Ice Maker Making Small or Hollow Ice Cubes: Causes and Solutions

When your ice maker starts producing small, hollow, or misshapen ice cubes, it is a sign that something in the ice-making process is not working correctly. Understanding the causes can help you restore full-size, solid ice production.

Why Ice Cube Size and Shape Matters

Properly formed ice cubes:

Cool drinks more effectively

Melt slower than hollow cubes

Indicate a healthy ice maker system

Look better for entertaining

Common Causes of Small or Hollow Ice

1. Low Water Pressure

The ice maker needs adequate water pressure to fill the molds completely.

Minimum requirement: Most ice makers need at least 20 PSI.

Causes of low pressure:

Partially closed water supply valve

Kinked water supply line

Whole-house pressure issues

Clogged water filter

Test: Fill a glass from the water dispenser. If flow is slow, water pressure may be low.

2. Clogged Water Filter

A clogged filter restricts water flow to the ice maker.

How often to replace:

Every 6 months for most households

Every 3-4 months with heavy use or poor water quality

Signs of a clogged filter:

Slow water dispenser

Small ice cubes

Off-taste in water or ice

3. Faulty Water Inlet Valve

The water inlet valve controls water flow to the ice maker. A failing valve may not open fully.

Symptoms:

Inconsistent ice size

Sometimes normal, sometimes small cubes

Buzzing sound from the valve

Solution: Professional replacement of the water inlet valve.

4. Incorrect Freezer Temperature

The freezer temperature affects ice formation. If too warm, ice may not form properly.

Ideal temperature: 0 degrees F

Issues with warm temperatures:

Slow ice production

Soft or malformed ice

Hollow cubes

5. Ice Maker Mold Issues

The ice mold itself can cause problems:

Scale buildup from hard water

Damaged or worn mold

Improper positioning

Solution: Clean the ice maker according to manufacturer instructions.

6. Fill Tube Problems

The fill tube delivers water to the ice mold. Issues include:

Partial blockage

Improper alignment

Freeze-ups at the entrance

Check: Look for ice buildup around the fill tube.

Troubleshooting Steps

• Check the water supply valve - Ensure it is fully open
• Inspect the water supply line - Look for kinks or damage
• Replace the water filter - If overdue or if flow is restricted
• Verify freezer temperature - Should be 0 degrees F
• Clean the ice maker - Remove scale and debris
• Check water pressure - Should be at least 20 PSI

When to Call a Professional

Professional service is recommended if:

Troubleshooting does not resolve the issue

The water inlet valve needs replacement

Ice production is inconsistent

Error codes appear

Preventing Future Issues

• Replace water filters on schedule
• Maintain proper freezer temperature
• Use ice regularly to prevent freeze-ups
• Schedule annual maintenance

Small or hollow ice cubes are often a warning sign of bigger issues. Addressing the problem early can prevent more significant repairs later.