Quick answer: A Whirlpool ice maker that stops working is usually one of three problems: a frozen water line, a worn-out ice maker assembly, or a faulty water inlet valve. The most common fix is replacing the ice maker assembly itself — OEM part 2198597 — which costs around $120 and takes 20 minutes to install.
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Most likely culprit: Worn ice maker assembly (60% of cases).
Time to fix: 20-30 minutes.
Difficulty: Easy with a Phillips screwdriver and a multimeter.
If your Whirlpool refrigerator stopped making ice, the issue is almost always one of three things ranked by frequency: the ice maker assembly has failed (60%), the water line is frozen (25%), or the water inlet valve is stuck (15%). This guide walks through each in 60 seconds so you can confirm which one and order the right part the same day.
Cause 1 — Ice maker assembly failure (60% of cases)
After 5-7 years, the motor inside Whirlpool ice makers wears out. Symptoms: ice tray fills with water but doesn't cycle, or the unit makes a buzzing sound but no ice drops.
How to confirm:
- Open the freezer. Listen for any motor sound from the ice maker.
- If silent: the motor is dead. If buzzing: the gear is stripped.
- Check the small reset button on the front of the assembly — if pressing it does nothing, the unit is finished.
The fix: Replace the ice maker assembly. OEM number 2198597. Typical price $110-$130. Install difficulty: Easy — 4 screws, 1 wire harness disconnect.
See the Whirlpool Ice Maker Assembly 2198597 →
Cause 2 — Frozen water supply line (25% of cases)
Cold air from the freezer can freeze the water line that feeds the ice maker — common in homes where the refrigerator is in a cold garage or near a vent.
How to confirm:
- Pull the refrigerator away from the wall.
- Find the small plastic water line at the back-bottom of the unit.
- Disconnect it from the inlet valve and try blowing through it gently. If air doesn't pass, the line is frozen.
The fix: Thaw the line with a hair dryer on low heat (NEVER use boiling water — plastic will warp). Then check the home's freezer temperature — set it to 0°F (-18°C), not lower. If it freezes again within a week, replace the inlet line ($15-$25).
Cause 3 — Stuck water inlet valve (15% of cases)
The water inlet valve controls when water flows to the ice maker. It can get clogged with mineral deposits or fail electrically.
How to confirm:
- Unplug the fridge.
- Locate the water inlet valve (usually back-bottom, where water line connects).
- Use a multimeter to test the solenoid resistance: should read 200-500 ohms. If infinite, the valve is dead.
The fix: Replace the water inlet valve. Whirlpool valves typically OEM W10408179 or similar. Typical price $45-$80. Difficulty: Medium — requires shutting off home water supply.
Specs at a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Compatible models | WRT318FZDW, WRX735SDHZ, WRX735SDBM, WRS555SIHZ, WRS321SDHZ, plus 50+ others |
| Typical part cost | $110-$130 (assembly) / $15-$25 (inlet line) / $45-$80 (valve) |
| Repair time | 20-30 minutes (assembly), 10 min (line), 30-45 min (valve) |
| Tools needed | Phillips screwdriver, multimeter, hair dryer (if frozen line) |
| OEM number (assembly) | 2198597 |
| Replaces | 2198597K, 4317943, 4317944, AP3182733 |
How to find your Whirlpool refrigerator model number
The model number sticker is usually in one of three places:
- Inside the fridge compartment, on the left or right wall near the top
- On the bottom front kickplate (remove kickplate to view)
- Behind the produce drawer, on the back wall
The format is typically WRT318FZDW or WRX735SDHZ — 9-10 characters mixing letters and numbers. Match yours against compatible models above before ordering.
Frequently asked questions
Q: How long should a Whirlpool ice maker last?
A: Most Whirlpool ice maker assemblies last 5-7 years under normal use. Hard water can shorten this to 3-5 years due to mineral buildup. After 7 years, replacement is more cost-effective than repair.
Q: Is it worth replacing the ice maker myself?
A: Yes — a service call typically runs $150-$250 for parts and labor. The DIY parts cost is $110-$130 with 20 minutes of work. You break even immediately and save on labor.
Q: My ice maker makes ice but it tastes weird. Same problem?
A: No — bad-tasting ice usually means the water filter is overdue. Whirlpool recommends replacing the filter every 6 months. The ice maker itself is fine.
Q: Will the 2198597 part fit my model?
A: It fits 50+ Whirlpool refrigerator models from 2010-2024. Verify your model number against the compatibility list. If unsure, contact us at support@repairkithub.com with your model number.
Q: I see the same part for $80 on Amazon. Is yours genuine?
A: We sell only authentic OEM parts sourced through verified Amazon Associates listings. Counterfeit ice maker assemblies are a real problem on third-party marketplace listings — we filter those out. The price difference reflects verified inventory and customer support.
Q: Can I just reset the ice maker instead of replacing it?
A: If the reset button responds (small click + 30-second cycle), yes — try that first. If it doesn't respond at all, the internal control is dead and replacement is the only fix.
Q: What if the new part doesn't fix it?
A: That confirms the problem is upstream — likely the water inlet valve (Cause 3) or the freezer temperature setting. We accept returns within 30 days. Send us your model number and we'll help diagnose further.
Related parts you may need
- Whirlpool Refrigerator Crisper Pan (WP2188656) — common companion replacement after fridge service
- Whirlpool Refrigerator Pantry Drawer Endcap Kit (W10874836) — fix loose pantry drawers same time
- Browse all Whirlpool parts →
When to call a professional instead
- Ice maker leaking water onto floor — usually a refrigerant line issue. Requires EPA-certified technician.
- Compressor running constantly — sealed system problem. Call a pro.
- Sparks or burning smell — unplug immediately and call a technician.
For all other ice maker symptoms above, DIY is safe and saves $150+ in service fees.
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Written by Vinh Nguyen · Founder of RepairKitHub. Researches OEM appliance parts compatibility daily; verifies content against manufacturer documentation and verified DIY repair forums.
Last updated: 2026-05-08