How do I reset my JennAir refrigerator ice maker?
On the Jenn-Air JSD2789GES, the practical “reset” for the ice maker is to turn it off and back on using the ice maker wire lever arm, then allow time for the freezer to reach temperature and begin a new harvest cycle. Use the steps in the JSD2789GES owner's manual to match your exact ice maker style.
Reset steps (wire lever arm)
- Turn the ice maker off: move the wire lever arm up to the OFF position.
- Wait 1 minute.
- Turn the ice maker on: move the wire lever arm down to the ON position.
- Confirm the freezer is cold enough; initial ice typically starts 8 to 12 hours after conditions are correct.
What to expect after a reset
- The ice maker fills only after the freezer reaches proper temperature.
- Discard the first 2 to 3 batches of ice after a new hookup or long downtime.
- It is normal for some cubes to be joined together; they break apart easily.
- If ice sits unused, cubes can shrink, stick, or taste stale; wash and dry the bin periodically.
Quick checks if it still is not making ice
- Make sure the wire lever arm is fully down (ON).
- Verify the household water supply valve to the refrigerator is open (for dispenser models).
- Check for a jammed ice bin or items blocking the shutoff arm.
- After a power outage or unplugging, allow 24 hours for normal ice production to stabilize.
| Symptom | Most likely cause | What we do next |
|---|---|---|
| No ice after 12 hours | Freezer not cold enough yet | Confirm temperature and airflow, then wait |
| Small or hollow cubes | Water supply restriction | Check supply valve and line for kinks |
| Ice clumps or tastes stale | Ice not used often | Empty, wash, and fully dry the bin |
Why it matters
Turning the wire lever arm off and on restarts normal ice maker operation without forcing the mechanism. It also prevents damage and helps avoid jams in the ejector and ice bin auger area.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the life expectancy of a JennAir refrigerator?
A Jenn-Air refrigerator typically lasts 15 years. For your Jenn-Air JSD2789GES side-by-side refrigerator, you can often reach that lifespan (or longer) with steady maintenance, correct temperature settings, and quick repairs when cooling, ice, or water issues first show up. See the JSD2789GES owner's manual for model-specific care and maintenance guidance.
Typical lifespan and what affects it
Most refrigerators wear out due to sealed-system stress, airflow problems, or door-seal leaks. These factors have the biggest impact on how long a Jenn-Air unit runs reliably:
- Condenser cleanliness (dust buildup raises compressor workload)
- Door gasket condition (air leaks cause long run times and frost)
- Evaporator fan performance (poor airflow leads to warm temps and icing)
- Defrost system health (ice buildup blocks airflow and cooling)
- Stable temperatures (fresh food about 37°F, freezer about 0°F)
Quick “is it aging normally?” checklist
Use this as a practical way to judge whether your refrigerator is simply getting older or is developing a fixable problem.
| What you notice | Most common cause | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Runs much longer than it used to | Dirty condenser, warm room, door leak | Clean coils, check gasket seal, confirm settings |
| Freezer cold but fridge warm | Evaporator fan or airflow restriction | Check for frost/ice, listen for fan, clear vents |
| Frost buildup on back wall/freezer | Defrost problem or door not sealing | Inspect gasket, reduce door openings, troubleshoot defrost |
| Water under fridge or in crisper | Defrost drain issue | Clear drain path and check for ice blockage |
Why it matters
A refrigerator that is forced to run hot or run constantly shortens the life of major refrigeration components (compressor, condenser, evaporator). Keeping airflow clear and seals tight reduces wear, helps food stay safe, and lowers energy use.
Helpful DIY guidance
If symptoms point to airflow or cooling-fan trouble, use our step-by-step guide: how to fix your evaporator cooling fan.
Last updated: February 2026
What are common problems with JennAir refrigerators?
Common problems we see on Jenn-Air side-by-side refrigerators like model JSD2789GES include weak cooling, water leaks, ice maker or dispenser failures, doors not sealing, and unusual noises. These symptoms usually trace to airflow (fans and coils), control settings, defrost drainage, or the water supply and filter.
Most common symptoms and likely causes
- Not cooling or warm fridge/freezer: dirty condenser coils, evaporator fan not running, blocked vents, defrost problem
- Leaking water: clogged or iced defrost drain, loose water line connection, cracked drain pan
- Ice maker not working: frozen fill tube, low water pressure, water inlet valve issue, clogged filter
- Water dispenser not working: air in the line, frozen water line, weak inlet valve
- Door not closing or frost buildup: worn door gasket, door out of alignment, overloaded door bins
Quick checks we recommend first
- Confirm the refrigerator is on a dedicated 115V, 15A grounded outlet and do not use an extension cord (see the JSD2789GES owner's manual).
- Check the temperature controls; setting the freezer control to OFF stops cooling in both compartments (power stays on).
- Make sure interior air vents are not blocked by food packages.
- After a filter change, brief spurting at the dispenser is normal until air is purged.
- If the refrigerator sat unused for more than 2 weeks, replace the water filter when putting it back into service.
Water filter note for JSD2789GES
The manual lists replacement filter model UKF7002AXX.
| Symptom | What to check first | What usually happens |
|---|---|---|
| No ice and no water | House water supply, inlet valve | Restores flow to both |
| Water spurts after filter change | Air in line | Clears after purging |
| Bad taste or odor | Filter overdue | Improves water quality |
DIY guides that match these problems
- Airflow and warm temperatures: how to fix your evaporator cooling fan
- Dispenser flow after service: how to purge air from a refrigerator water dispenser video
- Ice production issues: common refrigerator ice maker problems and solutions
Why it matters
Cooling, defrosting, and water delivery systems interact; one issue (like poor airflow or restricted water flow) can create multiple symptoms. Starting with the quick checks prevents unnecessary part replacement.
Last updated: February 2026
How to move a JennAir refrigerator?
To move your Jenn-Air JSD2789GES side-by-side refrigerator safely, we follow the “Vacations” and “Moving” instructions in the JSD2789GES owner's manual: remove food, shut off the ice maker and water supply, unplug the unit, pack removable items, and transport it upright with the doors taped shut.
Step-by-step moving checklist
- Remove all food; discard perishables.
- Shut off the ice maker (if installed) and close the household water shutoff valve.
- Unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet.
- Remove and carefully pack items that are easily removable (bins, shelves, and door items).
- Clean and dry the refrigerator thoroughly; leave doors open if it will sit unplugged.
Rolling it out without damaging floors
The manual calls out protecting vinyl or hardwood floors during positioning.
- Clear a wide path to the exit.
- Use plywood, a rug, or similar material under the wheels/feet to prevent scratches.
- Keep the front base grille area unobstructed when you set the refrigerator back in place.
Leveling and stability after you reposition it
This model has wheels that can be adjusted for leveling, and it uses leveling/lock feet near the front wheels to lock the cabinet in place.
| Task | What you do | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Level the cabinet | Adjust the wheels as needed | Helps doors align and seal properly |
| Lock in place | Turn down both leveling/lock feet near the front wheels | Prevents the refrigerator from rolling |
| Protect the rear if needed | Roll rear wheels onto plywood/shim material to raise the rear | Helps on uneven floors |
Transport rules that prevent damage
- Ship the refrigerator upright.
- Tape the doors shut.
- Avoid tipping or laying it down in a truck.
Why it matters
Moving a side-by-side refrigerator without shutting off water and securing doors commonly causes leaks, hinge damage, and door sealing problems. Upright transport and proper leveling keep cooling performance and door alignment normal after the move.
Last updated: February 2026





