The ice dispenser drum, also called the ice bin drum, is a main part of your Frigidaire refrigerator’s ice system. It holds the ice made by the unit and moves it toward the dispenser chute when needed. Over time, the drum may crack, wear down, or stop working properly, which can cause problems with ice delivery.
If your refrigerator is struggling to dispense ice or if the drum is visibly damaged, replacing the part can help restore normal operation. This task is possible to complete at home with a few tools and careful steps.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before starting, gather the following items to make the process smoother:
- Replacement ice dispenser drum (compatible with your specific Frigidaire model)
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
- Crescent wrench
- Clean towel (to place parts or catch any water)
Safety Reminders Before You Begin
Repairing appliances at home is safe when the right steps are followed. Before starting the replacement, review these important tips:
- Disconnect the refrigerator from its power source. Unplug it or switch off the circuit breaker to avoid electrical shock.
- Turn off the water supply to the refrigerator. This helps prevent leaks when removing the ice bin or internal parts.
- Allow the appliance to cool down if it was recently in use. Warm parts may cause injury or be harder to handle.
- Use a dry, well-lit, and clear workspace. Keep children and pets away from the area.
- Never touch parts with wet hands. Dry your hands before starting.
- Wear insulated gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal surfaces.
- Handle parts gently. Pulling or tightening too hard can lead to damage.
- If wires are involved, take photos or notes before disconnecting anything. This helps during reassembly.
- Use insulated tools or non-metallic items when working near wires.
- Refer to your refrigerator’s manual for model-specific details about replacement procedures.
When to Replace the Ice Dispenser Drum
The ice dispenser drum may need to be replaced if you notice:
- Cracks or damage in the drum
- Loose parts inside the ice bin
- Ice not dispensing or getting stuck
- Ice bin not turning or pushing ice forward
- Water leaking from the bin area
A broken drum affects how the refrigerator delivers ice. Replacing it helps the ice system work correctly again.
How to Replace the Ice Dispenser Drum in a Frigidaire Refrigerator
Follow these steps to safely remove the old ice dispenser drum and install a new one in your Frigidaire refrigerator.
Power and Water Safety
- Unplug the refrigerator from the electrical outlet
- Shut off the water supply to the refrigerator
Remove the Ice Bin and Disassemble
- Pull out the ice bin from the freezer compartment
- Empty any remaining ice and place the bin on a towel
- Remove the two screws inside the bin that hold the crusher assembly
- Lift off the plastic cover from the top of the ice bin
- Remove the screw at the bottom of the bin that secures the metal rod
- Take out the rod from the bin
- Remove the two screws at the bottom of the bin that hold the auger and crusher assembly
- Remove the two screws securing the plastic crusher cover
- Pull off the crusher cover
- Remove the E-clip and washer from the front of the cover
- Unscrew and remove the nut at the front of the auger shaft
- Carefully remove the crusher blades one by one, noting their order
Replace the Drum
- Slide the auger out through the bin opening
- Remove the attached metal plate and the old ice drum
- Slide the new ice drum onto the auger shaft
- Reinsert the auger and metal plate into the bin
- Secure the plate with the previously removed screws
Reassemble the Ice Bin
- Reinstall the crusher blades in the reverse order of removal
- Reattach the nut to the front of the auger shaft
- Reinstall the crusher cover and fasten it with two screws
- Replace the washer and E-clip on the front of the cover
- Reinsert the metal rod at the back of the bin and secure it with its screw
- Put the top plastic cover back on the bin and tighten the screws
- Pour the ice back into the bin
- Slide the bin back into place inside the freezer
Final Steps
- Turn the water supply back on
- Plug the refrigerator back into the power outlet
- Test the ice dispenser to confirm proper operation
Closing Thoughts
Replacing a worn or broken drum helps your ice maker work the way it should again. If you follow each step carefully, you can save time and avoid the cost of a service call. With your new drum in place, your dispenser should be back to delivering ice smoothly, just like before.