommend)
- Turn the ice maker OFF before removing the filter.
- Remove the filter from the filter compartment.
- Use the filter cap as the bypass (the cap installs in place of the filter so the housing seals correctly).
- Turn the ice maker back ON and discard the first batches of ice after any change to the water system.
Parts that may be involved
If your filter cap is missing or damaged, you will typically need the correct cap to seal the filter housing when operating without a filter.
What changes when you skip the filter
| Item | With filter installed | Without filter (cap/bypass) |
|---|---|---|
| Ice maker operation | Normal | Normal (if housing is sealed) |
| Water quality | Filtered | Not filtered |
| Taste/odor control | Improved (depends on water) | Depends on household water |
Why it matters
Running without a filter is fine for ice production, but unfiltered water can affect taste and can contribute to mineral scale buildup faster. Keeping up with cleaning intervals helps protect components like the water system and recirculation pump.
Last updated: January 2026
How do you reset the icemaker on a KitchenAid refrigerator?
For the KitchenAid KUIX335HPS00 freestanding ice maker (not a refrigerator), the practical “reset” is a power cycle plus restarting ice production at the control panel. Press ON/OFF to stop, wait about 10 seconds, then press ON/OFF again; allow up to 24 hours for the first full bin after a restart (discard the first 2 batches).
Reset steps for model KUIX335HPS00
- Press ON/OFF to turn the unit off.
- Unplug the ice maker (or switch off the breaker) for 1 minute.
- Restore power.
- Press ON/OFF to turn ice production back on.
- Wait for the initial rinse cycle (about 5 minutes) and confirm the unit begins cycling.
For control and startup details specific to this model, use the KUIX335HPS00 user guide and the KUIX335HPS00 installation instructions.
What to check if it still will not make ice
These items commonly look like a “reset didn’t work,” but are actually a condition preventing ice production:
- Water supply shutoff valve is closed, or supply line is kinked.
- Water filter is not fully locked into the housing (unit may not produce ice).
- Room temperature is too low; operation requires a warmer environment (the bin thermostat can shut the unit off).
- Drain cap is loose; water can empty from the water pan and cause thin ice or no ice.
- Drain hose is kinked or pinched (especially on drain-pump setups).
Quick reference: “reset” vs “clean” vs “max ice”
| Action | What it does | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Power cycle + ON/OFF | Reboots controls and restarts the ice-making cycle | After a power outage, odd behavior, or no ice after settings changes |
| CLEAN cycle | Removes mineral scale from the water system | When “Cleaning Needed” is on, about every 9 months, or production drops |
| MAX ICE | Boosts production for 24 hours | Before guests or when the bin is low |
Why it matters
On the KUIX335HPS00, most “no ice” complaints are caused by water supply, drainage, filter seating, or scale buildup. A correct restart is helpful, but fixing the underlying condition is what restores normal ice production.
Last updated: January 2026
Why is my free standing ice maker not making ice?
If your KitchenAid KUIX335HPS00 freestanding ice maker runs but makes no ice, the most common causes are a shutoff water supply, an incorrectly installed water filter, a loose drain cap (water pan empties), heavy scale buildup, or a failed component such as the recirculating pump, cutter grid, or electronic control.
Quick checks first (no tools)
- Confirm the unit is ON (ON/OFF button) and the door is fully closed.
- Verify the water supply valve is open and the supply line is not kinked.
- If you just started it, allow up to 24 hours for the first batch; discard the first 2 batches per the KUIX335HPS00 user manual.
- Make sure the water filter is locked in correctly; on this model, an unlocked filter can stop ice production.
- Check the drain cap in the water pan is tight; a loose cap can cause thin ice or no ice.
What to inspect if it still runs but produces no ice
Water and drainage issues
- Low or interrupted water supply
- Kinked or pinched drain hose (especially on drain-pump setups)
- Clogged drain tube
- Loose drain cap letting the water pan empty
Ice-making system issues
- Mineral scale on the freezing system (needs a clean cycle)
- Recirculation not moving water over the freezing plate (possible pump problem)
- Ice sheet not cutting or harvesting correctly (possible grid issue)
Parts that commonly fix “runs but no ice” on KUIX335HPS00
If basic checks do not restore ice production, these model-matched parts are common suspects:
| Symptom you notice | More likely cause | What we usually do next |
|---|---|---|
| Water not circulating over plate | Recirculating pump issue | Inspect pump, wiring, and connections |
| Ice sheet forms but won’t cut | Cutter grid issue | Check grid seating and harness connection |
| Random operation or no response to controls | Control board issue | Verify power, then test/replace board |
Why it matters
On the KUIX335HPS00, ice production depends on steady water flow, proper drainage, and correct filter installation. A small issue like a loose drain cap or unlocked filter can stop ice completely and look like a major failure.
Last updated: January 2026





