Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing the Drain Pump in a Whirlpool Ice Machine

Kris EscuetaMay 27, 20250

The drain pump in a Whirlpool freestanding automatic ice machine circulates water through the system to maintain continuous ice production. Over time, the pump can wear out or become clogged, leading to draining problems and affecting the machine’s performance. Fortunately, replacing the drain pump is a task you can handle with the right tools and instructions.

Common Reasons to Replace the Drain Pump

A malfunctioning drain pump can lead to several issues, including:

Slow or reduced ice production.
Irregularly shaped or clumped ice cubes.
Water not draining or filling properly in the ice mold.
Slime or dirt appearing on freshly made ice.

Benefits of Timely Drain Pump Replacement

Replacing a failing drain pump can improve the overall performance of your ice machine. Some benefits include:

Restoring proper water circulation for consistent ice production.
Reducing the risk of water leaks that can damage surrounding areas.
Eliminating issues with improperly formed or dirty ice cubes.
Avoiding costly repairs from neglecting drainage-related problems.
Extending the overall lifespan of your ice machine by maintaining its internal components.

Tools and Materials Needed

1/4-inch nut driver
Torx drivers (T15, T20, T25)
Straight blade screwdriver
Phillips head screwdriver
Needle-nose pliers
Channel-lock pliers
Replacement drain pump (Confirm compatibility with your specific model before installation.)

Safety Guidelines

Before starting any repair, prioritize safety by following these precautions:

Unplug the ice machine or turn off the circuit breaker to eliminate electrical hazards.
Turn off the water at the outlet to prevent leaks and have towels ready to absorb residual water.
Wear insulated gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges, pinching hazards, and debris.
Avoid touching exposed wires or terminals. If necessary, use non-conductive tools or insulating gloves.
Take your time, work in a well-lit area, and avoid rushing to minimize risks of injury or damage.
Remove clutter, keep surfaces dry, and keep children and pets away from the repair area.
Check the user manual for any specific safety or installation details related to your appliance.
Make sure your hands and the workspace are completely dry before handling internal components.
If the ice machine was recently used, let any heated parts cool down completely before starting.

How to Test and Replace the Drain Pump on an Ice Machine

Here are the steps to test the functionality of the drain pump and replace it if necessary.

Testing the Drain Pump

Turn off the ice machine and unplug it.
Disconnect the wire harnesses from the drain pump.
Set a multimeter to the resistance setting (Ω symbol).
Place the multimeter probes on the terminals of the drain pump, with one probe touching each terminal.
Check the meter reading:
- A functional drain pump should measure around 3.6 Ohms of resistance.
- If the reading significantly deviates from this value or shows infinite resistance (OL), the pump is faulty and needs replacement.
- If the reading is within the expected range, the pump is functioning correctly, and another issue is likely causing the problem.

Removing the Old Drain Pump

Turn off the ice machine and unplug it from the power supply.
Locate and remove the two screws on the bottom of the reservoir cover.
Lift the ice scoop storage compartment while pulling the bottom of the cover out to detach it.
Remove the left and right side hex head screws while holding the circulation pump assembly in place and set them aside.
Disconnect the wire harnesses on both sides of the circulation pump assembly.
Slide out the heater assembly located near the pump assembly.
Remove the screw securing the thermistor and detach it.
Locate the water tube connected to the left side of the cover, carefully remove it, and roll the cover-up and out.
Take a photo or note the wire harness connections to the old drain pump assembly for reference.
Disconnect the wire harnesses connected to the drain pump assembly.
Use pliers to remove the two wiring retainers securing the wires.
Remove the mounting screw and detach the old drain pump from the machine.
Inspect the seals on the impeller and stator for integrity and condition.

Installing the New Drain Pump

Align the new drain pump and secure it with the mounting screw.
Use pliers to reattach the wiring retainers and reconnect the wire harnesses.
Reinstall the reservoir assembly and position it securely.
Roll the cover down into place and reconnect the water tube to the left side.
Reattach any remaining wire harnesses.

Reassembling the Ice Machine

Slide the heater assembly back into position and align it properly.
Reattach the thermistor by inserting and tightening the screw.
Align the circulation pump assembly and secure it with the left and right hex head screws.
Position the ice scoop storage compartment and slide the bottom of the cover into place.
Insert and tighten the two screws at the bottom to secure the cover.
Plug the ice machine back in, reconnect the water supply, and turn the machine on.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

To prolong the life of your new drain pump and maintain the ice machine’s efficiency:

Clean the ice machine regularly to prevent debris buildup.
Inspect the water lines and filters for clogs or mineral deposits.
Use filtered water to minimize scaling and reduce contaminants.
Check the pump and other components for wear during routine maintenance.
Keep the surrounding area clean and free of dust to improve ventilation.
Address minor leaks or drainage issues promptly to avoid further damage.

To Recap

A working drain pump keeps your Whirlpool ice machine running smoothly, so taking the time to fix it pays off in consistent ice and a leak-free setup.

Follow the instructions carefully, work at a steady pace, and double-check everything before powering the machine back on. With some patience, you’ll not only save money on repairs but also keep your ice machine in great shape for years to come.